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You did what to your blog comment? How do you treat your comments?

COMMENTING -- can be such a colorful word in so many ways. What can commenting mean and how can it be so colorful? In my opinion, here are the different types of comments that I know of....

polite comments - nice job, thanks for sharing, excellent idea, etc, etc

thought provoking comments aka discussion comments - the comment can either be pro or con.... but you either add information to the authors blog, to other comments, or keep a conversation going....

negative comments - you are just flat out rude. You try to bring someone down. You rip their blog apart. (I actually like when someone does this to me. Some people say delete the comment. I won't and I will explain why later)

the feedback comment (could be construed as negative) - Not sure what to really call this kind of comment. You disagree with the author of the blog or that of another comment. You offer your advice or knowledge or let the other person know that what they said is not correct.
- Some people say not to make this kind of comment at all.
- Some say send that person an e-mail if you are correcting the author of that blog.
- I say if you do it in a polite manner, if could actually create a discussion.

reciprocating comments - here is one of the biggies. I will admit, I use to be good at this one. It takes time and effort, if you leave a real sincere comment and not just the "nice blog" comment. But do you reciprocate comments? If you feel that you don't get enough comments, besides writing a quality blog or starting off with an eye catching title, you should read what TLW wrote : Have you considered reciprocating your comments?

disabling comments - some members dislike this and others use it like the plague. I usually don't care for those that disable comments. Margaret Woda makes some great arguments to why you should think before you disable your comments. Please read : Before you disable comments, consider this...

Hijacking a blog - There are some good hijackings and then not so good. Hijacking can be fun and amusing, when done at the right time. Amanda Hall wrote, The Art of Hijacking a Blog For those that don't know, hijacking a blog would be leaving a comment that is off topic, not related to the blog. Many of these are usually humorous.

the lame comment or the 'cut & paste comment' (thanks to Carole P.) - This could also be the polite comment. But when someone says nice job and that is about it? And you notice that this same member leaves the same comments on other blogs? I call that lame, looking for their 25 pts. That they cut and paste their comments all over. Yes, it happens.

the link comment aka comment spamming - your comment might or might not have any relevancy to the blog that you are commenting on.... but much of your comment is a link to your site or to something that you are selling. This is extremely rude and not warranted amongst most bloggers.

the link comment, but not spamming - some people prefer that you don't leave links to other blogs or articles in the comments. I think if it truly pertains to their blog post and adds content, that it should be okay. No matter if it's a link to your blog or someone elses. I will say this, I will do this more so if I know the author of the blog. But comment etiquette says.. ask the author of the blog post no matter what, if they mind or not. Either in the comment itself or in an e-mail.

the 'I dislike you as a member' comment - you might dislike a certain member or 2, but they write an excellent blog, that you want to give them a good comment in return. You want to pay it forward, no matter how you feel about that author. Or possibly giving your honest feedback, because they caught your attention. Hey, you can't get along with everyone, but I do try to practice this... Or mention them in my blogs even, again, paying it foward.....

the anonymous comment - (just added) Thanks to Bill Archambault's comment : the long winded comment (please click link to read) Another pet peeve of mine. Those that want to complain or leave a negative comment, but under a false name or that they don't sign in. Thanks Bill...

the 'link love' comment - Have you ever found a blog because someone else actually mentioned it in their blog post? And you decide to read this blog that the author link to and comment on it? I try to practice this.. but how about telling that author that you found their blog because of x,y,z member mentioned it in their post. And while doing this, you link back to the other blog.... another term for this would be paying it forward.

the 'churn & burn' comment - (just added at 3 pm 11/17) Now, this one might ruffle some feathers, but I have been known to speak my mind. Not all of you will agree to this or have a different perspective... but this is where the author of the blog replies back to every comment, but in single comment fashion. I say it's one way to game how many comments it looks like your blog received. I personally prefer grouping the comments in one comment as much as possible. Some say they do the single comment because they don't want to be rude to the person commenting, giving them their own comment. Me? I could care less, at least they are replying to my comment. Again, this is just my opinion based on having no martinis at that time.

the 'did you even read my blog' comment - Thanks to Lisa Hill. I forgot about this one... how about those that don't even read your blog, yet they comment. And in several cases, you can tell by their comment, that they didn't read the blog. I have seen some way off base when commenting. You find this more from spammers if anything. But there are still those that don't read, yet comment. 25 pts?

Tina Merritt gives us 10 reasons in regards to commenting - The 10 Commandments of Commenting

commenting

Do you hang yourself when you comment or when you don't comment???

My biggest 2 pet peeves ......

1. Featured posts - Those blogs that are featured and the author doesn't reply to the comments. Your blog was recognized. You will get more action on that particular blog. It's in the spotlight, the limelight. What a great way to thank those that stopped by your blog. What a great way to possibly get more readership in the future.

2. Comments that are questions or thought provoking - I dislike nothing more when I leave a thought provoking comment or ask a question, and that author doesn't answer the question or continue the conversation. What another great way to get more comments and readership... possibly more subscribers to your blogs.

Rude comments? Negative comments? I said that I would talk about this. I welcome comments that attack my blog, that try to discredit my thoughts, opinions, or facts. ... especially my opinions that can be backed by facts or numbers. I think by someone trying to make me look bad and I am able to offer true hard facts with a great explanation of opinion, that it gives me more credibility. Possibly showcasing my expertise or expert knowledge. What do thee se on this?

FYI.... I didn't want to make this blog to long and lose your interest. But please click on this link, great comment/feedback, by Ann Cummings... Ann made some great points that I wanted to add in this post, but it would have been longer...

This blog is of my opinion and not the law of blog comments or written in stone. Just some of my own thoughts and those that have been around for a while. If you feel comfortable in how you comment, please don't change just because of me. This was just food for thought.....

Happy Commenting & Blogging

For those of you that are Active Rain members who do not follow me on here, you can subscribe to me here : Follow Jeff Belonger

____________________________________________________________________________________

For more information on FHA loans, please go to this link. The FHA Expert

For more information on how you can obtain your dream home, please click here : Mortgage Financing Options

For important mortgage insight to watch for, please read : Consumers need to be aware of these Red Flags !!!!!

Posted by Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages - USDA loans on 11/17/2008 08:30 AM

Comments (90)

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Originally posted at: FHA Mortgage Expert - Tri-State Area - New Jersey/PA/Delaware: You did what to your blog comment? How do you treat your comments?

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90 Comments on You did what to your blog comment? How do you treat your comments?

