What if I told you that one day you’d be speaking to hundreds, thousands or even millions of people every day. It’s funny now because if you think about it, we were all afraid to give a speech in school but at this very moment we’re doing just that through our blogs. Our blogs have become a podium in which we can reach a community larger than we ever imagined; isn’t it about time we say ‘thank you’?
Respond and thank them for the comment
If we didn’t have people commenting on our blogs we’d feel pretty empty. You remember that feeling, you were so anxious for that first comment and when it did roll through you jumped all over it to thank and respond to them. So what happened between then and now?
It seems like we often forget that every comment is an indicator that someone enjoyed our work. With every comment that comes in, remember the old times – thank and respond to them as if they were the first.
Share some link love
As you begin to network and build authority within your blogging niche, you’re going to start collecting a core set of friends and some out on the fringe. You read their content every time a new post goes out, why not go ahead and show some link love in your own?
You can say ‘danke’ to others by linking out to them; maybe you could even create your own round-up of post selections you found throughout the week: Steve and Thu do it; can’t you?
Send a personalized email
You don’t have to stop your contact with your readers at your blog; there are other ways to chat with others, remember? Remember email? You know, before everything was shouting across the room (cough, cough Twitter).
Forget those ‘thank you’ plugins; they’re insincere. Take five minutes out of your day to send a personalized email telling your reader how appreciative you are for their support. A little message goes a long way to build lasting relationships.
Just look at what Eric said from BluePop13:
Hey Murlu,
I just wanted to say thanks for taking the time to comment. I really do appreciate comments and connecting with people and wanted to make sure you know that.
You’re not just a number but a part of my site, because you give it any attention you do, that helps everyone out there and here.
Going to be very busy with everything going on but also wanted to say thanks for adding me to your group. I have a similar idea for a club I might be starting later on down the road after I get my blog up off the ground.
Is that not absolutely amazing? What better way could you say thank you than that?
Give them something to take away
We often get so wrapped up with writing posts and promoting our blogs that we forget, at the end of the day, that another human being is on the other side. When you’re writing posts, you’re putting in your best intentions to teach something, entertain someone or just get content out there for others to enjoy. Why does it have to stop here though?
As a blogger (at least in my philosophy), we should try to make it as easy as possible for our readers to take at least one great idea away from our posts – think of it as an ‘ah-ha’ moment. These items are simple: spark a conversation, create a blueprint, create a downloadable file; just give something they could cherish.
You can learn a lot from design blogs such as Design Juices – every post gives you something you can take away and begin using it in your day to day activities.
Support them in their goals
One common misconception people try to convey in blog commenting is to only try to add information to the post; I believe they’re getting this a little misconstrued. You see, people will inherently talk about themselves but this doesn’t mean they’re egotistical. You can actually learn a lot of information from someones personal story.
If someone is pouring themselves out to you through your comment, show that extra initiative and help the person. Blog commenters ask us questions all the time, they share their own experiences with what you’re talking about – why not go ahead and say thank you by supporting them in their own goals?
Give that little Twitter bump
Twitter messages go a mile a minute; it’s hard to keep up with it all but at the core we’re all humans and we strive to interact with one another. Take time some day to send a personal DM to your cherished followers; genuinely thank them for following and supporting you with your online efforts. It almost sounds so simple it’s stupid but it really goes a long way.
One perfect example I’ve noticed is Tammi will welcome and thank her new followers – it’s a really simple thing that takes only a few seconds but it creates a lasting impression; couldn’t you do the same?
Don’t lose sight of your value and culture
We all dream of being big, successful bloggers one day but you’ve had to noticed this time and time again: success goes to peoples heads. Just look at every band you enjoyed before they struck it big only for you to lose interest when they changed their sound and discarded their original fans (you).
Blogging doesn’t have to be this way; with enough effort you can become successful but never forget those that helped you get there. This whole ‘blogging thing’ is a community effort; we help each other, promote each other, comment with each other; we’re in this together. As your success rolls in, thank your readers by bringing them along for the ride.
