I had to stop, and ask myself this question! I love to read my reader's comments, and I will have to admit I am not sure if I would. So does that mean I am blogging for all the wrong reasons? I really had to ponder on this for awhile.
The reason that this question came to my mind was…… while perusing blog land ever once in awhile I will come upon a blog while blog hopping that is so well written, and they seem to have way more followers than my little blog, and yet no one is ever commenting on their blog. There are also some new blogs that have a few followers and very few comments, that actually makes more logical sense to me than the other scenario.
I have to give them kudos for continuing to put out such wonderful post without getting any feedback.
I am not sure if I could do that. I have always been amazed at how some well written post will get a few comments, and then other blogs will put up one picture and say something like, “I love this!” and they will get multiple comments. Seriously!??
It truly does not make any logical sense to me, so I have just about concluded that it will always be a mystery.
I guess I might keep trying to put out more post in hopes that maybe someone would happen upon my blog, and like it enough to let me know, but I must admit after awhile I am not sure if I would continue. I wonder how many really good blogs have disappeared because no one ever took the time to notice how good they were and bothered to leave a comment to let them know how much they enjoyed what they just read.
I for one am going to try and be more generous with my comments and let people know that I really like what they are writing. I think if I can take the time to read it I should be able to take the time to comment. How about you all, how do you feel about this? I know it should not be about the numbers game, but we all have to admit it is a little bit like getting a grade, don't you think?
Now for the technical issues with commenting:
I know blogger, or Google, or both have had some major issues this past month. I have received a few emails of wonderful readers that did take the time to let me know they could no longer comment on my blog due to the glitches.
One very generous blogger, Erika of Tiptoe Butterfly let me know that she could not comment without a great deal of effort on her part. I so appreciated her perseverance in still leaving me comments. She also let me know if I changed how my comment form came up that she would be able to post with the browser she uses, Internet Explorer.
She told me how to do it, and now Erika can post comments. I hope this will help others. Here is the link to her post on what to do.
One more little item: While you are changing the comment setting you might also want to turn off word verification. I am not sure that it is really necessary and it can sometimes prevent readers from leaving a comment because they don't want to take the time so I would suggest turning it off.
Your comment settings should look like this:
This is where you will want to change your comment settings so everyone can leave a comment:
One more little item: While you are changing the comment setting you might also want to turn off word verification. I am not sure that it is really necessary and it can sometimes prevent readers from leaving a comment because they don't want to take the time so I would suggest turning it off.
Your comment settings should look like this:
This will require people leaving comments on your blog to complete a word verification step, which will help reduce comment spam. Learn more
Blog authors will not see word verification for comments.This is where you will want to change your comment settings so everyone can leave a comment:
The embedded comment form can not be used if you have Post Pages disabled.
Erika suggest the pop-up window or full page. I used the pop up window and now some bloggers that were not able to leave comments can do so!! Yay!!
Now I am off to read more blogs, if it is well written and it is obvious that they took a great deal of time to research, and to find images to explain what they are writing about, I feel as a fellow blogger that I should let them know!!! If you would like to read a couple of new blogs that I absolutely love go and visit:
Georgia Pond written by Melinda from Australia. I love her design aesthetic and I think you will too!!
Georgia Pond written by Melinda from Australia. I love her design aesthetic and I think you will too!!
AND
Mix and Chic written by darling Jessie, who has a great eye for design, and her post are a fun read.
And one more:
Conspicuous Style written by the talented Stacy. She has a wonderful design aesthetic and I have found that she and I have many like's in common. Especially our love for Sarah Richardson's designs.
Enjoying The Process Of :
Reading blogs and leaving comments!!
Kathysue
78 comments:
Good question Kathysue! I don't think I would continue if no one commented. I tend to think of my blog as a bit of a chat with my like minded friends & if nobody acknoledged what I had to say I think it would feel kind of lonely, if that makes sense.My husband has NO interest in hearing about my design dreams & goals, so my blog is my out let!!
Thanks for the links to, Im off to check them out. I love Melindas blog, especially as she is a fellow Aussie!!
