The Importance Of Blogging Etiquette

Carol Graham writes at Never…Ever…Give Up Hope. You can find her there sharing laughter, inspiration and other stories of perspective, like this one on blogging etiquette. 

When we were little kids, our parents and teachers taught us manners. They taught us to say “Please,” “Thank you,” and “Excuse me.” We were also taught to respond when we were spoken to and to be polite at all times.

As a member of the blogging community, I find it interesting and sometimes annoying, that these same manners do not always apply.

When you start blogging and get your first comment on a post, it is exciting. You feel you have finally arrived on the World Wide Web. Then as your admirers grow, you soon realize these people are turning into friends! Friends who are people you may possibly never meet in your lifetime, but with whom you feel a close connection.

Some of these friends are seasonal, some you find yourself becoming more intimate with, sharing aspects of your life without secrets. Others are fun to chat with about a variety of subjects. It makes you wonder how you ever had a life outside of the Internet. You respect these new friends with high regard.

Some of us bloggers have joined various blogging communities and/or challenges and enjoy an even deeper connection. Blogging takes time and effort, no mistaking that. BUT, just as in ‘real’ life, it takes time and effort to make a friend.

There are hundreds of posts we can read on how to grow our blog audience. But we may forget the basics we were taught as children. We need to display good manners.

Within some blogging challenges, participants are encouraged to leave comments on other posts as a courtesy. If you expect bloggers to leave a comment for you, it is often assumed you should reciprocate.

5 Tips for Blogging Etiquette

Tip Number One

But, we need to take it one step further. I have often left comments on a blogger’s post and notice that they never respond to my comment or any comments left for them. It is like talking to someone who turns and walks away without answering. The epitome of rudeness.

This is the first rule of blogging etiquette – ENGAGE. Engage means to talk, listen and respond. It is a two-way street. Want to grow your blogging audience? ENGAGE.

Tip Number Two

Tip Number Three

If you read a post that you cannot agree with but feel obligated to respond by leaving a comment, be careful. Always remember that you are talking to a lot of people, not just the person who wrote the post. Be polite. On the other side of things, remember that if someone comments on your post in a negative manner, you should be careful how your respond.

You can be respectful and still get your point across — or you may not want to respond at all if you feel you may be sorry for saying it. You also have the option to delete their comment if you think it may have a negative impact on your readers.

Tip Number Four

Tip Number Five

This one I know many of you might disagree with me. When I talk face to face with someone and they swear a lot I have to admit I draw the conclusion that they have a limited vocabulary.

There are times when we swear to make a point and that is understood, but some don’t stop there. After a few paragraphs, it gets extremely irritating. You can get your point across without sounding  trashy. You may think that is a bit harsh but that’s my opinion. How many newscasters swear when they are reporting the news? They are talking to the world in much the same manner as we are when we post on our blogs.

Of course, I’m curious if you agree with me. I’d love to hear what you think. And if you don’t agree, please do comment but do be courteous!

Enjoyed this post on blogging etiquette? Read Carol’s articles on kindness and the changes in perspective that come with aging.