Understanding The Fine Line Between Spamming and Internet Marketing

So what really separates aggressive internet marketing from spamming? Business owners who take advantage of Internet marketing realize there is a fine line between marketing and spamming and orchestrating their marketing campaigns to gain the maximum amount of exposure without running the risk of being viewed as spam. The definition of spam is open to interpretation. It can be unsolicited emails, or message board postings which are posted solely for advertising. Let's analyze the differences.

 

Message Boards

Message boards, by definition, are essentially online meetings places for Internet users who share a particular interest where they can exchange ideas, ask or answer questions or --- just socialize. These message boards allow users to register and post messages. Message boards have asset of guidelines which users must follow when making posts. These guidelines may vary widely with some being very strict about acceptable content, and others not being nearly as strict. It is important to follow these guidelines because failure to do so may result in the board moderators deleting your account, which is worse than other members not paying much attention to your posts.

Message boards are ideal for online marketing because they provide access to a specialized target audience. You can also take the opportunity to post links to your website when appropriate and in accordance with the message board guidelines. This is considered to be smart Internet marketing. On the other hand, if you opt to respond to each and every post with a link to your website even when it is not relevant and do not offer comments of value to other members, they are likely to view your posts as spam. This can be damaging because these members may opt to avoid your website even if they have a need for your services.

Email Advertising

Most Internet users to not appreciate unsolicited emails, period. This is often the case when site owners buy email lists and send their ads to practically everyone on the list. This is not effective because recipients of the email may block your email address so future communications are automatically sent to a spam folder. Some recipients may even report you to their service provider who may investigate the claim that you are a spammer. A better way to approach the concept of this type of marketing is to only send e-newsletters and ads to past customers who have specifically asked to receive such emails and potential customers who have requested additional information.