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Monday, June 20, 2011

A Blogger’s Point of View!

In a post this  last week I posed the question:

“Would You Continuing blogging if nobody ever left a comment?” It seemed to hit a cord with quite a few people and I received quite a few comments (76), creating a great dialogue.( If you missed this post you can read it HERE!)

I read over the comments several times to get a pulse on what was being said by my readers. If you would like to know what your fellow blogger's point of views are, this post is for YOU!! What you are about to read is what I discovered ……….

The Yes’s Vs. The No’s:
There were quite a few bloggers that said they would continue blogging if they did not get comments.  The No’s had about a half dozen more votes saying they would NOT continue blogging if they did not get any comments.

The Relationships in blogging:
One of the themes in many of the comments was the  relationships that are formed because of blogging, and commenting. This has turned out to be a very pleasant surprise in my own blogging life. I can not tell you how many wonderful readers I now consider, as one of my friends. One commenter reminded me that if she had not commented on my blog that she and I would have never become friends. I can say that about so many. So if you are not commenting or responding to your comments You are really missing out on one of the highlights of blogging.

One reader wrote:
my blog is a bit of a chat with my like minded friends

Many loved the fact that blogging has allowed them to be in touch with like-minded people that never seem to get tired of talking about design and decorating. I know I can seem to talk about design for hours, but not all of my friends share my exuberance on the subject. In blog land that is exactly what we spend our time talking and writing about…. Design!!

Competition:
Along with some relationships there involves competition. This seemed to bother quite a few of the commenter's. To many, it felt like back in the day of our high school years. One blogger that is new to the blogging world wrote this:

It seems that overwhelmingly blogging is a positive experience so far, and I have met some wonderful girls through it. But I do hear the other side of blogging, ie the nasty side, which saddens me that it exists, but I guess in a competitive world it would be naive of me to think it doesn't. I just know that I love beautiful things, whether it be interiors, decorating, a recipe, a flower, a special moment in a life, my children's laughter, a funny moment. All the things that make our life a little less ordinary and a bit more special. There is so much beauty and talent in the world and I think there are more than enough people out there to embrace and share it. I hope we can all try to be generous, be kind spirited, be heartfelt, be genuine, be bigger than you are and be yourself. Hopefully that keeps us on the path of positivity, of embracing the good in people and what they are trying to achieve.
I think she has very good insight for being new to the blogging world, and I totally agree with what she has said.


Blog For YOU!!!:
 There were so many bloggers that left comments stating that they blog for themselves as a creative outlet and also as a journal to keep records of the projects and adventures they experience. I even had one commenter that said ………..

I started my blog because I didn't have anyone to talk to about what I loved (design). So for a long time, and I mean LONG TIME, I didn't have any readers or comments. But at the time I didn't think about that much since I didn't know what blogging really was anyway.
Now that people do know me and I do get comments, I kind of feel pressured to update my blog. If I don't will my readers still be there? If I say this will they like it? Will I offend someone? Those are some of the questions I feel now when it comes to blogging. When I really think about it, I felt better when there was no pressure to blogging. I'm probably the only one who feels this "pressure", but at any rate it's there and I feel a little weighed down by it.
So to answer your question, would I continue to blog if I didn't have comments? Yes, and frankly I think I'll be a lot better at it!


Blog etiquette:
 The overwhelming consensus on blog etiquette was…… If someone comments on your blog, try to reply back. At least make a visit to their blog. 
One person wrote…….
I do take the time to comment always, especially when a post speaks to me and I think we should all do that. When we don't it's like going to someone's home and leaving without saying thank you or good bye

After reading this I felt it was a very good point, and a good way to look at the issue of commenting.
It was also mentioned in the comments that you have to give comments in order to receive comments. Sounds very much like… Do unto others as you would have them do unto you!!!


Time Commitment:
Among many bloggers time commitment came up as an issue. Many said they did not have the time to comment back to all that leave comments on their blogs. I can totally understand that for the larger blogs that have a large amount  of daily comments it would be virtually impossible to keep up with responding to each comment.

