The primary benefit of running a membership website is obvious if you are running a paid site - reliable monthly income! But, that is not the only benefit by far because a successful membership site provides you with the most valuable asset you can ask for - a large group of customers who trust you.

Having a large group of customers who know and trust you creates many new opportunities for your business. You can market your own products and services to the members. You can make recommendations for affiliate products and earn commissions, and you can sell access to your members through advertising on the site ans sponsored mailings.

Another wonderful bonus will occur when you membership site reaches a mature size - opportunities will find you. You will be growing as an expert in your market and your members and other marketers will approach you with new business opportunities.

So, keep your members happy and provide lots of value for them.