Who told you forum and social media is useless? I think your marketing materials is not attractive. Another factor is the niche, if you post bitcoin related ads to food, or celebrity no one will click your ads.
Which is the best way to promote products or refferal links? Social media and forums is total shit,no one interested in this.
I totally agree with you social media and forums are absolutely a great way to promote your products or links. I myself have used them in the past and have been quite successful in selling my services and also getting me referrals to some of my online business programs. I agree one needs to promote one's products or services to the people who can be one's services and products prospect customers and it's where the correct niche comes in action. Secondly, one needs to have a good and attractive presentation of their services and products so that people get curious and want to know more about your business, products or services. If one prepares a good strategy and follow some above mentioned ideas, rules one can easily achieve desired success with promotion on social media and forums.