 
Followers Vs. Commenters:
I was a bit surprised at how many bloggers said they are more interested in seeing followers added than the comments. I personally love a good comment. It is the one and only way I, as a blog author, can know if I am reaching my readers. 

Getting Followers with Giveaways: 
The majority of commenter's said they did not like to gain followers by offering giveaways. I was a bit surprised by this since this  seems to be a common practice in blog land. One reader wrote this:

I've been blogging for 20 months and have designed my blog to be beautiful and inspiring to me as I look back at it (I truly enjoy browsing my own blog; why put stuff out there if you wouldn't even go back to look at it?); but I also hope it inspires others or I wouldn't make all of my photos and thoughts public. If someone is inspired, a comment is very much enjoyed, but I don't blog for comments, followers or stats. I don't track any of that because it would make me a slave to my blog. And I've never loved the concept of attaching giveaways to "become a follower." Why not just give?  


 The Quality of Comments Vs. The Quantity:
Most blog authors seemed to want genuine heartfelt comments vs. large quantities of comments that say very little. Here is what one reader said very simply and to the point….
It is a good question Kathysue. And my answer is probably not. I do love that I've documented my shopping insanity *winks* But that said, I'd much rather have 4 or 5 "conversation" comments with real kindreds than 100 "oh that's so cute"

To the point and simply put, and I think we all know exactly what she is talking about. Here is what another blogger had to say:

I will say I'd rather one genuine comment than dozens of impersonal, obligatory ones. And I also realize I can't leave dozens of genuine comments a day, so I focus on blogs where a realtionship has developed. Comments have been very relational in my experience. I've made a few really neat friends through them. An unexpected blessing of blogging for sure!


Reader Statistics VS. Comments:
Many blog authors said they were fine with fewer comments as long as they knew people were reading their blog. They said they could tell people were reading according to their stats. I have noticed that approximately 5% or less of the people that are actually reading will comment on the average. 

I would like to finish off this post with a comment from a non-blogger, but an avid reader of blogs. I remember seeing her around blog land before I ever ventured into writing my own blog. I always enjoyed reading her feed back on other’s blog post, and I actually assumed she was a blog author, but she is not.

This particular lady is the type of reader that keeps me writing!!! This is what she had to say:
** HI. MY NAME IS LINDA, AND I AM NON-BLOGGER...
... BUUUT, may I make a comment "ANYWAY"???...
IMHO, blogger or not, leaving a comment is the only way to THANK YOU (all) for taking the time to do what you do so generously, and so well... I enjoy soooo many now tho, that I have cut down to leaving a comment just occasionally, OR, when I really L*O*V*E one/it truly "hits home" with me...
I rather believe it's like HAND-WRITING a THANK YOU NOTE~~~ someone did something nice for me, & I should thank them. "It's the right thing to do" my Mom would say...
A FEW times I've actually RECEIVED lovely notes from BLOGGERS, and I must be honest and admit, I was flattered~~~ their schedules must be hectic, & I know you all keep up with one another, so yes, I was honestly touched... and YES, I have some VERY SPECIAL "FRIENDSHIPS" with just a few bloggers, & they mean alot to me!!!
Again, as one who "can't" write a blog (altho I studied Journalism for 3 years mannnnny years ago, I can BARELY do "THIS" on a COMPUTER, let alone do ANYTHING with that fancy "iPhone 4" my husband "surprised me with, just to TRY to get me to "catch up"!), may I say:

*** THANK YOU ALL!!! ***
Warmest blessings to you, & your families who don't "mind" your being "gone" a few hours a day!!! It I*S APPRECIATED!!!


Although she is not a blog author, she gets it!! Don’t you think?

I for one am going to continue……..

“Enjoying the Process” Of: 

Writing blog post for my readers!
I can only hope you will continue to enjoy reading my blog.

Sincerely,
Kathysue

46 comments:

JOE. D said...

What a great post. Loved all the collated comments - the way you used them to back up your thoughts. I love giving comments on blogs .. and love also receiving. Sometimes to receive makes my day - and sometimes when I don't it ruins my day - but generally, my blog is just where I post things that I like.
There are so many good blogs out there it is hard to comment every .. single .. time .. and sometimes I just check out blogs and go 'oooohhh' or 'aaahhhh' ..