Final Thoughts: Don’t become a statistic
Over the years I’ve been blogging, I’ve seen many bloggers rise and fall; others have become successful and forgot their value; still, there are those that continually make a difference without letting it go to their heads. I believe one of the single biggest reasons why those that create the most influence online is because they take the time to thank their readers.
I don’t know where you are in your quest for blogging success; why you truly comment on other blogs and mine (I hope it’s because you enjoy my personality and topics) but never forget that it’s your readers that give you the microphone and platform; how are you going to use your voice?
A special thank you to: Julius, Joe, Brandon, Alex, Ryan, Melvin, Moon, Dustin, Steve, Thu, Jennifer, Adam, Tammi, Klaus, Dev, Jared, Matthew, Ben, Gene, Peter, Eric, Hesham and everyone else that has made Murlu such a wonderful experience!
Hi Murray,
This is one of the more thoughtful reader appreciation posts I’ve read, more than a few uber creative ways to say TY here.
I intend to write and respond to comments thoughtfully to show my appreciation. As you note without readers there really is no blog. It’s just a diary at that point. Say TY is as many ways as possible to remind them that yes, their voice is always heard.
Thanks for sharing your super insight and have a great day.
Ryan
Ryan Biddulph´s last [type] ..How Powerful Is the Impact Factor for Your Internet Marketing Campaign
Thanks for the comment Ryan,
I always like to touch on the fact that a blog is much like a business; you can try to bum rush everyone into your business but then you may only land a few clients (readers) but when you do it one at a time, you build a much better relationship that goes on and on, ya know?
Just wanted to give back today; start the week off right
Hey Murray,
So very thoughtful and an awesome post. It is without a doubt the best ‘Thank you’ post I have ever read.
I am glad you mentioned the point about not loosing sight of one’s value and culture. Can’t forget the people that help you become successful. After all, we are all in this together.
I also want to use this opportunity to THANK YOU Murray for making all this possible. Really appreciate it.
Adam Paudyal´s last [type] ..7 Sure-Fire Ways To Find Profitable Affiliate Products To Promote
That means a lot to me Adam, it really does.
I started writing the post on a whim just as a little tutorial but as I got into it, it had me thinking – this is the opportunity. But now after it’s completely, it makes sense to really use every post an an opportunity to say thank you. You don’t have to just wait til a roundup to implement a few of these; imagine if you did it every time you had a new post – people couldn’t help but feel appreciated, constantly.
Very good advice for a budding blogger. I really like the idea of sending personalized email messages.
Thanks for the comment Rod.
I noticed you’re a big fan of Seth so I could definitely see why you like the personalized email
It’s really not anything new but I think it’s just one thing that people have forgotten from years of being bombarded with mass media – it’s a return to that full service mentality we had so many years ago (it seems new to me cause I don’t think I’ve ever experienced it to the fullest haha).
I truly do like the idea and process of personal emailing someone thanking them for the comment or connect with them in another personal way.
It’s all about striving to be everyone’s friend, helping them out, and showing that you do care.
What kind of community do you want to create, essentially.
Derek Jensen´s last [type] ..The True Power of Taglines to Seize the Day
Hey Derek, thanks for swinging by.
That’s a really interesting question overall because I’ve been pondering that myself. Basically, I’m split into two mindsets.
1. I want to help small business owners by giving them information to help improve their online presence, sales, etc. Business doesn’t just have to be business because I also consider blogging = business; it shares many of the same parallels from customer experience (how people experience your blog), tech support (helping them with a question/problem), branding, community involvement (commenting) and so on. I work for a small business so it’s sort of distilled in me this sense that I can use my skills to help others, ya know?
2. I love the blogging community in whole. I’m sure you’ve noticed but I don’t write much for search engines on here (titles and content is rarely SEO friendly) because I rather pull in a community that wants to think – a community that wants to ignite a spark and then go out (using some of the same info from #1) and do something great whether that’s business related or just to help others.
In some ways, I think I’m trying to build this mastermind network – I set up the Murlu Mastermind which is great on the small scale – but the blog, in whole, feels like it can be something where great ideas can be born. I know this sounds a bit cheesy but I feel really great knowing if people learned just one great thing here and used it to improve their lives, ya know?
