This post was most recently updated on March 26th, 2014
This is my 175th blog post.
As a blogger, I read many other people’s articles every day. I read at least 5 to 10 blog posts every day for 5 days a week, and sometimes more.
I read within many niches besides my own, and generally find them very interesting.
In this particular article, I want to address the matter of how carefully we actually learn from other people’s blogs and articles.
The Visual Learner
If you are in this category, you will first go to see how the blog is set up. The header will attract you, of course, but also the general design layout. Then your eyeballs will go to the right sidebar column.
Is it clear and neatly displayed or does it blink at you continually? Does it seem to contain useful information related to the theme of the blog, or is it a crass smorgasbord of adverts? What font is used? Particularly, is the font easy to read or are you forced to squint?
What about background colors and contrasting content? Is it easily seen, or a chore just to decipher? What you are learning is how things appear before you even try reading the actual content.
Hopefully, you’ve reviewed enough sites so that you’ve made sure to design your own blog to be clean, well organized and easy to follow.
The Cognitive Learner
You get right down to the nitty gritty.
You go straight to the content and no matter how clear or unclear it is, you soak it up like a sponge. You don’t give a hoot what that header looks like. If there are too many advertisements on that blog, you can easily ignore them.
You will probably ignore all sidebar offers because you are so focused on the content. In fact, you undoubtedly bypass many opportunities to get free offerings from blogs you visit because you just don’t really consume sidebar content at all.
The Hit And Run Learner
As a hit and run learner, you have mastered the art of reading (or skimming) so quickly that you are able to get to the point of the blog and leave a very good comment without really absorbing all the details of the content.
But what are you missing? Ahh… have you really learned what you hoped to by reading the article that attracted you? For really good hit and run learners, the answer could be yes. But others may be shortchanging themselves in the interest of speed.
The Pondering Learner
You get to a blog post and view everything.
You wonder about the title, critique the content, and click everything on the sidebars to see what people are offering. You may spend lots of time on a blog employing both the visual and cognitive approaches.
Then you ponder and compare. You may even try implementing some things that you really like. Now this is fine, but when you are a blogger, you don’t have the time to study each and every thing on everybody’s blogs. So be sure you are not getting overwhelmed by trying to squeeze every little thing out of every article you read.
Think about it! You may be spending lots of time pondering how you can make your blog better, or how to implement a strategy you just read about. But how much is that going to slow you down from following your commitment to your own DMO (Daily Method of Operation)? After all, your DMO is where you really make your business grow and prosper, not in just collecting a lot of random knowledge.
The Comment Reader
When one reads the post and then goes above and beyond to read the comments on that post, they do get a lot from it. Reading comments may “attract” you to someone new. You can go to their post via CommentLuv or other links and comment on it. If you really like them, you will follow them on various social sites.
I have had many people coming over to my blog from a comment I had made elsewhere. They liked my comment, it and resonated with them, ergo….a new friendship blossomed.
These are but a few way that bloggers learn from other bloggers. Keep in mind that as a blogger, you need to be going to other people’s blogs daily and consistently. You need to be learning from them all the time, using one or a combination of the learning modalities listed here.
If you apply yourself diligently to your blogging business, you will always have your eyes open and be alert to high quality and relevant articles. Read them, reply to them, and most of all… learn from them. Think of what you like or do not like and then apply it to your own blog. That’s how your business will grow.
What type of learner are you? Or do you combine different concepts? I would really like to know. Share your thoughts!
Blessings,
– Donna
Hi Donna,
Though, I am a little bit young to blogging ( was basically freelancing on hubpages and xomba for the last 4 years).
My foray into blogging has taught me a lot of things and I regretted starting late.
Many bloggers have become mentors to me, even from a distance, because I read their blogs nearly on a daily basis; from reginaldchan, to barry weels, Zac Johnson, Adrienne Smith, Nate leung and your respected self e.t.c.
I have learnt a lot, from staying motivated to knowing the basics of growing an online audience.
Reading other people’s blog is quite good and great and I can say I am a cognitive learner.
Thanks Donna for being inspiring to people like me.
James recently posted..Six disadvantages of free WordPress themes-why you should not use them
Twitter: sueken
November 22, 2013 at 11:33 pm #
I think my style varies depending on my purpose for reading a post or visiting a website. That purpose can get altered because I create websites myself. I am aware of design and layout and when a site stands out my first visit will involve studying this first. I will investigate interesting plugins, look at source code and what template is used.
