Every time I write a post about comments and how to receive more, it becomes a popular one. The most recent one, Five Ways To Increase Blog Comments, is no exception.
What this tells me is most bloggers WANT comments. Bloggers like to have their thoughts validated. Bloggers also like to communicate with their readers and via comments, ideas can blossom into great discussions which can lead to bigger and better ideas or solutions. Comments create community on blogs and it’s through comments, online friendships are often made.
Comments are what makes a blog interactive and is why many people enter the blogging arena.
To be heard.
Today’s Lesson
When I commented on Betsy’s post Life Skills: You Don’t Have to Explain Certain Things I went back later to read her response. In a comment that followed, Betsy wrote, in part,
“…sometimes they’re just not that into us”*
Her words reminded me how with blogging, as much as we love receiving comments, one of the reasons we may not not get any (or very few) is just that, our readers are just not that into what we’re posting.
Ouch! That’s a blow to the ego.
In fact, when we hear that, our first reaction might be “Then why do I bother to post?”
And in truth, that’s a good question to ask ourselves. “Why do we blog?”
If it’s only to receive validation or to PROVE our point(s), we could be setting ourselves up for disappointment.
Maybe, no one cares.
Or maybe, as Betsy eludes to in her post, our readers don’t feel the need to explain themselves on the issues we’ve written about.
So that leads to the question, “Does a lack of comments mean our readers are just not that into us or what we’ve posted? Or might our visitors be reading but feeling they don’t need to explain their viewpoints to us?”
Since bloggers are usually the readers who comment most often, for today’s lesson, let’s take the commenting discussion further and share what inspires US to comment, or not.
Today’s Assignment
When you read a blog post, what inspires you to leave a comment?
Also, what hampers you from commenting?
Care to share?
~Barbara
*A book with a similar title, “He’s Just Not That Into You: The No-Excuses Truth to Understanding Guys
I started commenting when I realized that I a thought has been provoked and that I just don’t bother. After that I realized that I would like for people to bother once I posted something, so I began doing the same.
Hi Mina,
You’re right. As bloggers, when we realize how much WE like comments, we’re reminded other bloggers probably like them, too.
Hi Barbara – Thank you for the mention! That post resonated with a lot of people, and some of them even commented (LOL!). Several additional thoughts about lack of comments:
I think many people are more guarded with their time online. It doesn’t necessarily mean we have less time to spend, it’s just that we’re apportioning it in favor of our priorities. More time is spent on Facebook, for example, less time commenting on blogs. I read blog posts in my RSS reader, in my Facebook and Google + streams, etc. If I’m going to click out of Google Reader, it’s going to be for something outstanding that I’m going to share first, and secondarily, comment upon. That’s how I roll online these days – way different than even a year ago, and vastly different than when we started blogging in 2008.
In sales, we learn that it is harder to make the customer come to you than it is for you to go to the customer. When PassingThru’s blog posts are integrated in other channels, we get engagement within those channels (particularly in social media). So, if a blog is a storefront for you to sell your ideas (no matter the method of transactional exchange) and you’re disappointed with your engagement metrics, you may want to look at where else your readership might be online. A friend who blogs on humorous observations from day to day life, for example, makes sure she posts a link in our high school class Facebook group, catching the people that she wants to read her work where they are.
Because of these observations, I’ve been thinking about tweaking (again! forever!) PassingThru to make it easier to engage with people on the spot. Their spot. But, I also know that I have what I think of as hidden readership: someone will emerge from time to time and their appearance will remind me that our reach is greater than we may think. 🙂
You’re welcome Betsy,
You’ve raised a great point. Just because our readers aren’t commenting directly on our blogs doesn’t mean they’re not reading. And like you said, with the time issue, readers may be “liking” or tweeting our posts instead of actually telling us, in the comment section, that our post resonated with them.
I agree. How we blogged a few years ago is different than how we blog now. Not only is our time spread over numerous venues, but our interests change, too.
I comment usually when I like the topic and when I feel that I can share my knowledge. On the other hand, I like blogs which emphasize on the user experience. From my point of view, using Captcha is a big mistake if you want to encourage the readers to share their feedback.
