Where are your blogging manners?
Monday, May 10th, 2010A few weeks ago, I was reading a sports article on the Houston Chronicle’s website. For those who don’t know, the Chronicle is Houston’s main newspaper. Anyway, the Chronicle has switched to a blog style format that allows readers to comment on stories. In this particular story, a reader respectfully disagreed with the reporter. Apparently, the reporter is having trouble accepting that readers now have power, and he responded with insults and a mini-tantrum.
It was totally unprofessional, but it highlights an important subject that often gets overlooked: blog etiquette. Here are some blogging etiquette guidelines that would make Emily Post proud.
1. Never repost someone else’s content without asking their permission.
2. If you quote a small excerpt from another post, provide a link to the original source.
3. Thank those who link to you.
4. Respond to your comments in a timely manner.
5. Let readers know when you’re posting affiliate links.
6. Don’t attack others personally; respect should always be given to those who disagree with you.
7. If you comment on other blogs, add value to the conversation. No drive-by comments like “Great post” or “I agree.”
8. Don’t use a keyword for your commenting name. It’s a cheap tactic that makes you look like a spammer.
Do you have good blogging manners? Which rules of blogging etiquette would you add to this list?
