I have just created a new Web Professionals Community and I was wondering what the best way to market it would be? Of course adwords wouldn't work in this situation because I don't have a specific product to sell... Any Ideas? I have a $xxx Budget
I would use AdWords . . . not AdSense. I would set a reasonable monthly budget and be careful about the key words I choose. I have used AdWords for many years and I have been pleased with the overall impact it has had on my business. I would consider creating a press release and getting that out there. One fellow here has developed a network of buddies who all publish one another's press releases. They do not send out many, so it is not a network of clone sites . . . just sites where the releases are one more news item. But, that helps create interest and buzz. I would also consider moving beyond just a forum. You need to give people something of value to keep them returning.
I was thinking of sending out a very large invitation email... But where would I get those email addresses?
and turn into a spammer? Sending out a personalized, custom email is not a bad idea. However, before you do, you need to build up the forum. Invite friends and start posting. Use your knowledge to post tips, newsworthy items. etc I am in the same boat with starting a forum, check my sig
Cyanide, that is what I meant, a personalized, custom email to all the people who know me and I think would enjoy the forums.
No problem, was kidding... but you should try to fill up the forum a bit before shooting out the email