First threads in a brand new forum

What threads do you create as first, when you start a new forum with 0 posts?

 

I create all of the basics first.

So for example, the rules thread is important to have. I usually do an introduction as well.

Then I focus on creating new content about the niche itself. I like creating new threads that might relate to things currently happening....items in the news or changes that are happening in that niche, etc. I let other people fill in the stereotypical threads later instead.

 

You should get all or most of the simple questions out of the way in your first threads, because those are threads that'll start a lot of discussions, and they'll help boost your forum.

I created about 5 threads in each section when I started my forum, and then continued to add new threads daily when we started to get replies.

 

I usually create a welcome to xxx forum in the announcements forum. After that I introduce myself on the introductions forum.

 

Rules always go first. The rest depend on what kind of forum it is. I try to create as many articles, tutorials and guides that will hopefully bring in new people from Google. Then, sometimes, the offtopic stuff. "How's the weather", "Count to 1000" and all that crap that gets people posting. I don't really like them, but it's a nice way for new members to connect and get to know each other.

 

The rules, basic information and then just a general topic about each section to get posts rolling.

 

I like to use the first 10 posts or so to set the bar for my forum. Good quality content.

 

"What's your favorite movie" etc. They tend to be the most lived threads, and they remain active because generally new members will post in them.

 

What kind of forum is it?
That makes a huge difference.
All sites have Rules and Introductions.
Very few members actually read either section.
Try to come up with a few thread titles that make members want to click just to see what's inside.
If your site is about Proctology and you have a thread entitled "It's A Big Pain In The Ass!" people are going to be thinking, "No shit, Sherlock!"
If however, your site is about embroidery and you have the same thread people are going to click just to find out what you are talking about.

 

a test post

 

I start with rules and my own introduction and possibly and few stickies like what to do in each section like rules of each section for example general discussion - "used for anything not discussed in other boards" not just that but thats a example.

 

Rules are the ones to start off with. Unless they are done, it will become difficult when the members start getting on-board and then making them follow the rules.

That done, the next is an introduction post from the admin if the forum has an Introduce yourself kind of a section.