Cheers
Kathysue - you are such a darling for mentioning my blog and I really appreciate your support, not only in this respect, but also for taking the time to always comment. I am such a new blogger and only starting the grasp the impact and meaning of all this stuff, so I read with such interest your comments. I know that despite my blog being only weeks old, it is so heartwarming and encouraging that people take the time to comment. I hope I don't get obsessed by the stats, the comments and the numbers as some seem to, and remember why I am doing this. I really enjoyed your post on "comments on blog" and as a new blogger, the whole area is such a new phenomenon to me, that I find all this kind of stuff intriguing. I am still trying to learn the dos and don'ts of blogging, what's important, what isn't, what advice to heed and what to ignore. 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. Just sharing our lives, our hearts and our tastes. The universe is surely large enough for us all to have a bit, so share the love around and remember whatever you give out usually comes back in some way. Thank you Kathysue, for being such a generous spirit and for embracing me and showing us the beauty in the world. Mx
Linda (Nina's Nest) has left a new comment on your post "If Nobody Left A Comment Would YOU Continue To Blo...":
Hi Kathysue....great question you posed. I suppose that if no one commented, then I wouldn't feel like anyone was interested...and, therefore, why take the time and effort to post. So, even a few comments mean that some people are interested. It is a good reminder to leave a comment regardless. Sometimes you get in a blog-skipping frenzy with only a small amount of time and neglect the commenting. BTW, I appreciate your blog and your decorating expertise. Thanks for sharing. Linda
I had to post this comment, because I mistakenly deleted it. I should do nothing before my first cup of coffee, KS
I have pondered this myself..I only have 7 followers one of them being myself haha. My daughter comments on mine all the time but that is about it. I personally didnt start blogging for comments I did it so I could comment..it's easier if you have your own blog. I dont really care if no one reads mine I acutally do it for myself..so I can see the projects and things I have done. I have done so many projects in my 50 odd years and never thought of taking a picture or keeping a cronicle of it all and blogging has given me that avenure for doing so with not a whole lot of trouble. Anyway I think it should be for yourself and if other people enjoy what you have to say well that is just the cherry on top of a really fun sundae dont you think? Frances
I am so glad you made some revisions because I am now able to leave comments again. I appreciate your posts and it always deepens the connections and learning when you dialogue with your readers. That sense of audience is really lacking in some other blogs and I sometimes get the feeling they don't want to be bothered or really don't have time for the blogs they have created. The blogs are more like tools for identity so we might be more inclined to buy their products or services. Bottomline: blogs are opportunities for giving to others and, at the same time, you have to create your boundaries so that your blogs don't eat up your lives!
helen tilston has left a new comment on your post "If Nobody Left A Comment Would YOU Continue To Blo...":
What a great question? Hmmm! I'm still on my first cappucino and a relatively new blogger. I believe it is important and right to comment if I read your blog, with frequency. I must say I also like when the blogger responds to my comment occasionally.
Thanks for the three leads you provided
Helen
Hi Kathysue,
You pose a good question to all of us. I'm not sure that I would continue to blog if no one commented. I blog because I want to share what I feel is beautiful, with others. I like to know that someone appreciates what I've done and feedback is important.
I am guilty of being too busy and dropping by blogs without leaving comments. If I do not receive but a few comments on a post I believe it's because it wasn't interesting to others.
I agree with the verification thing, turn it off.
Also, I have trouble reading some of the blogs because they are so slow. It's usually the ones with tons of advertisers and side bars.
Some of my favorites are like this and it's frustrating. I'm not sure what can be done about that since it is on their end.
I blog because I love it and the interaction amond all of us is the "icing on the cake!"
hugs
Sissie
My answer would be 'yes' - I would continue to blog even though I have never received very many comments. I blog mainly for myself using the blog format as a journal of sort! My blog is a lifestyle journal, not necessarily a decorating blog; even though I primarily read decorating blogs. I always enjoy your insight. Sally
i would DEF still blog even if no comments - but the comments DEF make my heart smile like no other!!!!
I just want to say THANKS for the tip on the settings! I've been having trouble commenting and wondered what in the world to do about it! A huge thanks to you! Also, I realized I've been on your blog and haven't been an official follower. Sorry! I'm a follower now. Have a great day!
Yes, a definite yes. I even turn comments off now and then, to give my readers a little break from commenting at the Back Porch. I usually do this on Friday posts. I know folks are reading whether or not they comment, because my counter tells me this.
There is an ebb and flow in the blogging world. I have found I will get oodles and gobs of comments some weeks and others, very few. Again, I just take a look at the stats.
I have had the same puzzlement over the one picture three word post with lots of comments and yet other well put together and well thought out posts get few if any.
After 4 and a half years in the land of blog I've decided if I post it will be read, by one or a hundred.
It does feel good to get the interaction of comments, though.
Great question. I think the honest answer comes down to why you or I started our blog in the first place. For whom? For what purpose?
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?
When the day comes that I don't love sharing inspiration in this way, I'm done. I blog as the Lord leads, not as I hink others will like or follow. It makes the biggest difference in the way I see myself and others in blogland.
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!
Whew! How about that for a looooong comment?!?!
Xo,
Linsey
Did I miss the link where she explains what to do about the comments?
This is a great post. I have been trying to make a bigger effort to leave comments. I agree, if it's worth reading, it's worth a comment. :)
I know some blogs always show zero comments but it can't be right because I have commented and it just never shows up. Maybe some bloggers just don't show the comments, is that possible?
Hi, sweetie!
Good question! If you asked me this about 3 months ago, I'd say no. Although I really, really care about the comments I get and I read every single one. But I do this for the people that come to visit me everyday and the many of them simply don't comment, but they come back day after day. So, it wouldn't be fair to stop just because they don't want to comment. I think.
