OK, so you write a post. Now what?
(1) Please, don't ever check "disable comments."
If your post is so inflammatory or insensitive that you're afraid of what someone might say, don't post. The value of Active Rain or any other social network is interaction. By disallowing comments, you have decided to prevent interaction and make your post one way.
(2) Acknowledge ALL comments that you get.
Many people have posted about not getting comments or wondering how to get more. If people feel that you are interested in what they have to say, that you actually read what they say, and that you respond back, they will be a whole lot more inclined to interact with you in the future.
(3) Treat comments seriously.
While you'll get an occasional "Nice Post" or "Great post" from someone without anything additional, just responding with "Thanks" isn't much better.
Sometimes I spend almost as much time writing and editing my comment responses to ones I've received than I did on the initial post. The person who sent the comment - even if they missed your point or were a little over the top in taking on what you had to say - needs a pleasant, professional acknowledgment.
(4) Don't be afraid of being humorous.
There is no smiley face or "sarcasm" button to immediately indicate that we are being facetious or humorous in responding to what is said. Therefore, be careful on saying something that could be taken the wrong way unless you know your readers. That said, injecting lightness or humor into your comments is great.
(5) Your readership will grow.
A bonus of acknowledging your comments, being pleasant, and adding to the thread so that your reader may even leave more comments on this same post, is that people will enjoy visiting your blog and will subscribe to it and leave comments on a regular basis.
You will be interacting.
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For more information on my coaching services or sales tips visit my website stevehoffacker.com or my blog homesalesinsights.com.
