Help...I keep getting banned on forums for placing a signature

110 replies
Warriors I am hoping you can help me out?

I am in the dog training niche and I am registered with a number of forums in the niche, I've been posting quality comments by answering questions, and even asking questions myself. The problem has been that as soon as I place a link in my signature to get a free video, I got banned on one site, and another one gave me a warning.

I read about how forum commenting can be a powerful technique to generate traffic by being apart of the community, and having a signature.

What can I do???

I've been messaging one of the moderators and he said I can have a link to a youtube video. So I guess that could work by having a quick video with some useful content, with a CTA at the end of the video and watermarked.

Another idea was to place the video on my blog, same concept as before, kinda like a reverse squeeze page.

Has anyone found a work around to getting a link in the signature, without being banned, or having it removed. I follow the directions in those traffic books almost verbatim, but still no luck.

Hope you can help me out.
#banned #forums #helpi #placing #signature
  • Profile picture of the author grimace_86
    Update: I got a reply from the moderator when I asked about putting a link to my blog in my forum.

    Moderator: If your blog doesn't contain any links to a business website or any advertising of products that is ok also.
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    • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
      What is the point of joining a blog/forum if they do that to you? They tar all people with the same brush. You are not a spammer if you genuinely attempt to contribute to a discussion or post. That really gets on my nerves and if a forum or blog does that to me I wouldn't give them a second look (not that they'd care LOL). if enough people did this they might be able to change the behaviour of these sites. Of course you want a link to your site. You are just trying to promote your site. There is nothing wrong with it, but according to these people it is a crime. I had that happen to me with "blogcatalog" and they said the same thing. I said back to them that of course I am marketing my website and told them off and have boycotted them.
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      • Profile picture of the author whateverpedia
        Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

        What is the point of joining a blog/forum if they do that to you? They tar all people with the same brush. You are not a spammer if you genuinely attempt to contribute to a discussion or post. That really gets on my nerves and if a forum or blog does that to me I wouldn't give them a second look (not that they'd care LOL). if enough people did this they might be able to change the behaviour of these sites. Of course you want a link to your site. You are just trying to promote your site. There is nothing wrong with it, but according to these people it is a crime. I had that happen to me with "blogcatalog" and they said the same thing. I said back to them that of course I am marketing my website and told them off and have boycotted them.
        The forum owners do not spend all the time and money providing you with a vehicle to "flog your wares". They want a community that interacts and contributes something to people interested in that niche.

        They make the rules, you abide by them. These sites will survive without you advertising your stuff.

        You seem to think their property is yours to do what you want with it, and that they should somehow feel privileged to have you doing so.

        Good luck with that.
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  • Profile picture of the author yoyo
    its spamming so you cant do it
    Signature

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    • Profile picture of the author Tina Golden
      Find forums that do allow it. Unfortunately, so many forums have been spammed to death that they stopped allowing any commercial signature at all.

      Tina
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    • Profile picture of the author Sheryl Polomka
      Originally Posted by yoyo View Post

      its spamming so you cant do it
      I wouldn't consider it spamming if he isn't full on spamming the forum. It is just a link in his signature, no different than how we have links in our signatures here.

      What is it that you are linking to? Maybe that's what will make the difference. I know with this forum you can't link to affiliate products in your signature so I guess it depends on the forums rules regarding signature linking.
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      • Profile picture of the author grimace_86
        Thanks all for the feedback.

        Yoyo...There is no way in the world that I am spamming these forums. I contributing to these forums the best I can by asking quality questions, answering questions. Also I am not doing the whole, "hey nice comment" or "i agree too" type of comment. My comments are at least a few sentances long, and i do my best to add as much value as possible. The last thing I want to do is spam.


        Originally Posted by Sheryl Polomka View Post

        I wouldn't consider it spamming if he isn't full on spamming the forum. It is just a link in his signature, no different than how we have links in our signatures here.

        What is it that you are linking to? Maybe that's what will make the difference. I know with this forum you can't link to affiliate products in your signature so I guess it depends on the forums rules regarding signature linking.
        Sheryl great question. My signature is linking to a squeeze page. If they optin they get the video on a thankyou page, and under the video I mention an affiliate offer I am promoting.

        I am thinking about doing this instead.

        signature link --> blog page that it a reverse squeeze page. So I at least give them the free video, and the free video has a call to action basically saying "the next thing you need to do to learn xyz is abc. I have a free video that will show you how, to get it enter you email address in the box on the right and I'll send it to you instantly etc..."

        maybe that might work a little better.
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  • Profile picture of the author jasonboom
    Considering there are thousands (millions?) of forums out there, you have found a few that don't allow links in the signature. With good reason, they may have been spammed and inundated with hundreds of affiliates over the years.

    Google: dog training +forum
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  • Profile picture of the author George Wright
    It's spamming if the forum does not allow links in sigs it's not spamming if they do.

    Keep in mind things got so bad here at one time with affiliate links in sigs that one solution mentioned by Allen was to simply do away with Sigs. I'm glad he didn't.

    However, if someone puts an affiliate link in the sig, that is considered spamming because it is an unwanted link by the owner here.

    Sig file links are not spam here because they are ok if they weren't OK they would be spamming. The same is true on any and all other forums and blogs. It's that simple.

    George Wright
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    "The first chapter sells the book; the last chapter sells the next book." Mickey Spillane
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    • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
      @Whateverpedia: You seem to have misunderstood my point and drawn your own erroneous conclusion, but you are entitled to do that. I don't say that they are priviliged to have my participation, not at all, but I think if you want something, you should give something in return. You are making me out to have this overblown ego and nothing could be further from the truth. I have strong opinions and am opinionated, but I say what I truly think.
      My post is trying to write home that it is just about a bit of give and take. You cannot expect blogs and forums to have people flocking to them if they refuse to give incentives. It is my right to try to build backlinks isn't it?
      Yes if they don't want to do that it is their right of course, but one can find fault with this if they think it is counterproductive and it is imho.
      If I have my signature how am I "flogging my wares" as you put it? Have I once told people on here to buy my products? No I have not. Where are you getting your conclusions from? I find your silly rant totally baseless and indicative of someone who is unwilling to understand the validity of a point of view you don't like.
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      • Profile picture of the author jointaldc
        Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

        @Whateverpedia: You seem to have misunderstood my point and drawn your own erroneous conclusion, but you are entitled to do that. I don't say that they are priviliged to have my participation, not at all, but I think if you want something, you should give something in return. You are making me out to have this overblown ego and nothing could be further from the truth. I have strong opinions and am opinionated, but I say what I truly think.
        My post is trying to write home that it is just about a bit of give and take. You cannot expect blogs and forums to have people flocking to them if they refuse to give incentives. It is my right to try to build backlinks isn't it?
        Yes if they don't want to do that it is their right of course, but one can find fault with this if they think it is counterproductive and it is imho.
        If I have my signature how am I "flogging my wares" as you put it? Have I once told people on here to buy my products? No I have not. Where are you getting your conclusions from? I find your silly rant totally baseless and indicative of someone who is unwilling to understand the validity of a point of view you don't like.
        I totally agree. There are many people out there that are seasoned, smart, and can go to any forum they want and they'll have people follow them. I'm not saying forums owe anything to the posters, but at least make it more inviting so that people would WANT to go there.
        I understand about the spamming part, but I'm pretty sure there is a give and take.
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        • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
          Originally Posted by jointaldc View Post

          I totally agree. There are many people out there that are seasoned, smart, and can go to any forum they want and they'll have people follow them. I'm not saying forums owe anything to the posters, but at least make it more inviting so that people would WANT to go there.
          I understand about the spamming part, but I'm pretty sure there is a give and take.
          Thank you Jointal. I am pleased as you are probably the only person who understands my point. You have made my morning. It is nice to be interpreted how I meant to be. Thanks.
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          • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
            Originally Posted by grimace_86 View Post

            I am thinking about doing this instead.

            signature link --> blog page that it a reverse squeeze page. So I at least give them the free video, and the free video has a call to action basically saying "the next thing you need to do to learn xyz is abc. I have a free video that will show you how, to get it enter you email address in the box on the right and I'll send it to you instantly etc..."

            maybe that might work a little better.
            Grimace, for really strict forums you may want to take it one step further.

