What blogger doesn't appreciate getting thoughtful comments? Not only do meaningful comments begin building a relationship between you and your favorite bloggers, it can help direct traffic to your own site. Here are 8 tips of mine on how to write comments that will help you get noticed by bloggers and other readers.
1. Be specific. This will help you immensely as a writer overall. Don't get me wrong, simple, quick comments like "great outfit" still make me smile. As a blogger, I will visit the site of every commenter who isn't spam. But frankly, it's not likely that other readers will do the same. Think about what particular aspect of the post appeals to you, how and why. Using an outfit as an example, was it the color palette? Or how the particular blogger combined disparate styles? Did it inspire you in any way or recall an event, mood or work of art? Pinpoint the element you find most intriguing and convey it in your comment. Detailed comments illustrate the quality of the writing and aesthetic that is presumably expressed on your own blog. And never, ever leave obvious cut and paste comments.
2. Be helpful. One of my most treasured comments came from Brittany of Va-Voom Vintage in response to a post of mine about struggling to curl my very fine hair. She suggested a product (LottaBody) and a few methods that have proven so helpful, I've shared them with the ladies at my favorite vintage shop. If you have knowledge, expertise or experience with regards to a problem the blogger has expressed, by all means share it. When a blogger asks a question or seeks an opinion in her/his post, this is an excellent opportunity for you as a commenter to shine. If you feel that a blogger would enjoy a work of art or artist, say so. Melliefee noticed my respect for Mark Ryden and introduced me to the art of Nicoletta Ceccoli. Now I'm a fan of both Ceccoli and Melliefee.
3. Be known. If you wouldn't sign your name to a comment or say it in person, should you really be writing it? This doesn't mean you must only be positive and uncritical of a blogger. If you truly found a post or image insulting, ignorant or inappropriate, you should speak up. Everyone's entitled to an opinion, but if you're on a soapbox wearing a mask, who would take you seriously? Having courage in your convictions and sign your name.
4. Be Consistent. If you are regularly pleased by someone's blog, leave comments often. A busy blogger who receives 20+ comments per post probably doesn't have time to visit every reader's site or reply individually. However, if you regularly leave good comments, he/she is likely to notice you, maybe even include you in a blogroll. I about peed in my pants when I realized Ulrika and Quincy had included me in theirs.
5. Be Personal. If a post really struck a chord with you, say so. Did you share her childhood passion for eraser collecting? Did her post about olive trees recall fond Mediterranean memories? When you write something personal, you're not just sharing with the blogger but anyone who reads the comments. It is an opportunity to demonstrate some of your unique personality.
6. Be thoughtufl. As in "showing careful consideration or attention" (New Oxford American Dictionary). Before you hit "publish," read over your comment and consider how it may be received. Communication is less about what you say, but how it is heard (or read in this case.) I once left a comment on Bored and Crafty I intended to be tongue-in-cheek, but came across as sarcastic and offended. Thankfully, I was able to clarify in a follow-up comment, but I learned my lesson. In writing, unlike speech, you do not have elements like body-language or tone of voice to help convey meaning. If you want to sound concerned, be sure you aren't actually coming across as condescending. Recognize the difference between knowledge and opinion and make sure it's clear which you are expressing.
7. Be sincere. Don't just leave comments as a means of self-promotion. Sure, this is an integral part of getting your site noticed, but only if you do it well. Sincerity is one of the most attractive traits, that's why children are often so charming. Even if you leave simple comments like "nice outfit" or "cute dress," really mean it. Comments show the blogger you care, so if you don't really care, don't comment. The problem with cut and paste comments is that they scream insincerity and self-promotion.
8. Be responsive. If you have the time, return the favor and comment back. This is especially true if you have a smaller readership. It shows that you pay attention to your readers and value their input. Unless you're already famous, you are trying to build a community, not a fan-club. Once you have a large following, leaving a reader a comment could really make his/her day. Marie left me a comment once and I was beyond delighted that she was even aware of my existence.
Well folks, that's all my tips. If there's any others you'd like to share, please keep them to yourself, mmmkay? JUST KIDDING!
heart,
--m
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4. Be Consistent. If you are regularly pleased by someone's blog, leave comments often. A busy blogger who receives 20+ comments per post probably doesn't have time to visit every reader's site or reply individually. However, if you regularly leave good comments, he/she is likely to notice you, maybe even include you in a blogroll. I about peed in my pants when I realized Ulrika and Quincy had included me in theirs.
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8. Be responsive. If you have the time, return the favor and comment back. This is especially true if you have a smaller readership. It shows that you pay attention to your readers and value their input. Unless you're already famous, you are trying to build a community, not a fan-club. Once you have a large following, leaving a reader a comment could really make his/her day. Marie left me a comment once and I was beyond delighted that she was even aware of my existence.
Well folks, that's all my tips. If there's any others you'd like to share, please keep them to yourself, mmmkay? JUST KIDDING!
heart,
--m
Share |
