I started a web community recently, and I have been posting the address on places like Craigslist, etc... trying to generate some interest. I put the URL in all of my forum signatures, etc... I have also submitted to the Search Engines, but since I am doing this as a hobby/for fun, I can't really sink money into SEO, etc... I was wondering what the best way to get the word out there is, especially in a way that isn't annoying or offensive? Am I basically on the right track?
You really don't have to spend any money on your site to promote it, although personally I think it would be a good idea if yours was a commercial site. Given that it isn't, I think you're doing just about the best you can for it.
One thing I would suggest though is to include a description of your site in your signature line. That might encourage a few people to go have a look at it.
Joviyach, what does your site do? What makes it worth visiting? A web community offering forums, photos and more you say? Could you be any more non-descriptive?
Without a unique proposition to offer a web user all your promotion efforts will be in vain anyway. Even after I went to your site I couldn't tell what it was about.
BTW where did you get the idea that 'integrity' was the most searched for word on the Internet this year? It was in fact 'Paris Hilton' by all accounts that I've read...
I guess my site IS sort of the Seinfeld (site about nothing) of websites right now (without the fanbase). It's a work in progress no doubt... I appreciate the honesty and constructive criticism.
As far as "integrity" being the most searched word, that information was on CNN, MSNBC, and CLTV (Chicago news). I think they meant word specifically, and not people, places, etc... I am sure Paris Hilton was the most searched person on the Internet (in more ways than one).
I think they meant word specifically, and not people, places, etc... I am sure Paris Hilton was the most searched person on the Internet (in more ways than one).
Ah, well then fair enough. FYI, "Poker" was #4 in the top 100 and the highest placed single word - I guess your sources ruled out games and activities too But yeah, all top 3 were various female members of the species.
Anyway, back on topic - I really think your site needs an identity in this case. People have shown numerous times that you don't need an original idea to have a successful website, but you do need a unique spin or good brand on an established idea. There are millions of forums out there, after all, both generic like yours and niche which are far more popular.
im not sure if your into webpage community but, you can try creating a webpage on any webpage communities like asianavenue.com, blackplanet.com, or migente.com. this might generate traffic but the question now is will they stay?
I started a web community recently, and I have been posting the address on places like Craigslist, etc... trying to generate some interest. I put the URL in all of my forum signatures, etc... I have also submitted to the Search Engines, but since I am doing this as a hobby/for fun, I can't really sink money into SEO, etc... I was wondering what the best way to get the word out there is, especially in a way that isn't annoying or offensive? Am I basically on the right track?
thanks,
Jim
Just letting you know, I think somthing is wrong with your site. It says it has been hacked, but it is a catchy tune they got playing.
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Single Paradox My Site (Under construction)
I have found temndous success is promoting my site through regular pings to RSS readers. I have an RSS feed, and then I go to http://www.pingoat.com and ping all the major sites.
You could have a post RSS, and as long as your posters have decent content and original posts, you should see some extra traffic.
Before you post, read our: 
I appreciate the honesty and constructive criticism.
But yeah, all top 3 were various female members of the species.