Murray,
I feel the same! I want to help out as many people as I can. And one thing I’m pushing for that many bloggers don’t do is offline events, promotion, and participation to entice them to make their move over to the online world. Why? My target audience are the people that aren’t active online and tend to just have a Facebook.
It’s great to know what community we want to create. It keeps us coming up with fresh, creative ideas to keep the attraction there.
Best, Derek
Derek Jensen´s last [type] ..The True Power of Taglines to Seize the Day
You’re exactly on the same wavelength Derek.
I wish I remember the actual numbers but it was something like 60% of businesses still don’t have websites. Step back a bit further and if that 60% applies to people than there are so many opportunities to help!
I had the hardest time coming to the mindset that I enjoyed business; for a long time it always felt evil but that’s because I came from a very corporate controlled environment. After working (where I am now) with a small business, I see that the people involved are just as passionate and caring; they’re trying to make the grind and turn it into their success.
I want to be on the end that gives them that extra nudge that sends them soaring. It sounds like you’re on that same level which I say “hats off to you”. Keep up the great work Derek.
Very nice post. Often people forget that the main difference between a blog and static website is the potential to interact with readers.
I think we all fall short sometimes, so it is good to always be reminded of the people who help you and who you help. Blogging really can be a “community” in all of the best meanings of the word.
Thanks for the shout out and taking time to thank so many people in your post. Of course also, thank you for being a wonderul commentator on MY site, as I am sure you am for everybody on your list. YOU really do understand the purpose of community.
Together we all have a strength and reach that none of us can come close to individually.
Steve@Lifestyle Design´s last [type] ..How to Run a Brainstorming Session
Thanks for the kind and thoughtful words Steve.
Ya know, I think we can all understand that some of us bloggers will make it while others move on to other projects but at the end of the day it’s all about the experience. The things we’ve learned along the way have been so much more empowering because of the community and all of the support. I think if we keep all this up, we’re going to do some amazing things in life
Wow Murray – really great post man.
Certainly showed us a few creative ways to go that extra step in cementing that relationship or spreading the Luv.
I actually got a similar email from Eric, which not only blew me away but also now shows me that this is not a one off thing, and that he really does connect on a whole new level.
That is the key – and you highlighted it nicely in this post.
Very thought provoking too.
Oh, it’s my bloody pleasure to support the Muzzah! You’re a champion mate
Alex´s last [type] ..There’s a Yeti following me on Twitter!
Eric was definitely the inspiration behind this post; it really caught me off guard when I checked my email because you see it so rarely done. Now it’s time to take what we’ve learned and really begin to apply it.
Hi Murray
Nice to meet you bro. I think I’ve seen you around 5kmssion and elsewhere.
I came here from a referral from Alex. I trust him to lead me to awesome blogs and this is no exception. Mate, what can I say. This is a tremendously well written post, enaging and passionate. I have been advocating the need to send perosnalized emails to our readers for sometime now, alomg with building a community within a community. That email from Eric is the kind of thing we should all be doing.
Thanks for sharing.
Michael
Hi Michael, thanks for swinging by and I’ll have to definitely remind myself to thank Jillian and Alex for the wonderful referral.
I like that you want to build a community within a community; that’s what is going to really create this core network where you constantly have fresh ideas, motivation and support. What you can do right now is contact those that comment most on your blog and try to put them into some kind of rollodex – if you can network with your main influencers, all of you will start to create momentum that takes off and keeps creating a perpetual community.
Thanks for swinging by Michael and hope you enjoy the stay
Very thoughtful post, its always good to thank people. Im a new blogger, started a few Months ago. Will keep the Personal Email idea in mind for the future!
Thanks again!
Hey Phil,
Glad you enjoyed the article – even just starting, doing these little things can have a profound effect already, it sets the seeds of networking
If you build your readers one at a time, you’ll eventually pull in comments left and right because those bloggers have friends and if you leave a great impression they’ll be sure to tell them as well.
Awww, I’m so happy today!
I don’t know how you do 10 and more articles daily but I have to hand it to you, you really are an inspiration. If it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t have tapped into Helium, nor get my chops into article marketing. Moreover, my blog has been growing because of the Mastermind group. I have build relationships where we’re on a first name basis now.
