How The Heck Do You Do That?!? #18 Comments, Replies and Socializing

April 26th, 2014 Kimberly Blogger Tips and Tricks, Feature 136 Comments

26th Apr

Blogger tips and tricks

How the Heck Did You Do That is a monthly feature where I pass along information, tips and tricks I have learned while blogging. While I am in no way an expert it is my hope this information will help you with your own quest. Today I a going to talk about comments, replying and visiting other blogs. If you want to be more engaged with followers and other blogs I hope you will find these tips helpful.

Comments, Replies and Socializing 

Recently I have read posts regarding comments, replies and reciprocation. I thought I would offer some tips and insight.

Frequently in those posts I hear “I want to comment but don’t know what to say” or “I feel weird replying to some comments.” So these tips are directed at those folks.

Commenting Tips: What the heck do I say?

  • Start small with: “Nice review, I like _______.” (name genre, theme, character) or “Nice review, I am sorry you didn’t connect with _______.” (plot, character, theme)
  • Address author of post: Nice review (insert blog author’ name), I like_____________ or I am sorry you didn’t connect with______________.”(character, plot, whatever they didn’t like)

Names are powerful, and make any comment more personal. It shows you are interested in the person who commented or wrote the post.

  • Did a line of the review make you laugh or intrigue you? Add it to your comment: “(Insert blog author’s name) when you said (copy and paste from post) it _________.” (made me laugh, tear up, want to read it, squirm, etc)

I think it is important to remember that we all have different personalities. Some of us are naturally chatty and others want to comment but feel awkward. To add to that we occasionally hear the term “quality comment.” While we all would love an engaging audience who post meaningful comments in my personal opinion there is no such thing as a bad comment. So if all you can muster is “nice review”, fantastic stop by! Be warned though because I will comment back and attempt to engage you!

Replying Tips: “They didn’t really say anything and responding feels (weird,awkward, etc)”

It is easy to respond to comments that touch on key points in your post or share their opinions. Some comments are short and you may feel awkward responding to them. When you get a comment that reads like these; “Nice review” “Thanks for sharing,” “thanks for the giveaway” or “Not my thing” Try these tips:

  • A simple “thanks” is a start. Often the commentor is surprised you commented back and on their next visit will engage more.
  • Personalize it: Thanks for your comment (insert their name here)” Remember adding someone’s name is powerful.
  • Ask a question. “Sorry this (genre, book, trope) isn’t your thing. What is your favorite(genre, book, troupe)?
  • Acknowledge: “You are welcome and good luck” or “thanks for entering” you can also add, “thanks for stopping by” or “it was nice to hear from you”

While it might feel silly or awkward at first the key is to make them feel welcome, appreciated and encourage them to come back.

Commenting and replying aren’t mandatory but if you want to increase interaction with your followers, and make bookish connections, I truly feel interaction is where it begins. In my blogging journey I have discovered that people want to engage. If you offer them an environment to do so the rewards are endless. Not only do I have an amazing group of followers who engage with me but I have also discovered the delightful people behind the blog.

 

Not sure how to start? There are a few social groups in the blogging world that encourage comments and commenting back. Feel free to check them out:

Bloggers Commenting Back– This is a group of people who make it a common routine to reply to comments on their own blog and go the extra mile to visit that commenter’s blog and comment on one of their posts in return. One-sided conversation is no fun! It is a way to get more comments, meet new people, and actually have bookish conversations, which was the reason a lot of us started blogging in the first place!

Bloggers Commenting Back

The Social Blogger– The Social Blogger was inspired by Readers in Wonderland’s Blogger’s Commenting Back but going in a slightly different direction and with a more “adult” blog focus.

The Social Blogger

While commenting, replying and interacting might not be your thing or time constraints don’t allow that is perfectly fine. For me engaging has certain rewards. It is up to you to decide how important those are to you. If this is something you want out of your blog then I hope you find these tips helpful. Many of you have asked how I get so many comments, and visit so many blogs. Interaction is the most important aspect of blogging for me. I love it, and reap rewards beyond a daily dose of comments on my posts. I have made friends, found new books and find joy in conversing. I devote time everyday to comments and make it a priority.