NOV

Thanks for the post, i have found that I end up commenting my on blogs to reply to comments :)

Cheears take care

I learned from the beginning to return to my posts and answer or at least acknowledge that I am thankful they took the time to leave something. Met quite a few good "friends" that way. Thanks for bringing it up.

Ummm- Jeff - I must be rude - I quit responding to comments about a year ago - there are just not enough hours in the day - I do respond to the questions - and often email - but I personally do not think it is important to respond to every comment even if your post is featured. I blog for two reasons - business and networking - how many times do you really go back and see what the author wrote back to a comment? I would rather spend that time visiting the blog of the person that was kind enough to visit mine.

Of course that is just my personal opinion - not right not wrong just it is what it is...

TIMOTHY..... . my pleasure... I usually try... sometimes I get busy or get a flurry of comments, that it becomes hard. And what I am about to say is not in a bragging tone, but I average at times 25 comments or more and that can make it hard to respond to each one. thanks for your feedback.

DAVID..... . I agree, I think many of us try this. But if you read my response to Timothy, it does become difficult at times.... or for the fact that there isn't enough time to respond, depending on how many comments and how many blogs that you wrote in that week that received the same on each one. thanks for your feedback... I thought this was a good topic to talk about again. And yes, I have met some good friends this way... thanks

THESA.... . first off, I think that is an excellent opinion.... at least in regards to a blog that isn't featured. I do think one that gets featured, that you should reply more often. But that is my opinion.

But I have asked many questions in the past or left a thought provoking comment, and the author would never come back. If it happens twice, they basically lost me for good. Again, just my opinion... but if I am taking the time to leave a very good, thoughtful comment, with real & sincere thought, I would expect something back... thanks for your feedback.

Jeff, being new, I often ask questions in my comments. I am always dissappointed when I check back and they haven't made mention of it. Sometimes I assume they're too busy. I've noticed that many people seem to just post their blogs and forget about them. I guess that's why there are so many of us.

what is hijacking a blog? u mean diverting the discussion off topic?

Out of anything that I've learned from you J, it's that you need to respond to your comments. If people are going to take the time to read your post, conjugate it, and transpose it to writing, it at least deserves and acknowledgment. Those are the wisest words written here.

Hi Jeff - great points about commenting. Some of the greatest conversations on posts actually take place in the comments, and that makes the conversational part of blogging so enjoyable for me. There's nothing to be gained, except 25 points, on those 'great job' 'nice post' etc comments - what's the point? Having been part of hijacking posts in the past, I can tell you it can be great fun, and you really need to pick the posts that hijacking would be appropriate on. But talk about fun!!

I appreciate comments from those who take the time to read what I write, however since most of mine are localism type posts, I understand that not all care to comment on those. When you get a comment, it really is just like treating guests in your home - welcome them by replying back, and maybe, just maybe you'll learn something new, make a new friend, strike up a business relationship, etc. You just never know where online conversations can take you....

This really is a GREAT post!
Ann

CONNIE...... .same here.. I am very disappointed when I check back and my question was never answered. I think it's semi rude. What happen if I was a consumer? How about, it could be a good way to get referrals? Busy is one thing, but making time is another.... I think it should be part of your business plan. thanks for the feedback.

BRAD...... . thanks for asking... not sure if you are testing me on my opinion of replying back to comments... ;o) But I went back and added to the hijacking of a blog section. To answer your question, yes, hijacking is when you change the discussion or add something off topic. I will do this sometimes, but usually only to that member that I know and who knows me from networking on here or who I have met in person.

LARRY.... . I totally agree 110% .... that is my opinion. I know of someone that every now and then disables comments just so they don't have to reply to comments. He even told me this himself. I respect it, but don't care for it. Hey, I can't get to every comment, but I think if you try, it comes back to you in many ways. I wrote a blog once that not only received about 50 comments, but each comment was a mini blog. .. and because there was a lot of discussion, most of my comments were mini blogs also... that took a long time... but I thought it was worth it for many reasons. thanks for your input and for the compliment.

ANN.... . wow, what a great comment... lol Seriously, I do mean that. Those are some of the same things that I wanted to mention in this post, but I didn't want to make the post to long. Besides, I couldn't keep my concentration on this post and keep it flowing, as I wrote it while watching the Eagles football game.

But I agree, I think hijacking can be fun... but you need to pick these posts and not do them on just any blog. And yes, many of your posts are localism... but I think it's another way to sometimes reciprocate to someone that youy built a relationship with... to build that friendship as you mentioned.... and in some cases, possibly ask a few questions. thanks for the compliments...

Jeff, I try and at least visit and comment on the blogs of people who comment on mine. If there is a specific question left on mine, I usually answer it in a comment on my own blog or in an email.

Hi Jeff;

Thank you for educating all of us, we all learn so much on AR.

Jeff- I always try to respond to comments made to my posts. Of course, it's been pretty easy to do, since I've never had to reply to 60, 70, or 100+ comments.

It is disappointing, when you make a comment and the author doesn't acknowledge it, but I guess I can understand it when the numbers are overwhelming. In that case, I think a "thanks everyone for your comments" would cover it.

I try to make a reply to each person who commented on my post. If I get to many in a day I'll spread it out over a few days in order to get back to them. I'm not one of the bloggers that get's hundreds of comments so it seems rude not to try and make an effort to get back to everyone.

Jeff,

1. Well done, very interesting!

2. This is a little esoteric, don't you think.

3. Are you smarter than a fifth grader? Who cares about the comments?

4. Judicious use of the delete button is the responcabilty of the bloger, you should take this seriously! Just delet, e-mail invites personal arguments.

5. Like you so knowingly said on my last post: This is great, informational, instructive, very intuitive, extremely well presented, and brilliant! Deserving of a feature.

6. You disabled the comments, well I wasn't goint to say anything anyway!

7. Hijacking, isn't always delibert. Some time the readers just want to address the commentor.

9. For more insightful logic on this subject visit: Social Media Marketing vs E-mail Marketing or Mail Marketing

A1. The readers and those that comment got you featured, there are a lot of deserving articles than never get seen, You should deffinly respont to your commentary.

A2. Jeff, you didn't mention anonymous commenters, those that don't log in. Nor did you mention the semi-anonymous that show no name. Then there are some couples that your readers all know and love, but you never know wich one your reading.

A3. Who cares what you think?

Well, I tried. I think I covered all of them. If nothing else I provieded some exclent bad examples!

Bill

PS: By the way, I liked it! Everyone likes to see their name in print!

RICH..... . that's highly commendable, but for some, that is very hard to do. If you write like 7 blogs a week and average about 30 comments on each one...that is like 210 comments and possibly 210 blogs. But there are many that revisit the same people... so for arguments sake, let's say that out of those 210 comments, 40% of them are from the same people. That would mean that you still have 126 new people and in turn, you have 126 blogs to read.

