Find me a new business owner who is getting everything done and I will sell you some magic beans. One of the guarantees you will have as a business owner is a never ending to do list of things that you can do to improve your business.

We have ascertained previously that it is important to prioritise regular time for networking, sales and marketing, and the good news is that some of this can be safely done from the comfort of your workspace using online forums.

Online forums are vastly underutilised and, like social networking, they provide a great opportunity to promote your website and increase the success of your business through connecting with likeminded business owners or potential customers.

The problem however is that like social networking they also have the potential to add to the list of things that take some time to get in the swing of things. So how do you make the most of online forums and get results?

Here are my top tips…

Find forums that best serve your industry.

There are all sorts of forums for all sorts of industries. Shop around and look for one that seems to have quality participation. A good place to start if you are a small business in Australasia is Flying Solo.

Get involved and be of value.

To get a lot out of a forum you need to put a lot in. Post the questions you have and respond to other peoples questions whenever you feel you can contribute. Be interested and be of value and you will find plenty of opportunities to directly and indirectly promote your website and your expertise.

Make the most of your signature

Many forums allow you to have a signature space where you can include your company links and a brief description of what you do. Make sure you take advantage of that space if it’s offered.

Read the terms and conditions

It is important to read the terms as they vary from website to website, and you don’t want to be removed for breaking the rules, ignorance is no excuse!

If you have not yet begun to participate in forums in earnest, consider scheduling some regular time to get yourself involved today.

Happy Hunting!

Serena “Social” Star

Serena is a business coach, radio presenter and one half of the Grassroots team currently travelling through South America as an ambassador for World Vision. She has a passion for successful websites, low maintenance income and blogging and her book How to Retire in 12 Months is in stores now.

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