Hello DigitalPoint family! I'm new to the forum and have definitely enjoyed participating so far, it seems like a great community! Since joining I've read a lot of posts about the 'like' system of gaining acceptance into the forum community. I'm not there yet myself but it seems to me that many people are mis-understanding the idea for whatever reason. I think a 'like' should be rewarded (and seems to be) for delivering actually valuable and actionable advice to members with questions and problems posed in the threads. There are plenty of contributors who have 50+ posts and no likes and I think it is because they chose to answer questions with vague answers like: "perform great SEO", "build links to your site", or "build a website in a profitable niche". Even if you aren't an expert on a subject, it doesn't take long to have a hunt around on Google and find a post on a trusted website which will likely offer value to the member asking the question. We all have certain skill-sets too, and I think that a few carefully thought out posts in the section you feel most comfortable in will definitely add value to someone's day and earn you a like or too. Even if you aren't comfortable answering questions there is an active review section where you can offer your thoughts and opinions on member's projects. Even a few words of encouragement won't go astray and could be exactly what somebody needs. I think this can all be summed up quickly and easily: *Contribute quality information to the forum, answer questions thoughtfully, encourage other members, and offer constructive advice wherever possible.* If you adhere to these ideas then it surely won't be long at all before your 'likes' mount up, and not only that you'll make the forum a better place for everyone!
I agree. I think that your arguments are totally valid but don't forget that forums are operated by humans ,therefore, there's a lot of subjectivity on the "like" system. Reputation is built by the people, not by numbers... So I wouldn't worry too much about it.