by Beth Maisano

Created on: April 20, 2009   Last Updated: April 21, 2009

Blogging can be viewed in many different ways. It's a creative outlet, an online journal, a social network, a publicity site, or just a place to express opinions. So when evaluating how to boost the number of comments received on your online web log, it's a good idea to look at it from a few different angles. Keep these pointers in mind:

Write Correctly

No one wants to comment on a post when it's painfully obvious that the author spent precious little time proofing for spelling and grammar mistakes. Not a naturally talented writer? Invest some time in spell check, or better yet, have a friend or family member read the article before you post it. Better to wait and make it right than rush and leave it sloppy.

Know Your Subject

Write what you know. If you've got the credentials, state them; if not, then write your opinion in a professional manner. Be confident!

Comment At Other Blogs

Call it the "Golden Rule of Blogging." Whether it's cheesy or not, it's entirely true. The quickest, fastest, easiest ways to draw people to your blog initially is to leave a comment at theirs. Try to keep the majority of your posts short and to the point; that way, a visitor stopping to return a comment will be drawn in and perhaps led to come back another time.

Keep Up With Stats

What better way to prepare for the future than with statistics from the past? Keep track of which pages your visitors enter most, the outside links that refer them to your blog, and the time they spend there. This information will help you narrow your focus and stay on the right track.

Stay Organized

A disorganized, messy blog is an immediate turnoff. Keep your posts titled and try not to stow too much junk in the sidebar. Music that plays automatically may also scare off potential comments. Always keep your visitors in mind when making changes around your blog!

Blog With A Purpose

A blog with a distinct purpose in mind is more likely to stick in the mind of a visitor. If you have a chosen theme, stick to it! If your blog is an online journal, throw in some variety, as opposed to the same dry journal entries of your day. Pictures are a nice hook, as are funny stories and quotes. Be creative!

Comment On Yourself

It might sound strange at first, but it's altogether necessary: comment on your own posts! If a visitor asks a question in a comment, don't be tempted to reply at their blog. Reply after their comment, in your own post. This makes it easier for others to read your response, and also makes you more personable. It shows visitors that you're more than just the author of the posts you're actively involved at your blog, and any questions they care to ask will be addressed.

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