But don't despair. There is a solution. It is to take a softly, softly approach.

First, read every post on your target boards.

Look out for recurring themes as they will often guide you to areas you can research. Many an info product has been born from questions raised on forums.

Next, whenever there is a question or comment that you can add to - do so. Answer questions generously and without trying to push any product or service.

If the board allows it (and it is vital to check the 'rules'), put a very short link to your site in your signature line. But on no account mention it in your message.

For example, I might sign myself off like this:

Martin Avis www.bize-zine.com - Free Business Insights Every Friday

Every once in a while ask a relevant question.

And always graciously thank anyone who answers you, even if you don't agree with them. That way you are not just being polite, but you are also doubling your postings.

Never, ever enter into an argument over someone's reply to you - however rude they may seem. Over time, you will become a known member of the board.

People will appreciate your input and you will become an accepted member.

When that time comes, you can begin to occasionally mention your service or product in posts, providing the relevancy is absolutely clear.

But only those. This way, the boards will become an excellent marketing medium for you. Any other way and you will get nowhere.

If this all sounds in any way cynical, I guess it is. But it is based on the real, hard reality of Internet etiquette: 'People do business with people they like'. Add 'trust' to that and you see the whole picture.

About the Author:

Martin Avis is a management and training consultant. His free weekly newsletter, BizE-zine, is packed with articles, interviews and quotes to help you be the best in business or Internet marketing. mailto:subscribe5@BizE-zine.com or visit his information-packed website at http://www.bize-zine.com