Here is my thinking: - Unique content is everything, but can be time-consuming and difficult to keep fresh - Having users create their own unique content solves this, but difficult to get users - Give users their own "site" (subdomain) and they become invested in driving traffic to their unique content Nothing new there, Wordpress, Blogger, etc have proven this model. In addition: - Forced ads on all subdomains - New & unique brand (white label branded Wordpress) - Premium themes & plugins included - E-commerce allowed - Premium membership for extra space, memory, no ads, etc So free members generate CPC/CPM or affiliate revenue, plus premium memberships. I've ironed all this out, have a branded multisite set up with a catchy & relevant domain... But unless I liquidated my other projects & properties, I am in no position for paid advertising. What would be the recommended course of free advertising? How do I reach a broad target audience of potenial bloggers, artists, webmasters, or anyone else that would want a free subdomain site that isnt on one of the main platforms? Would love to here some opinions and suggestions, thanks!
I would go to where your target market hangs out aka forums. There are always people looking to do things for free. Simply offer your services.
Not a bad idea, but I also don't want to appear as though I am poaching traffic/users from these forums. Traffic to me is a slippery slope, once it gets started, once a few active sub-sites are started, it's all downhill and you see real growth. I see what my platform offers as something that could really benefit independent/freelance artists, designers, and others who could use a free site to peddle their goods, something not allowed on a Wordpress subdomain. Think that's a good selling point?
I understand you not wanting to "poach" traffic - however, you're an Internet Marketer - and you need to sell. No selling = no money = why are you doing this in the first place? Sure, there are tactful ways to "sell" and that's what you'll probably need to do when "poaching." As for your selling point. I think that sounds great. You need to show your target audience HOW and WHY you're better for them compared to what is already available. I think the ability to sell their products via your service is a great feature that you need to make sure people understand. Take the "Top 3" blogging engines, and compare them to yours - showing why yours is the one they want. My two cents.
Best way to market it is to .... 1) Get involved in forum communities related to your niche 2) Get involved in Web 2.0 communities like Squidoo & Tumblr 3) Lastly, brand yourself, and maintain connection with your fans through social media. You'll find it alot easier if you build a relationship first, then sell second