12 Ways to get more comments on your blog.

Day 2 : 31 Days to Build a Better Blog : Write a List Post


My task was to build a list post; which if you are a reader of my blog already, you will recognise that this is probably my usual style of writing. The benefits of lists are that they are 
       * concise, 
       * succinct and 
       * they look neat. 
I also feel that they lend themselves to the particular way that my, somewhat disjointed, mind works. 

I like lists.

But for today's task I was wanting to help some of you other bloggers out there with an issue that I am struggling with at the minute myself.
I am just not receiving comments on my blog. 
( Phew - I said it ). 
I know that ( some ) people like what they read - because they tell me so. BUT, people seem reluctant to leave a comment.
I have been brainstorming with many bloggers, some of whom are suffering the same plight  - but also many who have the answer. So, I have decided to draw up a list. Yay ! Box-ticked.

So now - I need to take a piece of my own advice : 


1. Seek Help.
People like to help ( well most of us ). So when our help is sought after, we often like to reply. Same in the blogging world. Ask for help and you will be surprised how many should jump to your aid. 
So, Ladies and Gentlemen, if you have any advice for me on how to increase my comments traffic - please do let me know, by leaving a comment.


2. Link Up. 
When you link to other websites and blogs, the authors are notified by their blog platforms ( or so I believe - please correct me if I am wrong ). If you go one step further and use the appropriate keywords and phrases you are given a better chance of being noticed. This will increase traffic and will attract like minded readers.


3. Take a Break.
If you have inundated your readers recently with too many posts, then disappear for a while. ( Great timing here as many of us need a break over the summer ). With any luck your readers will welcome you back with open arms. You have heard the phrase " Less is more ".


4. Say it how it is.
Many of us fear of rocking the boat. We worry that we will attract negative comments. But, I guess any comments are better than none at all. Sitting on the fence - although safe - can be rather boring. You know what they say -  " Negative publicity is better than no publicity at all. " I wonder in Lindsay Lohan and Katie Price agree with this sentiment ?  So long as you keep your cool when responding then at least a you have generated some "interest".


5. Ask for Comments.
As your Facebook friends or your Twitter buddies for comments. Even better if they are bloggers themselves as you will have the chance to reciprocate. If all else fails - shameless begging wont hurt ;o)


6. Respond to comments.
This might sound obvious - but it lets your readers know that you care about what they say and that you appreciate that they have taken the time to write a comment.


7. Extend Comments.
Rather than write a long winded comment on somebody else's blog, post a link in a comment to a related article on your own blog. This is a win-win situation. Linking back benefits everybody.


8. Write about your fears / weaknesses.
We all like to hear about other people's trials and tribulations. I really love being able to empathise and sympathise for a change - rather than always bask in somebody else's sucesses ! By showing your vulnerability, you can often fine a connection with your reader.


9. Write about blogging.
It's a fact that bloggers love to follow other bloggers. Anything that can help us along the way - has got to be good - Right ?


10. Write for yourself.
This one works for me. I find that I write with more passion when I post about something that interests me.


11. Make an Announcement.
Births, Deaths, Marriages, Celebrations ..... These are all great ways of getting a response from your reader. 
a ) Because the response can be quick and
b ) the reader does not have to think too hard.
Just take a look at the comments on somebody's Facebook wall when it's their birthday ( It's my birthday today - by the way !! Take a look )


12. Use Social Media to promote your posts.
I use Facebook and Twitter. It's a fantastic way of reaching your followers - and their followers - and their .. 'nuff said !


And as I mentioned before - if you have anything to add to this list - please let me know - by posting a comment !

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