The Big Misunderstanding About Comments and Feedback

Hi friends.

I think I may have to borrow Michael's soapbox for this one. I have written about this many times; but I think it bears repeating, especially for any newbies out there.

There is a difference between comments and feedback.

Comments:

Comments are to be specific to the post that comments were requested for. There seems to be quite a bit of confusion about this. I continue to get feedback when I ask for comments. There is no need to look over the whole site (although you may) when asked to comment on a specific post. However, your comment should reflect an interest in what you have read in the post you have been asked to comment on.

Many people (mostly relatively new), are having their comments rejected because they are actually feedback,

Comments should reflect an interest in the subject of the post you have been asked to comment on.

They should be mainly positive. Asking a question, or commenting specifically about something in the post makes for a better comment.

Comments are not for giving feedback on the entire website. They are also not the place to correct grammar or spelling. When one receives a comment; it will show up on their website. They will want the comments to be relevant and primarily positive. You may have the best intentions of helping the author; but your comment will be rejected.

Feedback

Feedback is to be given when the person requests feedback for their website or for a particular post. This is where you may correct grammar or spelling, etc. It is also where you may make helpful suggestions on how the person may better their website or post. Feedback does not show up on your site for the public to read. However, it should be kind and helpful criticism; not unkind putdowns.

Feedback is not for just saying, "Great site", or "I love your site"; although that is a good beginning; it is not helpful by itself. Feedback should include suggestions on how the person can better their site for public viewing. It should be done in a spirit of kind helpfulness, and not as a putdown. Read over your criticism before you send it and think how it will be received. If it is not a feedback you would like to receive; reword it or add something positive.

Why the confusion?

I am not sure why there is so much confusion about this subject. Is it not explained well in our lessons? Or are people just missing it in their hurry to get set up and going. I know, when I first started here, I made the mistake of making comments on the whole site, when the person had requested for one post. I had two posts rejected before I realized my mistake.

The members here at WA are all so helpful, and perhaps that is why they want to offer feedback. The feedback I have gotten in place of a comment has always been given in a kind helpful manner and I hate rejecting it; but it is what I had to do again today.

Where do you think the confusion comes in? Have you received feedback instead of comments? What are your thoughts on this subject? Does anyone know how to fix the problem; or must we continue to reject kind, helpful feedback by well meaning members? I would love to hear your thoughts on this subject.

Anyway...on a lighter note...

Have a wonderful and productive day!

Jeannie