When I am doing research for a post I often have most of the information on hand already so I do a search and skim content to see if there is any more I need to add.
Then there are sites of contacts and friends that I visit regularly. I will spend much more time on these, read posts and comments more thoroughly and leave comments.
I will also spend more time on blogs that are in my niche which I learn from. If it is the first time visiting that site I will also spend time looking for other posts that might be useful. Often a post will send me off elsewhere to investigate further but I will keep the original one open in a tab so that I can go back to it.
I know I spend too much time reading, researching and learning but there is always something new and interesting and if it is there I cannot resist. My internet travels are much like my holiday travels. If there is something around the corner that I cannot see I just have to keep going and take a peek.
Congratulations on your 175th post, Donna. I look forward to reading the next 175.
Sue Bride recently posted..Help My Blog Content Is Being Copied
Twitter: deeannrice
November 21, 2013 at 8:24 pm #
Donna,
I think I am a combination of several of these methods. I also think my approach has evolved as I have read more and more posts.
I used to read everything word for word and try everything talked about in the post. Needless to say it took me forever to read and comment on posts.
Then as time went on I started reading quicker and even skimming at times. I do not like to miss anything so I am careful not to skim and miss content.
The look of the blog does make a difference to me but not to the extent that I do not get to the content.
I also like to read comments if I am reading posts online. As you may know I read most of my posts offline and do not have access to the comments. I really feel cheated sometimes when I am reading off line.
Very interesting information.
Dee Ann
Twitter: martydia
October 27, 2013 at 3:21 am #
Congratulations on #175 – that’s a big achievement!
I’m a hit and run type reader – I’ll skim the headline and subheads if it’s something I’m interested in I’ll go back and read it – if not I’ll move on.
Once the article interests me – then I’m more of a ponderer/comment reader – but I’m very headline/sub headline driven – if they’re not good (or not what I’m looking for) I’m off to the next article.
When I do heatmaps for clients on their blogs – We can see the same pattern – action around the early subheands and readership drops off quickly if the post isn’t first rate – if it is – surprising as this may seem – there will be more scrolling and clicking on links – but not by as wide a margin as you might imagine. The exception would be posts that are controversal,heartwarming (think cute kitties) or entertaining -you’ve got to really engage people to get them reading.
Marty Diamond recently posted..Are You Comparing Your Site To Your Competition?
Hi Marty,
Thanks so much for your comment. It sure got me thinking about putting more effort to my headings and subheadings.
This is a new idea for me to pay more attention to and I thank you so much for sharing this knowledge.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
I am probably a combination of visual, cognitive. I try to look at the design and layout, then the topics when I get into a site. Then I try to get into the content of a certain post that attracted me. I don’t read as much comments, maybe I should start doing it and probably learn a lot more from people who have shared their insights.
Cherrie Bautista recently posted..What The World’s Happiest Countries Can Teach Us About Money
Hi Cherrie,
Thank you for sharing your views. When I started to scan some comments a while ago, I found some great people to connect with.
Someone catches my attention with a good comment and shares their views, I will then go over to their blog to see what they are all about.
Before you know it, we become blogging buddies!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Twitter: WillenaRose
October 26, 2013 at 5:17 pm #
Congratulations on the 175 posts! And, I might add, posts that are chock full of value for your readers.
I’m a little of all of the above at times, but I’m mostly a visual learner. I like a clean, simple blog layout with one sidebar, and no flashy ads. I don’t stay any longer than necessary on a bold, cluttered blog.
Willena
I’m with you Willena!
When it comes to my visual sense, if a blog is too cluttered it distracts me. A nice clear one will get more of my attention.
Thanks so much,
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Twitter: Lisapatb
October 26, 2013 at 6:33 am #
Congratulations Donna on 175! I believe after reading your different types of readers I am more of a visual reader when it comes to reading blogs. If they are no images I may not even stay on a post. Or if the text is too small or hard to read I’m outta there. I’m not a ponder reader for sure. Almost a hit and run but not really either – only in few cases. I like checking on the colors like the purple/pink you use in the headers so I’m clearly a visual reader learner. If I had to rely on words alone I would not survive it 🙂 Interesting topic Donna, enjoy your weekend!
