Talking with Your Readers, Not at Them: The Importance of Comments
This is a mistake that you’ll see both amateur and experience bloggers commit: they’ve posted a breakthrough blog post that is getting a ton of attention. The number of comments might be in the dozens or the hundreds. And yet, they don’t reply to any of these people. The blogger is silent, not communicating with readers who spend valuable time creating or signing into their account to engage with a blog post.
Building a Thick Skin
If we went around the Internet, worried about negative comments or detractors, then it would be impossible to get things done. While the anonymity of posting can invite hurtful comments or even trolls, it’s important to see past the negative and understand the value in comments. Some bloggers and journalists say that they never read the comments because this can lead to a spiral of self-doubt regarding your writing. However, what about the praise, encouragement, and supplemental information that you can glean from comments? There will always be loyal readers who find your work helpful, and will seek to add to the discussion. It is for these commenters that you should be paying attention to the dialogue.
Continued Engagement
Loyal readers and fans are more likely to return to your blog and comment more if you respond to their comments. This makes them feel like a valued community member, since you’ve taken the time to personally respond to their ideas and concerns. Others will take notice, and start commenting if they feel like there is a chance that the blogger will respond. This will encourage a culture of transparency and discussion, which is far more helpful than a one-sided relationship with your readers.
Learning About Your Audience
Analytics aren’t the only way for you to learn about your blog demographics. While data regarding web traffic and visitors’ countries can be useful, audience comments will give you an idea of the prevailing attitudes, needs, and challenges held by your audience. Comments can give you invaluable data that can help you craft better blog articles that your readers find valuable. By reading the comments, you might even discover broken links or other website usability issues that an IT professional can correct.
Engaging with readers via comments is crucial for your blog’s success. Don’t shy away from reading and responding to comments just because of a fear of detractors. An audience that is willing to communicate with you should never be ignored.
