Want Comments? Make it Easy!
June 26, 2009 by Allison Boyer
Filed under Jobs
Yesterday, I posted some thoughts about commenting on others’ blogs. One commenter, Brian McLaughlin, had this to say:
I scan quite a few blogs and when there is a particularly insightful item I like to acknowledge them but many blogs make it VERY difficult to comment if you don’t have a WordPress account or don’t choose to provide what seems to be excessive amounts of personal data, just for the ability to leave a note…
He’s absolutely right! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone to leave a comment on a blog only to realize that the blogger has made it hard to do so. Now, if you don’t mind fewer comments, more power to you – set whatever comment parameters you want. However, if you wish more people would comment, here are a two things to keep in mind:
Image: sxc.hu
- People shouldn’t have to subscribe to your blog to comment.
Sometimes they have something to say the first time they visit you, but they aren’t willing to subscribe yet. Also, not everyone uses RSS feed readers. For example, my mom bookmarks sites she likes and just checks back regularly. I’m not saying that’s the best way to do things, but at the same time, you need to respect your readers’ decisions.
- Have an option for non-bloggers.
This is mainly a tip for those using Blogspot blogs. Some bloggers make their commenters “sign in” before leaving a comment. Well, what if I don’t have a Google ID or a WordPress log-in or other profile? Can’t I use use my name and email address? ALWAYS make sure this is an option.
Comments can give you new ways to look at old topics, adding value to your posts and interest for your readers. The whole reason blogging is so popular is because it’s interactive, after all. If you don’t want comments, just add articles to your website or turn off comments completely.
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