Lisa Buben recently posted..Add Social Media Share Buttons Anywhere Without a Plugin
Hi Lisa,
When it comes to those tiny words, I’m out of there too! Even with my glasses on, I go cross eyed!
It is important that things are clear and easy to see to help those visual learners like you.
We must consider all these factors when having our own blog.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Twitter: maxwellivey
October 23, 2013 at 8:38 am #
Hello; I guess I am a cognitive learner but that may have more to do with being a blind computer user and depending on speech more than anything else. I followed you over here from a comment you left on barry wells site but I don’t read the comments. I will sometimes scan the titles shown by comment love after posting my own comment. So, blog titles are key for me. I didn’t consider all the different types of visitors. My site is very simple so I am probably not doing well with the visual learners. And I imagine there isn’t a lot to ponder for the third group of readers. I have learned about headings and bullet points so my posts are getting better. And I try to include images and links in posts whenever possible. I just recently started getting comments thanks to new friendships with other bloggers that grew out of leaving comments on their posts. I would appreciate hearing your opinion of my site. Thanks and take care, Max
Maxwell Ivey recently posted..How I came to be called Mr. Midway
Hi Max, Or should I say Mr. Midway?
I just came off your blog and it is fascinating. Yes, your site is simple, but it is clear and to the point. I like it a lot.
When a site has all those blinking things and jammed sidebars, it does distract a reader.
Now you just gave the proof of the pudding. You found from a comment I left on Barry Well’s blog and came over and commented.
Now, I went to your blog and did the same.
This is how to increase readership. It won’t happen overnight, but at least you will get quality readers.
I am a fan already!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Twitter: wiarbu
October 22, 2013 at 7:56 pm #
Hi Donna,
Congratulations on the milestone! I have learned so much from blog reading as of late, including this post. Taking into consideration the learning style of your audience is also important understanding, so thank you for
a well articulated post.
I’m more of a cognitive learner, and also becoming a comment reader, as time permits. In other areas of my life, I’m a visual learner.
Blessings!
Bill
William Butler recently posted..Celebrating The Dignity of Difference: The Call To Unity
Hi Bill,
Thanks so much! Isn’t it so fascinating how we can learn just from reading blogs?
It is one part of business that never lets me down. Although it is difficult to read all comments, sometimes you hit some amazing ones and click on to that person and eventually…..you are following one another!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Hi Donna,
Congratulations! 175 blog posts is a reflection of your commitment to blogging and giving value. Well done!
Very interesting read! I believe I am a combination of visual and cognitive. Sometimes I ponder a little too.
What I have found out is that there are high quality and relevant articles like yours around. At the beginning of my blogging journey, it is tricky to know who is who. After about 2 years, now I do know who I like to visit. I have not yet established a firm habit of visiting 5-10 blogs a day though. Got to get started with this awesome habit of yours!
Thanks, Donna, for this wonderful post.
Viola Tam – The Business Mum
Viola Tam recently posted..MLM Lead Generation the Natural Way
Hi Viola,
Thank you for your compliment! Visiting blogs and leaving good comments will attract many to your blog.
It’s like doing business in slow motion. We read each other’s blog. Then we see each other on social sites. We talk, like, find that there are some things in common with one another.
A friendship is born. Then from there in the MLM business, I get to know what you are selling, how you are leading (which by the way you are an awesome leader) and if I’m interested, I’ll join.
However, if I’m caught up in something else, but know like and trust you, I would recommend you to one of my clients that are looking to join an MLM business.
That’s the power!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Twitter: iblogright
October 21, 2013 at 6:31 pm #
Hi Donna,
First I must say congrats on your 175th post. I really enjoyed reading this article, It is very good to read other blogs even those outside your niche as it sure helps you learn you things and as the saying goes “Readers are Leaders” this is because you gain experience and knowledge from reading. I was once a hit and run reader but after reading two different posts on Harleena and Adrienne’s blog, i thought about what i would have missed if i had just rushed through those posts just to leave a comment so i changed and now i read at least 6 blogs everyday and make sure i leave a comment that will add value to the post i read. Nice piece
Thanks for sharing and have Great week ahead.
~Bob
Olili Bob recently posted..Manage Your Social Media From One Dashboard Using Onlywire
Bob!
Welcome!!! Yes it is true “Readers are Leaders” When we go to someone’s blog and leave a valuable comment, you just never know who may be attracted to you.
