If you've been visiting this blog for any length of time you know exactly how I feel about the importance of comments. Now I know opinions come a dime a dozen but it is my strong opinion that a blog without comments is nothing more than your average run of the mill website.That's what makes blogs and blogging so special.
Blogs are like those funny looking what-nots you've kept over the years. They're different - unique. But most importantly they're great "conversation" pieces. People who visit you tend to go on and on about that funny looking little thing-a-ma-jiggy! And why not that's why you've kept them.
Even with that being said commenting can be both a joy and a pain. Moderating and policing your site for spammers, link dropping trolls and sour pusses can consume valuable time. Taking the time to respond to the many great comments you receive can be just as time consuming.
Keep a few ideas in mind when you bite the bullet and decide to leave comments on your favorite blog.
1. Say Something - "Great Post" "Good Article" "Thanks for sharing".....These type comments...well...in a word...SUCK! It adds nothing to the topic and to be honest, comments like this are usually viewed as spam and deleted anyway. If you're going to take the time to leave a comment, SAY SOMETHING.
2. Read The Article - I've been guilty of browsing an article and attempting to leave a comment based on the "other" comments....(what?.....I'm human!). I've never actually done it...but I have come close...
3. Remember Where You Are - This is a public forum. Some things are better left unsaid especially if they're private or personal in nature.
4. Be Tactful - Occasionally, you'll come across a post that contains information that you might know a bit more about than the author. That's fine. Share your knowledge with other readers but do so in a way that doesn't come across as arrogant or condescending.
5. Leaving Links - Nothing wrong with this at all as long as it's RELEVANT to the post. Don't attempt to throw out a little link bait just because - make it meaningful. The traffic you receive from those who've followed your link will appreciate it and respect you more.
6. Deflate The Wind Bags - My mother is one of the most long winded people I know. She can rant for hours. Keep things short and to the point. Some responses just based on the nature of the topic may require longer comments...but stay on point.
7. Grammar, Grammar, Grammar - This my friends is just as important in commenting as it is in writing. Comments last just as long as the post. Make sure what you've left behind doesn't leave you sounding like a chimp.
8. Add Something New - We just read a great post. The last thing we need is a repeat of it. Add something new or share another perspective.
9. Don't Be Offended - If the author doesn't reply to your comment, that's okay. As previously mentioned, sometimes the opportunity to respond to every single comment just doesn't happen. But as a blogger and reader of many (like you) we know how appreciated comments are.
10. Stop Being A Bystander - Get involved! Participate in the conversation. Weblogs aren't for the author. They're for the readers. We invite your comments. We love your comments. It's what makes what we do so great.
Happy Blogging