Great post. It made me think and I like that.
xo
Luciane at HomeBunch.com
Word verification is a bit of a nuisance and it may be the some people choose not to comment. In almost two years of blogging I've only had to delete a couple comments (spam) and only ever deleted a comment because of the content being offensive, not to me, but to another person.
Thanks for mentioning those blogs, all new to me, I'll check them out-and leave comments!
I remember in the beginning thinking how wonderful it would be to have comments. I continued for some time with maybe 1 comment. I have learned that some perfect blogs do not receive comments.
You have to leave comments to receive comments, I believe. I think that if your friends have taken the time to post you should comment. I know that I am away at times and don't comment.
This is food for thought. Thanks for sharing.
Teresa
xoxo
I don't consider myself a slave to stats. It is just another tool in the blog world. I don't obsess over it.
The other thing, I came back to mention...I have over 400 followers at the new Back Porch and had over 1,000 at the old Back Porch. Not a lot compared to other blogs. Especially those that have been around a shorter length of time. I have had giveaways. However, I have not asked anyone to follow as a requirement for being included in the giveaways. It's just something I decided to do for my blog. I have nothing against any other bloggers asking for followers.
I also do not advertise. I just decided early on I didn't want to do that, even though I see nothing wrong with advertising or sponsors. I just don't want to do it.
Something else I have to mention is the fact that many do not realize that I will be 68 next month. There aren't many of us old birds in the decorating spectrum of blogging, but I do consider the Back Porch as partial decorating/design. My blog mission is more about lifestyle.
I hope other women see the Back Porch and know the author is a g'ma, pushing 70 and realize they can do something like this also. This blogging thing has a way of keeping me active, both physically and mentally.:-)
This comment was sent to me via facebook!! I had to share.
Donna K Davis commented on your link.
Donna wrote: "Hi Kathy - I am sorry I don't comment - but every day I look for your blog and read it while having my morning coffee. I feel like I am having my cup with you. And I haven't taken the time to figure out how to leave a comment on your blog. But I want you to know - I love reading your blogs with my coffee."
Thank you for the shout out, Kathysue! I appreciate you mentioning my blog and always leaving thougtful comments on my posts. You are so kind and sweet. :)
What an interesting and thought provoking question you have here today! Well, it really depends why I started this blog in the first place. If I have zero comments but know that I still have readers, I will continue to blog. Of course, receiving comments is a great bonus. Genuine and thoughtful feedbacks are always welcomed and it's a great motivator especially when there are days you just feel like slacking.
I agree with you on commenting. If I take the time to read someone's blog, I always, always leave a thoughtful comment to give the blogger a feedback. If a comment can brighten up my day, I don't see why I can't brighten someone's day with my comment especially if I really enjoy reading their blog, too.
I think most bloggers put a significant amount of time and effort in each and every posts. I know I do even though my blog is mostly filled with only beautiful pictures.
For me, it takes me about 2-3 hours a day to come up with a post because it takes me so much time sourcing through tons of images and several websites to find something truly beautiful and inspiring that is worth posting. I hate slapping random beautiful but uninspiring picture out there just for the sake of posting because then, I will not be true to myself. I want every image that I post to be very inspiring to me so hopefully, others will find it inspiring, too. In my short four months of blogging, I know what kind of pictures will generate more comments than others but sometimes, I tend to stick to my own design aesthetic because I really want to stay true to myself. I love quirky things and crazy design sometimes besides the classically beautiful so I blog about it even though knowing it will usually turn off half of my readers away (rendering very few comments at the same time, obviously). In my opinion, not only beautiful pictures give you inspiration but unexpected images serve as a great source of inspiration as well.
As for someone whose first language is clearly not English, I have more struggles than most native English speakers and writers when it comes to blogging. Editing and writing usually took me an hour. I always have ideas and thoughts I want to convey in every post but sometimes I find it a little difficult to string it into a decent sentence without the awkward expression and bad grammars. (now you know why my blog has so few words. :) )
Anyway, I also agree with the word verification. I turned it off the first day I started my blog. Since spam are filtered by Blogger anyway and most of us moderate our comments, I don't see why we need to make it hard for the readers to comment. Sometimes, the verified words are so hard to read because the words are so jumbled up I needed more than one attempt just to be able to comment. In situations like these, I just hope people will turn it off for good.
By the way, these has to be the longest comment I have posted so far, so thanks for this really thought provoking post!
Jessie
www.mixandchic.com
This was a great post!
I started blogging because the Lord asked me to. I will continue because He hasn't asked me to quit yet.
My audience is One. :)
I remember this every time I sit down to write.
Having friends and family stop by and share their thoughts with me is whipped cream on the top!
HUGS to you!
Keep writing despite comments or the lack of them!
~Leslie
Hi Kathysue!
This is a great post!
I blog because the Lord asked me to, and continue to blog because He hasn't asked me to stop :)
When I began blogging, I decided to blog for my audience of One.
Friends and family who stop by and encourage and help me along my journey are just icing on the cake!
I aim to please my Lord with the gifts and talents he has given me.
