The usenet, or newsgroups, is a free resource available to all. Whatever you are into, there are other people out there with the same interests. All you need do is open up your mail client (Outlook, Outllok Express, etc) and click on your news server. On Outlook Express it is the second heading after "Local Folders" (inbox, outbox, drafts, etc.). It looks like this:

Click the "Newsgroups" button (highlighted in red here) and input key words from your sites' subject matter. It will give you a list of groups that look like this:

Select the group that fits and hit "Go to". Post your message with links and exit. As you exit it will ask you if you want to subscribe - if it looked like a winner say yes: its bookmarked for later use. Repeat this untill you've made yourself known out there. There is software out there that will automatically post for you - one is a freeware called Agent Post - click here to download. Read READ1ST.TXT to get unzip password and instructions.

There are a couple of caveats:

• This is an older resource and is being somewhat pushed aside by younger surfers for blogs, etc. Nonetheless, it is still free and a possible aid in reaching your target.
• If is a moderated group, learn the "house rules" and create good will or you run the risk of quickly becoming persona non grata.
• If it is a non-binary group you can't post any graphics like ad banners.
• Do not spam it with too many entries - you will create negative publicity.
• Keep it short and cut to the chase - use a catchy headline in the subject field.