            Sig --> blog page --> squeeze

            The reverse squeeze you describe will still look like an attempt to promote to forum owners and webmasters who are adamantly anti-marketing.

            Now back to your impromptu street fight...
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            • Profile picture of the author John Henderson
              Originally Posted by JohnMcCabe View Post

              Grimace, for really strict forums you may want to take it one step further.

              Sig --> blog page --> squeeze
              Yes, this seems to be a much more subtle method of getting traffic to your site and then to your squeeze/sales page:

              "If you liked my helpful forum post, I've written a more detailed blog post on this very subject that you can read for *free*... (link to blog)"
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              • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                @John Henderson: I really like your quote at the bottom of your post. Very true.
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    • Profile picture of the author grimace_86
      Originally Posted by George Wright View Post

      It's spamming if the forum does not allow links in sigs it's not spamming if they do.

      Keep in mind things got so bad here at one time with affiliate links in sigs that one solution mentioned by Allen was to simply do away with Sigs. I'm glad he didn't.

      However, if someone puts an affiliate link in the sig, that is considered spamming because it is an unwanted link by the owner here.

      Sig file links are not spam here because they are ok if they weren't OK they would be spamming. The same is true on any and all other forums and blogs. It's that simple.

      George Wright
      George I never realised that, thank you.

      From what I was learning they said you are spamming if you're just posting crap comments with no relevance or substance. At least Im not doing that.

      I've contacted some of the moderators who have deleted my signature letting them know that I've got a free video that will help their community, and that I would love to share it with them, that its on my blog with no string attached to getting it. Though I will let them know that they have the option to get more information if they want to choose to, but its entirely their choice.

      I'll see what comes back. Fingers crossed.

      If I have no luck, I think I might just look for some other forums and not worry about it.
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      • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
        I wouldn't stress over it Grimace as there are many good blogs and forums that will play fair and not use the convenient excuse that you're a "spammer" because "shock horror" you want a link back to your website. I mean how you dare you right? /sarc. Don't worry about them and if they don't treat you with respect and if they try to tar you as a spammer you really don't want to be associated with them anyway. Don't make people try to tell you that you are trying to dictate to them what they should do on their site as you aren't. That's rubbish.
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        • Profile picture of the author Kay King
          What is the point of joining a blog/forum if they do that to you?
          There are many niche forums that are meant for people interested in the niche or topic - they have no interest in people who join to promote themselves or their products/sites.

          There is nothing wrong with that as the person who owns the forum decides how he wants to run it.

          However, I've never joined a forum that did not state its rules about signature and promotions in the terms of the site. If a forum says "no promotion" - and you are joining only to promote your stuff - don't join those forums.

          Often people who start out in the make money niche believe every forum or social media or whatever exists for their own promotional efforts. That is not the case - there are forums where people interested in a niche or activity discuss the topic without trying to sell to each other.

          kay
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          • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
            Originally Posted by Kay King View Post

            There are many niche forums that are meant for people interested in the niche or topic - they have no interest in people who join to promote themselves or their products/sites.

            There is nothing wrong with that as the person who owns the forum decides how he wants to run it.

            However, I've never joined a forum that did not state its rules about signature and promotions in the terms of the site. If a forum says "no promotion" - and you are joining only to promote your stuff - don't join those forums.

            Often people who start out in the make money niche believe every forum or social media or whatever exists for their own promotional efforts. That is not the case - there are forums where people interested in a niche or activity discuss the topic without trying to sell to each other.

            kay
            Hi Kay. That is a fair comment. They are entitled to do that, but I don't have to endorse it is all I am saying and in response I get a stupid comment from someone who refuses to understand where I am coming from so I didn't appreciate it was all.
            I understand re the niches but I hope they don't complain if they are not happy with their numbers. I agree it is the right of the owner or admin person to run it as they see fit. But I think it is ok to have an opinion about it and that is all I did.
            I disagree that you are promoting your stuff actively if you just have a signature. It is harmless. It is what you say in each post that matters in my view. I think some people have it all wrong when they falsely accuse people of aggressively trying to "sell their wares". People more often than not just want to get known and let people out there know they exist and also to get backlinks. I never actively promote my own products in my posts on forums but I do appreciate having a backlink to my site. Can you see the difference?
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            • Profile picture of the author Kay King
              in response I get a stupid comment from someone who refuses to understand where I am coming from so I didn't appreciate it was all.
              That is totally rude - and you've done it in other threads, too. No one has to understand where you are coming from - they react to what you post. If they don't agree with you, that doesn't make them "stupid".

              if enough people did this they might be able to change the behaviour of these sites. Of course you want a link to your site. You are just trying to promote your site. There is nothing wrong with it, but according to these people it is a crime. I had that happen to me with "blogcatalog" and they said the same thing. I said back to them that of course I am marketing my website and told them off and have boycotted them
              That is what people are responding to. This isn't some war where IMers gang up to try to change "behaviors" on sites they don't own. You say your only reason is to promote your site - that becomes clear quickly on the forums.

              You can tell off anyone you want - but they are kicking you out so not sure what the point is. There are large forums online in many fields where no promotion is allowed - if your only goal is to promote your sites, read the terms and don't join those forums. That's the point people are making here.

              If you want respect for your views, you need to respect the views of others.

              kay
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              One secret to happiness is to let every situation be
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              • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                That is a bit unfair Kay. I was being nice to you and acknowledging your different view point and that is the response I got. Maybe you should read his post and you might see where I am coming from. Oh well.
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                • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                  @Kay:

                  "This isn't some war where IMers gang up to try to change "behaviors" on sites they don't own. You say your only reason is to promote your site - that becomes clear quickly on the forums."

                  I didn't say my only reason was to promote my site. I also aim to get backlinks. I do try to contribute and it is obvious from my posts that I am no spammer. I haven't even made a plug for my products.


                  "If you want respect for your views, you need to respect the views of others."

                  I do this indeed. I just don't appreciate being attacked like that and being falsely accused of something I didn't say or advocate. I can't help it if other people misunderstand what I am trying to say.
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                  • Profile picture of the author keliix06
                    Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

                    @Kay:

                    "This isn't some war where IMers gang up to try to change "behaviors" on sites they don't own. You say your only reason is to promote your site - that becomes clear quickly on the forums."

                    I didn't say my only reason was to promote my site. I also aim to get backlinks. I do try to contribute and it is obvious from my posts that I am no spammer. I haven't even made a plug for my products.


                    "If you want respect for your views, you need to respect the views of others."

                    I do this indeed. I just don't appreciate being attacked like that and being falsely accused of something I didn't say or advocate. I can't help it if other people misunderstand what I am trying to say.
                    You do realize that getting backlinks is promoting your site, correct? What you have to accept is that some forums are very strict on signature content, and there is nothing you will be able to do to change that. Get banned? Move on to another forum.
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                    • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                      I agree Kelli. I am saying pretty much the same thing. Re the backlinks I view it more as a way to position yourself better in the SERPs given that I am on a low budget. Apart from my articles, how else can a guy like me get the backlinks? I feel that I do contribute and I never spam so I can't see how I am such a bad person. If anyone doubts my character go to honestworkformhomeforums and see my contributions.
                      But you are right and I respect a forum that doesn't want me there with a link. I just go onto the next one. I have never been banned from a forum or blog but did get my blog listing rejected by "BlogCatalog". I am just saying that blog owners and forums do best when they indulge the people who are good enough to visit and help their blog by giving them traffic. It is a quid pro quo in my book and I can't see how I am being misunderstood. I detest spammers so there is no issue there from me. I just didn't like being misrepresented by 2 of the posters on this thread.
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                      • Profile picture of the author keliix06
                        Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

                        Re the backlinks I view it more as a way to position yourself better in the SERPs given that I am on a low budget.
                        No one is disagreeing that that is what getting backlinks does. But it is still promotion. With the amount of time you've spent on this thread you could have found a few new forums to try out.
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                        • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                          Originally Posted by keliix06 View Post

                          No one is disagreeing that that is what getting backlinks does. But it is still promotion. With the amount of time you've spent on this thread you could have found a few new forums to try out.
                          Just goes to show I am no spammer doesn't it? I am interested in other forums but I was just giving my opinion not pretending to dictate what forum owners and bloggers have to do.
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                          • Profile picture of the author Vogin
                            Let me just show you another perspective.