Keep bloggin', Kathysue, if only for Him.
HUGS and blessings,
~Leslie
Sorry if you got the comment twice! I thought one had been deleted.
I think comments are the part of the blogging experience, so I think I would be incredibly sad if I didn't get comments. Then again, it doesn't mean no one is reading. It depends on the stats I guess. So I guess I'm okay with no comments, as long as there are readers if I intentionally did not keep the blog private. And yea, so true. The word verification is sooo cumbersome!
<3 Belly B
Wow, I get ashamed of myself sometimes. I am not a blogger, but I do like to visit blogs from time to time and Kathysue, I do read your blog faithfully. I am always so amazed at the dedication, generosity and perseverance of all of you bloggers. Not to mention, the creativity.
Sometimes I try to leave a comment and can't, so I finally just give up. And then sometimes I just don't take the time. It hit me when you said if we have the time to read the blog we really should have the time to comment. Point well taken.
I've thought about this subject before and I many times make a promise to myself to turn over a new leaf and comment on a regular basis, which only seems right.
You have prompted me again to take another look at myself. I'm really going to try to do better and take more time to comment.
Thank you for the time and effort you put forth on a daily basis. I just know there must be many people like me who are visiting and reading and appreciating your blog, but are not taking the time to let you know how much we enjoy what you do.
I really hope you do not get too discouraged. We love your blog, Kathysue!!!!
Jeanette
Hi Kathysue,
You've posed a good question. I'm still pondering....
I think if suddenly the comments disappeared, I might reconsider whether to blog. However, as long as I know people actually read my posts, I still would continue to write. I know my posts are being read because Site Meter tells me so. Also, as long as followers continue to sign up, you know you're being read. It's like, if you continue to write, people will read.
My friend suddenly closed her blog and no one cared in the end. Now that's disturbing!
Laurie at Bargain Hunting just posted a thoughtful post about the obligations that come with blogging. You know: if you comment on my blog, then I must reciprocate. Even though I read lots of blogs and appreciate them, there simply isn't enough time in the day to respond to them all. So, lately I've backed off and only respond when I am inspired or compelled to. Like now! haha! love, Delores
Ideally, just like with everything else..., you do what you do because you love it, no matter what the response, or in this case comments. Comments are a bonus!! So, a yes from me.
Comments are the icing on the cake or should I say the wax on furniture:) I enjoy blogging it gives me a lot of personal satisfaction but I also really like leaving comments. We invite you in to read, browse around, found out who are friends are, see how many followers we have, we share many things its good to get feedback. Thanks for posting a great question.
Found you through LLH; and am hoping I CAN leave a comment here. I look forward to perusing your blog! GREAT question. Mine is (very) little; but when I write it, it's for my family, close friends and me...more for "the world." Thanks for making us think!
Hi Kathysue! Thank you so so much for naming my blog and for saying such nice things about it. You are SUCH a good blog friend, and one that motivates me alll the time! As for your question, I agree....it would be hard to put the time in if I thought no one was reading. But, i tend to look at new followers more than number of comments. One of the reasons is that I almost always am using my ipad when i make my comments, and it is sometimes nearly impossible if it won't load the page, etc. So, I know that people who read blogs, like me, can't always comment, like me. :)
Stacy
A good question and one I have considered, though as others have said I really enjoy writing my blog so would probably keep going for that reason. I have also looked at other blogs and wondered why some have so many comments for one picture and others so few for thought provoking posts and decided it is more about the quality of commments then quanity. As you can see with this post, not only is it very interesting and so you read every word you have because of this got all these quality comments in return. G
I don't have a blog of my own (yet!), but I am an avid daily reader of so many wonderful blogs - including yours! :) Sometimes I comment on a blog or two, but often I feel unsure whether I'm "worthy" of commenting, since I don't have a blog of my own. So my question: is it okay for a non-blogger to comment?
Good question! I would continue to blog because I know, even without comments, that people are reading and enjoying based on the "numbers" I receive from google etc. however, it is always nice to hear back. I will say that I comment quite a bit and rarely receive any type of notice that the owner of the blog has even read the comments. While I think it is important to comment I also think it is important to know that the blog owner is reading them. In fact, I dont read all the comments but I do skim them and read the ones that show the owner of the blog responded...I find those pretty interesting and often it answers a question or opinion I also had. Either way, continue blogging because I enjoy your blog and your design aesthetic. Would love to have you check out my blog as well....
http://www.shawnarobinson.com/blog
Such an interesting topic today, Kathysue. I hadn't really thought about it. I always try to leave a comment if I've taken the time to read the post. I also find blogs to be such a great source of inspiration when I'm working on a new project. I think we all like getting comments, although I've noticed that some bloggers never leave comments, even if you've left countless numbers on theirs. I don't take it personally, there are so many blogs out there to read and connect with. As long as your having fun, it shouldn't matter how many comments you get.