Hi Jack,
That’s true. If we want more comments, we need to make it as easy as possible for our readers to leave one.
like you, I love to read comments as well. Sensible and relevant ones, of course. It gives me that feeling of being able to pass, or relate, that info to my readers. I mean, it tells me that my message is getting across, regardless of whether they agree or disagree. Sometimes, it’s interesting and satisfying to have readers who can show genuine interest to what you are writing. I appreciate that you brought this up. 😉
Thank you Mike,
Yes. Comments can tell us a lot. Like you said, they let us know our readers understood our message. And, even when our readers disagree with us, we can learn from the opposing viewpoints.
I rarely comment these days! And now that I don’t comment much, I realize that it’s true what I’ve read – people can read, absorb and care even when they don’t take the time to leave a comment. There are many ways to measure a blog’s success – comments is just one of them.
Hi Vered,
You’re right. Even though we don’t comment doesn’t mean we didn’t like the post. Oftentimes we’ve just got too much else to do.
Barbara,
There are days when a blog post does not receive comments, and my feeling is a little as you describe. Yet I know people read it. One of my posts was on a LinkedIn board and there was a lot of comments there, even though none on the blog. The continuing progress and development of social media tools and sites takes away from blog commenting, I think. It is a little more old school.
To answer your question, I comment for a number of reasons. For starters, as a blogger, knowing that it is nice to receive comments, I will comment if I like the blogger and the blog just to say “someone is listening and is reacting to what you have to say”.
Secondly, through comments one can often begin developing more of a relationship. Some folks whose blogs I have commented on have ended up as LinkedIn connections, for instance.
Finally, it is a way of attracting readers to my blog who might not otherwise be aware of it. When a comment of mine gets a “that’s a good point” kind of response, people take notice and might decide to see what other good points that writer has to say.
Going along with that last point though, since I in no way want to be associated with the word “spammer”, I will only comment if I have something to add: a perspective not covered in the post, an insight, or information that might be of further relevance, a humorous twist, or a question that the post seems well suited to answer etc. The rule I follow is that the post should somehow add value to the blog reader, otherwise all the objectives above are not well met.
I think Betsy’s comment above is also relevant. As I have gotten more involved in different social media channels – LinkedIn, Twitter, Blog, etc. – there is a marked increase in the demands on time available to me for these activities.
We all have too much to do and too little time to do it, and writing a good, well thought out, value-adding comment can sometimes take me up to 45 minutes.
Thanks!
You’re welcome David,
Great comment. 8)
I’m happy you brought that up about the amount of time it can take to leave a comment. Like you, after I’ve read a post and thought about what I want to say, a considerable amount of time can pass – especially if I have to put on my thinking cap.
With regard to value based comments; they can be VERY beneficial – not only to the blog author but for those who are reading the comments. In fact, if we check our stats after we’ve commented on other blog, we often find we’re getting referral traffic from those blogs.
I also like your idea of commenting on a blog “just because” (you have empathy for the blogger). That’s a great way to pay it forward – to those new bloggers who would give anything just to have ONE real comment. Even if they don’t reciprocate and visit our blogs, we know we made their day. 🙂
I almost always comment when I want the place I’m commenting at to reciprocate by commenting on my stuff! Sometimes (if the author invites it) I like to link back to certain posts on my own blog, or if I feel that what I have written is relevant to the topic at hand. Also, sometimes the blog posts just inspire a response in me that I feel would interest the people at the site. Especially if the topic is one that I am an expert in and can help answer any questions. Sometimes too, the blogs are asking for information that I happen to have on hand. These are all the things that make me leave a comment without a doubt. I know it feels nice to get lots of comments on your blogs, because then the author sort of feels validated, but sometimes just leaving meaningless comments doesn’t actually add to the discussion. I would rather have the comment I leave mean something.
Hi Paul,
That’s a good feeling, isn’t it? – when we can contribute to the conversation and help others who are struggling to find an answer.
I’ve read some comments where the comment author will say something like, “I just wrote a post about that. Here’s a link to MY blog”, instead of sharing the answer in the comment section. Granted, they might get a click or two, but in most cases they’d gain more credibility if they just shared their knowledge on the original blog.
I always comment on blogs that I read, just to show my support so that they people I enjoy reading will understand that I appreciate them. I don’t think it is necessarily rude to not leave a comment, but it does feel good to be appreciated by your readers. Even if it is just a “hey great post” type comment. If I don’t have time to comment at that particular moment, I bookmark the link and come back to it.
Hi Robert,
Commenting just to comment is a great way to help other bloggers. Like you said, even a “great post…..(with a short note) will let a blogger know you were there.