                            Say there's a forum that doesn't allow you to use link in your signature. Ok, time to rethink the usual "I'll post, sound cool and people will click on the link".

                            Most of the forums allow you to add a link to your profile, that's quite similar to the signature, it's only moved one step further.

                            You can use the forum to become viral. Especially those forums strictly banning any promotional efforts are excellent for building yourself a name as an expert.

                            Even those people do buy at times and when they find something from you, they'll immediately think "hey, I know this guy, he knows about this, hell, I'm in!"...
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                            • Profile picture of the author randoggle
                              Originally Posted by Vogin View Post

                              Let me just show you another perspective.

                              Say there's a forum that doesn't allow you to use link in your signature. Ok, time to rethink the usual "I'll post, sound cool and people will click on the link".

                              Most of the forums allow you to add a link to your profile, that's quite similar to the signature, it's only moved one step further.

                              You can use the forum to become viral. Especially those forums strictly banning any promotional efforts are excellent for building yourself a name as an expert.

                              Even those people do buy at times and when they find something from you, they'll immediately think "hey, I know this guy, he knows about this, hell, I'm in!"...

                              I would agree a softer sales approach is needed of those types of forums.
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                      • Profile picture of the author A Bary
                        Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

                        I agree Kelli. I am saying pretty much the same thing. Re the backlinks I view it more as a way to position yourself better in the SERPs given that I am on a low budget. Apart from my articles, how else can a guy like me get the backlinks? I feel that I do contribute and I never spam so I can't see how I am such a bad person. If anyone doubts my character go to honestworkformhomeforums and see my contributions.
                        But you are right and I respect a forum that doesn't want me there with a link. I just go onto the next one. I have never been banned from a forum or blog but did get my blog listing rejected by "BlogCatalog". I am just saying that blog owners and forums do best when they indulge the people who are good enough to visit and help their blog by giving them traffic. It is a quid pro quo in my book and I can't see how I am being misunderstood. I detest spammers so there is no issue there from me. I just didn't like being misrepresented by 2 of the posters on this thread.
                        I really don't understand...from where did you get the idea that you have the right to get a backlink, funnel the traffic and promote your sites on other people's forums/sites? And complaining here about being banned???
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                        • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                          Originally Posted by goldmind123 View Post

                          I really don't understand...from where did you get the idea that you have the right to get a backlink, funnel the traffic and promote your sites on other people's forums/sites? And complaining here about being banned???
                          I am sorry I don't really know what you are talking about. I basically say that I have a right to acquire backlinks where I can.
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                      • Profile picture of the author AprilCT
                        You absolutely MUST read all the terms and conditions on the forums where you want to go.

                        Many places will let you read the threads before you join -- you just can't post. It seems to me that that would be a very good first step before you sign up. Check out signature lines first and see what people are posting before wasting time signing up.

                        Some forums require quite a number of worthwhile posts before they permit signatures...and even then, there are restrictions on what you can or cannot have. That goes for both posting and signatures.

                        Be certain to move on quickly if the forum is not to your benefit.

                        Be aware also, that very often a good group of the same people belong to several forums in the same niche...and if you cause problems, that type of reputation can very easily follow you.
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                        • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                          Originally Posted by AprilCT View Post

                          You absolutely MUST read all the terms and conditions on the forums where you want to go.

                          Many places will let you read the threads before you join -- you just can't post. It seems to me that that would be a very good first step before you sign up. Check out signature lines first and see what people are posting before wasting time signing up.

                          Some forums require quite a number of worthwhile posts before they permit signatures...and even then, there are restrictions on what you can or cannot have. That goes for both posting and signatures.

                          Be certain to move on quickly if the forum is not to your benefit.

                          Be aware also, that very often a good group of the same people belong to several forums in the same niche...and if you cause problems, that type of reputation can very easily follow you.
                          I agree with this. Another forum I belong to makes you submit 10 posts before you can post your signature. It is a great forum and it has really good rules. Then they let you put in a generous number if links in your signature so the result for me is I spend a lot of time there and try to contribute in whatever way I can despite my lack of IM knowledge. I feel a lot of goodwill toward them and will stay there longer as a result.
                          I want to get involved with things in my niche as well but I don't want to be put under their thumb and I don't want to go to places where they form the wrong impression of you and take a disliking to you for whatever reason. I also don't want to contribute to their site if they think that lowly of me because I have a website.
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                      • Profile picture of the author milkyway
                        dayanthan,

                        [highlighting in the quote added by me:]

                        Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

                        how else can a guy like me get the backlinks?
                        lol

                        That part doesn't really fit your avatar, does it?

                        If you want to promote whiter-than-white teeth, why not choose a male model with a killer smile?

                        Come on, us gals want to have something nice to look at on the Warrior forum, too!

                        Or, of course, you could just go the non-promotional route, keep your sig links for link juice and use a picture of yourself (or non at all) as avatar...

                        Regine
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                        • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                          It wouldn't look as good LOL. It is a pic I use for most places as I am trying to brand my site if you know what I mean. Better to have an attractive gal than a guy. I don't want to look at a guy personally but I'll consider what you said. I thought it was obvious that I was a guy from my posts but oh well. Peace and thanks for not attacking me.
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                        • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
                          Ha haaa, thats a classic. I just been reading this thread thinking wow, this girls lovely! Leave her alone!

                          Then I saw the guy bit... Oh well, this is an IM forum not a dating site after all.

                          Originally Posted by milkyway View Post

                          dayanthan,

                          [highlighting in the quote added by me:]



                          lol

                          That part doesn't really fit your avatar, does it?

                          If you want to promote whiter-than-white teeth, why not choose a male model with a killer smile?

                          Come on, us gals want to have something nice to look at on the Warrior forum, too!

                          Or, of course, you could just go the non-promotional route, keep your sig links for link juice and use a picture of yourself (or non at all) as avatar...

                          Regine
                          Signature

                          Wibble, bark, my old man's a mushroom etc...

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                          • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                            Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post

                            Ha haaa, thats a classic. I just been reading this thread thinking wow, this girls lovely! Leave her alone!

                            Then I saw the guy bit... Oh well, this is an IM forum not a dating site after all.
                            LOL. At least it made you laugh. The world needs more laughter.
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                          • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                            Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post

                            Ha haaa, thats a classic. I just been reading this thread thinking wow, this girls lovely! Leave her alone!

                            Then I saw the guy bit... Oh well, this is an IM forum not a dating site after all.
                            So you're saying now because I'm a guy I don't deserve a shred of sympathy or compassion? I could do with it. LOL
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                            • Profile picture of the author milkyway
                              ok, so I'm obviously not the target group for that avatar, but for my personal taste, the picture is just a wee bit too artificial to make for a "real" person.

                              Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post

                              I just been reading this thread thinking wow, this girls lovely! Leave her alone!

                              Then I saw the guy bit... Oh well, this is an IM forum not a dating site after all.
                              But then on the other hand, the picture does seem to work for the target group... :p

                              Regine
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                              • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                                Originally Posted by milkyway View Post

                                ok, so I'm obviously not the target group for that avatar, but for my personal taste, the picture is just a wee bit too artificial to make for a "real" person.



