Being a web designer I tend to use a lot of forums and I can't keep up to date with all of them so have to select which ones I use regularly. That decision is quite easy. Which ones link back to me and which ones might generate potential income.

The second one is quite easy to answer as from time to time I get contacts through forums I use that turn into projects which is nice. it also lets me know that the forum is working for me.

Selecting which forums to use is just as important as where you might advertise and what the prospective reach might be because put simply: the more people who use the forum in question the more prospective clients you might reach.

Some forums I use just for fun, to kill time (not that I get much of that) and spend a little time offering advice and writing articles for others to review such as the articles I write here.

Being Effective...

So, choose carefully because the time you spend in forums should yeild something, if not right away, in time.

Try to be os use, you have a wealth of knowledge and experience in your field and this can be given to others and in turn bring prospects to your door.