How many of us did not try tricks and events and whatnot to get more members, perhaps there is even a top 5 or top25 of things to do.

LETS MAKE THAT


Name the 5 things you've done to get more people to your site, or more regulars be even more regular.

Added hacks. That would be the #1.

Arcade, Journals, Articles, UShop, Gallery, Chatroom...

Definately! More features for your users always keeps them coming back for more. Just be careful not to overdo it. Some hacks are just not suited for certain forums. I did a poll a while back about adding an arcade. The response was an overwhelming NO. My members just don't want a forum arcade. They would rather write/read articles and maintain forum blogs.

Oh and contests are always good. Keeps people hanging around in the hope that they will win something even if it's free karma/rep or a member award.

I think the most important step in starting a forum is not to flood the users with loads of different forums.

We started off with just one simple forum and we've seen a massive and quick rise in members. Now of course, we've had to split it all up.

Good content :) Be more informative then other sites.

Add content, personalize (add skins), install hacks. So far I haven't had any success but by reading articles and such these are supposed to help.

Try offering stuff that other sites don't have.

I think trial and error is something that is commonly overlooked by many. Many webmasters will try one method, if it fails then they are reluctant to try another method. Others simply try too much at once, not going one thing enough time to set in with the community.

Introducing one thing at a time is the best method, personally. Flooding your members with new options, so many that they have'nt had time to 'play' with the new ones, normally will turn members away (even current).