                                But then on the other hand, the picture does seem to work for the target group... :p

                                Regine
                                Point taken. I don't know how to accomodate this. If I go for too broad a reach does it work? I thought a generic attractive female would be good marketing. I see where you are coming from but most images for whitening features a good looking woman right?
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                                • Profile picture of the author milkyway
                                  Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

                                  Point taken. I don't know how to accomodate this. If I go for too broad a reach does it work? I thought a generic attractive female would be good marketing. I see where you are coming from but most images for whitening features a good looking woman right?
                                  ok, I'm so not your target group -- not being interested in tooth whitening at all. But just a point to consider: who is actually buying that stuff? And why do they buy?

                                  And another point: This is a great forum with loads of helpful people. What sort of impression do you want to make: as the guy who sells teeth whiteners? Or as the guy who is genuinely interested in IM and wants to learn, improve and share?

                                  But then I'm neither wise, nor am I an old lady. ("old" depends on your point of view, I guess, but "lady"? nah... )

                                  And now I'm back to my work!

                                  Cheers,

                                  Regine
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                                  • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                                    Originally Posted by milkyway View Post

                                    ok, I'm so not your target group -- not being interested in tooth whitening at all. But just a point to consider: who is actually buying that stuff? And why do they buy?

                                    And another point: This is a great forum with loads of helpful people. What sort of impression do you want to make: as the guy who sells teeth whiteners? Or as the guy who is genuinely interested in IM and wants to learn, improve and share?

                                    But then I'm neither wise, nor am I an old lady. ("old" depends on your point of view, I guess, but "lady"? nah... )

                                    And now I'm back to my work!

                                    Cheers,

                                    Regine

                                    Hi Regine,
                                    thanks for the feedback. I will consider those questions.
                                    The sort of impression I would like to make is someone who is interested in IM and wants to learn, improve and share. I am not trying to sell anyone on here anything. I am trying to put forth my opinions and views on topics. I think the evidence is there that this is what I have been doing. I got personally attacked earlier and that is why I reacted the way I did and copped it from someone else who didn't want to put my response into its rightful context. I didn't ask to be attacked like that but I had to respond. That's just the way I am. I wish to make contacts and interact well with people on here. I don't want to make enemies, but at the same time I don't feel I have to stand for baseless slurs without a retort of my own.
                                    I appreciate your opinion though.
                                    All the best.
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                                  • Profile picture of the author Cataclysm1987
                                    Hey, one tip I can give you is to always disguise commercial intent by being an information provider rather than a salesman.

                                    People hate salesmen but they love nice folks who provide information on a website.

                                    Try making a blog about the product with a few banner ads and a free newsletter and sell the products on the back end instead of making it blatantly commercialized. Most people don't know what affiliate marketing is or that it even exists in the first place, so the admins will likely not be much the wiser if your blog is properly cloaked of monetary intent.

                                    This is how I got around the same rules at a Starcraft 2 forum when promoting products in that niche.

                                    Hope that helps.
                                    Signature

                                    No signature here today!

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                                  • Profile picture of the author skibbz
                                    as long as you are not going overboard with your signature link I dont see why they should ban you? if one was putting up offensive graphics or linking to hacking website then i could understand
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                            • Profile picture of the author Richard Van
                              Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

                              So you're saying now because I'm a guy I don't deserve a shred of sympathy or compassion? I could do with it. LOL
                              No,no,no. I just don't have time to get dragged in on the arguement. Everyone deserves compassion and everyones got the right to think what they want.

                              Besides a wise old lady once said to me (actually I read it in an email) "It doesn't matter what other people think of you because it's actually non of your business"

                              I like that one and Milkyway, yeah, if that lady knocked on my door and asked if I wanted to buy some toothpaste, I'd take the lot.
                              Signature

                              Wibble, bark, my old man's a mushroom etc...

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                              • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                                Originally Posted by Richard Van View Post

                                No,no,no. I just don't have time to get dragged in on the arguement. Everyone deserves compassion and everyones got the right to think what they want.

                                Besides a wise old lady once said to me (actually I read it in an email) "It doesn't matter what other people think of you because it's actually non of your business"

                                I like that one and Milkyway, yeah, if that lady knocked on my door and asked if I wanted to buy some toothpaste, I'd take the lot.
                                Good call. It is all good. I was just joking.
                                I agree with what you said totally.
                                That is why I am using the stock image as I am hoping to define my site somehow as that is what it needs. This is hard as it is my first website and I got ripped off by a dodgy training company but I am determined to go all the way.
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                    • Profile picture of the author Kay King
                      I do this indeed. I just don't appreciate being attacked like that and being falsely accused of something I didn't say or advocate. I can't help it if other people misunderstand what I am trying to say.
                      That was the point I was making. More than once you feel misunderstood - but perhaps the problem is the way in which you are stating the opinion. If someone disagrees maybe they do understand but simply disagree - I repeat, that doesn't make them "stupid".

                      You seemed in your first posts to say that you were contributing value but your purpose was to backlink. For many forums, that's fine. For many other forums, it isn't OK.

                      The OP asked about dog training forums and many of those allow NO promotion. None. It is clearly stated in the terms and if you try to slide in a promo or backlink - you'll be badly labeled on the forum or removed.

                      It's a matter of respect to me. If links are allowed or signatures permitted, of course you want the backlinks. However, if a forum says "no promoting" there's no point in joining and becoming angry when they kick you out for promoting. To me, that's the marketer's mistake rather than the forum owner's.

                      Some of the best dog training forums online are full of real experts in the field who are there to share methods and discuss training problems because it's their passion. They don't take well to those who go there to promote - and that's their right.

                      That was the original question and as marketers I think it's important for us to respect the rights of others to run their sites as they want.

                      Kay
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                      • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                        Originally Posted by Kay King View Post

                        That was the point I was making. More than once you feel misunderstood - but perhaps the problem is the way in which you are stating the opinion. If someone disagrees maybe they do understand but simply disagree - I repeat, that doesn't make them "stupid".

                        You seemed in your first posts to say that you were contributing value but your purpose was to backlink. For many forums, that's fine. For many other forums, it isn't OK.

                        The OP asked about dog training forums and many of those allow NO promotion. None. It is clearly stated in the terms and if you try to slide in a promo or backlink - you'll be badly labeled on the forum or removed.

                        It's a matter of respect to me. If links are allowed or signatures permitted, of course you want the backlinks. However, if a forum says "no promoting" there's no point in joining and becoming angry when they kick you out for promoting. To me, that's the marketer's mistake rather than the forum owner's.

                        Some of the best dog training forums online are full of real experts in the field who are there to share methods and discuss training problems because it's their passion. They don't take well to those who go there to promote - and that's their right.

                        That was the original question and as marketers I think it's important for us to respect the rights of others to run their sites as they want.

                        Kay
                        Then I apologise if I wasn't quite clear. I should say that I have a few purposes and am trying to be honest that yes I am looking for a backlink. Yes I enjoy contributing but the personal incentive is the backlink as well and the objective to help my site rank higher. It is also nice if you can connect with individuals in which both can mutually benefit from the interaction.
                        I never said he was stupid. It is only once on here I have taken exception like that. I didn't appreciate the sneering, sniping comments and if you closely look at his comment you will see exactly what I mean. Yes I do come on strong with my opinions at times, but I am just going by what I have experienced. I don't want other people to agree with me if they don't wish to, but I don't appreciate being denigrated like that so I gave it back and I am not sorry I did. I never attacked you. I actually acknowledged you had a point and as you didn't insult me initially I was ok with it.
                        You are stating things I already know re forums. I know this but I am just giving me opinion. I am saying that quid pro quo is a good angle to approach it. Scratch someone's back and they'll scratch yours. No one has to do this, but it helps them and enhances their standing in the eyes of others. I appreciate blogs that let me say what I think and they give me their response. The good thing is they don't feel the need to belittle me because they disagree with what I have written.
                        Again just having your link is not necessarily outright agressively promoting your site. That is what I am trying to say.
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          • Profile picture of the author George Wright
            Well said Kay,

            I would add to your comment that many if not most people who use the Internet think anyone trying to make money on it is wrong.

            How many times do people sign up for a FREE eBook and then hit the spam button when there is something for sale in the email?

