Five great ways to increase comments
May 2, 2008
Bloggers love comments. I know I sure do. A steady stream of comments suggests that your words are being read and, more importantly, affecting your readers.
Unfortunately, not every post will generate the reaction you’d like. In fact, it has been demonstrated that 90% of people who use online communities do so without contributing, 9% of users contribute a little, and 1% of users account for almost all the action.
That means that only 1% of your readers are consistently leaving comments. Let’s coax those lurkers out of the woodwork. Here are five simple ways you can increase the number of comments your blog receives.
1. Ask for comments!
This one may seem silly or too obvious, but it works if done correctly. First, I’ll explain the wrong way.
“Today is ‘Official De-lurker Day!’ If you read my blog but never speak up, here’s your chance! Leave a comment now!”
I’ve seen many bloggers do this and it makes me cringe. First, is reeks of desperation, and makes the blogger sound needy.
Also, many people resent being told what to do. Saying, “Leave a comment now!” or something similar will almost certainly have the opposite effect. Instead of berating your readers into commenting, start a conversation.
A good open-ended question is just as effective online as it is in person. Finish a thoughtful post with, “What do you think?”, “What’s your opinion?” or “Have you had any experience with this?” Most people love to talk about themselves and their opinions. And once they do ….
2. Participate in the conversation
Remember those 1% of your readers who leave most of the comments on your blog? Those people are your fans. Yes, fans. They visit daily to read your latest posts and share their thoughts.
I still remember the first time I received a response from a blogger I truly admired. I was so excited! Responding to reader comments demonstrates that you are interested in what your readers (or customers) have to say, and recognizing you most vocal readers will give them a thrill, especially if you ….
3. Send personal emails
This is especially useful for first-time commenters. It needn’t be anything fancy, but a simple, “Thanks for leaving your thoughts on my blog today. I always enjoy hearing from new readers….” fosters a sense of community, sets you up as approachable and reinforces the act of commenting.
Just be sure not to spam the recipient of your email with a pitch about your latest and greatest post; that’s off-putting. This is a kind of virtual thank-you card.
4. Reward comments
There are many ways to do this, but my favorite is the “best of comments” post. One a week, write a post that highlights four or five comments that caught your attention of the preceding seven days. Perhaps someone said something particularly insightful for funny; sparked a debate among your readers or really nailed a point you were trying to make.
List each comment, identifying the commenter by name, as well as a brief reasoning for your selections. If s/he has a website, link it in your post. Again, this will reward people who leave comments and inspire others to “make it” to your list.
Save this post for a Saturday or Sunday when you might not have much else to write about.
5. Write from your heart
People can smell “link bait,” or a post designed to simply elicit comments, a mile away. Your readers (or customers) want to know there’s a human being on the other side of that computer screen, not a marketing device.
If you want interaction from human beings, act like a human. Write about your passion passionately. Share your weaknesses and victories. If you write about your beliefs honestly, others who feel the same way (and those whose feelings are the polar opposite!) will find you and let you know.
My challenge to you
Here’s my challenge to you. Put these tips into practice for seven days, then come back here and tell me if it didn’t work. I’m certain you’ll see an increase in the number of comments you receive. I look forward to your reports.
Blogging isn’t difficult or or dependent on a secret “formula.” It’s simple. You can do it. Write with passion, engage your readers, express gratitude to those who follow you and start real conversations. Your readers will reward you for it. I promise.
If you liked this article and really want to get the most out of your business blog, hire me as your one-on-one blog coach. There are several packages to choose from. I look forward to working with you!
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4 Responses to “Five great ways to increase comments”
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Very good points, I look forward to implementing them on my site.
Great tips, I’ve gone through and commented back to everyone today! I’m usually pretty good at it but sometimes forget and let things slide. I’m going to try and incorporate more open ended questions too. To be honest at least half my posts really are for the benefit of other artists, not promoting my own artwork itself, and I’d love to get more comments and start discussion to generate even more ideas for them and me to use.
Tina
Super. At this time next week, look at the number of comments you’ve received (and the quality of discussions that have taken place) and compare that to the week of the 27th. Let me know what you find!
Greg. Glad you liked it. Be sure to tell me if you see an improvement on your blog!