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About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

136 Responses to “How The Heck Do You Do That?!? #18 Comments, Replies and Socializing”

  1. Martha Moore

    Good day! I know this is kind of off topic but I was wondering if you knew where I could get a captcha plugin for my comment form?
    I’m using the same blog platform as yours and I’m having problems finding one?

    Thanks a lot!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Martha you are using blogspot and will need to use one of theirs. Check under gadgets or enable it under comments. I am on WordPress and use a plug-in called G.A.S.P.

  2. Michelle

    I think I’m weird and the comment for a comment thing makes me feel a little uncomfortable. While I do my commenting in spurts, I do it to let the bloggers know that I’m reading, I’m following, and I’m enjoying. When I see a comment that week from that blogger only after I’ve commented on their blog, it makes me feel uncomfortable. While it’s sweet and awesome that they have now visited my blog, they did it because I left a comment first. Did I guilt them into it? I want interactions, but not by forcing it either. :/

    • kimbacaffeinate

      You need to do what works for you Michelle. While there are blogs I visit faithfully every day, others I visit when they stop by and visit me. It helps me find new blogs and reconnect with ones I love. Of course I also go through my feed and check out random posts that interest me. My thinking is this, “If you visit their blog and comment and they in turn visit you then It sounds like they want to engage with you.”

  3. Lindy

    Great post! You really have become an expert when it comes to blogging, and I enjoy listening to your advice!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Awe, thanks Lindy 🙂 I just try to share what has worked for me

  4. Micky

    Oh, and honestly I have found that most of the ya/na romance, mystery, thriller/paranormal is typically more interesting and suspenseful than the adult novels that are out there.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Well I do love my King and Kootz and Graham, but enjoy na/ya as well. So glad you love the blog

  5. Micky

    You’re welcome. I am in love with your blog, so I will be commenting often. Just tap me on my virtual shoulder when I get too wordy (don’t say I didn’t warn you :-).

    You are right! Most of the women I communicate with on GR in one of the horror groups only read horror. While I love it, too much of it can start to weigh me down. Then I need a good YA/NA or chick-lit novel to bring me back up. Do you read chick-lit?

  6. Micky

    Wow! This was really a great article! While I typically never have an issue commenting on other blogs, I do have issues with sometimes being a bit too wordy on those blogs. 🙂 My biggest issue I believe is connecting with other readers who love horror, especially women. I do read ya & na, paranormal/urban fantasy and practically every other genre out there, horror/suspense is my favorite and it seems like it’s going by the way of the dinosaur :-(. At any rate (see, a great example of my wordiness), thanks for the article and links. Oh, love your site too!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      There is nothing wrong with being wordy. Some posts demand them..lol I love horror and know exactly what you mean. I also find that those who do often don’t a lot of genres. I on the other hand read them all in YA, NA and adult. Thanks for commenting and it’s nice to know there is someone like me Micky!

  7. Lexxie

    I agree with you that there’s no such thing as a ‘bad’ comment. Way to put on the pressure, eh? Especially for those bloggers who are a little shy and feel awkward, it must make it even more difficult to leave a comment if they feel like they are going to be judged.
    I’m always happy when someone takes the time to comment on my posts, it means they stopped by and read what I had to say 🙂 And if they just say thanks for the post or whatever, it makes my day – they spent a little time in my universe, and that’s awesome.
    I love this post, because it’s true that when entering someone’s name, it also makes it a little more personal, so thanks Kim! 😉

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Thanks Lexxie, I am glad you liked the post and agree. Have a wonderful weekend and thanks for visiting my little universe 🙂

  8. kara-karina

    I think the worst time eater for me is catching up on commenting, K.! 🙂 I’m sitting now and doing a week’s worth because my Internet is very slow at the end of the month and this happens every month when I miss out a whole week. But I totally agree with your post, commenting and replying is very important and I admire the sheer amount of blogs you manage to go through on a daily basis.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Boo to slow internet but kudos to you for making the rounds. Sometimes it astonishes me Karina. I took Weds off, it was nice, and I survived the guilt..LOL

  9. Tanya

    Getting and responding to comments and interaction was a lot of why I started the blog. I feel like my posts should not only be helpful, but engaging as well. I look forward to your How The Heck posts because you always seem to be reading my mind! LOL

    • kimbacaffeinate

      I am a mind reader..hehe. I love the interaction and I am delighted you enjoy these posts.

