Closed Comments on Business Blogs?
I find it kind of disturbing when I come across a business blog with closed comments.
Am I the only one that is irked by this?
I’m going to venture to say that I’m not. In my opinion, closing off your company blog comments is a huge mistake. Not only are you totally blocking the addition of free content to your blog, you are also possibly alienating potential clients and new customers.
Because they want to get involved. You see, your blog is more than just a platform for spouting corporate ideals and sales promotions. It’s supposed to be about creating a community. A sense of belonging, even a small sense of intimacy between you and your readers. (read: customers)
Even more, closing your comments completely sends another message to your blog readers. That you are talking TO them, not with them. They can’t get that feeling of conversation that they are looking for. Even if they don’t want to post a comment, it would be nice for them to know that they could. But closed comments tell them that they can’t if they want to. Taking away another trust factor, thus creating less opportunity to develop a client relationship.
Because people want to be included. They don’t have to comment on every post. But simple sales psychology says that they want to know that they can interact with your company on different levels. Participating in your blogs conversations is just one of them.
But it’s a big one. Because it is your corporate face online. Do you really want your blog to come off as if you are not concerned with what your readers have to say? Do you really want to appear as if you are standing at a lectern day in and day out? Or would you rather build a relationship with these people? Painting the picture of you sitting in their living room, discussing whatever it is you are writing about that day on your company blog….
Blogging for business is powerful. But only if used correctly. Used incorrectly, it can paint an entirely different picture of your business. Quite possibly one that you don’t want your customers to have.
If your blogs comment section is closed, reconsider this policy. Opening up blog comments might open up several other things for you and your company.
Tags: Blog Comments, Blog Content, Community
October 30th, 2008 at 9:40 am
STUMBLED!
Isn’t one of the points about blogging to get comments and engage your readers to participate?
Perhaps I’m wrong.
Just as irked as you.
October 30th, 2008 at 9:58 am
[...] You could turn off blog comments on your business blog but I agree with Chuck Crawford. He gives a least two reasons for allowing comments. [...]
November 4th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
I definitely agree blogging is a very useful tool for business. It can paint a whole different image for the business and attract more consumers.