In any case, I think it's a great thing to practice, but for many, that can be very time consuming. Thanks for the input...

ANTHONY.... . my pleasure.... I remember when I was new... and there is so much to not only learn on here, but to understand. And it usually comes with time, unless others help people along, with possibly giving their opinion or help teach along the way.

MARIYLN...... . well, then we'll have to get you a 100 comment post.. ;o) Tracy Santrock wrote a post on this, hoping to get 100 comments... and she got them. It was actually a fun post also..

But I will agree 110%... sure, it can be disappointing when you make a comment and the author doesn't acknowledge you.... but as I stated, my biggest pet peeve is when you ask a question or make a thought provoking comment, and they don't reply. I think that is poor networking management.

CINDY...... . I think spreading it out can be wise.... but I do find myself overwhelmed sometimes and sometimes it's just hard to keep up with all of the comments. I know many have different opinions on this, but that's what makes the world go around, right?

Jeff, gosh it is harder to reciprocate on comments that are featured. There are sooo many more of them. I have decided to only respond IF the person commenting asks a question or brings something to the discussion.

You can't just say "thanks' for "thanks for the comment" or" thanks for stopping by."

WILLIAM..... you get your own reply/comment... that was not only an excellent comment, funny, with a semi-hijacking way about it, but it was creative and thought provoking that took some time....

On another note, yes, I forgot to mention about those anonymous comments. Very well said and those comments irritate me also, when the person chimes in to complain, but under a false name or that they don't sign in. To me, just chicken... but thanks for bringing this up... and thanks for the feedback.

opps Jeff.

Jeff - ok, now you make me wonder if my comments are dumb/boring/stupid. I really make an effort to comment on blogs that I read and that I enjoy. If I don't have a magnificently creative reply, I do say that I liked the post. I'm also thankful to any comments I get on my posts, and do my best to make an effort to thank those that stop in and comment. Hey, I just want to get more subscribers ! :)

MISSY...... . I do agree with that statement.... I do know I truly try when I especially have a feature. And I didn't want my post to say, "this is the only way to do things".... I was just trying to make a point. I know since you do have more features than the average person, it can be overwhelming. And sure, if someone writes a 5 word comment, that has, "nice post"... what else can you say in your comment. Very true.... but if I get most of my comments that say more than that, and there are few that say, "thanks for the good post", I will acknowledge them... but again, everyone is different when it comes to this.

Thanks for your feedback on this.

CHRISTINE..... . please, don't think that. Some people truly mean it when they say, "nice blog" or "thanks for posting this"... but I have seen a few members that say this 90% of the time, just to get the 25 pts. It's usually obvious then. Overall, I think many of us want more subscribers... it does feel good. Thanks for your feedback and input.

Maybe it shouldn't bother me, but when I see a post with tons of comments, whether featured or not, and the author never bothers to even acknowledge those that took the time to read and comment...it just chaps me. I realize that it's difficult to respond to every comment made, especially those of the "nice post" variety, but even just a sweeping thank you to everyone would let people know that the writer appreciates them. When people consistently don't respond to comments on their own posts, well...I just stop commenting.

Hi Jeff - thanks for adding me to your post!

Personally, whether I get a feature or not, I try to acknowledge all comments. If I get a featured post and the comments get overwhelming, I will try my best to respond but once in awhile I'll have to do a broad acknowledgement to all. Not acknowledging those who take the time to read and then to comment on a post is on the rude side, in my opinion. And I know not everyone thinks like that, but the more one does that the more they decrease the odds that people willl go back to read any more of their posts. It doesn't take long to do a broad acknowledgement, if nothing else. That isn't why I read many of the posts that I do, but it is quite telling when you see some members who write posts and never once come back to make any replies to any of the comments they get. It sends a message that they can't be bothered and/or don't care.

Again, just my opinion....

Ann

Jeff, your points are well-taken. Don't know what I'll do if I ever get a ton of comments, but now I do my best to acknowledge all comments. Oops, better go check that I have. Oh, and - nice post.

J....I too, drop off with a lot of comments. But it is so good to have that interaction....especially with the effort to create a blog and the added efforts of responding to comments. Finally, why would he disable the posts to avoid comments. A lots of comments mean lots of points and that only raises the recognition. Too much...just wild really.

LISA...... . I think you aren't the only one that feels this way. I feel the same way and many of the people commenting in this post feel the same way also. Read Anns comment below you and my response to her. Many of us seem to be on the same page with this feeling. thanks for your feedback.

ANN..... . my pleasure... it was a very worthy comment that added more to my blog. In regards to when someone gets featured, I think many of us try to comment to everyone or most everyone. And I think your opinion is right on... if you don't think you can get to all of the comments or that so many are just the short sweet type, then just acknowledge the comments as a whole... thanking everyone. In my opinion, you are correct, by leaving at least a group comment, it says that you did read the comments and that you appreciate them. Another excellent point that I might go back and add in this post soon.. thanks

HEATHER..... . hey, doing your best is a great start. Besides, people can sometimes see the effort that you put into things. And don't sweat the number of comments, but just write what you like... quality posts will sometimes garner more comments... or those blogs that are interesting. thanks for the polite comment.

LARRY.... . I agree, it makes for some great interaction, hence what you and I are doing. And yes, by disabling the comments could cost you points. Not many would know about this, but there is a logarithm, at least from what I have heard... and the more clicks, views, comments that you get, it adds points to the amount of points that your blog can accumulate.

hi Jeff, re "the lame comment - This could also be the polite comment. But when someone says nice job and that is about it"...

While I appreciate anyone who takes the time to stop by and leave a comment, people who do the lame thing are missing an opportunity to extend the conversation or to be noticed, especiaily if they're new!

The best piece of advice when I began on the Rain was from TLW when she told me about the value of comments as a way to become known in the community. Her wise words still apply today. Nite!

Jeff,

And then you get comments from people like me...

Love the new photo. I saw it on the "members online" page, and thought there was a new face in the Rain! I have to say, I've been in Cherry Hill, Pennsauken, Maple Shade, Lumberton, Moorestown, Vineland, Camden, West Deptford and the entire Jersey Shore. Can't say I remember seeing that distinctive architectural shape in any of them. LOL

Mike in Tucson

Jeff, another great Belonger blog post! I try to reciprocate as many comments as I can, and I don't always comment on the comments I get, especially if there are a bunch of them. It's funny, because after so much time on AR, I'm still working to get it right, at maybe righter.