  10. Traveling Cats

    Great tips. It took me a while to start commenting on other blogs, but now I do it regularly and love the interaction I have with other bloggers. By the way, it happens that a post is really not my thing (i.e. about sports). In that case I just don’t comment, or I just wish them a lovely day if I know the blogger a little.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      That is nice that you wish them a good day..it lets them know you were by. 🙂

  11. aurian

    Great blog topic Kimba! I always reply using people’s names, so subscribers can see if I reply to their comment or not. I don’t have time every day, but I will catch up at least once a week.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      You are an awesome visitor 🙂 thanks Aurian !

  12. fishgirl182

    As a blogger I know how much comments mean to me and how excited I am when I get a comment, so I definitely try to leave as many comments as possible if I am reading a blog. It’s hard sometimes when I am on my phone though because of logging in etc. And I find it pretty easy to reply to comments on my own blog. I don’t get very many so it’s not as if there is a huge time constraint. My problem isn’t what to comment it’s usually just finding the time to. And I also try to go visit a blog if they have commented on my blog as well. I think commenting and replying def helps in getting others to read and comment on my own blog and I get to meet cool people in the process.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      I agree and time is always a factor for all of us..but carving out time each week has it’s own rewards as you mentioned 🙂 thanks!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      thanks Sharon, all of the recent posts about comments made me realize people where hung up on what to say.

  13. Sophia

    Heh. With work, I’m probably going to have a hard time replying to comments… and stopping by. Although I can’t exactly stop by at school because Disqus and wordpress is blocked unless said site has it’s own domain (like you, Kimba!). I used to not exactly reply back if the person just says “nice post” or “great review” but I am saying thanks for stopping by… even though that feels weird as well. It’s like me taking orders, getting the food, then handing it to said customers and saying “Thanks for stopping by; have a nice day!” *flops*

    I usually try my best though… commenting is easier than taking orders! If that were a job, I would be a pro in a second (and not get yelled at often…). 😉

    But I stalk about… *starts counting* 5 blogs maybe? On the other hand, I never comment back on Adult blogs – sorry peoples of the adult world, but I like my mind to remain pure! O_O Oh, and I’m a teenager. Very legit reason – not that anyone actually knows, but do I sound like a teenager?

    • kimbacaffeinate

      You should only comment on books or topics you are interested in.or comfortable with. I get what you mean about feeling like a waitress. It does build bridges though. Work and life can make it difficult to comments and you need to decide what is important to you. Even if you give 15 mins a day to it you can reap the rewards.

  14. Franny

    I’ve decided to try and follow your example and signed myself to Bloggers Commenting Back.
    I don’t think I’ll ever achieve your outstanding results (although it would be a dream) but I’ll try my best! 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      It starts off slowly and builds. I remember back when one comment was a thing of wonder. The more I engaged the more others engaged with me. I love chatting and sharing. Good luck. Another tip..when you visit blogs with comments, click on some of those people and visit their blogs. Chances are they want to engage too.

  15. Teddyree

    Great post, thanks for sharing your tips, I totally agree it’s all about engaging. I regularly comment on a dozen or so blogs, (wish time allowed for more but I can’t seem to find a good balance between reading, reviewing/blogging and commenting … the more I comment the less I read or review lol) they reciprocate and we’ve often become close friends … love that about blogging. Any tips on getting that balance??

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Teddyree, time is always an issue. The only way I am able to comment as often as I do is because I schedule ahead on my blog. Right now all of my posts are done and scheduled through May 20th and I have a few scattered ones in June. I think it is great that you have made friends..it is a wonderful perk.