I have left comments on some blogs, and before I know it…they are avid readers of mine, plus we connected on all social sites.
People say to stay in your niche. Yes, it is true, but I must say that going out of my niche teaches me the most. I like to learn things even if they are over my head.
Expanding knowledge is the best thing ever!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Hi Donna,
Wonderful post, indeed.
Personally I’m a cognitive learner and like to get to the core of the content. I do have visual learning tendencies but I think this comes secondary to the cognitive element.
As a personal development blogger, I love visiting other blogs in this particular niche. I learn so much from them and find them to be a huge source of inspiration.
Thank you.
Hiten recently posted..Empowering Attitudes to Help You Deal with Life Problems
Hi Hiten,
Thank you for visiting my blog. I’m with you because I do a lot of Personal Development also. I like to get into the content of the blog, especially in that niche.
I believe that blogging and personal development can go hand in hand. There are so many bloggers that lack the self confidence they need to have their voice.
Like anything else, we all need many tools in our personal toolbox.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Twitter: domainsflow
October 20, 2013 at 9:54 am #
Hi Donna,
I think I’m combination of the hit and run learner and the comment reader. Do you think that is bad?
I know it probably sounds like cliche but I don’t have the time to read 10 posts a day. After all I have a full time job and my time is valuable, just like everyone else.
When I see someone blog for the first time first I notice blog design and layout. I always read the whole content and then check to see what others are commenting. If that particular post resonates with me, I like to give my opinion or maybe ask some questions in the comments.
There are sites that made me WOW on the first hand, and I subscribed in the mailing list and connected to social media.
Thanks again Donna for sharing this useful post, I enjoyed it.
~ Dragan
Dragan Palla recently posted..Freelancing…and Actually Making Money at It
I am so glad you enjoyed the post Dragan.
Do I think you are bad? He He He of course not. Plus I cannot judge anyone. We are all unique and all learn differently.
Sometimes we need to hit and run before we get interested in a post. If it is a sales post, I will hit and run so fast!
If I hit it up and it has some value..I’ll read it. Yes, time is of the essence and we need to balance.
I like to scan the comment section and if I find something interesting, I will go to that person’s blog and check it out.
You are doing a fine job!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Hello Donna,
Congratulation on your 175 post and hope you’ll do more and more…
Based on your categories, i belong to the cognitive, comment and sometime i do the hit and run category :). Combining them, make me to enjoy myself more…
Thanks and have a great weekend
Babanature recently posted..Strategy To Rank Your Articles In Search Engine To Get Free Targeted Traffic
Hi Babanature,
Ahh..enjoying yourself! That’s the key to blogging! If you enjoy it, you are in the game.
Others, who whine about it usually leave or have no one come to their blogs.
Thank you so much for stopping by,
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Hi Donna,
What a great topic for your 175th post – I’m in awe of you, because I’m still staggering up the hill to my 100th – only a few to go!
I think I’m mainly a cognitive learner – but I tend to skim over a post first to check out whether it’s going to be worth my while reading it in great detail, then I’ll go back and read it thoroughly if it’s a good one. I don’t take much notice of what’s in the sidebars – in fact I made a note in a comment to a top blogger recently to let them know their sidebar was driving me nuts – it jerked about every time I scrolled up or down the page and drew my eyes away from the post I was trying to read – very annoying!
I do leave a lot of comments and I try to read a post properly before doing so – I read other people’s comments, too, but if it’s a lengthy comment stream there’s often not time to read them all.
I guess I’m sometimes a ponderer, if I come across some advice in a post I think might be worth implementing – but I occasionally come unstuck doing this and get lost trying to figure out something technical that I should probably have left well alone! It can be worth it, though – Adrienne’s recent post and her response to my comment on it prompted me to work out how to put a buffer button on my blog – it was time-consuming, but successful, and I learnt a lot in the process.
Thanks for a thought-provoking read, Donna – and here’s to your next 175 posts! 🙂
Susan Neal recently posted..A Simple but Powerful Writing Tip From Ricky Gervais
Hi Susan,
How funny that was telling that “top blogger” that the sidebar made you nuts! Oh I just cannot stand when that happens. The blinking, the pressing the X on those annoying pop ups right in the middle of the post.
It makes me loose track of what I’m reading. So good for you, I hope that blogger takes heed to your constructive criticism.