Oh and I am truly very sorry your dad is not with you anymore. We don't have Fathers Day until September in Australia - and I love giving my dad an extra big hug so I can understand your loss. Big blog hugs to you (-:

Anonymous said...

Very interesting. It is food for thought and intriguing to see what the others are thinking. xo

The enchanted home said...

FANTASTIC ONCE AGAIN!!!!!!!! Love this and so much of your findings resonated with me. I find it fascinating and its also encouraging to us bloggers (especially us newer bloggers) to know that so many others feel the same way as we do...interesting and fascinating once again!
Thank you..this should become a regular series Kathysue....its been so enjoyed!

L.Duncan@Home23DuncanBoys said...

Loved the way you followed up the last post and how you broke down all of the comments! And I agree with Linda! Hmmm, now I'm wondering if she reads my blog (heehee)!

And I laughed out loud when I saw my comment in your post! so funny:)

Yes, please continue to blog. I really enjoy your blog Kathysue!

helen tilston said...

Kathysue

A sincere thank you for the analysis of all comments received on the subject of blogging. I believe
"do unto others as you would have them do to you" sums it all up nicely
and on that note I will thank you profusely for allowing me to visit with you.
Helenxx

Trish @ A dream house for Trish said...

Well said Kathysue by yourself & us commentors. I truly love blogging, the people I ve met & I get a great deal of pleasure from someone taking the time not just to read my blog, but then to leave a comment as well. I have been fortunate enought to not have had ant negative comments as yet, but Im sure my turn will come.
Have a fantastic week!
Cheers

Blooming Rose Musings said...

Another wonderful post, Kathysue. I cherish each and every comment because someone has taken the time out of their busy schedule to let me know they are reading my blog. Is there anything more precious than the gift of time? Like you, I appreciate each and every comment and the person who took the time to write it. Friendships are formed this way. I know I consider you a friend and we've never really met! Wonderful post, Kathysue.

Splendid Sass said...

Kathysue-
Thank you for taking the time to not only reach the bloggers, but to post their responses. Great to hear what most bloggers have to say.
I comment as much as possible, but I know that I could improve.
have a great day.
Teresa
xoxo

vignette design said...

Thank you for taking the time to chronicle all your responses. It was a provocative subject! All I know is that I'm getting fewer comments, but that I'm also leaving fewer comments. I just don't have the time to keep up.
Heading to Santa Fe tomorrow for a few days. I'll try to blog, but don't hold your breath! xo Delores

Cathy~Mille Fleur said...

Thanks so much for doing these posts Kathysue! I vae been trying to decide whether or not to return to blogging...theses posts have given me more to think about. I have so enjoyed reading everyone's thoughts on the subject. I miss everyone when I am not here and am finding it hard to stay away.

Thanks again!

Sandra said...

Thanks for the great post - I am new to the blogging world. I am also your newest follower! :)

Sandra said...

Kathysue, thank you for stopping by my blog and for taking the time to comment a very important issue re comments - I found it!!! Thanks a bunch! :)

Tote said...

Kathysue, what a great post. Nice way to explain how we all feel about blogging. I am releatively new and I admire so many bloggers. I am so impressed with their writing abilities. I feel as though I am not as good of a writer as I would like to be, but I keep plugging away thanks to encouraging comments.
I do try and leave comments, and if I can't get through I try to find their email to comment.
I love comments, and when I read them I feel like I have made a friend.
Thanks for sharing.

Susan

Jessie@www.mixandchic.com said...

Thanks for following up and summarizing the previous post. I enjoyed hearing what other bloggers have to say about the previous post, I actually checked back a few times. :) It's a great insight to what other bloggers think and definitely an interesting conversation.

I always leave comment when I visit a blog because like what other bloggers said, to let them know I appreciate their time and effort for sharing something beautiful or inspiring and it's one of the ways to thank them.

Thanks for another great post, Kathysue!

Jessie

Anonymous said...