  16. Amir

    Cool, I didn’t know about the social blogger! Our blog’s content is a mixture of different genres so I will definitely be joining that one too, if out blog is qualified.

    Thanks for sharing these awesome tips Kimba! At 100+ comments per post, I thi k we can take a cue from your examples 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      LOL, you are funny and yes your blog would be welcome at the Social Blogger 🙂

  17. Michelle

    Great Post Kimba.

    I agree, I don’t think there is any such thing as a bad comment either. I love everyone that stops by my blog, whether they write a rant on a book or just a great review. They all make me smile.

    I love these tips and tricks blogs of yours. 🙂

  18. Angela

    Hi Kimba. I enjoyed your post and learned some great things. I’m new to blogging and commenting. I’ve never been much of a talker in real life, so commenting in the virtual world is new and different. I try to replay to thous who comment on my blog, but it does feel hard at times to figure out what to say. I sometimes feel like I’m repeating myself. I also have a few blogs that I really like to follow and am trying to make connections. Thank’s for the tips.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      You are welcome Angela and yes if you get a lot of nice review and thanks for the giveaway replying can feel repetitive, just change them up a little. Try joining the social groups above, and going out and commenting on those blogs.

  19. Braine Talk Supe

    When I was new to blogging I often wondered how some blogs get a LOT of comments. Only to find out that it wasn’t science hehehee… I don’t get to reply to comments instantly like on the same day but I make it a point to reply to all and visit back.

    I have to be honest though, I’m the tit for tat kind of chick when it comes to leaving a word and visiting blogs. if after leaving a handful of comments on a blog and I didn’t get a courtesy visit back, I stop commenting (unless it’s a post I truly love). My thing is if you can’t make the effort to socialize then why should I when there are other bloggers who are eager to reciprocate.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      That makes sense Braine, especially if your time is limited. While I don’t always expect a comment back, I do tend to visit, share and follow those who reciprocate. Of course if you are a regular and comment daily and then take a week off, I will still visit. Right now I have 30 blogs I visit daily, but some days I can only reply and visit those who stop here.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      They have a nice mix from erotica to urban fantasy.

  20. Candace

    I don’t usually have trouble finding something to say and if I do it’s more likely it’s because of my children distracting me. Sometimes it feels like my brain is going to explode trying to focus on something with the distractions.
    Since I moved to WordPress I have done WAY better with replying to the comments on my blog. I have bad days where I just don’t have the time but I usually catch up eventually. I do have a plugin that is suppose to send the reply to the persons email, but I’m not sure if it actually works. Do you get an email when I reply to you on my blog?

    • kimbacaffeinate

      No, Candace I have never received a comment reply from you. I always find your comments engaging 🙂

  21. Berls

    Great post Kimba! I’ve struggled on both sides – leaving and responding to comments – but I really do enjoy that aspect of the blog world. Now if only I could get as good as you about replying in a timely fashion. And you get so many more comments than I do, so I just don’t know how you do it! I love every comment and wish I wasn’t so bad at getting back to people!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Ah, well Sundays are the hardest days for me..since people comment on meme, but then on the past weeks comments as well. I am only human and sometimes it takes me a few days..LOL

  22. Lupdilup

    Terrific post Kimba! I took me a while to realize that if you want comments on your blog you have to get out there and make friends and comment on their blogs as well as reply to their comments. Installing CommentLove has made a huge difference for me, now I can see a link back from the person that commented on my blog and I can visit them back right away. I used to visit back everyone that commented on my blog, but I never knew what to say, now the way I see it is like a friend telling me her experience about a book and if I don’t say anything back, it’d be like me just walking away. I can always find something to say now, maybe about a character, the genre, or maybe a similar experience. I’ll I can say is that I can definitely see the difference.
    Thanks!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      That is so true, although as your blog grows you will get non-bloggers who will comment, follow, etc. They are more likely to comment if they see you engage.

  23. Faye

    Great post, love! This is exactly how I do my commenting. I want my readers and blogging friends to feel appreciated, and the least I can do for them is read their post and contribute to the discussion and let them feel like I put thought in my comment. This is definitely a good starting point how to be more comfortable and familiar with the “ART” of commenting ;P

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Thanks Faye, and I really feel the more peeps do it the better they will get. For some it’s these baby steps that will help them get started.