Thanks so much for all that you’ve done Murray. I didn’t learn one thing, I’ve learn lots since the first post you’ve done. From the interview with Jonathan Beebe to relationship building and to now, I’ve lost count of what I’ve picked up sticking through. I’m so glad I did!
You’re right that every post should be an effort to send out our thanks and it shouldn’t be through the blog only, it should be on Twitter too. The point is to keep engaging and expand, grow but to also remember, it’s your readers who has pushed you up a bit to continue doing what you do.
Thanks again for making my day. Not because I was also mention which is awesome but for knowing that as bloggers we are communicating and are eye on eye on many levels.
Make your day great too Murray!
Thu
Thu Nguyen´s last [type] ..What Working Under Pressure Has Taught Me
Who’s awesome? You’re awesome Thu!
I tried to set the bar high not just for my own gain but with that exact intention Thu – I knew the article challenge was going to be just that, a challenge but it wasn’t just about writing, it was about getting things done and making you think outside the box to network and pull in your resources
I’m really happy that you’ve picked up so much from it already hehe.
I think what you’re doing Thu is really remarkable, you’re creating a great blog without having to go the traditional route of SEO writing and trending topics – each post you write is always thoughtful and variable – that’s a toughie when so many say to stick to one niche but you’re proving that if you just create great content and network with others it will all fall in line.
I hope I can keep creating posts that inspire you – readers like you keep me going
Hey Murray.
Great post. I’ve really found this blog from our conversation over at sitesketch, but it looks like a great blog, I’ll be adding you to my bookmarks.
Interacting with other commentors is something I need to do more of, so finding this post was pretty timely really. It is great to build relationships though…
Mark Johnson´s last [type] ..Ways to make money online – Starting an eBay business
Hey Mark,
Thanks for swinging by – conversation kicked up
Hope to see you around more often and if you need anything I’m only an email away!
Aww, thanks Murray for the shout out! You have some great ideas for thanking the people who make our blogs a better place. I was inspired to thank the top 10 referring websites to my blog and not wait for my next round-up.
Jennifer Barry´s last [type] ..Stranger in His Own Land- Part 6
Dawww, thanks Jennifer.
You’ve been a commentor here for such a long time that it was a given I had to give a shout out; you’re one of the reasons why I still blog because you were there from the beginning pretty much
Fantastic post, Murray. Really, I think this is one of your best.
I just want to point out to any new readers that you have been doing the email welcome for quite awhile. As I recall that how we first started chatting – you answered my comment on your blog with an email.
I am going to take your advice and start connecting deeper with blog commenters.
THANKS for all you do, and the mastermind group too!
Tammi
Tammi Kibler´s last [type] ..Writing Jobs Online
Thanks for the kind words Tammi – it has been quite a while hasn’t it? haha. You’ve still stuck with me even when posts are all over the place; that’s why my hats off to you. Have a great one!
What a great ways to show appreciations to your reader! Personalized email and support their goals are awesome ideas.
Hiya Murray,
Still trying to effectively find my way around the blogosphere. Must say that this is truly one of the better posts I have read recently. Your attention to detail is admirable and I’ve even picked up a couple of tips including the idea of personally emailing those who take the time to be supportive.
Thanks alot and I will definitely return. Have a great day
Deidre Brathwaite´s last [type] ..Facebook- Not The Sum Of The Parts But The Full Package
Thanks Deidre
Had no idea this post was going to take off like this and get spread around so far – definitely, thank you for swinging by!
All props go to Eric @BluePop13 because without that email I may have forgotten about it and left it out.
Hi Murray:
This is my first time at your blog. I saw your name in Steve’s, Adam’s, and few other blogs. I decided to find your blog and read all the posts. The very first post I read I am deeply moved with the post. What a nice way to continue a relationship.
Great post and then email directly to each blogger is also a cool way to connect. Well Murray,check out my blog too.
I will try to make sure to come and read more of your posts.
