branding

Isn't one of the most effective means of advertising said to be branding?

So how does one do it?
I'm assuming that it involves building some credibility.
You brand, whether it's your name, your business/etc, has equity.
That is your brand value.

And like building relationships, brand buidling takes time.

If someone (unkknown) says "you should buy this", chances are you don't
pay attention to what they are saying. but if someone you know suggests
that you purchase something, depending on your relationship and trust level,
you will probably give it some consideration. Assuming they're pitching
something you actually need.

How do you even begin?
The Cole's Notes version to branding;
Repetition of your marketing messages to maintain top of mind awareness.

To put it another way, if you are providing (on a regular basis) information
which has perceived value to your audience, your audience will grow through
word of mouth (advertising/references). And that's without you doing anything
other than offering your advice. Naturally you'll have to market yourself a bit
to acquire the initial marketshare to get things rolling, but beyond that it can
take on an almost viral form.

The real trouble lies in making the leap from good to great.
Read the book, and it had some interesting ideas, but didn't define the missing
ingredient succinctly. And ideas?

It could help your forum/site take off.
And keeping focussed would be paramount.