  24. tonyalee

    I am a terrible commenter. Especially when it comes to commenting back. I have my good days though, when I can knock out several blogs at one time. For me, it’s all about time.

    But thank you for the tips!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Lots of bloggers visit and comment only a few times a week,. You have to do what works for your schedule. Good luck Tonyalee.

  25. Kathy

    This post is really helpful! I have gotten better in replying to the comments made on my blog, but I still struggle with leaving comments on other blogs. So your tips are great! Thanks!!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Glad you found this helpful Kathy, and you are not alone.

  26. Sabina

    You just reminded me of a flaw of mine. I have a tendency to forget to do this; comment on others post. Will start to do that again. I miss it, interaction with other bloggers.
    Hope you’ll have a wonderful Sunday!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      thanks Sabina:) sometimes we get busy and forget what we miss about interacting.

  27. Jenna

    I’ve actually been commenting LESS lately, more for a lack of time. Once I get caught up with a few things I’ll be able to keep up again. Replying to comments on my own blog has been where I’m having the most trouble — and I’m a Blogger Commenting Back person! I hate relying on the “Thanks for stopping by!” but sometimes there just isn’t anything else to say.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Don’t over think it, sometimes a simple thanks is enough. Life does get crazy and it happens to all of us, myself included, Thanks Jenna

  28. Aimee

    Awesome post, Kim. I always do try to mention the blogger’s name at some point in my comments. 🙂 I do also get a lot of quick comments and sometimes all I can really reply back is a simple “thanks.” I’ll definitely keep in mind the rest of your tips. 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Thanks Pooja, I am glad you found the post useful. Squee..I love the design too 🙂

  29. Alise

    Thanks for linking up to Bloggers Commenting Back! 😀 I’m so glad so many people feel the same about commenting because like you said-there are no bad comments! If someone stops by and just says nice review, it still makes me feel awesome! 1000% agree with everything you said about interaction, it’s always disappointing when you comment on something (especially with a question or something) and no one ever gets back to you. Great post!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Your welcome, of course I am linked up to BCB and love it. Glad you enjoyed my thoughts on it 🙂 Have a great weekend Alise!

  30. Jennifer Bielman

    Commenting is such a tricky thing. I always read posts, but sometimes I just don’t have much to say and I try to force it. It sucks. Sometimes I have a lot to say and it’s more natural. I have been trying to just comment the way I want without thinking too much about it.

    Great tips though. I love how you explained about commenting back on short, impersonal comments. Those are hard.

    Loving the design.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      It happens to all of us. Thinking too much usually gets us in trouble and makes it harder, which is what I think a lot of peeps do.

  31. Jeann

    Thanks for these wonderful tips Kimba! I ABSOLUTEY LOVE YOUR NEW DESIGN. Being naturally social, it comes naturally to me when commenting on other blogs but I know some others struggle, will definitely share your article around!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      hehehe..you are like me, I can chat till your eyes roll to the back of your head..LOL So glad you love the new design. I am tickled with it

  32. Keertana

    Once again, this is such a phenomenally helpful post, Kimba! It’s concise and beautifully written, so thank you for taking the time to assemble these tips! 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Awe, you flatter me Keertana and you are most welcome:)

  33. Jennifer

    As much as I have tried, I am STILL a horrible commenter.

    Also, I am totes digging the new look. It is so amazing, Ashley did a fantastic job.

  34. Christine

    This is totally unrelated to this post, but I LOVE your new look & logo!

    These are some great commenting tips — I remember it feeling awkward when I first started, but it gets so much easier the more you do it. The hardest thing to do for me now if finding the time, but we all do the best we can 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Awe thanks Christine I am so glad you like it. Allocating time is always an issue, I try to set aside a little time each day, but sometimes it’s hard.

  35. Jenea

    I like to read the comments and see what others think about the book or covers and visit their blogs too. 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      That is an excellent way to find new blogs/bloggers who want to interact Jenea! Excellent idea and fun way to meet new people.