Hello! Thank you for visiting my blog and your kind comments. You posed a very interesting question about blogging and one that I often ask myself. I would continue blogging without comments as I started the blog to document my journey as a designer. I then got some mentions from other blogs which generated more readers which (perhaps weirdly) made me feel a lot of pressure to tailor my posts more to the people who were now visiting my blog, which felt inauthentic and however hard I tried my readership didn't increase which was disheartening. I now write for me, document my designs and the things that really inspire me and think less about what people may want and try to have a more authentic voice. Having said that I really enjoy comments that I do get and value each and every one.
Great post to make us think!

Karen said...

This was fun to read Kathysue, thanks for taking the time to condense all that you learned through the comments.

Can I say one thing about giveaways and followers? I used to open the giveaways to everyone, but then I started only opening them to followers because I felt like I was giving back to those who'd taken time to read my blog. The last person to win a giveaway on my blog was a newer follower and her reaction to winning was priceless. It was a thrill for me to know that I had a part in making her day a little brighter.

Libby said...

I HAVE been following all this Kathysue, but, of course, just haven't had time to comment!
It is the friendships that I value the most. Definitely. Next comes the opportunity to "talk design" to my heart's content...long after my husband and family has tired of it all! Can't get enough, right?
I often wonder what we all did before blogs,and the web: sat in isolation I guess.
Thanks for the conversation!

Kathysue said...

Karen that is a very good point, I had not thought of it that way before, thank you for bring that up!!! More for us all to think about, Kathysue

Unknown said...

This is such a touching post, Kathysue! Blogging has definitely impacted my life more than I expected...in different ways than I expected. I've connected with people who like the same things I do...and I've even developed in person relationships with a number of bloggers. THAT....I did not expect.

i always appreciate a comment. I think sometimes the quick comments are a person's way of letting you know they were there. So, I am never offended if iit's not an in depth response.

I don't look at stats very often. I feel that uptick in followers and steady comments lets me know I'm on the right track.

I also love to leave comments...but I haven't been as good about that lately as I'd like to be. Just the balancing act of young children and all the other commitments at this stage keep me busy. But, I try.

And i definitely believe that if you want to grow your blog and have commenters...you have to visit others and comment on theirs.

Thanks for tapping a topic that interests us all but can be tough to talk about.

Off to leave more comments! :)
xoxo Elizabeth

Tiffany @ {Living Savvy} said...

Kathysue, I really enjoyed this post! I think you bring up a lot of great points about blogging. I am fairly new to blogging and love finding other bloggers feedback about blogging. It is nice to know that even though I am new... we are are thinking about these things.

Tiffany {Living Savvy}
savvydesignwest.com

The Buzz Blog said...

Looking back on my comment last week, I did totally omit saying how wonderful it's been to meet like-minded design bloggers. I actually mentioned it to my husband this weekend that I feel that the readers of my blog know me better than the friends I have in town... none of whom (sadly)read The Buzz! I know I look forward to your comments and reading your insightful posts.
xxoo

Kim @ Savvy Southern Style said...

Great post, Kathysue. Thank you for taking the time to share what many commenters said. I used to be able to respond to each comment, but am no longer able to and sometimes that bothers me, but I just hope we are all smart enough to know that we cannot devote all our waking hours to this. It also helps to respond back when an email address is available with the comment instead of no-reply comment.

Linda in AZ * said...

*** Dearest Kathysue~~~

What a DELIGHTFUL EXPERIENCE to be reading today's blog, and seeing that you put in a copy of MY comments... I'm honored you are in agreement with my thoughts, and so happy to "be included"!!!

"WOW" and yes, you TRULY "made MY day"!!!

Thank you, m' friend!~~~ "Thank you very much"!!! ...

Warmest,
Linda in AZ * (Chuckles... cuz it I*S so WARM here in the desert lately!)
bellesmom1234@comcast.net

Velvet and Linen said...

Hi Kathysue.
This is such an interesting post.
The relationships that I have with other bloggers and the readers of Velvet and Linen was an unexpected surprise. I had no idea that anyone would be interested in reading about my designs, my inspiration and my life. I actually have more in common with my blogging friends than my friends in my "real life".
I doubt I would have continued blogging for 3 years without these new relationships.
I do try to respond to comments and to visit other blogs as much as I can, but sometimes I feel a bit overwhelmed... like I'm not doing enough. You are so great at keeping up those connections!
I have to constantly remind myself that we all do the best we can!
Thank you for starting this conversation.
xo
Brooke
Oh, and I love Linda. Her comments always put a smile on my face :)

Crystal @ Ordinary Days said...

