Hi,
This is the administrator of The Bootstrapper's Group here to provide a few ground rules about what this group is for...and what it is NOT for.

In the past, I have mentioned a couple of the services offered by my company and this is fine for other members as well up to a point.

But I guess the time has come to clarify why this group was established.

Simply, while I was still editor of BootStrapMe.com, I wanted a group where like-minded entrepreneurs could meet and talk about their projects, network and find others with whom to collaborate etc. etc.

To some degree it has been successful. Before the real tipping point of LinkedIn and other similar networking sites, it could be very difficult to find places for perspective bootstrapping entrepreneurs to meet.

In the meantime, I have moved on from the BootStrapMe website and have decided to focus on Web services like blogging and social networking more specifically...in addition to my interests in media, music and film, and additional blogs and Web sites will be popping up on these interests as well in the near future.

I have no problem with people promoting their sites if, in doing so, they also plan to add some value to this group.

Share an idea, a piece of advice etc. instead of simply spamming and trying to get someone to buy something. Please be respectful of other members and I think you'll find there are tremendous rewards that can result.

For example, I met one of my current business partners and a true soul mate (in the area of Web development) on this site and have interacted with other great people as well.

In the past, I too may have been guilty of simply using the site to promote my latest post. I promise to try to police myself as well. Remember, there's nothing wrong with promoting what you do or trying to find others who share your passions or with whom you can work. (That's really why the site was developed in the first place.)

But let's try to add value too. Let's try to have actual conversations and really network and build friendships and working relationships instead of just getting someone to buy our latest affiliate marketing program.

I've deleted a couple of messages but have avoided banning anyone from the group because I want this to work and am reluctant to shut it down since some people continue to find it via my old blog and other avenues...and I truly believe it can be of value!

But a word of warning to those who decide not to heed  my words. Excessive spamming (look it up if you don't know whether you are doing it or not) will not be tolerated.

I plan to post these ground rules at the top of the site as well (or some version of them) for all to see. Please let's not have things go to the next level. Let's have fun, network and be respectful and this group can be profitable for us all.

Thanks,

Shawn