  36. anna

    Aws thanks for mentioning the Social Blogger Kimberly!

    Have definitely had some comments in the past I just didn’t know how to reply back to so fell back on the thanks for coming by. And definitely agree names can be a powerful thing to use 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      You are very welcome Anna. Glad you liked the post, I think honestly some people get hung up on what to say on both sides of the comment.

  37. Jan

    I always love your blogging tips, Kimba. I think making comments and replying to them is one of the best parts of blogging. I found your Sunday Post within the first month I started blogging and appreciate your replies and comments so much. I love your new make-over! Are you going to tell us about your makeover process? That would be great!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      I am working on a post about it Jan. Thanks so much 🙂 So glad you are enjoying commenting and replying.

  38. Carrie Neer

    Thanks for the tips. My blog is just about a month old, so these are very helpful. I’ll definitely be back to read more of these.
    -Carrie

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Welcome to the blogosphere Carrie. Glad you enjoyed the tips 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Time is always an issue and for some more than others. It doesn’t have to be every day, some blogger’s I know visit fav blogs once a week.

  39. Laurel-Rain Snow

    I agree that commenting is such a wonderful opportunity to engage with your readers, and you have some nice tips.

    BTW…love the new look here, Kimba.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Thanks Laurel, I am glad you agree. There is nothing in the world quite like engaging with bookish people. So glad you like the blog 🙂

  40. kindlemom1

    You always have such great advice Kim and I love reading these!!

    Thanks for all the helpful tips on commenting and replying!!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Thanks Ali, sometimes I am unsure, but I have read so many posts and comments about not knowing what to say, I thought this might help a few 🙂

  41. Andrea

    Great tips! I’ve had so many ppl ask me how to get comments on their posts. I always say “interaction”. And truly, no comment is bad. You’re right about that. Thanks for sharing!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      i think people get hung up on what to say, especially if it isn’t a book they would enjoy. In those cases responding to the readers emotions works great.

  42. Ria

    OMGee YOU GOT a MAKE-OVER! Love it!! Commenting is a blast I’ve always loved it and I’ve promised myself to be better!! I’m pretty chatty interactive and a bit crazy(not ashamed to admit it) Lol I think I’m getting better its just been about figuring out that balance…My little is still not 100% independent and demands a lot of attention, job, nonexistent gym, blogging…yada yada you know what I mean!! Lol love this post solid advice…Well said Kimba, well said. ;0)

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Balancing life and our passion is always an issue. I think carving out moments during the week helps (like when the babe is asleep and the man is watching sports.) Thanks Ria and glad you love my new design.

  43. Tanja

    I’m off for a few days and you create a magnificent new design! Looks great, girl 🙂
    Back to the post, while writing reviews is what I really enjoy reading other people’s reviews is even more fun! 🙂 I totally agree that there is no such things as bad comments, as each is highly appreciated! Needless to say when someone leaves a comment at our blog, I’m hunting them down to see their blogs! 😀 It’s always amazing. Great post, Kim 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Ooo I agree writing reviews is why we all do it, but those comments make it all worth while. I love that you reciprocate and I personally find that aspect rewarding. I have gotten to know so many wonderful peeps ..just like you Tanja! Glad you like my new look.

  44. Ginny

    I still crown you the commenting queen but you are also absolutely 100% right. Part of the joy of blogging is the interaction and connection we can make with other book lovers. I have made it a priority to comment each day or at least several times a week and since doing that I have gained a little more confidence and a lot more joy in my blogging. I wasn’t aware of the groups you mentioned. Thanks for sharing and as always terrific post!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      I think once you fall into the habit, you begin to reap the rewards and actually look forward to your time in the blogging sphere 🙂

  45. Chrissi Reads

    I love your helpful blogging tips. I always try to reply to comments on my own blog, and I’m making a conscious effort this year to leave a comment on more than memes. I try to leave comments on reviews and features like this too. Everyone loves getting comments! 🙂

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Agreed Chrissi and what goes around comes around 🙂 Have a great weekend!