Finally, someone who not only broaches a subject that has been debated by the Blogging Housewives of Westchester every time we get together but has revealed the mysteries of commenting on Blogger. I feel as is I have to jump through hoops to get my comments posted on some blogs. Since I'm Wordpress based, I thought it was me!
As for writing a blog and not receiveing comments, I hear what you're saying... I didn't receive a single comment on The Buzz my first year until I met the lovely Patricia from PVE seven months after I wrote my first post. But I kept on writing because I knew people were reading The Buzz but were not the type to engage in conversation. I sort of equate it to talk radio - you listen and nod your head but are you going to call and aske a questions or agree with something the host has to say? I truly felt that what I was writing was entertaining but definitely had my doubts the first year. Some people blog to get feedback while others just like having a creative outlet. Since I run a family business and don't anticipate making House Beuatiful's list of best design bloggers, I'm more the latter. Finally, I do believe that comments lead to comments (at least I hope so!) and that it's a two-way street - if someone comments on The Buzz, I will comment back.
Thanks for engaging such a great discussion, Kathysue, and I hope this comment gets through!
xxoo
Of course I love the comments. But the real reinforcement for me are the number of hits my blog gets. Since I write about Carmel, I find lots of people using the blog for information about the town. Since I love Carmel so much , I am delighted to pass on tidbits of information about it.
This is a very interesting post, Kathysue and the comments you received are just as compelling. I think I would definitely keep blogging because it is sort of like keeping a journal with pictures. Of course I love getting comments and have been lucky in that department, but it was rough going when I first started out. I think it's important to leave comments since it does take so much time for the writer of the post to actually write a post...they deserve it. And I always return visits...it's a courtesy. Thanks for a great post!
XO,
Jane
*** HI. MY NAME IS LINDA, AND I AM NON-BLOGGER...
... BUUUT, make 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 occassionally, 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!!!
Linda in AZ *
bellesmom1234@comcast.net
The whole concept behind a blog is to create conversation about something that is of mutual interest. I think it would be so sad to spend the time it takes to post and have no one comment. I don't get a lot of comments, but I have people mention to me all the time that they read the blog and enjoy it very much. I think other bloggers comment, but I'm not sure the non-blogging readership feels it is important to leave a comment. I blog because it is one way for my readers to know me as a designer, and in the real world, it's a great way to market my design esthetic, so I would probably continue to blog. I do love it when there is a conversation about a subject...just makes it all more fun! And besides, if I didn't blog, I wouldn't know you!!
Wow!! I am loving all of these insightful comments. Amazing!! I am also those of you that do not blog feel comfortable to comment. I say absolutely it is wonderful if a non-blogger comments!! This is so fun to read all of your comments. Great dialogue going on here!! Thank you for such wonderful feed back!!
xo Kathysue
Well said Kathysue as your posts usually are.
For the longest time no one left me any comments and I just kept plugging along not that I get dozens and dozens now but each one makes me smile.
I've seen some newer blogs with over a 1000 followers in just a few months. makes me wonder what I'm doing wrong then again I'm just not that interesting.
I have been trying to put together a post about blogging as well.
I don't have word verification it's visible after approval it's more for me so I can read them all at once.
I don't understand blogs that have both word verification and visible after approval any more then ones with music. I want to read what someone has taken the time to share quietly without the sound.
I like to see a few posts on the home page instead of clicking older posts.
Great post Kathysue. I have been thinking about it since I read it this afternoon. The basic thing about comments is that it does let you know that people are responding on some level to what you are writing. We all know how much time it takes to leave a comment, so I for one really appreciate that time as it is valuable for everyone these days. AND...the relationships you form by corresponding back and forth as you answer questions are wonderful and so worth it!
This is a great question - one that I have never really thought about. One of the things I do is always try to visit anyone who has left a comment on my blog. This is a great way to discover new blogs!
I had to post this sweet email...
Hi! You know, you really made me feel guilty for never commenting on your blog. LOL!!
The reason I don't is...I don't know! All I know is, I feel like we are old friends, maybe old is the wrong word... I subscribe to your blog, LOVE it...your writing style is wonderful, and you always manage to point out something I hadn't thought about. Thank you for that.
And, thank you for introducing us to the concept of taking the time to "enjoy the process". Life is much more fun that way!! ;)
From Donnamae
Hmm, when I first started I said I enjoyed it so much that I would blog even if no one read it. It is so much nicer when you form relationships and other bloggers become friends, you look forward to their visits and opinions. With that said, I have to honestly say, I think I would still blog but I would have hurt feelings... I sincerely care about these people! xo
I had 2 blogs which I enjoyed writing; one personal and one geared toward weddings, love and marriage. I spent a lot of time on them and got very few comments although I had some readers. It was discouraging, and I ultimately discontinued both. If you like someone's blog, PLEASE make some sort of comment to it.