Talk again
Fran Aslam
Fran Aslam´s last [type] ..Search Engine Optimization Techniques And Keywords Analysis For Online Writing
Thanks for swinging by Fran and leaving a comment. Steve and Adam are really great people; I’m sure I don’t have to remind you hehe – they create amazing posts so my thanks goes to them too.
I think I’ll have to start writing more ‘relationship’ blogging type posts because people really love ‘em. A previous post on networking and building relationships went off really well; hope you can use these tips to really make a lasting impression and find your success online
Hi there, a Filipino blogger here. Thanks for posting this article, as I read it I learned many tips from you,I already did some of your tips.
Semidoppel´s last [type] ..Semidoppel’s Personalized T-Shirt
Hey Murray,
Awesome Post dude. You’re one of the awesome blogger.
I love the idea of sending personal emails. Great
!!
Thanks for sharing your super awesome insight. Have a great day Murray !!
~Dev
Thanks for swinging by Dev; glad the post brought you some fresh ideas.
All are great points
have no words to explain how i feel. 
the picture u used is awesome 
8 / 10 for this article. Cheers bro.
Robin´s last [type] ..PremiumPress 37 Discount Coupon Code- October 2010
The email part might be getting a bit over used and annoying and so I wouldn’t go that way really. Personally I say thanks by visiting their sites and if I’m interested in their content, I either tweet their posts, leave a comment or do both
Udegbunam Chukwudi´s last [type] ..How To Make Money Online Flipping Websites-Blogs
That’s always a nice and effective strategy
It’s short and sweet, just a simple DM and you can get a lot of the same benefits of reaching out in just 140 characters.
If someone comments on my site Murray I always make sure that I comment on theres and if they have the tweet this or stumble buttons then I submit them (as long as it’s not rubbish!!!).
Matthew Needham´s last [type] ..The Passive Income Escape Plan- Article Marketing
Hey Matthew – I try to do that too whenever possible if I enjoy a post; it’s the perfectly little ‘give back’ that actually goes further than just your comment because it can start an avalanche of others once they see the post is starting to pick up.
Almost forgot. About 2 months ago I introduced a top commentor list so everyone can see who my top 10 commentators are. All about sharing the love…
Matthew Needham´s last [type] ..The Passive Income Escape Plan- Article Marketing
Ah, of course
Throw in CommentLuv with Top Commentors and you’ve got yourself a nice, passive way to say thanks time and time again.
I’m a firm believer in thanking your commenters. Afterall, the unique thing about blogging that’s different than other forms of writing is that you’re building a community.
Richard´s last [type] ..Do You Need Money Quickly Learn How To Make Real Money Online
Indeed, that’s the greatest benefit with blogging imo and you nailed it. Unlike only writing articles, after a reader completed the content they’re moving on but here you can keep them around – it’s stickiness
Hey Murray,
I always try to say thank you. And why shouldn’t you? The problem I have is that many times I find that I don’t have the time to do what I wanted to do after all.
For example I wanted to build an email list but haven’t really done so. I think an email list is a great way to build up relationships with your readers. Yet so few people use it effectively. I mean you can’t just send people always the latest products with an aff link to the product. You have to make your readers trust you. And that’s what I hope to achieve through email marketing. Anyway I hope I will start to build one soon.
Julius´s last [type] ..How to Build More Successful Mini Sites
Right on Julius! See, you’ve got it down pat with your email list (when it’s up) because so many people just want to hammer the shit out of their subscribers with buy, buy, buy, buy, buy. It’s permission marketing, you can’t abuse their trust like that, ya know? If you go into it with a great mindset to give back (such as you have), you’re going to keep everyone really happy and have a lot more potential for when you do want to market.
Hi Murray, very good post that gives people information on the way blogging should be done. I like the what you said about twitter too. Very insightful, it’s all about not losing the human touch.
Terry Conti
Hey Murlu (Murray),
I have seen this link from technshare.
I really have never thought about this “caring” stuff among the bloggers.
Thank you for this really great tips, they are absolutely worth trying.
Kimi´s last [type] ..Hover Effect Comment Avatar WordPress
Hey Kimi,
Glad you could find value in the post – when you can show your appreciation to the people visiting your blog you can really leave a great lasting impression – that’s networking