One of my favorite things as a blogger is when I get a comment about my blog post. I love connecting with readers and responding to their feedback. It's a wonderful way to grow as a blogger! Recently, I read a blog post by another writer regarding comments posted on her blog that were mean or unnecessarily rude.
Tsk, tsk. That is not a good thing. And judging from what I read, this author was not being overly sensitive or anything like that. The people commenting were being total you-know-whats!
As writers who want to attract a following, you've probably read all about the how important it is to allow people to comment on your blogs or Facebook post. That's how you create interaction and have those great "ah ha!" moments. Sure, some folks may voice their opinion in a tone you don't like, but that's the nature of the cyber beast.
How can you prevent those bad comments from getting too much air time though?
1. For one thing, follow up on your blog posts. You should be doing this anyway in order to greet new followers or reply to comments. But as a moderator of your own blog, you can delete comments. Do so if something is not appropriate.
2. Unfriend "friends" on Facebook who can't control their mouths. They don't even have to know. That's the beauty of it!
3. On your blog, use the option that allows you to review comments before they get posted. That's probably the best thing to do if you are worried about inappropriate behavior. This option gives you complete control!
Of course, on a positive note, bad comments can sometimes help create a talking point. When enough people are offended or outraged by something, they all start chattering! This can drive blog traffic stats through the roof. OR it can drive people away until your fan base dwindles down to nothing.
Food for thought, friends. Feel free to leave a comment--but watch your mouth!
Food for thought indeed... I moderate all comments on all of my blogs. And, of course... set those spam filters! So far, I haven't had to delete any comments. I have gotten some wonderful feedback and some really great critiques... two things that help me develop as a writer.
ReplyDeleteI have come across a few blogs where the owner doesn't allow comments. Not sure what the story is there, but it is unfortunate because, as you point out, comments are a great learning opportunity for any writer.
Thank you for posting this.
Veronica Marie
Very helpful. If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all :)
ReplyDeleterun-style-run.blogspot.com
Shoot, Veronica! I forgot to mention spam filters. Thanks for doing that for me! That's another great tool.
ReplyDeleteBrandi, I know! On the other hand, sometimes I twist that saying around and say: If you can't say anything nice, come sit next to me! Thanks for dropping by!
ReplyDeleteThat must be one helluva bogey up there.....and yes, i agree. If posters can't say something nice- they should post somewhere else ;)
ReplyDeleteIt's a doozy of a boogey! Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Rod!
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting
ReplyDelete