Why Reddit Etiquette Matters
Reddit users are notoriously protective of their communities. Brands that ignore etiquette face swift consequences: downvotes, hostile comments, and permanent bans. However, those who respect the culture often find Reddit to be one of the most valuable marketing channels available.
The Golden Rules of Reddit
Rule #1: The 90/10 Principle
This is Reddit's most important unwritten rule: 90% of your content should be valuable, non-promotional contributions, while only 10% can be self-promotional. This isn't just a suggestion—it's enforced by both community members and moderators.
What Counts as "Value" (The 90%)
- Answering questions in your area of expertise
- Sharing helpful resources you didn't create
- Contributing to discussions with insights
- Upvoting and commenting on others' content
- Sharing relevant news and industry insights
Rule #2: Read and Follow Subreddit Rules
Every subreddit has specific rules listed in their sidebar. These aren't suggestions—they're strictly enforced. Many marketers get banned simply because they didn't take 2 minutes to read the rules before posting.
Common Rule Types
- • Self-promotion restrictions and designated days
- • Title formatting requirements
- • Content type restrictions (text only, no memes, etc.)
- • Account age and karma requirements
- • Banned domains and link restrictions
Rule #3: Authenticity Over Sales
Reddit users have finely-tuned "corporate speak" detectors. Overly polished, sales-focused language immediately raises red flags. Instead, communicate like a real person sharing genuine experiences.
❌ Corporate Language
"Our innovative solution helps businesses optimize their workflow..."
"Check out our amazing product that will revolutionize your industry!"
"We're excited to announce our latest feature update..."
✅ Authentic Communication
"I built this tool because I was frustrated with..."
"After trying dozens of solutions, here's what actually worked..."
"I learned the hard way that... here's my experience..."
Community-Specific Etiquette
Understanding Community Culture
Each subreddit has its own personality and unwritten cultural norms. What works in r/entrepreneur might get you downvoted in r/personalfinance. Here's how to quickly understand a community's culture:
Lurk Before You Post
Spend at least a week reading posts and comments to understand the tone, humor, and values of the community.
Study Top Posts
Look at the highest-upvoted posts from the past month to understand what content resonates.
Note Common Phrases and Jokes
Every community has inside jokes, common phrases, and cultural references. Using these appropriately shows you're truly part of the community.
Professional vs. Casual Communities
Different types of communities have vastly different expectations:
Professional Communities
r/entrepreneur, r/marketing, r/sales
- • Data and metrics are highly valued
- • Case studies and concrete examples work well
- • Professional language is acceptable
- • Self-promotion is more tolerated if valuable
Hobby/Interest Communities
r/gaming, r/fitness, r/cooking
- • Passion and enthusiasm matter more than data
- • Personal stories and experiences resonate
- • Casual language and humor are preferred
- • Heavy promotion is quickly rejected
Common Mistakes That Get Marketers Banned
The "Hit and Run" Approach
This is the #1 mistake: posting promotional content and disappearing. Reddit users notice when you only show up to promote something and never engage with the community otherwise.
Red Flags That Get You Banned
Account Only Posts Self-Promotion
Your entire post history is links to your website, blog, or product.
Identical Posts Across Multiple Subreddits
Copy-pasting the same promotional content to dozens of communities.
Never Engaging with Comments
Posting content but never responding to questions or discussions.
Buying Votes or Using Bots
Reddit has sophisticated detection systems for artificial engagement.
The Right Way to Self-Promote
Self-promotion isn't forbidden—it just needs to be done thoughtfully and sparingly:
Build Relationships First
Become a known, helpful member of the community before ever mentioning your business.
Provide Context and Value
When you do self-promote, explain why your audience would benefit and what value you're providing.
Be Transparent
Always disclose when you're the creator or have a financial interest. Reddit values honesty.
Advanced Etiquette Tips
The Art of Reddit Commenting
Comments are often more valuable than posts for building reputation and relationships:
Effective Commenting
- • Add meaningful insights, not just "Great post!"
- • Share related experiences or additional resources
- • Ask thoughtful follow-up questions
- • Acknowledge and build on others' points
Comment Etiquette
- • Read the full post before commenting
- • Check if your point has already been made
- • Use proper grammar and formatting
- • Stay on topic and relevant to the discussion
Handling Criticism and Downvotes
Reddit can be harsh, but how you handle criticism separates professionals from amateurs:
Best Practices for Negative Feedback
Don't Take It Personally: Reddit criticism is often about the content, not you personally.
Respond Professionally: Thank critics for feedback and address valid points thoughtfully.
Learn and Adapt: Use downvotes and criticism as data to improve your approach.
Know When to Walk Away: Don't engage with obvious trolls or get into lengthy arguments.
The Long-Term Mindset
Successful Reddit marketing isn't about quick wins—it's about building genuine relationships and becoming a valued community member. This takes months, not days. The marketers who approach Reddit with patience and authenticity are the ones who see real, lasting results from the platform.
Conclusion
Reddit etiquette isn't about following arbitrary rules—it's about respecting the communities that make Reddit special. When marketers ignore these norms, they don't just hurt their own efforts; they damage the trust and culture that makes Reddit valuable for everyone.
Approach Reddit with humility, genuine interest in helping others, and respect for each community's unique culture. The marketers who succeed on Reddit are those who become valued community members first and promoters second.