This was a very interesting post. It helps to know what others' thoughts are on comments. Very tastefully done. I love the more sincere comments and the quick ones are appreciated as well. I just always appreciate any time someone takes to either comment on my blog or respond to a comment I made. Thanks for sharing this!

Crystal

Mel@Georgica Pond said...

This post was a great summary of the opinions and feelings of others, bloggers and non-bloggers alike, and I found it fascinating and helpful learning about what everyone thinks. It is tricky trying to keep up with blogging, posting, researching, reading other blogs, commenting on other posts, planning your posts, etc etc, particularly when there are so few hours in a day. I so appreciate the time everyone takes to comment and it motivates me to keep going, but I honestly don't expect everyone to comment on every post I do. Just now and then or when something really appeals would make me happy. Otherwise I would feel that people feel obligated to comment, just because they think they should. That's not necessary to me. I'd rather you comment because you feel inspired by something I write, not just because it's protocol. I'd probably still do my blog if nobody commented, just because I enjoy it and know that although you don't comment, doesn't mean you aren't loving what I post. I am subscribed to about 70 blogs and can't possibly ready them all daily and comment on each daily - I would never leave my office. I love them all, but just comment when I can find the time. Doesn't mean I don't know it and don't appreciate the effort. But there are plenty of blogs I have commented on regularly, who never visit my blog or comment on mine, and that annoys me a little. Even just one visit or some acknowledgement would be, well, nice. KathySue, you should write a book about blogging etiquette, so there is a standard and everyone knows what is expected. Great discussion KS, thanks again.

laxsupermom said...

Terrific followup post! It's nice to hear my thoughts echoed by so many others. I love the way you weaved the readers' comments into your own thoughts. I think this should be a must read post for bloggers new and old.

designchic said...

What an interesting post, Kathysue. I'm surprised by some of the answers, especially that half of the people would keep blogging if no one commented. I, for one, need that interaction with others, and have "met" so many wonderful and inspirational people through this crazy world of blogging. Thought provoking way to start my week...

Bring Pretty Back said...

Kathysue~ What a great post!!!
So much to think about!!!
I am going to ponder this tonight...
Have a PRETTY day!
Kristin

lvroftiques said...

That really did garner some interesting information didn't it Kathysue?
I was very surprised that some bloggers are more interested in followers than comments!...And that some just wanted others to read their blogs? Wow...really?!

While seeing a new follower is a joy! And one I reciprocate, I don't really care about having gazillions of them. I'm all about the interactive nature of the beasty *winks*
Such great thought provoking posts my friend!No wonder YOU have gazillions of followers! Lol! Vanna

beachcomber said...

i love a good comment too. thanks so much for stopping by my blog!
cheryl x

24 Corners said...

Hi Kathysue...this is my first visit and I'm thrilled that you're talkig about this, I love chats about blogging by bloggers. We're all in the same boat, have the same concerns, and I think 'talks' like this help us all out so much.
It's nice to meet you and tomorrow,when I'm not bleary eyed because it's so darn late...I'm going to come back for another visit and get to know you and your lovley blog.
xo Jessica

Unknown said...

Comments, followers, stats...it's all important. We want to know our effort is appreciated and useful. Just another form of communication and the human need to connect. I'm obsessed with design and everyone around me thinks I'm a little crazy. It's nice to know there's people out there like me!

La Dolfina said...

Wow, Kathysue...
How did I miss this?
I guess it's been hectic having Chris home this week trying to get so much done.
I love all the insights you generated and how you've summed everything up.
You really are wonderful, you know that?
I love you and your blog and am so happy that you enjoy the process or writing blog posts for your readers.
You are appreciated!!!
Lots of Love,

Terri

Anonymous said...

What an awesome post Kathysue, I love coming by you always have such thoughful and insightful posts.

Thank you also for allowing annonymous me to take part...

Kathy :)

Anonymous said...

