I’m going to take time out today to talk about commenting in the blog. I’d love for this blog to become a place of dialogue, a place where you can refine your thinking, a place where we can all learn together. While I’d like to think of myself as a bit of an expert in this area of supervision and coaching, I certainly don’t have all the answers….and I don’t know all of the trials and tribulations that you face on a day-to-day basis.
I got to thinking about what stops people from commenting, and I asked my friend and colleague, Priya Banati, if she had any blog posts about commenting (her specialty is social learning).
She wrote about commenter’s block that might, I hope, encourage you to comment as a way of boosting your, my and others’ learning. And rest assured, I do read every single one of your comments, and will respond to those comments, so your time and effort WILL get noticed.
Priya writes about Commenters’ Block
- I won’t comment till I know more.Some folks are hesitant to join conversations because they are ‘new’ to the conversation. If you are a newbie, be assured that your views are most welcome to any conversation we have. A blogger is reaching out to a wide and open network of people because he/she values comments from a diverse network. Speak up as a newbie and you risk developing yourself (a well worth gamble) or bettering the opinions of others.
- I am afraid this is a stupid question.It’s an overused cliche BUT nevertheless valid one – There are no such questions as stupid questions. And if you still feel convinced otherwise then disclose that you’re going to ask a stupid question – that often immediately absolves you of any further attachment to the stupid question in question.
- I have a different perspective but am not sure if the blogger will appreciate my comments.Blogging is about building relationships and it is perfectly normal to reflect on what’s the first thing you want to share with a fellow blogger as a way of introducing yourself. Hence look for areas of mutual consensus – start with a comment acknowledging that and then present your perspective. Sometimes bloggers publish a commenting policy that you can read up to familiarize yourself with their expectations and see if that helps you get over this particular block. If you still have doubts, then defer from joining the conversation. Some blocks are there for a reason and it’s not necessary for you to join all the conversations you’re invited to.
- I really do not want to give away my secrets.Some of us are downright possessive of our thoughts and insights at the risk of stopping to learn. This is perhaps the worst of the blocks – I would suggest that you reach out to your peers or your lead and have them poke you to comment. This way you are compelled to participate.
- I am not sure this is a safe place to share my comment. Reach out to your lead and share your concerns. It might be necessary to look at this from another perspective to ascertain your fears.