Hi Barbara,
First off, I’d like to say, “Happy Blog Birthday!”
Secondly, not getting comments doesn’t mean that people don’t appreciate what you do. I know for a fact that I have regular readers of my Teaching Tip Tuesday series who never leave comments. I think they don’t really know how, that maybe they’re too busy, they just want to get what they need quickly and leave, or that they don’t know how much comments mean to us.
I don’t leave comments unless a piece has really spoken to me or I have something valuable to add to the discussion. And that just doesn’t happen all the time.
Thank you Chase,
Can you believe it? We’ve both been blogging for over five years now?
You’re right. For one thing, many of our readers aren’t bloggers, and secondly they either don’t know how to comment or don’t realize they can. The popularity of your Teaching Tip Tuesday is a perfect example of that.
That said, as much as we’d like to receive comments, if whom we’re writing for are not bloggers, chances are we won’t receive a lot of comments.
Hi Barb,
For sure bloggers like comments on their blogs – I know I do! I follow only a dozen or so blogs and try to leave comments regularly. I may randomly skip either because of time constraints or perhaps the topic (like a book review of fiction) is just not my cup of tea.
I give a lot of information on my blogs – all carefully researched and science based – but from the emails and comments I get, its appreciated and people seem to like learning “the latest” in health and wellness and foods. If folks don’t comment, I hope they’ve learned something in any case.
Hugs
SuZen
Hi SuZen,
With your blog, I’d have to believe many of your readers are not bloggers, but instead, the general public – people who enjoy learning more about health and wellness. If you’re getting emails, that shows they’re reading and instead of sharing their viewpoint in the comment section. prefer to take the conversation offline.
I see that as a good sign your message is being heard.
((hugs)) to you, too.
Hi Barbara –
I miss my blogger email comments that used to come through from other people’s blogs – WordPress is fine .. and I gather if I get myself organised they do work in blogger, but so much is changing within blogger.
Certainly if I didn’t have comments I’d have nothing to measure myself against. I’m not out aiming to get hundreds … but it’s nice to have the post validated and to build those friendships you refer to.
Some blogs I find difficulty in relating to, some posts that applies to as well;
Some posts I just don’t want to get involved with .. too controversial for me, or too detailed and I can’t spare the time to relate;
Some I need time to dwell on and consider – as I appreciate and value the blogger and their style of posting – eg Betsy …
Some I need to read as I learn so much – here and love the interaction you have had over the years – you were one of my early branch outs .. I’ve been lucky.
Too many posts a week, too dolally in style .. just too much or nonsensical for me to take an interest – I guess that’s two things ..
Love the interacting with blogging friends and those relationships we seem to be able to build – always amazes me …
Cheers and love being here – now I must read the comments to date .. Hilary
Thank you Hilary,
That’s true. Some blog posts aren’t to our liking, or like you said, may be too controversial or nonsensical for us to even spend time trying to compose a comment.
Yes. The number of comments we receive can be used as a type of measurement with regard to how well our posts are received, however what I see on some blog posts (even some of my own on my other blogs), comments aren’t necessary since the posts are for informational purposes only.
Cheers to you! 🙂
I don’t always leave comments, but when I do, It’s when I realized or learned something. I don’t leave comments when, of course, im lazy LOL. I don’t really have an specific reason. I just do it when I feel like I want to do it. Just like now. And also, I always make it brief.
Hi Edward,
I hear you. Sometimes I feel lazy, too. 🙂 That said, when we learn something from a blog post, it’s easy to leave a comment, even if it’s to say, “thank you…….”
Dear Barbara:
I love comments and my recent post is on commenting. I comment on a post if it provokes me to think. I also comment if I can add something to the existing post. I must say that I find it extremely difficult to comment on poetry and 55 fiction blogs but I do so if I think that I have a good relationship with the other blogger.
I would say that comments are a lifeline of any blog. Maybe when we start blogging,we don’t much care about comments but once a year or so has passed, we look forward to those discussions in the form of comments. The comments’ section paves a way for an organic relationship between the blogger and commenter and also gives the blogger a feeling that one is not blogging in void.
And, the comments from regular readers always blossom into a beautiful relationship outside the space of blogs.
Whenever I leave my comments on any blog, I revisit the blog many times to find out what is the response to my comment. Sometimes, bloggers who are also commenters like me respond to my comments and that makes my day.