Seems to me that if you disagree with someone on a factual point, one could tactfully make the correction, but as I am writing this, it seems that it would be best to email the writer. hey, everyone makes mistakes. If something was genuinely interesting, make a comment, otherwise, find some other blog to comment about! And jeff- you always have great information!!

MARTI..... . I always believed in the value of comments, especially when I can be thought provoking or add to the conversation. I don't let the petty comments bother me anymore. If they don't get it, so be it... thanks for the feedback and for your input.

MIKE..... . well, I haven't seen you around lately. Then again, I haven't commented on yours in a long time either.. lol

In regards to the photo? That was taken when I was in DC... not sure if you ever read that one? Jeff Belonger goes to Washington DC.... there is a link to the main post at the bottom of that post. Hence where the picture came from, the last link at the bottom of the blog itself.

PAT..... . Belonger, huh? Just like one of the guys... love it. Beth Forbes says that to me on here also.. I think many of us try to reciprocate comments, but it can be time consuming at times. I guess it just depends on the amount of comments that week and work, life, and everything else... and in regards to still working to get it right? I think you have done very well...

CAROL.... . I agree, if someone made a mistake or that you think they are wrong, you could tactfully tell them in an e-mail. If I see someone that does this more than a few times in different blogs, sorry, but I will say something in a blog. It's one thing to come across as an expert, but it's another to mislead. And if you always followed this person, wouldn't it hurt you also? And if someone comes after me in a blog, I don't mind at all. I think if I truly know what I am talking about and I can show proof of figures, outside of opinion, then it also gives me more credibility... at least in my opinion. thanks for your input.

Jeff, I have to say that over the time, we have not always seen eye to eye, but I will be the first to say that this is a timely post. I have seen almost every action that you mention above. Some of them get under my skin more than others. With that said, the "featured" post might be the most evil of them all. And the first person that says that there is too many comments to respond to them all should be the first person barred from getting featured.

Hi Jeff,

I felt as though I have seen a summary a all I have met over my time at AR while reading your post. I do feel it is important to reply if someone takes time to comment on your post. That is one of the ways I get to know others in the Rain. When someone comments on my post, I will take that opportunity to no only reply to their comment, but also visit their blog at that time. That helps me develop a plan on how to get around to meet more people in the Rain. Thank you.

NOV

Jeff,

Thanks for the post. Sometimes the obvious isn't always clear to everyone, thus your post. Another great piece of sage advice for navigating in the Rain!

DANNY..... . on sports? beer? seriously, in regards to the too many comments, I would agree in most cases. Some slack to those that write a lot, get several features, and who get many comments in most cases, even on the non-featured posts. I know in some cases, I was overwhelmed, but when it comes to a feature, I truly make sure that I do respond to most everyone. So yes, it does irk me from time to time. Thanks for the feedback...

DERENDA..... . yes, I think it is a great way in getting to know the members here on AR. In regards to taking the time to comment on the members blog that commented on yours? As I told someone else, I commend you for that. Not to boast about myself, but that would be a part time or close to a full time job for some of us, including myself. I gave an example of this to Rich Mielke, because he mentioned the same thing. Please read this comment to Rich... Comment to Rich M. It would just be a lot of work. But again, I think it's a great idea, but for some, it could be an extra 150 blogs a week that someone would be reading and commenting. Could you handle that then? just curious.. thanks for your input.

WILLIAM.... . I would agree, sometimes it's not obvious to us all.... and could open a members' eye to what they are actually doing. Again, not saying everything that I mentioned is the right way, but I think there is some etiquette to them. And thanks for that polite compliment...

Jeff, thanks for the mention - I had to re-read my own post, because I'd forgotten about it. I do firmly believe that comments give any post real value. A post without comments is like cake without frosting (long list of additional analogies deleted). I do have to concede, though, that reciprocating and acknowleding every comment on a featured post is nearly impossible because of pure volume. At some point, we just have to forgive ourselves and others when a comment is not acknowledged and/or reciprocated.

Great post - once again I learned something on Active Rain today.

I am not that good at responding to comments that are made on my blog.

I guess a lot of it just goes back to my ignorance of etiquette, which I am willing to admit to, about blogging.

At least now I know. :)

I wasn't going to comment because as some others have mentioned, I am not always brilliant. Maybe not even sometimes. But, when I find someone such as yourself that contributes to my education on the Rain, I feel that the least I can do is thank them for yet another lesson learned. So, thanks for my lesson of the day. And, when I add someone to my subscription list, I always look for their comments in the other blogs I stumble across...So much reading, so little time.

Hi! If I read an article all the way through and find it interesting I like to comment even if I have nothing to add. Just a thanks for sharing comment but I like to get those on mine so I figure most people don't mind. If I don't respond to someone who comments on my blog it is because I don't realize they have commented. ActiveRain's commenting system is not very advanced at this point. They need threads so I know who is commenting on what.

I think its great to leave comments.. .. but it depends on what is said.... Sometimes its difficult to replay to all... but it's good to acknowledge them... I noticed that localism posts doesn't really get any comments.... so you just have to leave a respond and hope that they will respond on yours too.

It doesn't matter to me... although, i may not have many visitors on my blog.. I know that one day someone may need the information and then they will see me. I ALSO LOVE BLOGGING....

Hi Jeff! GREAT advice for both newbies AND oldies alike! I don't understand those who are featured (or not) who don't respond to comments made. What better way to forge readership, friendships and followers to your blog AND your business by engaging them in conversation. I just don't get those--I always check the box to see what the author writes back to ME and when they don't reciprocate, I generally find others blogs who do care about creating a friendship or referral base with me! That probably sounds selfish but, I'm not going to chase after people just so they'll be my friends in 'real life,' and I'm certainly not going to do it here!

GREAT post Jeff!

Debe in Charlotte

I agree with Thesa. Reciprocating is nice, but hopefully people don't get in a snit if it's not possible. I will often thank everyone for their comments, because it seems kind of redundant to me to say "Bill, thanks for the comment! Mary, I'm glad you stopped by. Joe, thanks for the kind words..."

But some people get offended if they don't have a personal reply and they even stop reading the blog because you didn't say "thank you" personally.

To me, that's silly. I have commented on several blogs where the author rarely replied to JUST ME. I return to those blogs because THE AUTHOR HAS STUFF TO SAY THAT I WANT TO READ - and I couldn't care less if he / she says "Karen, thanks for the comment..." It doesn't make their blog any less important or interesting to read.

I think we tend to take things TOO personal, and we also tend to make it "about us" when it shouldn't be. I read a blog once by someone who said "I unsubscribed from your blog because you never reciprocate.." or something like that, and that just left me wondering...does that make that person's blog less valuable?