I had 2 blogs-- one more personal and another wedding related content (that did morph into general love and married life as well). I had some readers and thought it was interesting, but none of the readers ever commented and it was discouraging. I ultimately stopped blogging. If you read a blog and like it, PLEASE PLEASE, take the time to make some comments. It is appreciated.
more thought provoking content kathysue!
in the deep recesses of my mind, i have wondered "i am posting original content, with few comments while XXblog posted a single photo from a magazine to glowing and numerous comments.......what am i doing wrong!???" then i chastise myself for being a schoolgirl nut case..........thans for opening the door to this conversation.
secondly if i were honest with myself comments matter....see above :-)
no doubt it is meaningful to anyone who blogs.
had fun with your blog choices and became subscriber
so kathysue, are you going to tell us what this blog is without commenters that is so popular?
thanks
debra
This was sooo great Kathysue and a really good question for us each to ask ourselves. Being a newer blogger about 5 months now, I have been really lucky to have been able to build my following to me quite quickly. On top of that a lot of my followers are very generous to comment and often write a lot...I LOVE and CHERISH these comments more than anyone can imagine. They really validate what I am doing and give me fuel to keep going. Honestly if I wasn't getting any feedback, I must say it would definitely challenge me to continue spending the amount of time and reserach that I do into posts. You would have no choice but to question what you are doing wrong and as you said its a puzzle to see some blogs that have little "substance" but a healthy following. For the record I love coming here, always something great and interesting!! I also like the blogs you mentioned very much.....although haven't checked out Mix and Chic yet, off to do it now.
PS So agree about turning off the word validation..major annoyance in my little humble opinion.
Excellent topic here!!
I think I would continue blogging if no one commented. I'm new to this whole blog thing...however, I mainly started it just for my own amusement. Of course getting comments and feedback would be wonderful but I would still continue to blog even without it :)
http://closetfatchick.blogspot.com/
Kathysue, I really appreciated this post. I have always felt that if I enjoyed someone's hard work it was my duty to leave them a comment! I try my best to go by the 'NO FREE GRAZING!' rule, no matter how big or small the blog is. I personally would like to believe that I would still blog without the comments, but it sure would be tough!!
Nancy xo
I think the best part of blogging is hearing from your reader. What has taken me by surprise is all the amazing friends I've met online!!!I just spoke at an Apartment Therapy event tonight in DC and was so thrilled to meet people who read the blog. Hearing from people and connecting with them is all it's about.
A big part of the reason why I've cut back on my blog posts each week is because I've gotten really discouraged about blogging. I've worked hard at it for 2-1/2 years - I used to spend hours and hours searching for pictures and researching my blog topics. And it seemed the more I put into it, the less I was getting out of it. I don't know if it's because I shut down my old blog that I wrote with a friend and started a new blog - but my readership has gone way down since the switch.
It's hard to not be discouraged when you put your heart into something and it doesn't seem to be appreciated. In the case of blogging, very few or no comments says to me that people who read my blog don't think it's worth taking the time to leave a comment. As someone who takes things personally, that hurts.
Kudos to the bloggers who keep plugging away in spite of getting few comments on their posts. I'll be checking out the blogs you listed, and I'd like to recommend a beautiful blog that I enjoy reading called quintessentially b:
http://www.sarahberrydesign.com/moodboard/
Sarah is a designer in the UK, and she writes lovely posts for her blog, including posts about design projects that she's working on.
I am not a blogger but I read and enjoy many craft and decorating blogs. My sister has a fairly new blog that is doing very well but she gets frustrated that when she comments or adds someone to her favorites list , very few reciprocate by adding her or commenting to her. It seems there are groups of bloggers who only support the large blogs. It seems there are certain women who have a lot of power in their group and are able to persuade others to follow or not follow another blog. I comment because of the huge effort and time it takes to post. I also wish the comments were not cookie cutter comments. It is not real that 98 or whatever number,all agree that the post was
the best thing EVER. Some gentle constructive criticism
would be refreshing and probably helpful. Let's spread the love to as many bloggers as possible even the new kids on
the blog. Thanks for allowing me to offer my opinions
although I am not really one of you talented women.
Fondly, Kelly P.
Anon Kelly, thank you for leaving this comment. You are so right in what you are saying and I appreciate you taking the time to say it!!! I don't know who your sister is, but it sounds as if she is exactly what ZI was talking about in this post. Tell her to hang in there!! KS
Dear Kathy Sue,
I want you to know that I have your blog delivered to my email everyday and I really enjoy reading it. It is one of the highlights of my day. Even though I do not comment very often, please, please, please rest assured that I am reading it each day and enjoying every single minute of it. I vow to try harder to be more proactive with my comments. Love ya'.