I would like to quote from my latest post:
An invisible bond is forged between a blogger and her/his commenter. When a commenter consistently comments on successive posts and is passionate about writing what she/he feels after reading a post, there is an organic thread that unites thoughts and observations of the blogger and commenter. From the time I began my journey as a blogger, there have been many such commenters who have forged a strong connectivity with me through my posts.
Joy always,
Susan
Hi Susan,
Thank you for sharing your quote. It’s beautiful. And you’re right; it is like an organic thread that connects bloggers who have formed online friendships. I think it’s especially true for bloggers who have followed each other for many years – that thread becomes even stronger.
Adding value to an existing post is the perfect basis for a comment. Not only can does that let the blog author know we’ve read their article, but it helps the other commenters see more than just one side of a topic.
Joy to you, too. 🙂
Hi Barbara,
Firstly, I comment to express how I fell on that certain article. I may sometimes give pre-emptive or vice versa.
When you got no comments, it doesn’t mean that your post has not enticed readers. It could be that, your post may lack something or maybe too good for them. Whatever may the reason be, we cannot push our readers to comment on a certain post.
Receiving comments from readers can be a great way of learning and can pays from your hardships.
Cheers,
Jervy
Hi Jervy,
True. Not receiving comments doesn’t always mean our post has no value, and as you pointed out, we can’t push readers to comment either.
That said, if a blogger wants more comments, I think sometimes we have to ask for them – either with a question at the end of our post or some sort of action call.
Barbara, so many good thoughts have been shared here. Bloggers who attest to having thousands of subscribers usually draw fewer than 100 comments per post, often fewer than 10. Yet those who define themselves by their thousands of subscribers know there are millions of blogs being written.
I subscribe to a relatively small number of blogs with content that I find enjoyable and have an author with whom I feel compatible. I like to leave a comment when I identify with something they have written. I also try to make sure I answer their question if they leave one at the end of their post. Because I subscribe to a manageable number of blogs I am more likely to leave a comment than not. I may not leave a comment if the author just doesn’t resonate on a particular day. However, if they have a guest post I am likely to comment and sometimes find a new blog to which I choose to subscribe, usually leaving a comment for the blogger new to me before I subscribe.
Thank you Barbara,
Your comment makes me wonder about “subscribers”. How many of them actually read all the blogs they’re subscribed to?
I think you hit the nail on the head about why most people comment; if a post resonates with us, we’re more likely to share our thoughts. And I think we have to remember not everything we post will resonate with all of our readers and because of that, we shouldn’t take it personally.
Barbara, another factor is that a lot of bloggers are simply not commenting on other bloggers’ blogs.
Hi Barbara,
Very interesting topic you have here and as you can see, I thought it was interesting enough to leave a comment. So yes, one of the things that compels me to leave a comment is if I find the topic to be interesting and I like it also that you ask questions for your readers. It also helps that you have a very personal approach in your writing, it’s like you’re speaking to your readers. So of course, people will be more likely to speak to you also.
I don’t usually comment on highly technical stuff, I’m not a techie person and even though I sometimes want to ask questions, I refrain from doing so because I don’t want to look like an idiot to the other readers. So yes, that basically the reason why I won’t comment on a blog LOL.
– Cristina
Thank you for your kind words, Christina,
What you said raised a good point; the tone of our words can influence whether someone comments or not. I know I’ve been on blogs where the blog author sounds like they know it all and unless you’re going to say something positive, you get the feeling they might lash out at you.
As for asking a question on a blog, I’ve felt the same as you – especially when I was new to blogging. Like you said, we don’t want to look like an idiot, so we keep quiet.
That said, I welcome questions on this blog and feel no question is a stupid question. 🙂
Since I write a little humor blog the readers who typically comment, and who comment on the blogs I read, are almost like a little “family”. Commenting on one another’s blogs is our dialogue. This familiarity can also be a bit intimidating to new readers/bloggers, though, and may be one of the reasons a blog doesn’t get many new commenters. I think the more a blogger creates an inviting and open dialogue with their readers the more comments they’ll receive. (As I’ve told you before your blog is a wonderful example of this!) I’m always surprised when seemingly popular bloggers don’t bother to reply to any comments! At least post a group comment or two! I also think some readers, who aren’t bloggers, actually don’t understand the protocol, don’t have an “identity”, etc., so they pop in, enjoy the post and move on.
Thank you Crayon.