I make comments on Dave Barry's blog - and never once has he reciprocated to me - but I still like to go to his blog and see what he's posted.

Sorry to ramble...I suppose this is a hijack? LOL

MARGARET..... . my pleasure... and I liked your analogy. In regards to a feature and the author feels overwhelmed in replying to every comment? As some have mentioned, just put the comment in there that says, "I appreciate the time that everyone took to comment... thanks for the comments"... ;o) But then again, when you yourself gets like 80 to 100 comments on a feature, it can be a strain...

MARK.... . well, it's not so much etiquette, but on how you feel about your blog post and the comments that you received. I will tell you this, it's a great way in getting to know new members, helping you to bond with them, and possibly able to network. And because of that, you might get some referrals... you can show your personality in your comments also... and your sincerity can shine through also.. In any case, thanks for the compliment.

SUZANNE...... . first off, never sell yourself to short. It's all a learning experience, even for those of us that have been on here for several years. I am always learning still....in any case, glad that I could help some and thanks for your feedback.

JENN...... . if I read an article all the way through, 99% of the time I will comment and try to leave something more than a thanks. But everyone has their own methods.... there is no right or wrong.

In regards to your last part of the comment, I am semi confused. "you didn't realize that they commented on your blog?" You can see who comments and when on your home page, in the middle of the page, titled " your messages ". Click on the link to see what I am talking about. You can also set up your e-mail to receive e-mail notifications to when you have received a comment...

DONNA..... . I think it's great to receive comments and to give them. Gee, I think many of us love to receive them. And it will come, once you are on here for a little... just write some quality stuff... but it also comes down to commenting on other blogs, because some people pay it forward also. and I love blogging also... I have gotten a lot of business from this. thanks for your feedback.

Jeff: What a great post. This needs to be put on the list of posts that should be provided to all Newbie Active Rain members. Thanks for sharing.

Jeff,

Can I adopt your two pet peeves as mine, also??? Oh, there is one comment you forgot...the NON COMMENT...the post is great, but you just can't find anything constructive to say...so you just read and move on!!! Thanks, Fran

By the way... if my memory serves me correctly... it looks like you have a new picture you are using. It is new ? It really looks great. Just what one would imagine one's "mortgage professional" would look like. :)

Jeff, thank for the info and all the links. I'll have to bookmark this so I can take the time to follow them. I try to respond to comments. If I don't I visit the commenters blog and read and comment. That is particularly frustrating when there is no content in their blog!

Laura G

Jeff - First, there are many links in your post I need to check out. This post has certainly created some good discussion, as could be expected. I try hard to respond to everybody who is nice enough to stop by any post of mine and give their two pennies. I don't always get the job done, but I try. I can attest to the comment thread sometimes being even more enlightening and/or entertaining than the post itself. I may come back later...

DEBE..... . I totally agree 110%.... there will be different opinions on this, but I also believe that it's a great way to forge relationships, especially if you get a feature. Hey, I get busy and replying can be tiresome. Some use the excuse as, "if the person says thanks for the post", or "great post", etc, etc... okay, skip those, but how about those that leave a lengthy, sincere comment, with substance? I truly think they deserve a replied comment. With everyone else, just thanks for the comments at least.

In regards to not chasing people in life, so why on here... bingo. I agree... and I do feel bad at times, because there are some people that comment on like 80% of my blogs, but I don't reciprocate. I need to practice this... but it does take time. I use to spend like 40 hours a week on here in my first year on AR.... way to much time, but I was having to much fun also... and it's still fun, but it can be a lot of work.

In any case, thanks for the feedback and for the polite compliment.

KAREN.... . yes, reciprocating is nice, but it can be time consuming. I think many of us agree on this. As I stated, my pet peeve is when I ask a question or leave a very thought provoking comment, and that author of the blog doesn't comment. This is where I really won't go back and follow their blogs or comment. Personally, I just think that is rude. Besides, as so many have mentioned, it's a great way to forge relationships which for many on AR, have turned into leads or good referrals.

But you are right, some of us tend to take things to personal. Even if we debate the author of a blog. I say, "bring it on". And yes, if someone has something good or interesting to say in many of their blogs, I will try to follow them. But I will be honest, as I have mentioned in these comments, I have some that follow me that I don't reciprocate to.... it's just a time thing... as someone mentioned, they try to comment on everyone's blogs that leave them comments. Not to brag, but if I had to do that, it would be another full time job. But I will say this, it has opened my eyes to at least try and go back to leave something at least once down the road. At least to try.... but again, I need to find it interesting.

In regards to your comment being a hijack? Nah... and even if it was, it was sincere and fun in a way. And it allowed me to hear another perspective. And ask others, I tend to babble in comments sometimes. So, thanks for the chit chat, aka babble... ;o) Seriously, thanks for your input.

FRAN.... . I'll sell you my two pet peeves... lol Can I do that? Could I make some money this way? lol Now, I am trying to understand what you meant by the "non comment". Do you mean when someone reads your blog, but doesn't comment? If so, there are many that just lurk. That was a pet peeve of mine when I first started on AR, but I have gotten over that one. If that is what you meant by "non comment"... thanks and thanks for the polite compliment.

KAREN S. ...... . well, thank you very much for that kind compliment of a comment. It's funny, after I wrote this, I still added like 3 more types of comments that I thought of and at least 2 more that other members brought up. And I still have one more to add, that might not be to favorable for some... lol Just watch and see...

In regards to my picture? It is semi new, thanks to Patricia Kennedy. Belonger goes to Washington DC again, thanks for the comment.

LAURA G. ..... . well, why would anyone want to comment if there was no content in the blog or it was not of quality? .. or caught your attention nor was interesting? But I think that is great that you try to visit those that have commented on your blog. But for some, that can busy work and very time consuming. Overall, thanks for your feedback.

Back to comment on Fran's comment! There are MANY times that I read a post that either I find that I have nothing to say or nothing constructive to contribute so, I move on. Oftentimes too, I will scroll down to comment and find that someone else has written exactly what I would have said---I then either don't write anything or write something like "I ditto Fran's remark!" simply because I've spent time there and I want the author to know that I'm interested in what he/she has to say. So, there are times that I look (aka 'lurk') and don't comment but, it's nothing personal to the author!

BTW--this should be a feature already! I'm flagging!

