Excessive Signature Lines
A Signature Line is perhaps one of the most valuable marketing tools that you have. You use it like an online business card.
Your signature line becomes the message you present to the world - the "first impression" and initial introduction that many people have to who you are and what you do. It is not only a valid marketing tactic, it is at the top of the list of things you DO want to always use.
BUT... When you are posting to forums and other online areas where you can leave feedback, and your signature line is bigger than your message, there is a problem! Never post just to post, and always make sure you really have something to say, and not that you are just using any old excuse to put out a huge and annoying signature line.
If you submit a comment that you expect to have published, then make sure the comment is of higher weight than your signature line. A signature line is supposed to be an afterthought - "by the way, in case you wonder who I am and what I do, here is how you can find out". It should be short, high impact, and considerate.
If you have multiple URLs, then create a doorway site where you can list them all in detail. Then promote just a single URL. If you feel you must list multiple URLs, just remember that the more sites you advertise, the less space you have to describe each one. If you have three or more, then you get a 5-6 word phrase for each, at most!
I use more than one signature line to address the problem of multiple items to market. I promote the URL that is most appropriate for the recipient of the email, or that fits the subject of the discussion on the forums I post to. In this instance, being a chameleon is ok!
Excessive signature lines make one appear selfish, unfocused, and inconsiderate. Don't be someone whose signature line is overlooked because it is assumed to be suffering from bloat before it is even read.