            Heck, I sold a an eBook and got lambasted by a buyer because inside the ebook there was one little ad for another eBook.

            We even went through a phase, in fact several times, where members thought it was "just terrible" that members here were trying to make money here.

            On more than one occasion comments have been made regarding members "using their sig to make money," Using the WSO forum "just to make money," etc. etc. And this is a marketing forum.

            The thought on some dog training, boating, fishing, etc. forums, by members is, "we are here to chat and talk about things, how dare anyone try to make money here. And if that is the case and you add a sig with a link to something for sale you are spamming.

            George Wright

            Originally Posted by Kay King View Post

            There are many niche forums that are meant for people interested in the niche or topic - they have no interest in people who join to promote themselves or their products/sites.

            There is nothing wrong with that as the person who owns the forum decides how he wants to run it.

            However, I've never joined a forum that did not state its rules about signature and promotions in the terms of the site. If a forum says "no promotion" - and you are joining only to promote your stuff - don't join those forums.

            Often people who start out in the make money niche believe every forum or social media or whatever exists for their own promotional efforts. That is not the case - there are forums where people interested in a niche or activity discuss the topic without trying to sell to each other.

            kay
            Signature
            "The first chapter sells the book; the last chapter sells the next book." Mickey Spillane
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          • Profile picture of the author bgmacaw
            Of course, some forums do allow varying degrees of linkage so make sure you follow the rules and don't abuse any more open opportunities with outright spamming.

            But, here's a simple way to do this without ever risking a niche forum ban because you link to a commercial site in your sig or profile on forums that don't allow it. Create a non-commercial blog on WordPress.com, Live Journal or somewhere like that. You could also create a non-commercial niche oriented 'personal' blog on a domain you own if you want. For example, in dog training you might have a site called "My Dog Spot". Link to this blog from the forum. It looks legit, like somebody's personal site about the niche. Now, discretely link from this 'personal' site to your money site using your keywords. Rinse. Repeat. What will happen is that your personal site should gain some niche authority and pass this on to your money site. With other forms of linking your money site will easily outperform the 'laundry' site.

            This is for SEO purposes. If you're looking to get direct forum traffic, you might want to see if the forum owner might be into selling ad space to you (many are).
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            • Profile picture of the author cesarsan
              That's a helpful and practical advice to the original question. Sometimes people keeps discussing ethics and proselytizing so much that they forget to help the OP.
              Originally Posted by bgmacaw View Post

              Of course, some forums do allow varying degrees of linkage so make sure you follow the rules and don't abuse any more open opportunities with outright spamming.

              But, here's a simple way to do this without ever risking a niche forum ban because you link to a commercial site in your sig or profile on forums that don't allow it. Create a non-commercial blog on WordPress.com, Live Journal or somewhere like that. You could also create a non-commercial niche oriented 'personal' blog on a domain you own if you want. For example, in dog training you might have a site called "My Dog Spot". Link to this blog from the forum. It looks legit, like somebody's personal site about the niche. Now, discretely link from this 'personal' site to your money site using your keywords. Rinse. Repeat. What will happen is that your personal site should gain some niche authority and pass this on to your money site. With other forms of linking your money site will easily outperform the 'laundry' site.

              This is for SEO purposes. If you're looking to get direct forum traffic, you might want to see if the forum owner might be into selling ad space to you (many are).
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          • Profile picture of the author Myles Sinclair
            Originally Posted by Kay King View Post


            ".....However, I've never joined a forum that did not state its rules about signature and promotions in the terms of the site. If a forum says "no promotion" - and you are joining only to promote your stuff - don't join those forums....."

            kay
            Kay is right.

            If using forums to get links and traffic, it makes sense to read their rules first. It only takes a couple of minutes, but will save a lot of time and wasted energy caused by posting to forums that don't allow commercial links.
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            • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
              @Tyrus: Yes and no. If they alienate all the people they want to stay at their forum then does what you say still hold true? I see it as a mutually beneficial relationship and if I were to one day run a blog or forum I would go the extra mile to make it worth while for members short of flat out spamming. We all are looking to get something out of whatever activity we do and it is ok if we are giving back. I feel it is arrogant for site owners to think they live in a bubble and think they don't depend on anyone else for their success. I realise they have their rules and I am not disputing this, simply saying that sometimes/often you have to give something to get something. Popularity can lead to arrogance and disdain and disregard for those who can serve your interests too.
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              • Profile picture of the author Myles Sinclair
                Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

                @Tyrus: Yes and no. If they alienate all the people they want to stay at their forum then does what you say still hold true?
                What do you have in mind that would alienate all the forum members?

                I see it as a mutually beneficial relationship and if I were to one day run a blog or forum I would go the extra mile to make it worth while for members short of flat out spamming. We all are looking to get something out of whatever activity we do and it is ok if we are giving back.
                That's great that you feel that way. However, if the day comes that you run a forum, you might find that circumstances leave you no choice but to impose rules and limitations on members.

                I feel it is arrogant for site owners to think they live in a bubble and think they don't depend on anyone else for their success.
                I'm not sure why you believe that site owners (forums) think they live in a bubble? I would imagine that most forum owners know that to have a successful forum, they need an active forum with lots of participation.


                I realise they have their rules and I am not disputing this, simply saying that sometimes/often you have to give something to get something. Popularity can lead to arrogance and disdain and disregard for those who can serve your interests too.
                Forums are giving something. A platform for people to exchange ideas, discuss, teach etc.,
                What else do you have in mind?
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                • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
                  Hi Myles.

                  "What do you have in mind that would alienate all the forum members?"


                  A: I guess I mean by banning people from placing a link/signature by invoking the excuse that it is "spam". They can do it by all means, but if you are an ordinary Joe trying to get involved and get a backlink for your efforts, would you be pleased? Wouldn't you choose the forum that would give you the right to use a signature? I would for sure.
                  An example I often refer to is the use of nofollow blogs. I have heard the reasons why they have it, but have read good arguments for having do follow blogs. Obviously if you're a marketer it is in your own self interest to prioritise blogs that allow do follow comments. There is still a benefit to commenting on "no follow" blogs but obviously it is more in your interest to comment on "do follow".

                  "That's great that you feel that way. However, if the day comes that you run a forum, you might find that circumstances leave you no choice but to impose rules and limitations on members."

                  A: This is a valid point and you are right in many ways. There are often good limitations and I agree with a lot of them. I am just saying that if you want to be a tyrant and tell people to go bugger off if they give you a suggestion or tip then don't expect people to warm to you as a forum or blog owner. Arrogance doesn't pay. I joined "blogcatalog" because I was told I could submit my blog and I took the time to type in all the fields only to be told 4 days later that i had been rejected because it was deemed "commercial content". It is just information on a blog that is linked to my site so I wasn't impressed. If I had been told clearly beforehand I wouldn't have wasted my time.

                  "I'm not sure why you believe that site owners (forums) think they live in a bubble? I would imagine that most forum owners know that to have a successful forum, they need an active forum with lots of participation."

                  A: Not many of them I have come across but just a few that I have and these are the ones I refer to. It is more for blogs that I am referring to. The ones who lay down the law unneccessarily are the ones who think their actions do not have consequences. I cannot think of a good example off the top of my head other than one when I was on a blog. I commented on a blog and they let everyone else use their link but me because I was in the "wrong niche". I couldn't work out why my comments weren't published so after a little while I found out after emailing them. Suffice it to say I got the message and never went back.


                  "Forums are giving something. A platform for people to exchange ideas, discuss, teach etc.,
                  What else do you have in mind?"

