Forum Signatures Build Backlinks - Helping Your Search Rankings
There are several ways to build backlinks. We've discussed directory submissions, article submission, and press releases. The next simple, easy, and free way to get a backlink (and some free traffic, to boot) is in your forum signature tagline.
Forums that get indexed in the search engines create individual pages for each thread--turning your hyperlinked signature tag into a backlink.
If you're a member of any forums throughout the Internet, fantastic! They're usually very informative and helpful. If you're not forum member, find one that interests you and join.
Most forums allow a user to add a signature tagline to their posts. In the member’s area of most forums, you can edit, add and create a forum signature--generally consisting of up to 255 characters.
When creating your signature tag it's best to use your real name. Also use a hyperlinked URL and briefly describe your service or product. An example of a good signature tag would be:
Your Name
A short description of your product or service at
www.yourwebsite.com.
Or your entire tagline could be a hyperlink.
<a href="http://www.yoursite.com">Short description of your product or service.</a>
Each post you make in a forum is now a backlink to your site. Do not spam a forum--your behavior in a forum can be extremely profitable or detrimental based on your actions there.
When posting in a forum, remember that you are in a public arena. If you are helpful, courteous, friendly, kind, and post intelligently people will be far more likely to click on your signature tag. If the above does not describe you, then you should avoid using a hyperlinked signature tag.
Forums allow individuals to build trust and familiarity that is normally not
present through the Internet. As trust grows, people will click on your signature
tag, and will be more likely to purchase your product or service.