Debe in Charlotte

Good post Jeff - I bookmarked this one! Has some great links that I want to get at. My own comment. I ALWAYS try my darndest to go and comment on those that commented on my blog! Sometimes you get there and all they have is listings or market data. I feel sad that I don't have anything to give them but honestly, I don't. I also wanted to say that I always try to comment back to everyone who commented on my blog--sometimes all I can do is say thank you--is that bad?

Jeff, as usual very informative. I like how you have presented various linking options. I am not in favor of making rude or either no comments at all. Your blog, How to Add a Link in your Blog.....,was how I figured out to link back to others' blogs. Thanks again for the insight.

Hi Jeff~ I came by in order to reciprocate since you commented on my featured post. Well, now I can understand how hard it is to get back to everyone that made a comment on my post since I have almost 80! But, that is ok I will do my best to get back to all of those that were kind enough to comment , it may take me a day or two, but I love to pay it forward!

SARDIMAN..... . I hope they are clean links, linking to good stuff... lol Yes, I see that you usually try to respond to everyone. There was one time, back on December 7, 1941 when you didn't respond to one of my comments, but I understand why. Wait, would that be called comment hijacking, opposite of hijacking a blog?

Seriously though, I agree that the comment thread at times can be more enlightening and fun than the blog itself... very good point. and thanks for the compliment.

DEBE..... . I would agree, I would move on if I have nothing to say at all... hence why I think some say,"great blog with some great information"... to me that would not only be a generic comment, but probably one that wanted their 25 pts. As I called it, the lame comment. And yes, I have seen a few members with the exact same comment on different blogs... short and sweet. I guess that would be called a cut and paste. ;o)

In regards to visiting a blog that you do have something good to say and someone else already said it? You say ditto... so do I... or sometimes I will say, "such and such took my comment, but I agree".. hence just another way to say I stopped by. So I agree with that one also. In regards to the flagging... thanks.. kind of weird, at 8:30 am this morning, it was a feature. By 9:45 am, it wasn't... lol But thanks for the kudos per se and the added feedback.

TAMI..... . that's good that you try, it truly is, commenting on those that commented on yours. But as I mentioned to a few people, that could be a full time job for some of us. Not trying to brag here. Here is what I said to Mike Mielke...Comment to Rich M.

On another note, why feel sad that you can't comment if all they post are listings? I will make a comment on a few of these if I am subscribed to them and I just wanted to comment about their listing, if I had something interesting to add or a question to ask. But if all they do is post listings, why bother then? I know you are trying to be nice and to pay it forward or to reciprocate... just my .02.

And just saying thanks to someone that said, "nice blog"... no, I don't think that is bad at all. I get a few of those and if I am replying to everyone with a comment, even those in detail or with something to say, I will even say thanks to that small comment. But that is just me. If you read the comments in here, not everyone feels the same. Again, this is not about right or wrong, but our opinions and our preferences. thanks for your input.

ERIC..... . I think many are not in favor of making rude comments... in regards to no comments at all? Well, if I though the post was of poor quality and didn't capture my interest, why would I want to comment. Overall, thanks for the polite compliments...

VICKIE.... ah, the pay it forward concept.... thanks... but you know what, you have commented on many of my previous blogs and I was thinking today, I need to practice what I preach. I just haven't had time to venture out to read some new people... but you did a good job. And the 'no time' thing can be an excuse at times... sure, I could stop watching my football game to venture over to another post of yours... but yes, I just need to make time. That is part of networking and making relationships... bonding and possible referrals. thanks for stopping by.

Jeff - This is an interesting look at the wide variations in the wonderful world of commenting. I used to try to respond to all of the comments on my posts, including those that are featured, but I don't have enough hours for this anymore, with over 27,000 comments on my AR blog now, and over 1100 subscribers. With regard to reciprocating, it always struck me as disingenuous, unless you are a newbie trying to develop relationships, in which case it is helpful.

I don't think I have made people angry by not responding, but I may be wrong about that. Either way, I can't create more hours in the day, and I enjoy blogging more than just responding with "thanks for your comment" or something similar. I do try to answer direct questions from my posts, either on the post in a comment or with an email to the person who asked.

I feel exactly the same way as you (great minds think alike) and since you askeda question or two in you comments on my last post I did indeed answer them! I do appreciate you point of view and think many would be well advised to listen! Thanks!

Oh, one other thing, I agree that it would be impossible to reply to 1,100 subscribers but I like reciprocating as a way to learn more about people and build relationships and I think Jason would concur even for non-newbies!

Great Post Thanks For Sharing.

Okay. I was going to leave just that and then come back and comment for real. But then you would have to add a comment type for me. Plus I would get double points. Anyway, I have not seen a list for 'comments' before. I certainly don't think you missed one (except if I were to comment twice). However, maybe you can add one for people who respond to the comments made. But instead of commenting all together, they do a separate comment for each person.... thus causing your comment #s to look much larger than they really are. Maybe it does not matter, but doesn't that boost your score too?

Jeff, This post still has me laughing (although, to be honest, I didn't read all the comments :) I am never, ever rude in a comment, I try to reciprocate and I try (but can't always because I don't know enough about it) add something of value. Not long ago I got an email from another AR member--we found out there are the "cut and paste" comments too.

JASON C..... . just with 1,100 subscribers, I couldn't imagine trying to comment to everyone all the time. Not if you average about 40 comments a blog now... that is just a lot of work daily, since you write a blog a day. That would be a full time job in itself.

As mentioned, my only pet peeve would be if I had a direct question or a very thought provoking comment.. yes, the thank you comments after a while, just not enough time to thank them all... thanks for your input and feedback... glad that you thought this was interesting.

RUSSELL.... . two sets of great minds and thinking alike? way to cool and good to hear. ;o) I still didn't get back to your answers in regards to my questions, so I'll check that out later.. thanks And yes, I think not even the newbies could pick up some things from this post. I know I certainly did.

RUSSELL # 2 . ..... . hey, great minds think alike again on that one also, as I mentioned to Jason myself.. lol thanks for your feedback.

JOHN...... . you are correct, I didn't state the 'double comment'.... but I am not really worried about that. There are times when I might comment 2 to 4 times in one blog, just because there was a conversation or because the author answered my question, so I reply back.

In regards to your other comment type, I did make one up for those that make single comments and jack up their comment numbers. I called it the 'churn & burn' comment... lol It's the last one and I guess you missed it. And that one is a pet peeve of mine. So many say that they are just trying to be polite and answer each one by themselves, giving respect to each one that commented... huh? As long as you replied to my comment. Besides, it takes more time to comment each one separately. I sincerely think that most are trying to boost their total comments and they just try to make themselves feel better with that answer that they give. Just my .02. And thanks for the compliment.

