Can you take criticism on the chin?
At some point you’ll have to decide whether you are going to approve unflattering or negative comments on your blog. You have to be prepared to take some negativity once you start airing your views in your blog.
I wrote a post entitled “No place for good advice on the web” in response to having an article turned down. I’s not that I can’t take rejection, hey I’m really thick skinned after working for more than 20 years as a market research interviewer. I felt I had a valid point that some readers may be looking for some boring good advice when there’s so much emphasis on writing for search engines and attracting attention in social media sites. I received a comment describing me “as pouting on the sidelines” after my rejection. You can judge for yourself from reading the post.
How are going to react? Ignore any criticism or take it on the chin, approve the comment and respond to it?
I think it’s a good thing if there is some lively discussion and disagreement on blogs, as long as it doesn’t become too vindictive or personal. Bloggers, just like anyone else have differing opinions. However if you have a business blog you should keep your posts and comments related to your business and maintain some professionalism. The blog isn’t a sounding board for you personally. Hard to achieve, as in some ways, a lot of the identity of the business may be intertwined with that of the owner.
I believe that readers will have more respect for you if they see that you do publish negative comments and that you respond to them in a logical, calm manner.
What are your personal guidelines for dealing with criticism/negativity on your blog?
