Do you really push the Join Now in front of the surfer with flashing buttons and large font, or do you keep your links small and not in their face?

From a usability standpoint its good to be agressive because its right in their face and they dont have to hunt for it.
From another standpoint someone may get annoyed like youre pushing them or they feel like theyre being pressured and leave.

Which methods have worked best for you all?