                  A: Yes they are. I just disagree with a hyper vigilant mentality as those who are doing the right thing can face unwarranted ire if you get what I mean. I was just responding to what the original poster said and I felt that it was an example where they can accuse of something that you didn't do (intentionally) and you have no recourse because it is their forum. Like google banning your website because they make the rules. All I say is that people with power seek to make fair rules and not wield the big stick because they are drunk with their own influence and angry because a few rotten apples are spoling things.
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                  • Profile picture of the author Karen Blundell
                    Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

                    A: Not many of them I have come across but just a few that I have and these are the ones I refer to. It is more for blogs that I am referring to. The ones who lay down the law unneccessarily are the ones who think their actions do not have consequences. I cannot think of a good example off the top of my head other than one when I was on a blog. I commented on a blog and they let everyone else use their link but me because I was in the "wrong niche". I couldn't work out why my comments weren't published so after a little while I found out after emailing them. Suffice it to say I got the message and never went back.
                    but if a blog owner doesn't want to have their site linking to certain sites, that's their perogative. Maybe they don't want to devalue their blog with irrelevant outbound links?
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  • Profile picture of the author pcpupil
    @ Grimace,
    Theres your problem.Your sig goes to an optin,with a video,with an affiliate offer.
    There saying this is spamming.All the mods have to do is click on your sig and follow it through.The process that is,to find your affiliate offer.

    Send them just to your main site,and mention you have a free video for them to watch.
    Then embed your affliate offer in the video.
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  • Profile picture of the author GarrieWilson
    How long are you a membr before you add the sig?

    Try being a active member for a few weeks first.
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    • Profile picture of the author grimace_86
      Originally Posted by GarrieWilson View Post

      How long are you a membr before you add the sig?

      Try being a active member for a few weeks first.
      I did try, I waited about a week. Had about 20 comments up. The added the signature and the next day banned. lol

      Oh well.
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  • Profile picture of the author grimace_86
    @bgmacaw

    Great tips there. Thats exactly type of info I was after.

    I am doing it for direct traffic, ad space was an option I was considering. Though I have no idea how to make a banner ad. lol.

    Something else to learn I guess :-)

    Great idea for SEO though
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  • Profile picture of the author s.MAX
    But....... the mod gave you a great way out that in my opinion has more value than a sig.

    Post the link to your youtube video (that is optimized in title, description and even maybe includes a clickable link to your site), and point more links to your video, ...video converts.

    That's a nice Mod!

    P.S. Check out "linkedtube" on google search.
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  • Profile picture of the author pethanks
    Maybe your comment is too spammy. Try to fix it. You can also ask help from the site administrator.
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  • Profile picture of the author myeanne
    Well, it really takes time to add your signature. There are different rules for signature for various forum sites. Some forums, you need to wait 50 days to post sig while others require 25 posts before you post signatures.

    The least that you can do is to find forum sites that allows signature links once you signed up.
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  • Profile picture of the author Randy Daugherty
    I suggest you better check the rules of that forum site if they really allow links on your page...if not look for forum site that will allow link...
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  • Profile picture of the author iroko
    this an interesting discussion, you guys do not know anything about being banned, if you not gone through it before, it just outright frustration, all your effort in either promoting your site or sharing your knowledge, some admin would even go the extend of putting banned under your username!
    For this particular topic, have you consider, whether your video is competing with the admin's marketing options!
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    • Profile picture of the author iroko
      One other point to you guys is this "most of the guys that have tagged this a spammer are actually the ones with very loaded offer through their signatures!
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      • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
        Originally Posted by iroko View Post

        One other point to you guys is this "most of the guys that have tagged this a spammer are actually the ones with very loaded offer through their signatures!
        Can you please clarify. I don't quite understand what you mean.
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  • Profile picture of the author Tyrus Antas
    I don't see you participating in the forum as doing a
    favor to the forum owner, quite the contrary: the forum
    owner is doing you a favor.

    Once again, we see things through our interests as
    marketers while neglecting that virtually nobody on the
    Internet is interested in promoting or being promoted
    anything.

    Tyrus
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  • Profile picture of the author Joel_Cowen
    As long as you're in dog training forums and you've built up some rapport you should be ok. I woul recommend posting for a while before adding a sig. Just my 2 cents.
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  • Profile picture of the author LetsGoViral
    Ah, the good old "dog training" niche. Is it me or every internet marketing guru is always in this niche ?
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  • Profile picture of the author King Shiloh
    Banned
    OP,

    Laws are made for man and not man for laws. Follow the rules of the forum and you will always be fine.

    If they don't allow sig files, don't go there if that is what you want to do. Please don't go to a place that you are not wanted.

    Always read the TOS of the forum before you join.

    We are still placing sig files here because Allen has not said that we should stop.

    And why not place the sig file here since it might just be allowed here?
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  • Profile picture of the author cesarsan
    It boils down to "Do not waste your time with those freeloaders!".

    They want your free content so they can monetize it but will not give you anything for it. Working for free is a bad idea.
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  • Profile picture of the author Rus Sells
    Seems as if you just didn't take the time to read the forums terms of service and broke it when you put you sig link up.

    But...most forums "ASK" you for your website URL when you set up your profile. I always put the site I want forum members to visit in on my profile, have not had one problem yet.

    Then if you like you can link to your forum profile in your signature so people can learn more about you and you'll get impressions, and maybe some clicks to your site.
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  • Profile picture of the author timpane
    Banned
    [DELETED]
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    • Profile picture of the author milkyway
      Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

      This appears to be a spammer. He has taken my comment and spun it. Can anyone else see this?
      yes, and I already reported it to the mods last night. If you spot something like that, there's a report button to the left, below the personal data (the little red triangle). Use it on the post in question and let the mods know about it. The more people use those buttons, the faster the forum will be cleaned up.

      Regine
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      • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
        Hi Regine. Thanks for the tip. Will take note.
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  • Profile picture of the author mormel
    Hi,

    Everyone seems to be into dog trainging. And everyone is inundating the forums, just to post their links. Some of them try to do it with offensively stupid short lines like 'Good post, thanks' or 'Keep up the good work', followed by their names and a link. No wonder most moderators react vigorously.

    If you really want to find forums about topics that you've got to say something useful to, try omgili.com (short for: Oh my God I like it), which will give you a whole lot of targeted forums for free. Maybe you'll have to start building your credibility first, show the people on the forum that you're the real deal, and not just someone trying to drop his link. And then, after a while, when you've proven yourself, you can try to use your the positioning you've done to show people the way to your blog (not directly to a sales page!), where you give them more free info. They'll be glad to join your list, by then.

    Always provide value first, before you can try to sell something to someone.

    Yours, warriorly, Ed
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  • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
    Popularity can lead to arrogance and disdain and disregard for those who can serve your interests too.
    Feelings of entitlement can often lead to assigning negative character traits to people who choose a different way, too. The fact that someone has different goals than you is no excuse for berating them for how they do things in their own space.

    After reading this thread, I wonder if the sig file is the only reason you keep getting banned...


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    • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
      Originally Posted by Paul Myers View Post

      Feelings of entitlement can often lead to assigning negative character traits to people who choose a different way, too. The fact that someone has different goals than you is no excuse for berating them for how they do things in their own space.

      After reading this thread, I wonder if the sig file is the only reason you keep getting banned...


      Paul
      I never got banned. I don't think you read my posts. Just like a few of the other people you are making assumptions about how I operate, but I am not going to go on a rant again because I have already explained myself and have nothing to justify.
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      • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
        I never got banned.
        Then why did you choose that subject line for the thread?

        Or did you not read your own post?


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        • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
          I don't know what you are talking about. I was simply giving my opinion which you can read throughout the whole thread. I empathise with people who do get banned for dubious reasons and as they have no recourse I show solidarity with them. That is drawing a long bow by trying to say I am trying to dictate what blog owners and forum admins have to do. It is like condemning someone for having a negative or critical opinion of say google.
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    • Profile picture of the author milkyway
      Paul,

      there's certainly some irony in the fact that we are now talking about potentially "spun posts", and whether they were posted by a spammer...

      Depends on which side of the fence you currently are, doesn't it?


      Regine
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  • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
    Regine,
    Depends on which side of the fence you currently are, doesn't it?
    [chuckle]

    Yeah. It does. But then, we're talking about a person who posted a subject line about how he keeps getting banned, then says in the OP that he got banned from one place, and now claims he never got banned. He seems to apply the concept of "fact" in a rather flexible manner.


