Web bloggers navel gazing?

I have read too many didactic comments from web-savvy bloggers about blogging that are erroneous. I finally figured out that they see things from they own vantage point i.e. the web community.

Today I respsonded to Rand Fishkin’s podcast at Podtech about tips to make a blog better. Rand states that bloggers should not allow comments lest they look unpopular. But in fact the lion’s share of visitors do not comment. They come for inspiration, information, etc…. Even Guy Kawasaki’s blog  at 6,000 views per day shows low two digit comments. I would presume Robert Scoble has the same dynamics.

We must stop this narcisstic process and allow bloggers to flourish without self-consciousness, with honesty and transparency. In fact, in the techonology field knowledge outpaces most other industries; hence, activity outpaces all. So please let’s not judge all blogs by the same standards. There are blogs in textile, mediation, faith, pet training, employee motivation, marketing, toe nail viruses, shoe collecting, Hollywood “has beens”… You get my point. And in business views are even more important than comments.

Enabling comments is important otherwise it’s not a blog. It’s not social media. It’s just blowing your horn. But don’t fret if comments don’t fly. Read your stats and analytics. There is life there. Even if you blog is about hair roots. Blog away, invite people in even if they are just peeking from your porch.

A tip: if you really want comments be controversial or sensational…if you can handle the vitriol. If not,  you can enable moderation.