Today we’re going to talk about something that a lot of bloggers forget about, but in my opinion is absolutely essential when starting a blog: Creating a community.

This is something I feel very strongly about, and I will always feel that way.

When reading a blog, someone may casually read the content, and maybe even apply it, but unless they feel welcomed to do so, or are urged to participate, they will not comment. Why? Because commenting takes time and effort, time that most people will not take unless it will really benefit them.

This is where creating a community comes into play. If you really get involved with your readers, and respond to their comments, take to heart their suggestions, and mention them in your blog, they will comment for you, they will subscribe, and they will possibly even post about you on their own blog! This creates a welcoming community, and builds strong relationships between the blog owner and readers, creating loyal readers, and there’s nothing better than that.

Here are some ways you can create a community feel to your blog

• Comment on similar blogs and mention your own blog, and get involved in their community, as this makes them twice as likely to get involved in yours.
• Respond to comments left on your blog, answering questions or keeping the conversation going with your readers.
• Have a weekly roundup post mentioning (and linking to) maybe your top 10 commentators websites, or some of your favorite articles written by blogs owned by your readers.
• Be personable and funny in your posts, as this inclines readers to comment.
• Give an incentive! Maybe offer free advertising or a prize each month to the top commenter of that particular month.
• Run a contest where commenting gains entries.
• Offer spots for guest posts, allowing your readers to really get involved with the blog.
• Ask your readers questions, ask for suggestions, or even ask their opinions on the given subject in your post.

All these things will raise your comment count which will in turn create a stronger, better community in your blog. I hope you can apply these tips in your own blogs.

And don’t forget to Subscribe to the RSS feed so you don’t miss a beat!

PS. On a side note, I’d like to thank Shannon Lilly over at Infected by Bugs for the great review, and I want to welcome all new visitors, and hopefully readers.

Tags: Add new tag, blog, Blogging, blogging guides, comments, community, make money blogging, wordpress

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 23rd, 2008 at 10:00 am and is filed under Blogging, General, Ramblings, Tips and Tricks. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.