Support Your Fellow Blogger

Published December 11, 2010 |

The reason I’m asking is because I read a few blog posts pertaining to methods for gaining support in the blogosphere. There was specific advice like: Only comment on smaller blogs because the big and popular blogs don’t appreciate it . But then there are more general perspectives such as: A selfless act of kindness will go a long way. And in contrast, you shouldn’t do anything for free because it cripples people into laziness and into thinking your services are less valuable than if it was paid for. While all these opinions do have merit, I believe in keeping a well-rounded view of why it’s good to lend a helping hand when you can.

The Golden Rule

This is a familiar and practical value. If you don’t enjoy the occasional bash, don’t dish it out. If you appreciate honest, yet tactful comments than that’s what you should give. And if you recieved some other form of help that was valuable, then give some back…or forward. This rule implies a give and take system. But sometimes you may feel like you’re giving but not receiving as much in return, and that can be discouraging.

Hope without Expectation

I mentioned before that I’m also a pc instructor at an elementary school. Teaching is an act of giving, and in return I would like my students to remember and apply the things that I teach them. This is not an expectation, but a hope. Expectation leads to disappointment, whereas hope leaves you…well, hopeful. Some students completely forget what they’ve learned within a year. Then there are those ones that remember me and the points I brought to their attention even when they leave for middle school…that’s the return I hope for in exchange for giving, and that’s what contributes to loving what I do.

This same concept can be applied within the blogosphere. You’re probably thinking, ‘hurry up and get to the point!’ Well, okay: When you follow methods and formulas to blog networking, they won’t always work. Sometimes you’ll offer support and you’ll get some in return, and sometimes you won’t. Also, following these step-by-step processes may suggest that you have ulterior motives. If you lend a hand only because you’re expecting something in return, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. So when handing out favors in whatever form, hope but don’t expect. It makes for a better outlook and less discouragement.