There was once a time where a gimmick would really make something or someone shine. How could you use gimmick marketing for a forum or a web site? Well, think of a niche, then think of something that makes people go “HOLY SHIT!”. Yep, that’s what a gimmick is supposed to do. Let’s take a prime internet example “free ipods”. You sign up, you get a free ipod, that’s the gimmick, that’s the catch. Oh, but you have to sign up with about 5 afiiliates and use your credit card information and have 5 other friends do the same thing. See the big picture on gimmick marketing now? It works, but you need to find the right gimmick.

I’ll write up a post about a very genius marketing scheme created by bands. It started with the “masks, and makeup” but then evolved into creating a cult-like atmosphere. Basically taking a fan-base into believing something more then they are not. This gives an illusionary attachment to the band. It makes the fans feel like they are actually part of something when they are not. It really all comes down to the artists success and popularity. Everything is business when you have to pay money and gain money to not be homeless.

The same idea that bands use, websites can use. The only thing is, can you come up with the gimmick that makes your user base feel like they are connected or part of your site or entity?

Give me a day or so and I’ll write up a lengthy post about a very successful marketing gimmick with the band Insane Clown Posse and related gimmicks (KISS, Psychopathic Records, Slipknot, Mudvayne). You’ll see how gimmicks really help in generating a userbase of some sorts. Whether it be online members, or dedicated fans, or cult zealots. It depends how creative you are.

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