It’s good to see you again. 🙂
You’re right. Some comment sections do “appear” so personal (between the commenters), new commenters are hesitant to speak up; they may feel like they’re interrupting.
I know what you’re saying about blog authors who don’t show up in their comment sections. I know on some blogs that technique seems to work fine, but for those bloggers who want more comments, I think their participation can improve their numbers.
I like commenting on a blog specially when the content interests me.According to me the content in the blog must contain updated useful information or somekind of practical experience so that the reader will read it with curiousity and interest.
Hi John,
True. Blogs which are updated on a regular basis are more apt to receive comments than those which appear to be stagnant or where the most recent post is months old.
I comment here because your posts are short, sweet and crisp and mostly easy to relate to me as a blogger! I guess, this is one of the blogs where every single blog post attracts 30 or 40 comments.
There are a couple of other blogs such as Imjustsharing where I comment regularly mainly because I can easily relate the issues that he’s talking about – especially at my agegroup 🙂
And when it comes to technical blogs, if one of those tips that they write about helped me immensely, I would definitely leave a comment.
Thank you Ajith,
Good point. Some posts may only appeal to a specific age group.
I like your idea of thanking a blog author if their post was helpful. Not only does a value based post save us time, but in some cases, money.
Hi Barbara,
Great post, as always. 🙂
Commenting has always been part of blogging. However, if your blog does not receive enough comments, it doesn’t mean that your posts are not appreciated. It can mean that you just shared all the information they needed or doesn’t have much time to think about something to say.
I usually comment on blogs which attracts its readers to drop their views. Raising a good question at the end of the post is really effective. Readers will participate on the conversation if your let them in by posing a striking inquiry.
Regards,
Blake
Thank you Blake,
I hear you. If a blog author has thoroughly researched the material and is sharing everything, oftentimes they don’t leave any room for comments (short of “great post”).
Yes. When we ask a question at the end of a post, it does let our reader know we’re open to their opinions. 🙂
I guess I have graded too many papers over the years! I attempt to leave a comment and glean something from each post I read – the exceptions being when I do not understand what is being said, I landed on something to unsavory, private jokes, or spewed anger.
Lately I have decided not to write on several political posts I have read as I did not want to encourage and they were telling me they did not have the ability at this time to hear what I might say.
I also often comment on Facebook or other sites
Sometimes I just Like, tweet, or Share the post with the buttons provided.
I love the comments on my blogs but sometimes the few comments leave me wondering if after 4 years I should just give up or just stick to book reviews.
I do think I have something to say and I know I am often way ahead of folks in my ability to think and integrate ideas – I have always gotten in trouble in school and often left my family behind What keeps me grounded and moving forward is my self-knowledge and the knowing I am always with my best friend. Then I just do the best that I am able to do…with kindness and care.
Hi Patricia,
I’m happy you brought that up – about commenting on controversial or political posts. Although some blog authors welcome opposing viewpoints, other commenters might use our opinions as a stepping stone to raise havoc.
I know you’d love to receive more comments, Patricia, however the number of comments we receive is only a small measurement of how well our blog is doing. If you’re getting a message “out there”, even if you only help one person, you’ve succeeded. And the way I see it, you’ve already done that. 🙂
((hugs))
I would comment if the topic is something I am familiar and can relate to, and where I can contribute. I would give thanks if there is something new I learn, new insight received, and posts that inspires me.
Hi Henry,
Topics we can relate to are always the easiest to comment on, aren’t they? And yes, giving thanks is another great way to let a blog author know what they’ve shared is appreciated.
My commenting totally depends on the blog and previous comments on that post, if the content is really wonderful I comment there anyhow. It depends on the quality rather then quantity, for me blogging is fun. If the content is too much lengthy and boring, I simply skip the blog without commenting.
Hi Jerry,
I know what you’re saying. If we scroll down for what seems like forever and the post continues on (and on), it can be a turn off for commenting. Not only might we not have time to read the post, but configuring a worthwhile comment could take too much time.
Hi Barbara,
I like both reading comments and writing comments to another blogs. I love to write comments for sharing idea with the owner. Comment also help blogger interact with reader and keep them come back.
Hi Jame,
I agree. It’s fun to leave comments, too. Like you said, we get to interact with a fellow blogger and in some cases, see reciprocal comments, too.
