Add User-Generated Content to Your Web Site

It's no surprise that more and more Web sites are adding user-generated content when it's the foundation for success of half of the fastest-growing online brands, according to a July 2006 study by Nielsen/NetRatings.

User-generated content engages your site visitors, boosts your search engine optimization and grows your brand. You can add product reviews, discussion boards or blogs to your existing site or start your own niche social media Web site.

Discussion Boards

Open up your Web site to users by adding a space for them to post questions, comments and news of interest to other visitors. Discussion boards create communities and encourage return visits.

Blogs

Demonstrate your expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction by adding a business blog to your Web site. Blogs are an inexpensive way to optimize your site for search engines and start conversations with customers.

Product Reviews and Ratings

Studies show that people rely on information provided in shoppers' product reviews when making purchasing decisions. Help shoppers choose products on your Web site by offering product reviews and ratings.

Build a Community

MySpace has become the textbook success story for an Internet-based community. You can get in on the craze by providing like-minded Internet surfers a place to gather and interact by building a niche online community.

Monetizing Your Community

Get paid for all the work you put into building and promoting your online community. As your Web site grows, you consider ways to monetize your content.