CAROLE..... . yes, there are cut and paste comments... I named this under the lame comment - But I like the cut and paste comment....so I am going to add that also... thanks. In regards to how you comment or reply, you do fine... thanks

NOV

I'm the most happy when the comments actually reflect what I wrote in my post. And I hate it when people leave comments that let me know that they obviously didn't read the entire post. I can understand when they don't understand what I wrote, and they just say so, in their comment. At least I know they read my post, it's nice that they had the courtesy to leave a comment.

LISA..... . I can't believe that I forgot about that kind of comment. The 'did you even read my blog' comment. Another pet peeve of mine. I actually wrote a blog once and changed the theme in mid stream, asking questions in the middle of the blog. It wasn't until about the 22nd comment that someone actually addressed those questions. I know many people skim posts just to leave a comment. But how many and who actually doesn't read the post. I agree and thanks for the feedback.

Jeff - thank you so much for mentioning my blog post. What an honor that is. Blogging and commenting is an "art" that needs to be polished regularly. Thank you for spreading the word.

Tina in Virginia

Jeff, thanks for the post. You bring up some good points. I enjoy reading and learning new things.

I'm flagging this for a feature;)

Jeff...We Always comment on our comments, but notice that many other's don't...how bout you Jeff?

TINA..... my pleasure... it had some good topics in the post. Sorry that I missed it earlier. And I would agree with that statement, that commenting could be an art. thanks for the feedback

GREG.... . thanks and my pleasure. I like learning new things also..

JASON..... well, thank you sir... but I don't think it's going to matter no, since they don't feature stuff after it's a few days old. What's weird is that this was featured for about 15 minutes yesterday and then unfeature. Still don't get that one. Did I offend someone? Look at the date of the first comment and the date of the blog. That shows that it was featured and I even saw it up on the dashboard yesterday morning at 8:30 am... someone else even asked me about this, saying they thought they say this. Oh well... thanks again

LARRY & SHEILA...... I notice that some don't either. But I am confused by your question though. You said, "how about you Jeff?" Are you asking if I reply to comments in my blogs? I thought I did here and if you read any of my blogs, 97% of the time I do reply to most of the comments left in my blogs. thanks

Jeff-I always learn something new or am greatly entertained by reading your blog (sometimes both). Quite often, a lot can be learned from reading comments. Thanks for another great topic.

Jeff- Lots of good points in this post, and excellent links too. I've noticed that most of the top bloggers I follow try their best to at least respond to all the comments on their posts, with 1 notable exception (not you). I'm not sure why that is, but I find that I may read this blogger's posts, but rarely do I ever leave a comment anymore. You do a great job of responding to comments, and could you imagine not getting a response from Lenn Harley! This should have been a feature. I'm giving it a gold star!

Jeff, I agree with all your points. I will check out the links. There are some top bloggers who always reciprocate comments and I wonder how they find the time to do it.

Jeff, thanks for the post. I'm pretty new to this and have a lot still to learn. I appreciate your thoughts.

PAM.... . well, thank you very much for those polite comments. And even after two years, I am still learning stuff on here. I even learned or re-enforced a few things just from this post. thanks

MATT..... . yes, I would say most of the top bloggers would respond to their comments... and yes, I know of one notable. And even back then, when just receiving 40 or so, they would use an excuse that they just couldn't get back to everyone... In any case, thanks for the compliment about this post and in regards to responding to most of my comments... it's truly appreciative.

GITA..... . every single one? lol Just teasing and having fun... And yes, I wonder how they reciprocate... but then again, I see some go after the newbies and forget about us old times... ;o) I try to stick to the core of those that I know already. I love commenting, but I'll be honest, it's hard to venture out, because just not enough time in the day. thanks...

PEGGY..... . my pleasure... and welcome to Active Rain... I think there will always be something to learn on here, even for us old timers... thanks

WOW! I never took the time to think about all of the types of comments but enjoyed reading this from your point of view. Thanks,

Jeff, you always have good blogs! I'm still learning but you have put a lot of thought into your comments and they are very informative.

Thanks,

Rick

Jeff - Looks like I made your hit list as one of your pet peeves. :-( I didn't realize that making comments in a singular fashion vs. a group is seen as trying to game how many comments it looks like your blog received. Except for a couple of posts in my early beginnings of blogging on AR where I did group a couple of comments here and there I have always commented in a singular fashion on every single one of my posts whether it had 1 comment or 50. It was not done with the intent of making my post look like I had jacked up my comment numbers...it's just the way I've always done it.

I'll definitely be changing that now after reading this post. I think I'm ready for a martini now...are you game? :-)

ALLEN..... . well, what's funny is when I started to write this blog, I had about 6 things listed that were on my mind... and as I was finishing, I came up with about another 3 or 4. And about 3 hours later I added a few more because of some comments. And then I thought up a few more, just from commenting. So yes, there are actually more than one would think there would be.. thanks

RICK..... . I would say a good thought out comment can be good in many ways. Sound sincere, could add to the conversation, or ask a question. Sure, I like... nice blog, great idea, etc etc... but anyone can write those. I want comments that have meaning or a question... or a sentence of more than what you get for 25 pts.... if not, then I am not really interested. That's just me. Thanks for the kind words.

DONNA..... . lol... well, that isn't what this was intended for. Besides, I wanted this to be a very honest and upfront blog. I am sure it hit a cord with some, depending on my type of comment.

In regards to how you comment. Not sure if you read my little disclosure at the end. This was not to tell you how to comment, but to possibly think about your comments. I can't speak for everyone... but a part of me says that even though some might not be gaming the system, that they are sincere, but make single comments out of respect... but it could be a psychological thing also. Maybe inside your mind it tells you warm, fuzzy feelings about these comments, but deep inside, you like to see the number of your comments grow. That is just my opinion and food for thought. But think about it... using this post as an example. I received about 55 comments, not including my replies. If I commented to each one by themselves, I could have passed for over 100 comments.

Now, think of this.... when browsing for blogs to read... sometimes you look at the titles to see what catches your eyes. But what about a blog that has like 75 to 100 comments, possibly 150 comments. Aren't you going to be more curious to see what all the fuss is about. If you don't scroll down the comments right away, you won't noticed that 50% of the comments were from the author themselves. Again, just food for thought. I am sure we all have thought about any of this at least one time or another. I'll be honest, more times than none, if I see that 50% of the comments are from the author, I probably skip the blog all together. That is just me, but I have thrown some of these theories out there to a few others, some agree... some see my point. Some argued my point a year ago and now some of those same people actually agree now. I like to go behind the mind at times, using reverse psychology ... it could go either way, but the mind can be a deep, thought out, instrument that we aren't aware of our true thought process at times... or why... thanks for your honest feedback...

