I noticed that I went from Newbie to Jr. Member at some point in the last day and it got me thinking....how about a penny or 2 for each elevation in member status? Unless there is already a reward for moving up in status that I'm not aware of....is there?
There's no particular monetary reward currently offered for the number of posts made, (member status is based on that factor), beyond the $3 monthly posting bonus even the newest member can receive.
Since any bonus would have to come out of FC's revenues, you might want to offer some suggestions as to how that would benefit FC, (they are a business afterall). Btw, 'keeping members happy' would entail offering bonuses for all manner of things too, (birthday bonuses, time on FC bonuses, bonus bonuses ...).
I see your point, but I'm wondering how do some of the other bonuses benefit FC, for example paid to post, weekend promotion, penny for your thoughts on daily surveys that don't qualify...? I just think the more people are on the site, they see their money add up and they're more inclined to STAY on the site, and therefore do more offers and surveys. Just sayin'
I think FC does benefit from the paid to post, in a couple ways.
First non members viewing the forum, and those doing search enginges can see the posts and be inclined to join.
Also it is a good advantage over competitors (I dont know of any other PTC site that pays you $3 for posting in a forum!)
But the most important benefit is that it keeps quality posts coming in which allows questions to be asked and answered, helpful tips to be given, and can keep members from getting easily discouraged. I know the forum helped me out greatly when I first joined, and still does from time to time.. even if its just to rant or vent or to make sure Im not the only one, ect.
You can make the arguement that all that would still be there without the bonus, but Id be willing to bet there are far more posts, and far more quality informative posts, on the forum as a result of the bonus
The penny for getting DQed I believe came from a ton of members requesting some form of payment for DQs, so that benefits by showing the members that they do listen, even if they cant give alot they still gave us that occasional penny, which is more then we had. So that improves customer satisfaction a little.
As for the contests.. I dont see a direct benefit except that it gives something fun to do and keeps us coming back to the forum twice a week and is just another unique perk that FC has over competitors.