For me, one of the most interesting things that blogging accomplishes is the open sharing of opinions. I can’t even count how many posts (especially those related to religion and politics) I fail to agree with. One thing you can definitely say about REALTORS® is that we are a diverse bunch, bound by our common love of our profession and helping others.
Often when I disagree with another blogger on a given topic, or how they choose to manage their blogging (which, on AR, is usually an extension of their business efforts) I am inclined to want to respond with something along the lines of Dan Ackroyd’s famous SNL Weekend Update line, “Jane, you ignorant slut!”… But I don’t!
When commenting on someone’s post, I believe that it really should be kept focused on the topic, NOT the person who posted it. You might ask “Why?” Well the reason is that the blogger is entitled to their opinion the same way that you are entitled to your opinion. While the blogger may, indeed, be an “ignorant slut” they are posting their positions to the business focused blog. Whether they are targeting consumers or other agents who may refer business to them based on shared principles or beliefs, (within the parameters of law and Community Guidelines) they are entitled to share their views with their target audience without being personally attacked, just as you are free to share a dissenting opinion.
Remember, if you make a dissenting opinion, it is possible to share your thoughts without accusing or attacking the original blogger. Sometimes self restraint in commenting on emotionally charged topics is difficult, but a differing opinion should never personally attack the original blogger. Taking the high road may even mean that you write your own post on your own blog to share more colorful thoughts, or sending the person who posted something you disagree with a private message if your challenge is more personal and less topic related.
When you comment on someone’s AR Blog, remember that any personal attack you make on them (rather than their opinion on the given topic) is may impact their livelihood. Read your comment before you hit the “Submit Comment” button. If you would not like it if someone challenged you on your blog in the manner that your comment challenges another blogger, think about practicing some self restraint.
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