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    • Profile picture of the author milkyway
      Uhm, Paul, you did realize that the OP was somebody else, didn't you? :p

      dayanthan is just a lively participant...

      Regine
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      • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
        Regine,
        Uhm, Paul, you did realize that the OP was somebody else, didn't you? :p

        dayanthan is just a lively participant...
        DOH! Thanks for the correction, ma'am.

        Sorry, Dayanthan. Got lost in the thread drift. My apologies for the confusion on that part. I still think the thought about entitlement applies, but the comments about you having been banned were way off.

        Not my day for multi-tasking, it seems...


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        • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
          Yeah no problems Paul. And I will respectfully disagree with the "entitlement" bit as I don't think that came into the crux of my comments. But all good. Cheers.

          @Regine: I guess you could say I am lively but it bugs me when people arrogantly get on a soapbox and distort just about everything you said. Then to add insult to injury some other douche gets on and condemns me insteading of understanding the context of my retort. Thankfully one or two people got what I was trying to say which is better than none LOL. But in the normal scheme of things I am pretty chilled out and let other things slide. Just didn't like the disdainful and scornful tone of that poster.
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          • Profile picture of the author davezan
            Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

            and distort just about everything you said.
            Or...offer another view that one disagrees with, anyway.

            Just as an example: WebmasterWorld doesn't allow sig files period. I've seen a
            lot of people similarly accuse them of arrogance and what not, yet they have
            grown into (arguably) one of the longest and most successful forums around.

            Don't fret about being banned for reasons (or lack thereof) you probably don't
            agree with. Just search for another arguably successful forum to be able to do
            your thing, or create your own. (though may be hard work...)
            Signature

            David

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            • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
              Originally Posted by davezan View Post

              Or...offer another view that one disagrees with, anyway.

              Just as an example: WebmasterWorld doesn't allow sig files period. I've seen a
              lot of people similarly accuse them of arrogance and what not, yet they have
              grown into (arguably) one of the longest and most successful forums around.

              Don't fret about being banned for reasons (or lack thereof) you probably don't
              agree with. Just search for another arguably successful forum to be able to do
              your thing, or create your own. (though may be hard work...)
              That's not what I am talking about. It was how he replied to me that bothered me and if you have a look at his comment you'll see that I have a point. An unfair character assasination is a bit different from a healthy exchange of views.
              I haven't been banned before either. I have had a blog rejected because they didn't tell me the conditions before I put in the time to submit it.
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          • Profile picture of the author milkyway
            dayanthan,

            I don't agree with some of your opinions about forums, and some of the words you chose to express your feelings sounded almost abrasive to me -- but that's just my personal feeling, and I'm not a native speaker of English. (I hope "abrasive" has the connotation in English that I think it has -- no offense intended!)

            But, and that's the reason I'm still in this thread: I do appreciate your openness. You took what people told you, thought about it, and changed your behavior/stance in at least one obvious case (the avatar). That impressed me.

            Wish I could reflect so calmly in such a, hm, lively discussion.

            Regine
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            • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
              Originally Posted by milkyway View Post

              dayanthan,

              I don't agree with some of your opinions about forums, and some of the words you chose to express your feelings sounded almost abrasive to me -- but that's just my personal feeling, and I'm not a native speaker of English. (I hope "abrasive" has the connotation in English that I think it has -- no offense intended!)

              But, and that's the reason I'm still in this thread: I do appreciate your openness. You took what people told you, thought about it, and changed your behavior/stance in at least one obvious case (the avatar). That impressed me.

              Wish I could reflect so calmly in such a, hm, lively discussion.

              Regine
              That's ok Regine. I am not asking you to agree with me. At least you have been respectful. Those who respect me get respect in return. Simple as that. I know I am repeating myself but that is why I got annoyed with the other guy and the other person who chimed in with a silly rebuke. that is why it seemed like I was rude to them but they deserved it in my view and I don't apologise at all.
              I appreciate the kind words. All I am trying to do is contribute and learn in the best way I can.
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  • You will never get banned if you follow the rules of forum and do posting wisely.

    Make sure that you always read the signature rule in the forum before using any signature.
    And always spend time reading the full post before relying to posts in forum.

    That's it If you just follow this two steps no one will ban you.
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  • Profile picture of the author microunique
    Banned
    If you dont spam in any forum, you won't be ban.
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    • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
      If you dont spam in any forum, you won't be ban.
      Bad advice to give. Most of the bans here of people who've been around for more than a few days have little or nothing to do with spamming.


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      • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
        Originally Posted by Paul Myers View Post

        Bad advice to give. Most of the bans here of people who've been around for more than a few days have little or nothing to do with spamming.


        Paul
        Hi Paul. Can you please expand? I think I know what you may mean but I'd like to know.
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        • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
          Dayanthan,
          Hi Paul. Can you please expand? I think I know what you may mean but I'd like to know.
          Bans can happen for all sorts of reasons, including people asking to be banned. Short term bans are usually for small things, like re-posting something that was deleted, using an affiliate link after being reminded not to, breaking Rule #1, or getting too snarky too often with members who don't deserve it.

          Most bans don't actually reflect on the character of the person being banned. They tend to be procedural things, intended to make sure someone realizes that they've broken a rule in a way that helps reduce the chance they'll do it repeatedly in the future. The affiliate link rule was mentioned earlier, I believe, and that's not an ethical question at all. Just something that creates problems when it's allowed, because of the behavior it invites.

          Some people are just so abrasive in their style of communication that they're actively destructive to the group as a whole. Doesn't mean they're bad people. Just that they have a consistent style that is harmful to the group dynamic. That takes something pretty extreme, but it's happened a few times here.

          That sort of thing is why I tell people: The word "Banned" under someone's username means nothing but that they were banned. It should not be interpreted beyond that, as you're almost certain to get it wrong unless they were actively spamming the board.

          I had two people ask me in one day to ban them for a month each, just because they wanted to focus on other things and found it easier to avoid the place if they knew they couldn't reply to posts. Both are people I consider to be valuable contributors, and one is a fellow I've known for a lot of years, Internet-wise, and who I both like and respect a lot.

          All sorts of reasons for it. Most of them, with the exception of people who come in and start posting ads or a ton of one-liners right away, have nothing to do with spamming.


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          • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
            Originally Posted by Paul Myers View Post

            Dayanthan,Bans can happen for all sorts of reasons, including people asking to be banned. Short term bans are usually for small things, like re-posting something that was deleted, using an affiliate link after being reminded not to, breaking Rule #1, or getting too snarky too often with members who don't deserve it.

            Most bans don't actually reflect on the character of the person being banned. They tend to be procedural things, intended to make sure someone realizes that they've broken a rule in a way that helps reduce the chance they'll do it repeatedly in the future. The affiliate link rule was mentioned earlier, I believe, and that's not an ethical question at all. Just something that creates problems when it's allowed, because of the behavior it invites.

            Some people are just so abrasive in their style of communication that they're actively destructive to the group as a whole. Doesn't mean they're bad people. Just that they have a consistent style that is harmful to the group dynamic. That takes something pretty extreme, but it's happened a few times here.

            That sort of thing is why I tell people: The word "Banned" under someone's username means nothing but that they were banned. It should not be interpreted beyond that, as you're almost certain to get it wrong unless they were actively spamming the board.

            I had two people ask me in one day to ban them for a month each, just because they wanted to focus on other things and found it easier to avoid the place if they knew they couldn't reply to posts. Both are people I consider to be valuable contributors, and one is a fellow I've known for a lot of years, Internet-wise, and who I both like and respect a lot.

            All sorts of reasons for it. Most of them, with the exception of people who come in and start posting ads or a ton of one-liners right away, have nothing to do with spamming.