What makes me to leave a comment, is the content of the post. I only leave a comment if I feel that I want to add some more to the topic. Also I leave a comment if I feel that the blogger has done an exceptional job. Even I feel appreciated if my post gets good count of comments. For me it is the best way to know my faults.
Hi David,
Rewarding a well written post is a great way to compliment a blogger. Not only do they feel like what they shared has been beneficial, but it often motivates them to step up their game.
It is simply impossible for me to comment on each and every blog post I read through although I enjoyed reading it. I just read so much that I can hardly comment back on most of the posts. I however do try to comment on posts with deep insight, are really informative and funny. Also it is very much true that visitors may not be just into us so much to appreciate our posts, but, this is where the limitations of a bloggers start- we just cannot write what we want, rather we must keep the readers in mind and do some research before starting to write a post.
Hi Priti,
I know what you’re saying. With so many blogs out there and so much to read, a lack of time often limits us from commenting on each one.
That’s a good point about keeping our reader in mind. A value based post is more likely to receive comments than one where the blog author hasn’t considered their reader (and their reader’s time).
Sometimes, people make comments just because they want to not realizing the essence of each comments and how it actually reflects their personality at times.
Hi Becca,
That’s true. Not only are our blog posts a reflection on us, but so are our comments. Together they create part of our digital footprint.
I think blog comments are earned. When something is informative, interesting, provocative, or otherwise worth the time to read, then a comment is warranted. I think bloggers look too deeply into comments, to be honest. For me, the goal is quality comments. Having 100 “LOL GOOD POST!” comments does not mean nearly as much to me as a reasoned, well written response to the topic at hand. These comments are the ones that provide the validation that my content is engaging people enough to spawn their own unique ideas and share them. That is how I comment. If I’ve only got 10 words that I can offer in the comment section, then I really don’t have anything constructive to add.
Hi Scott.
I like that – “comments are earned”.
In some cases, I agree – such as in instances like you pointed out – posts which are informative, interesting, etc.
On the other hand, I will comment on posts of blogger friends whom I’ve known for years, oftentimes just to show my continued support and to let them know I stopped by.
Usually I don’t comment on every post I’ve found interesting, I only write something, when I have to say something about the article. If a text doesn’t make me thinking about, I just read it and keep the information but I don’t join the conversation.
Hi Julie,
That’s true. Not every article will inspire us enough to take time to leave a comment although it may have been informative.
I like your twist from “why blog” to “why comment.”
In general, I tend to try to contribute.
Hi J.D.,
It’s great to see you again. 🙂
When we can contribute something to the post, I think it’s easier to construct a comment. Otherwise we’re left sitting, staring at the post asking ourselves, “now what?”.
Wow –
I pounded out a whole blog post on this general topic about two weeks ago – started off as a riff about spam vs. marketing and evolved into a larger discussion about the role comments play in helping Google sift through the internet – and the impact of the rising alternatives to blog comments as a ranking device.
http://www.marginhound.com/the-real-issue-with-comment-spam-marketing-is-fine-irrelevant-is-annoying/
A more direct answer to your question: I comment on blog posts where I feel I have something to contribute and I think the blog in general has merit. I apply a similar standard as a moderator…
Hi John,
I hear you. If we feel we have nothing else to add to a blog post, it’s difficult to comment.
As for moderating comments, I do the same as you. Even though I have to fish some comments out of the spam folder, if what’s being shared is a different perspective on the topic, I’ll approve it.
P.S. I like the way you “grade” spam comments. (as per the link you provided) 🙂
Hi Head Injury Lawyers,
Zero comments can be disheartening. 🙁 However, as you mentioned, it takes time and the more we get the word out, the faster we’re apt to see comments.
I don’t know much about other commentators but as far as I know about me, The intention for commenting on any blog post depends upon the topic and the real flow of the article, if the content is much interesting and impressive definitely the hands get ready to express the opinions or to ask the questions!! Thanks Barbara!!
You’re welcome Adrian,
That’s true, isn’t it? Some articles are so well written we’re already writing our comment in our head even before we’ve read the entire article.
Hey Barbara,
That was a really nice article. You really brought the reader and blogger psychology in the light. Yes it is true that sometimes we read something and find it too common on which no explanation is needed and we don’t need to read other’s blog.
But there are few blogs, like this one which raises a hell lot of discussion and readers don’t shy giving a peace of their mind.
Thanks!!
