One of the fastest ways to have your message board or forum start
hopping with visitors is using post exchanges. A post exchange is where
you can post a request to have members visit your board and post in the
topics areas. In exchange, you go to their board and post the same
number. It has really been effective on my boards.
Tips for using a Post Exchange
1.
If you start reading the exchange offers and you find one that looks
good, don't immediately respond to the request. Click on the link to
their message board and see if it has content you would be intelligently
able to reply to. If you don't believe you can relate to the posts or
interests of that particular board, don't accept the offer. No one wants
a bunch of unrelated posts on their board. If it looks like something
you can relate to, by all means accept the offer.
2. Register on
their forum immediately after you respond to their request to exchange.
This lets them know you are willing, but do not post anything until they
accept your reply. Then once they respond, go ahead and place the posts
you agreed to give them on their board.
3.
When making your own offer, make sure to provide a link to your site
with the url to your site along with what ratio of posts you are
offering. Then, when someone replies, they will have all the information
they need to exchange posts with you. Let the members now exactly what
you are looking for in an exchange. How many posts you want to exchange,
and how long you'd like the process to take place along any other
stipulations or comments you want them to know.
4. The last
suggestion is that you do what you say you are going to do. Always make
sure that your reputation for honesty stays intact. Also be patient. The
one you are negotiating with may not be online while you are waiting
for your response. Give them time and be polite about the matter. You
can't expect them to work on your timetable if they are also exchanging
posts with others.