            Paul
            I agree. I believe I will only ever get banned for personality conflicts but I am not worried. I will never get banned for spamming.
            It is good that you clarified this because it shows some people have a limited understanding of what a "ban" could be. I guess I am trying to say it is not a "black and white" issue at times although of course the forum or blog can do whatever they damn well please. I was just saying that it is not a smart pr move unless they are seen to be playing fair.
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  • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
    Originally Posted by LD Carter View Post

    Most message boards are full of period that are constantly on their period. In other words, the people are usually in bitch-mode all the time. Even on here. So I wouldn't even worry about it.
    Yeah you have a point. I just got taken aback as I wasn't prepared for it.
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  • Profile picture of the author Qamar
    Originally Posted by grimace_86 View Post

    Warriors I am hoping you can help me out?

    I am in the dog training niche and I am registered with a number of forums in the niche, I've been posting quality comments by answering questions, and even asking questions myself. The problem has been that as soon as I place a link in my signature to get a free video, I got banned on one site, and another one gave me a warning.

    I read about how forum commenting can be a powerful technique to generate traffic by being apart of the community, and having a signature.

    What can I do???

    I've been messaging one of the moderators and he said I can have a link to a youtube video. So I guess that could work by having a quick video with some useful content, with a CTA at the end of the video and watermarked.

    Another idea was to place the video on my blog, same concept as before, kinda like a reverse squeeze page.

    Has anyone found a work around to getting a link in the signature, without being banned, or having it removed. I follow the directions in those traffic books almost verbatim, but still no luck.

    Hope you can help me out.

    I guess the IM gurus and also guru wannabe have to take out forum marketing from their next traffic generation lessons...lol

    I gave up on forum marketing because like you I got banned from many forums for giving good advice and placing my website at as my signature.

    I have deleted forum marketing as a traffic generation technique for good....

    Qamar
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    • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
      Originally Posted by Qamar View Post

      I guess the IM gurus and also guru wannabe have to take out forum marketing from their next traffic generation lessons...lol

      I gave up on forum marketing because like you I got banned from many forums for giving good advice and placing my website at as my signature.

      I have deleted forum marketing as a traffic generation technique for good....

      Qamar
      That is sad. That is what I am talking about. If you were doing the right thing as I'm sure you were, you shouldn't have been treated like a pariah, but those who make the rules can shift the goal posts and make things up as they go along. I am sorry you had to give it up. I know I will get banned from one forum or another for speaking my mind and trying to help but I don't care. I will take another route. I am over overcontrolling individuals/control freaks.
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  • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
    Dayanthan,
    I was just saying that it is not a smart pr move unless they are seen to be playing fair.
    Anyone who disagrees with a move will claim it was unfair, so that's not a practical measure. Unless you define "fair" as consistent. And, given the subjective nature of moderating, even that is open to argument.

    As far as PR... who cares? Do what you think is right, and let the people who agree find you. The rest will leave, and that's in their best interests, too. People tend to gravitate to other people with the same standards. Everyone benefits from that kind of thing, except for folks who want to get the benefit of someone else's effort by pretending to be something they're not. And are those people worth worrying about when they leave?


    Paul
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    • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
      Originally Posted by Paul Myers View Post

      Dayanthan,Anyone who disagrees with a move will claim it was unfair, so that's not a practical measure. Unless you define "fair" as consistent. And, given the subjective nature of moderating, even that is open to argument.

      As far as PR... who cares? Do what you think is right, and let the people who agree find you. The rest will leave, and that's in their best interests, too. People tend to gravitate to other people with the same standards. Everyone benefits from that kind of thing, except for folks who want to get the benefit of someone else's effort by pretending to be something they're not. And are those people worth worrying about when they leave?


      Paul
      I think you are right. I am just going by my experience and I have heard that people can fall afoul of forum or blog owners for very trivial things. I am not saying all bans are unfair but I am sure some of them are very subjective and based on a whim. I for one don't want to be associated with such people anyway.
      Maybe PR is not quite the best word but I mean that taking a hardline with others when they are not trying to hurt your site intentionally can be deemed from a viewpoint like mine as not sending the right message. Yes I am only one insignificant individual but what is the harm in having an opinion and a position on something like this? When people are receptive to others and give a little back then that will go a long way.
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      • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
        Dayanthan,
        Yes I am only one insignificant individual but what is the harm in having an opinion and a position on something like this?
        There is no such thing as an insignificant individual.

        Having a position is never a problem. There can, however, be problems with the impact that acting on or promoting a position can have.
        I am not saying all bans are unfair but I am sure some of them are very subjective and based on a whim.
        Hugely different things. One can be consistent while being subjective. Whimsy is another matter entirely.
        taking a hardline with others when they are not trying to hurt your site intentionally
        What if the harm is real, but unintentional? Does that make it any less harmful?

        I can tell you with certainty that there are many people here who mean no harm at all by spamming forum profiles or blog posts, and who I believe are genuinely nice people offline. That doesn't stop me from wishing they'd find bamboo splinters under their fingernails every time they touched a computer keyboard. (Yes, I mean that. Literally.)

        You may want to spend some time considering the damage that can be done through willful or negligent ignorance.


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        • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
          Point taken but I am not supporting those kinds of individuals who spam. I am saying that there are people who are treated unfairly and it is like anything else. I am referring to a different kind of person. The one who could be one of those individuals you mentioned who get banned because of some reason or another. I believe blatant spamming is a black and white issue but other things may or may not be in certain cases.
          One can be consistent but subjective, but one may invent any justification they can dream up and too bad for the person who is on the wrong side of the equation.
          I know what you are saying at the end of your post but I am convinced not everybody fits into this category.
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          • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
            Dayanthan,
            I am convinced not everybody fits into this category.
            And you are correct. But the decision is, and must be, somewhat subjective. The nature and function of being a moderator.


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  • Profile picture of the author IndigoJack
    Overly restrictive forums suck the life right out of the thing they are trying to create.

    I am a member of a forum which is only viewable to subscribers of a magazine. The magazine is for a tiny niche interest - 40,000 subscribers - so the number of forum users shrinks even further. No sig links are allowed.

    The result is that posts go unresponded to for weeks. Then all open posts may be answered by the one subscriber who has decided to login.

    A forum should be what its name suggests - open.

    Anyway that's got little to do with the OP......
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  • Profile picture of the author Qamar
    Why bother about forum marketing when there are many many of way to get backlinks? I don't think IMer will be much affected by doing away with forum marketing.

    Just let it go and move on with other methods. I couldn't stand to be at other people's mercy especially if I meant well...

    Just my own personal opinion....


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    • Profile picture of the author dayanthan
      Originally Posted by Qamar View Post

      Why bother about forum marketing when there are many many of way to get backlinks? I don't think IMer will be much affected by doing away with forum marketing.

      Just let it go and move on with other methods. I couldn't stand to be at other people's mercy especially if I meant well...

      Just my own personal opinion....


      Qamar
      I heartily agree with you. I can't stand to be at someone else's mercy either when I mean well too. Maybe I do come across as too assertive but I am comfortable with this.
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  • Profile picture of the author Owen Smith
    There are pleanty of other forums in which you can post your link, without really contributing too much.

    Regards
    Owen
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    • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
      Originally Posted by dayanthan View Post

      I think you are right. I am just going by my experience and I have heard that people can fall afoul of forum or blog owners for very trivial things. I am not saying all bans are unfair but I am sure some of them are very subjective and based on a whim. I for one don't want to be associated with such people anyway.
      Maybe PR is not quite the best word but I mean that taking a hardline with others when they are not trying to hurt your site intentionally can be deemed from a viewpoint like mine as not sending the right message. Yes I am only one insignificant individual but what is the harm in having an opinion and a position on something like this? When people are receptive to others and give a little back then that will go a long way.
      The only person for whom you can be sure of intent is yourself. For any other individual, you have to guess. There have been many individuals who come in here, spam their links all over the place, then protest their good intentions because the product is good.

      Maybe one is, maybe not. But if you plan to be consistent, you either have to allow everyone to make that argument, or not allow the argument at all.

      I've seen forums that went overboard trying to be permissive die the death of a thousand paper cuts...
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