Debbie
This is definitely something I think about! I've had my blog for about 4 years now and don't get lots of comments. However, because my blog is my voice for my website, the more people I talk to when booking design consultations, the more I learn that they have been following my blog for months without making comments. I think there are a lot of silent followers out there. My blogging friends and I call them blog stalkers! I'm actually one on a few blogs too, ha. I'd love it if I got more comments, it's encouraging and makes you want to continue doing it. Loving your blog! Ruthie
I feel so guilty because I can no longer comment on every person blog that comments on mine. I just don't have that much blogging time anymore. Not that I get that many comments, but still takes time to visit, read and comment for everyone. I love comments and don't think I would continue if I did not get some feed back. I am more interested in followers and when I get Unfollowed...lol I have never asked for a follower or made anyone become a follower to win something. I don't put followers on my sidebar, so each one that follows me is there only because they want to be. I am losing my passion for blogging and don't know how much longer I will be in this game, but I have learned a lot from blogging and I am so happy that I did do it.
Great post and comments from your readers. I took a short blogging break a while ago and realized I was spending too much time online. When I came back I knew things would have to change a bit. I wouldn't be able to visit every single persons blog who left a comment anymore. That part really takes a lot of time. I do try to get back to everyone via email and I still feel quilty sometimes. I love comments as much as the next person but I need to keep things in perspective if I want to keep blogging...which I do. I am so inspired by bloggers and enjoy being a part of it all.
What a great post, one that really got me thinking. After pondering the question, I realized that I blog because I love to share my passion with the universe. While comments are definitely something I love, I know people are reading my blog and finding inspiration in what I write. In the end, that's all that matters.
While it is nice to get comments, that is not the reason for blogging, at least not for me. I live in two places so the blog is a way to keep in touch with friends in both. Many of them prefer to respond to the blogs with a personal email rather than a published response. That's OK with me. Quite frankly, I would rather have no comments than those which are 3 words and have little if any meaning. When blogging gets to be a chore, it will be time to quit. In the meantime, it helps me be in the moment, in touch with all that I see and I enjoy sharing that. If there are some who enjoy being part of my tapestry, they are welcome.
It's been fun looking at your posts.
I'd say you hit a chord here. I wish I could say that I would continue to blog without comments, but I probably wouldn't. They spur me on and keep me coming back. This is just a really busy season in my life and as much as I enjoy blogging I need the encouragement to keep up the time commitment. I love blogging. I've received much more from it than I have ever given. That is one of the reasons I try really hard to comment on other blogs regularly. I may not make it every time, just because of time but it's worth the effort. I admit that though I may read blogs that don't comment back, I quit commenting. The comments are the friendships that develop. The rest is just good information. Friendships and relationships on blogs are just like the ones right here in town. It's a two way street. Love, you, love your blog and glad that we are friends. Mona
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" kwim? Vanna
Wow - I will have to come back when I have more time to read all these comments!! I wrote my blog for a long time at the beginning with few if any commenters. I still tried to provide excellent content beautifully designed. I think it would be hard to write if no one was reading but since I always seem to have at least a few each day, it keeps me going!!
To be perfectly honest - it KILLS me to not see any comments after taking the time to take pictures, edit them, upload selected images and write - especially a "How To" - and not get ANY feedback. And when I see some other blogs who have jumped on the coat tails of another, or those who have no REAL substance to offer, but followers are going through the roof, that too hurts... but - I started blogging as a means of a creative outlet.
And along the way I have not only met so many wonderful people and have LEARNED SO MUCH I would have not learned if I were doing the same thing I've done for - oh 25 yrs of my life - that makes it all worth it. Like blogger gal Val once wrote me (when she first encouraged me to even start blogging) KEEP ON BLOGGING - no matter what.
I feel I've done this - except if I feel if I don't have anything of any value to post - then I skip the day. I use to stress over posting daily - but not everyone reads it daily, so I'm testing different times and not stressing it as much.
WOW!! I think you pushed a button Kat!! I don't think I've EVER left a comment this long!!! LOL
:D Lynda
Kathysue, that is a good question. Not sure what I would do if I felt that no one was reading my blog anymore. I guess I would stop. Why put so much time and energy into this to inspire others if no one is reading and commenting.
Again, you have inspired us with a wonderful topic. No, I doubt that I would continue. I usually average 15-20 comments a post but my last post had very few comments. I have no idea if it was because of the blogger issues that have been hitting everyone or maybe people just were not inspired by the topic. There are so many wonderful blogs to visit and because I work full time I don't always have time to leave a comment. I have been sick for the past week so I haven't left many comments but hopefully now that I'm beginning to feel better I will start leaving them again. I know I certainly treasure each and every comment people take the time to leave on my blog.
I agree about word verification. It is very annoying. I turned mine off but if you ever notice it's back on please let me know. With all the blogger issues these days who knows what can happen.
This was another great post from you, Kathysue.
Kathysue, this is a great post and interesting topic. I love the creative process of producing a blog post, so I'd probably continue. That said, I greatly appreciate every comment I receive, but I don't receive any where near the # of comments that equal the # of visitors I have according to my stats. And like you, I feel if I stop to visit and read a post, I should leave a comment. I want to comment! Positive feedback is important for all of us. It's also the only way to know who is visiting one's blog.
