great blog comments

Here are some tips to get quality comment:

Don’t be afraid to ask: Don’t be afraid to approach people for comment, even if they are high profile – the worst that can happen is that your request is declined. A small percentage of the people you approach will be publicity shy, but most people understand the value of coverage and are pleased to comment.

Do your research first: Know the ins and outs of your topic and identify the sort of information you want before you approach people. You can’t wing it and hope to get good comment. Good comment comes from framing intelligent and insightful questions – which comes from doing your research and preparation.

Give adequate notice: Although deadlines have a habit of creeping up on you, you’re more likely to get good comment if you give your experts a few days to respond.

Outline your needs: Send an email outlining where the article will be published, the information you need, and when you need it by; or convey this over the phone. If using email include a list of specific questions you want answered, and if phoning have your question list ready.

Give options: Some people prefer to respond verbally and some prefer to respond in writing, so give your expert options. I usually open with an email outlining my needs and give the expert the option to respond by return email or indicate the best time for me to call them for their input.

Follow-up: If you’ve given your expert a few days to respond, remind them before your deadline to be sure to get useful comments, on time. You might also find that the information you’re given raises more questions. Don’t be afraid to go back to your expert with follow-up questions.

Getting quality expert comment for your article « The Small Business Company