Jeff - Are you sure you shouldn't have become a psychologist instead of a mortgage broker? Thanks for the great insights and for your response. This is why I love Active Rain! :-)

NOV

Jeff,
Who knew there were so many different kinds of comments? You really gave this some thought and of course, if you've been around AR very long; you've experienced most of these.

I love comments and try to reciprocate. We have "conversations" that are often better than the post. If folks are going to take the time to comment, I'm going to take the time to read and try to keep up with commenting back.

Comments are like desert in a great restaurant. You can enjoy and share.

Wow. Great conversation going on here....

Flagging this for feature. Not only is the content good, but the conversation is great too

Way to go, Jeff. You listed about every kind of comment known to man, but I'm sure someone will come up with more. I especially liked the way you referenced some of the other member's posts in your post. Good job. (Great post.) ha ~Pat

NOV

DONNA..... . well, I think I could have gone into that field and use it at times in my every day life. And yes, one reason why I like AR also.... thanks.

CYNTHIA..... . yes, I would agree. As I mentioned to a few people... as I was writing this, I thought of more. And then several hours later, I added more. Thanks for the polite comment...

LENN..... . I know you do, which would be one reason why people read you, besides for the fact that you write good stuff. And I agree, you can enjoy and share... thanks for you input.

TOM..... . hey, it's that Dallas loan guy who is the Texas FHA expert... lol Seriously, thanks for the polite comment. I think there has been a great conversation that has taken place here. Thanks for the flag, but from what I have seen, it won't work on this one. Especially since it's to old now by Active Rain's standards...

PAT..... . grea t comment... ha... lol Seriously, thanks. And I am sure there could be a few more, but I think I covered most of them. Time will tell...

I hate seeing hijacked comments where people include the link and an advertisement of their business and doesn't really contribute to the conversation.

Pam: That also bothers me... and when I see it... whether on my post or someone else's... I will usually stick my nose into it and tell the commentor that doing that is considered comment spam, and is against the Active Rain guidelines. After about three or four times... they "get it" and usually stop. It must be the former teacher in me... still thinking she is correcting kids in the classroom... LOL.

NOV

Thanks for this help blogging etiquette breakdown Jeff. Btw, your point count is out-of-this-world!!! I'd love to know how many referrals you've generated via Activerain.

Amber

NOV

A very detailed analysis Jeff - ! Its great to see so many different perspectives on 'commenting'....a common thread but a few variations! Hmm never thought that individual comment responses meant you were trying to game the system? Why would that be - you don't get points for your own comments ?..........I like it when someone responds individually to me...........group them all at once seems a bit like a 'roll call' to me.......;-)

NOV

You have great information throughout your blog. I enjoy coming by. Honestly, I'm still trying to figure out why I leave so many and get so few?

That Jason & Amber is the mystery of the universe.

PAM..... . I am starting to get more of these, comments that don't pertain to my post with links. And some even come in and say, good job.. if you need my help, please click here... lol Bye, bye... I will copy their comment, color out the link, and put the comment back with a comment... lol

KAREN.... . I actually will do the same thing... if anything, I will let the author know and tell them to report it as spam... or I will notify AR. If someone just leaves me their outside blog site or web site, I will send them an e-mail explaining that this is spam. thanks for your feedback.

AMBLER..... . my pleasure... I actually had a lot of fun coming up with a lot of different comments and coming up with a meaning for them. thanks.. and I sent you an e-mail about how many loans that I have closed just because of blogging. And a FYI... those points aren't what help me get referrals... quality blogs do. thanks

LIZ..... . thanks for the polite comment. In regards to the single comments? As I explained.... how I see it is it's a great way for someone to get curious to click onto your blog and to read it. I know people and I have done this before, if I see a blog that has like 80, 100, or 150 comments, it generally tells you that it must be a good post. I have also seen those same blogs with 100 comments and 50 of them were from the author of the blog. Sure, 50 comments is nothing to sneeze at... but what happens if you see 50 50 comments on a post and that sparks your interest, so you read it... it's not bad, so you leave a comment... and poof, the author now leaves a comment... gee, they are now up to 52... does some of this make sense?

Me personally... I knew a few people that actually did this.. subconciously, I am sure more of us think about this. Besides, when you start to get a lot of comments, it takes to much time to even single them all out, let alone group them. Just my .02... and a FYI.. when you comment on your own blog, it doesn't give you points, but it does get added to your comments made stats. And some people boast about this...

JASON & AMBER.... . thank you very much for those kind words... in regards to leaving so many and getting so view? There are several reasons and or sometimes combinations. Timing for one thing.... not saying that you don't, but quality blogs are king... interesting content... dividing up your topics. I know some people that are one-sided or just two-sided. Some people's blogs have the same theme over and over. And overall, it's just getting recognized and a following... and yes, it comes with time in many cases... and there is also luck. thanks for your feedback.

KAREN R. .... . lol... yes, and I don't know who holds the key to that one... I am sure some might have bought that key though... lol

NOV

Yep Jeff I see your point......And I'm sure you know thats what I do.......I comment individually to each comment.......and since i don't read posts because they have lots of comments......and hardly ever go to the 'featured posts dashboards''..actually sometimes those are the very ones i don't read....hmmm......so maybe i have a backwards approach to all of this? No problem........there are lots of different ways to blog, comment and post ..lots of different topics, styles and personalities, and relationships........I appreciate your honesty and your candor.............and, I'll probably continue to comment on each comment individually....and if the odd person thinks I have different motives, thats o.k...too......well of course I'd rather they liked and enjoyed my style, and appreciated that I take the time to treat each comment and person as an individual.......but maybe I protesteth too much? lol..........ah well..:-)))

NOV

LIZ.... . again, this wasn't pointed at you.... but I would bet that some comment individually because it does rack up their comments count. I wouldn't say your approach is backwards... everyone is different. I just personally think that someone saying that they comment individually out of respect for thwm coming to their blog to comment doesn't seem to add much to that statement. Me? Just knowing that someone read my comment and replied back... me? who cares if I was bunched in a group. Me? I get ticked when I left a question or a thought provoking comment and that person did respond. Now, if it was someone that gets 30 comments a day or per post, okay, it is tough... but someone that hardly gets anything daily?

On the same thought process... people miss a large point when it comes to blogging... nothing better to have a conversation going on in you the comments section of your blog post. But if you don't come back to engage with people.. at least in regards to myself, I won't go back in many cases to comment on your other blogs... just my feeling on that... thanks and happy thanksgiving...

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