  46. Debbie Haupt

    Kimba, Brava! Great post. How true it is that every comment means something to the blogger who has put her/his heart and soul into a post. I celebrate and reciprocate every comment, new like, new follow I receive. It’s a kudo and who doesn’t like them!
    d

  47. Rachel

    Great post! I have always felt awkward about commenting. I just got back into blogging (I had a different book blog back in 2008), and while I understand the rules of the community, I am not a person who usually puts myself out there. Thanks for acknowledging us!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      You are not alone, a lot of peeps don’t know what to say or feel they need to say something with depth. I hope these tips help. After all they say practice makes perfect 🙂

  48. Kasey Giard

    Thanks, Kimba. These tips posts are really great. I’ve read several of them and always learn new stuff and feel validated on things I’m already doing at my blog. 🙂

  49. brandileigh2003

    I have been thinking of changing to comment luv but I am scared. I am not used to changing much on my blog and still on blogger and afraid that something will explode. I have been replying to comments but with current system, it doesn’t let readers know there is a reply unless they subscribe I think.
    How was your switch when you were still on blogger?

    • kimbacaffeinate

      I used Discus on blogger and absolutely loved it. I do know both are easy to install. Your blog will not break..lots of peeps use CL or Intense Database on blogger.

    • finley jayne

      I just switched to disqus tonight, from blogger commenting (which I loathed) and it took less than a minute to set up-it’s importing my comments right now, and it should be up and running in a few hours (keeping fingers crossed, lol).

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Thanks on both counts Jackie 🙂 Have a wonderful weekend!

  50. finley jayne

    Oh my gosh, I love your new layout!!
    I have a hard time leaving comments on reviews of books that I don’t have a desire to read, especially if the blogger who wrote the review loved the book. I end up leaving the blog without leaving a comment, and then I feel bad. I need to come up with something to say in these situations!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      A simple, “I am so glad you enjoyed this book. I love when a book gives me the”feels” or holds my attention etc, etc.

      • Terri M.

        I’ve struggled with the same thing, Finley Jane. This is great advice, Kimba. Wonderful post! I’ve been trying to hang onto the emails of posts that interest me and then when I have free time go back and make a post.

  51. Anika

    Great post, Kimba! <- See? I learned something! I always want to comment back but I never know what to say. Your tips definitely helped! Thanks!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      You are not alone Anika, a lot of peeps feel that way. Glad I gave you some ideas 🙂

  52. blodeuedd

    I always feel my comments are so lame, but like you say a comment is still a comment. If someone does not like my lame ones, well tell me and I will neeeever come back mowuahahahaha

    • kimbacaffeinate

      I think your comments are great..short, sweet and occasionally hilarious

  53. Melliane

    ah comments… difficult topic. I think it depends on the post, sometimes I feelmore chatty and sometimes I don’t really know what I can say but I don’t really have a problem with commenting. The only thing who breaks my heart is when some readers comment on reviews that aren’t mine, with my name in it. But it’s always interesting to read every day many new reviews on blogs!

    • kimbacaffeinate

      I have been guilty of that I think, I try to always scroll back to determine which of you wrote the post. LOL, but take heart..peeps mean well regardless of who they give credit to. <3

      • Melliane

        No don’t worry. It’s ok. It’s just I always feel a little uneasy sometimes when it happens.

  54. Bieke

    I’ve started commenting more too! Every day I go through my Bloglovin feed and comment on the posts that interest me. =) And a lot of people comment back and it’s fun! I’m always insecure about my blog so it’s nice when a lot of people comment on my posts and like them.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      Everyone loves comments and I am glad you are getting out there everyday. I find it rewarding 🙂

  55. Kathryn

    This is a great comment on making comments. I agree every comment is of value. As a teacher I encourage my class to write ‘quality comments’, but I am a little caught! Any comment is welcome so long as its not spam or shows a lack of respect. I hadn’t heard of either group so I look forward to exploring.

    • kimbacaffeinate

      thanks Kathryn and agree respectful comments are important. We can agree but be nice about it. 🙂