Good advice to turn off the WV. They take a lot of extra time. ~ Sarah
I just stumbled across your blog and war instantly drawn in by your topic here. It got me thinking about how many times I read something that is great and yet don't take a couple minutes of time to write some sweet words. I know that when i get comments I'm grateful for each one -- for the time and effort and kindness. So thank you for getting me thinking and acting!!
I'll be back. :)
Rachel
Well, there is no lack of commenting here :)
Love your blog just found you.
I think this is a question we all ask ourselves and we all share the amazement at how many comments a simple picture and two words can get. I think comments do create dialogue, but sometimes I wonder if it is high school all over again and we need to be popular to feel good, and comments do give that sense of popularity and acceptance that apparently we strive for. We write to be heard and if we feel no one is listening to our little voice in this huge blog universe I guess we will loose the voice.
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.
I have zero followers on my little blog. I even once wrote something about why we blog
http://happytizinglife.blogspot.com/2010/05/why-we-blog.html, which I was reminded of reading your post.
I took an oath to visit other blogs and comment which I did not do and my blog remains follower.less. It sometimes feels sad, but then again I still do write whatever I feel. I might feel better about it if I did have comments, I feel comments sometimes give you the next topic to write about.
Very nice post.
I'm relatively new to blooging. I don't have a great deal of followers and I don't get a lot of comments and sometimes I think to myself, am I wasting my time. BUT I really blog for me, I blog about things I love and I share them. I love going to my stats page and seeing that I get about 100 people looking at my blog each day, whether they found my blog by accident or they actually read it I'm not so sure but I think I will continue to blog and hopefully get some new readers along the way!
I thought I commented on this post!!! Okay, here is what I "thought I wrote"!
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? Wil 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!
As a matter of fact, I have consisdered taking away the option to comment. You can do that, you know?!
Thanks for the post! Now I have something else to think about!
Comments totally make my day, even when I don't see them right away. I don't have a smartphone, so I'll go a whole weekend without ever seeing my e-mail or dashboard. It's always such a thrill to see bunches of comments when I've come back from being away or at the end of a long day after putting the kids to bed.
That being said, I'd still blog even if I never got any comments. I agree with those who say that it depends on the reasons you started blogging. I started because after being a SAHM for so long, I started to forget who I was. I like the process of writing, and yes showing off projects and things that I've been working on. If I was a savvier blogger, I'd have written "shared" not "showing off," but let's face it - everyone likes a "Tada!" moment. Yes, I love the comments, and yes, it hurts to hear crickets when you've really worked on something, but my blog is documentation of what I've been up to and someday I'll be able to show my grandkids my digital diary and that's so cool.
As far as leaving comments go, I always leave comments for blog posts I've read. A single pic with blurb may not have me clicking on the comments box, but if I've read a post, I try to comment. Additionally, I always both reply to comments and write a return comment on commenters blogs. My one sore spot is those comments that look like - "Hi, love your blog. I'm a new follower. Please follow me back." Those comments annoy me. The love your blog always sounds disingenuous when followed by a plea to follow. And if you love my blog so much why not comment on an actual post?
This comment is already entirely too long, but I really do love your blog, and have been following since I discovered it months ago. I hope you never feel the sting of no comments, because I love how you break down all elements of design and look forward to your posts in my blog reader.
Hi Kathysue, well, if I stopped for lack of comments, I would have been done months ago. I must confess it is incredibly discouraging when I look at my subscriber numbers or my daily readers and hardly get comments. I am always asking myself what's up with that, do I not move people enough to comment on what I write? Lack of comments has definitely had an impact on my commitment to my blog -- it's more difficult to be motivated. I do look for feedback because it is my career -- thank goodness I don't measure my career by my blog! I'm not sure how much longer I will last, really, despite the fact that I love to write and of course I love design. Sometimes, it feels like beating my head against a wall! I agree with you about Conspicuous Style -- I think her blog is fantastic!!
I really enjoyed reading your post. I'm looking forward to checking out the other blogs and checking my settings. I will say comments sure do put a smile on my face!
Hi Kathysue, I don't know how I missed this before but what a great post. I enjoyed reading the post and also getting the feedback from the comments others left. I have a small following and get few comments but I know that I have a lot of non-bloggers (clients, friends of clients) that read my post and it is for them that I write as much as for myself. When I first started blogging I had more time and was able to go on to more blogs and comment and then got comments back. It almost seems like a game. If I comment on other blogs, then I get more comments on mine. And if I don't comment, then I don't get comments. I understand but it feels kind of silly. My schedule is way too busy now and so I am reading blogs more sporadically. I try to comment but honestly, if I see someone has a ton of comments, I usually don't bother. I have my usual blogs that I try to read (yours is one) and yet even those I don't comment all the time. I would continue to blog without comments but if I didn't get ANY feedback (emails, people telling me) then I would question why I am writing. Having said all that ... there is nothing more affirming then seeing a new follower or a genuine comment! Great post. I appreciate your posts (even if I don't always say so) and I also appreciate how kind you are with YOUR comments both to me and all the other blogs I see your comments on! ;)
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