Hello JM,
Welcome to the 5 Star forum, it's nice to see new faces around here and I hope you're having a nice look around.
Now, on with the review:
Site Design
Well, the first thing that leapt out at me was the lack of web 2.0-ness, if that's even a word.
The design itself is very clean and easy on the eyes, which is a wonderful thing, but it doesn't convey social networking to me.
Also, I was confused by the two links up top labeled "Articles | Rank". Well, I understand that clicking on Articles will probably take me to read some articles, but what's the rank all about? It may be wise to move them to somewhere else for more intermediate users and reserve that space for an explanation of the site for brand new visitors.
One other thing I would love to see is something telling me, immediately, what the purpose of the site is. As a general user (i.e. not someone reviewing the site), I'm not generally inclined to read the small text, but headings would certainly help in that regard.
For instance, have a look at
Trig, a social networking site for individuals/musicians. It's quite simple, not much copy on the front page, but you'll notice they have small boxes that answer what and why almost immediately.
This is just a personal preference, but the left alignment of the content box seems strange to me. Not saying it doesn't work on some sites, but in this case, it may work better if the content box were centered on the screen.
Features
Well, the features sound all well and good, but how does it benefit me? I already have a place where I can meet other affiliate marketers (here and other forums), and there are a number of free places online where people can list their classified ads and meet more people.
Also, I didn't understand "Get a friend's recommendation and join them." What does that mean? Join them in what?
Basically, instead of listing the straight features, explain to a user how joining your site will ultimately benefit them. Will joining your site better their business or life in some way? If so, how? Then write that down.
Also, you may want to double check your copy. I've spotted a few areas where it could use some refinement because it gets a little confusing.
Promoting the Site
Well, since it is a social networking site, you should probably start using some social networking tools.
Consider setting up a blog and outline how members are participating in the community. Even if you don't go the blog route, set up some way that people "on the outside" can see what's going on on the inside.
Participate in the community of your peers (similar to what you're doing here - i.e. participating in forums), leave comments on other blogs, and contact members in the niche you're targeting.
Hope that helps and good luck!
~ Teli
Social-Networking for Marketers need site review
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