Build a Global Business- Forums as a Marketing Strategy.

The dilemna-- where to find and connect with networkers on the International scene. How do you get exposure for your self and your business, and connect with people all over the world?

First, let us examine the trend that brought you here to the reading of this article.

The Internet

People are rushing to the internet in record numbers. The internet allows people to travel the world at the click of a mouse, and is launching Network marketing on a growth path that is exponential.

People are realizing that they can literally grow a global business from their living room. Network Marketing just got easier.... or did it?

Well, it certainly sounds easier.

But like anything, a little knowledge, and a strategy goes a long way.

The easiest way to get exposure in a global arena is to hang out with like minded people. People who share a common interest. That is true for anything but it is especially true in Network Marketing, where the success of your business depends on "word of mouth" promotion.

While there are many ways to grow an online business, forums are the logical choice for most people, for a number of reasons.

Here is what forums provide:

- A "virtual water cooler" environment where people can gather and exchange information.
- A community of people interested in the topics being discussed. These people are all there for a reason, and while it is true that most of them are promoting their own business, they are also reading your posts, and many of them will join you if they like how you present yourself and your company.
- A place for new people to ask questions, and a place for experienced people to provide answers, and establish credibility.
- Fresh content (which the search engines LOVE). This means a number of things... it means your posts will be indexed by the search engines, you will get your websites linked and indexed, and you will have an increasing amount of traffic for you opportunity, all without having to do a ton of work.

Forum Etiquette.

Before you rush out "willy-nilly" and start posting your ad on MLM forums, understand that forum regulars are very protective of their "coffee room". Forum posting, and the credibility that can come from it requires a certain amount of strategy, and a bit of dedication.

Want to make forum posting a viable way to grow a business? Follow these steps.

1. Introduce yourself.. a bit about you and your company, your successes etc. No advertising, just straight forward information.
2. Read the posts, find some that lie within your area of expertise, and offer advice or a solution.
3. Use the "signature" in your profile and allow people to "come to you" Most forums provide you with the opportunity to place a link to your website in your profile, and include a link in your signature. If you provide helpful information people will recognize you as a leader and look at your business info.
4.Read the forum rules before you jump in. The best forums have posting guidelines, and it is important that you know what they are. The regulars will be much happier with you if you take the time to do so.

Follow these guidelines and you will meet MLMers that you will develop long term relationships that will ultimately take your business all around the world !


Shelley Penney is a full time networker, author, mentor, trainer and "pay it forward" practitioner. Shelley is also webmaster of the newly launched CanadianMLM.com forum.
www.CanadianMLM.com