Hi Kathysue,
I am amazed by all your effort that you put into summarizing all the feedback you received from your original question...it is so nice to hear from people and help them with ideas and inspiration, I truly love that...I also love dropping by my fellow blogger's blogs and just letting them know I'm supporting them with a few words of encouragement...
you are such a good writer and detail oriented, I am enjoying your posts and blog...
best,
maureen

quintessence said...

Kathysue - so interesting yet again. I definitely have been pleasantly surprised by all the friends I have made through blogging - what a wonderful bonus. I wish I had the time to visit every single blog I love every day. And I wish I could respond to every thoughtful comment I get. I am on marginal functioning level the way it is and do my best to visit as many as I can. As it is the laundry doesn't get done, beds made etc. I always hope that my readers know that they are what keep me going - and the occasional amazing email I get from readers who have never commented who I didn't know existed!!

Mama’s Minute said...

I found your blog from a comment on Happy Chair! I found this post and LOVE it! There is nothing like a genuine comment to make my day! I will let the reader know this. I think it's amazing the relationships you can make with people all over the world by a simple, heartfelt post. I read your Father's Day post and 100% absolutely love the pictures. PRICELESS!
Enjoy your evening!
Dana

Silvia C said...

Hi Kathysue! What an interesting post! I love reading all the different points of view. It made me think how I would possibly feel if no one came to visit my blog. Hmmm..I think I'd continue as it is my outlet for creativity. I love how I learn something new when I visit your wonderful blog! Hugs,

Mary Ann Pickett said...

Thanks for such thought provoking questions and answers. Great summary, too. I DO love a nice comment! It was hard to get a couple negative ones when I had a feature on Hooked on Houses...ouch. If I can't say something nice, I don't leave a comment. I love a give-away...just won some pretty outdoor fabric from My List Becomes His List. It's all fun!

SHERRY HART said...

Kathysue, what a special person you are! Taking all this time to help us understand why we blog. Honestly it has been life changing for me. I can't even begin to explain how much I have loved meeting so many others either locally or across the country. I propels me to keep trying to make my point about my design perspective. I love when people tell me they laughed at a post! I think I always wanted to be a standup comedian!! All in all I am having so much fun with this medium. Happy day girl:)

Sarah said...

This was a great topic. I enjoyed both the post and this follow up. :-)

Anonymous said...

Kathysue, thanks for this fascinating discussion. I agree with Mel@Georgica Pond about the annoyance of bloggers who do not reciprocate when you constantly comment on their posts. It's only fair and polite to return the favor. Perhaps this discussion will open our eyes and cause us to be better blogger friends.

Kelly P.

Acanthus and Acorn said...

Kathysue,
Oh what a great topic...too bad I am late to leave a comment!!!

My thoughts on comments...of course I like them. Especially the ones that are insightful, contribute to the topic and make me laugh! But, I don't think I've ever had more than 50 comments on a single post, so as I've said to bloggy friends before who have concerns over comments, that I would rather have 5 "good" ones that 50 "empty" ones. Sometimes, I turn comments off because it's a post I am really doing just for myself.

I blog for the purpose of sharing, enjoyment and feedback. I do think it's like a conversation. I don't mind blogs with pretty pictures, but if that's all it is...I just can't get into it for any type of regular viewing. I also don't care for the blogs that are just one big promotion of the author.

I enjoy commenting on blogs. Some weeks I have lots of time to do it, and other weeks I don't. And, I too, albeit very fragmented try to hit blogs of new followers and new commentorss. But, I also think it's important not to feel obligated attached to do so or take it personally when someone doesn't make it to your blog. And, if does bug you (I get that too) just visit and comment on the blogs you enjoy and feel there is a common link and camaraderie.
xo,
~R

As for followers...like those too, but refuse to run multiple givaways to get them(I've only had 2 givaways ever), it's just more satisfying when one pops up out of no where.

Unknown said...

Wow! Love reading such an interesting post and such thought provoking comments. Kathy Sue, you are the master at leaving such delightful and thoughtful comments, you certainly set a great blogging example to the rest of us. Thanks and now to try and be as good!

Cathy

Anonymous said...

I really liked the article, and the very cool blog