Arnie
For bloggers, comments are the “dividends” from investing the time and effort to create high-quality content. Clearly, bloggers love to get comments but there is an art to writing content that attracts comments and encouraging to people to leave a comment. At the same time, bloggers also need to remember to give people some TLC when they leave a comment. It’s all about recognizing that a comment has been left, and engaging in a conversation.
things have changed soooo much with blogging in such a small space of time! personally i tend to leave comments only when i enjoyed the comment and feel i have something to share
I agree with this that most bloggers wants to have direct comments or suggestions from their readers. The readers initiative in commenting to their blogs shows up concern and interest to the blog, that’s how most of the bloggers thought.
I always believe that commenting to a blog is more than just sharing knowledge, it’s about giving away to people what you have, it’s about getting helped from other people, its about building a community that will eventually help you get more business directly or indirectly… I think blog commenting and building community is the new way of marketing…
Usually I’ll comment on posts that provide a fresh perspective, teach me something knew or show me something I haven’t seen before.
Also it helps having something to say, there are times when I really can’t think of something to comment, and I feel compelled to comment saying thank you, although I stop myself every time since spammers ruined this for everyone. – It’s a shame that we can’t even simply thank bloggers for posting great content.
I was brought up in a world where it was polite to say thank you which is I guess why I get the urge to say thanks.
There’s not much that will hamper me from leaving a comment, although If i’m trying to leave a comment and the site won’t load or there’s problems submitting the comment, I don’t have the time to mess around.
Also if the site owner makes it more difficult to leave a comment, for example having to register an account … sure some people will say “well it’s just a few clicks if you really wanted to comment then you should” or something similar …
And while I’d partly agree with them, the fact of the matter is that we all lead busy lives and I’ve lost count of how many accounts I have on various sites anyway.
If site owners want us to comment it should be an easy process. I don’t see many bloggers use captcha’s anymore, but some sites still use them and while I see the need for them I see so many generating stupid words with characters and symbols not even on my keyboard.
That wouldn’t stop me from commenting though, it’s just a tad annoying.
Happy Easter, Barbara 🙂
I’m inspired to comment for a number of reasons. Usually it’s because what I’ve read has moved or inspired me in some way. It always surprises me what thoughts occur to me when I’m reading a post and I like to voice them. I also enjoy commenting to joke around with the blogger or to support them. I’ve appreciated those kinds of comments on my blog, too.
I’m also inspired to comment when a blogger asks specific questions at the end of their post, just as you do.
What hampers me from commenting? If the post is lengthy I don’t read very far, unless the writing is outstanding and it really grabs me, or the concept is intriguing. Otherwise I have nothing to add.
I perfectly agree with these things. Bloggers are very meticulous to their readers view. It’s maybe because they are the ones who can judge their own work.
Great post – And yes , I agree. Bloggers do want comments. It sparks a conversation and offers a way to engage with the “potential customers” and followers online with a great amount of exposure to both your Business, Personal Online Persona or Brand name. Over all I really Enjoyed reading the post and the large amount of comments made by other users also made for a great read. Thanks for sharing. Keep up the great posts.
Great assignment, first off. Glad to be revisiting your blog, always full of perspective.
1) A topic which I am currently involved in. If I’m working with birds or spoons or car accidents, I will comment. Why? if you are an expert I want to learn more from you. And if there are any experts, I would like to hear what they say.
2) I will not comment if I am in a hurry or if people are bashing everything just because. It’s a waste of time to deal with trolls.
This can be a bit frustrating. As a blogger, I enjoy commenting on other blogs, as I know how much I appreciate all comments and it really only takes a minute or two. However, it seems quite difficult to get that steady stream of followers that will comment regularly.
I noticed on my sister’s blog, that her regular friends/readers comment on most posts. But then her twin sister guest posted for a week and even when asking for specific advice on topics, no one would comment. It seems many need to feel a personal connection to the writer before feeling comfortable commenting.
At any rate, thanks for the post!
I know how hard it is to get comments on my blog posts. What I’ve found is what everyone seems to be saying though. The number one factor is content. Content is king when it comes to getting comments. Images seem to work amongst everything, at least in my industry. Bonus points if they’re topical (the fashion trend at the moment is ombre, so any pictures with ombre patterns is almost certainly going to get comment). Finally, as ever, end the post with a question. It forces me to think and 9 times out of 10 I end up leaving a comment… a bit like this one!
I agree with you that even we do not do commenting we can now still get traffic online if you have a good post.