I like to go to the content and enjoy reading the post. Then make a good comment.
As for the technical stuff? I do like to know about it just so I can hire someone to put it on for me. I don’t dabble myself….but rather pay to play. But I do like to try to keep up with some technical posts because I need the language to go to someone and ask what I want.
Thanks for stopping by,
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Hello Donna,
Reading others blogs is the best way to increase knowledge of bloggers. I see lots of bloggers just write, they never look for what other bloggers write. If they do this regularly, they will never succeed in blogging.
CommentLuv is also best plugin to redirect readers to other blog. I generally try to read other blogs related to my blog. So I can understand recent trend, writer’s writing style which helps me to write in a better way.
Anyway congrats on 175th post. Its great achievement for a blogger 🙂
Ahsan recently posted..Check Your Gmail Account Easily With Chrome Extension
Hi Ashan,
Thanks for stopping by. Oh yes, CommentLuv is the best plug in EVER! I don’t know what we bloggers would do without it. It makes it so easy to push that button and see what someone is all about in a comment section, which I do love to do.
If you blog, you just have to read other blogs. We learn so much from writing styles, to subject matters, and from there we can go to their social sites if we are interested in what they do.
I cannot tell you how many connections I have made this way!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Twitter: lisamagoulas
October 18, 2013 at 9:27 am #
Donna,
WOW! 175 posts? How cool is that. Congratulations. I’m not quite at 100 yet – but I’m getting there. 🙂 This is a very interesting article. I never really thought about the idea of different types of bloggers. I guess I would say I’m the cognitive learner. I am a visual person, but I don’t usually really pay attention to the layout or side bar of any of the blogs I go to. I may be missing out by not doing so. I also do read many comments that others leave. I find it does give me more insight to them as well and it has brought me to their own blogs. Thanks for sharing this info, I appreciate it. Lisa
Lisa Magoulas recently posted..8 Life Changing Tips
Hi Lisa,
I like the content too. Unless things a blinging at me and popping up in my face all the time, I don’t pay much attention to anything else.
I too like to read comments if I am fortunate to have the time because it does give me more insight too.
Thanks for visiting!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Hi Donna Merrill !!!
To be honest with you, You made understand to us about how Learning can help to Reading Blogs. I used to understand. Just read Blogs for experience but on another way you told us Learn From Reading Blogs that is really nice & wonderful.
Hi Disha,
I am glad to be of help! As bloggers we do lots of writing, but the other half is reading others’ blogs.
I get so much useful information from doing that every day.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Twitter: RyanBiddulph
October 18, 2013 at 1:35 am #
Hi Donna,
A bit of the hit and run but I learn more than the avg crasher lol! So key to get what information you need and analyze it. I soak up aspects of other blogs to improve my blogging game.
Such a wealth of information awaits for the patient, diligent, researching, well-read blogger. Answers for each of your problems are all around you. Make friends. Read. Learn. Prosper.
Thanks for sharing Donna, and congrats on your 175th post!
Ryan
Ryan Biddulph recently posted..Dream AND Do
Hi Ryan,
I can see how you can be a hit and run kinda guy. You blog often and must have many people to reciprocate to.
Plus, seems to me that you can quickly get the information on a blog post and leave a great comment.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Beginning To Blog
Twitter: kgauraw
October 17, 2013 at 10:59 am #
Hello Donna,
Wow, I didn’t know there are so many classifications that are possible based on the way we read blogs. Very interesting!
Well, speaking of me, I think I am a little bit of every category 🙂 although I think I am more of a visual type learner on top of everything else. Excellent article and I must say I am although late, but enjoyed being here!
Thank you!
~Kumar
Kumar Gauraw recently posted..How Sheraton And Marriott Put So Many People Through Pain In Memphis
Hi Kumar,
Thanks, I was pondering how people learn from blogging and that inspired me to write this post. I listen to lots of people and getting some feedback made me put this all together.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Twitter: BarbaraCharles
October 16, 2013 at 9:17 pm #
Hi Donna,
I’m a combination of the visual and cognitive learner. As a very visual person I am immediately attracted to nice, clean lines – I look at colors and fonts and if it’s easy to read and easy for me to find things I’m looking for.
But I’m also a very cognitive learner. I’m there for the information. Just recently, I wrote a post on how I visited a number of blogs as a part of an experience for myself and found very few websites those content attracted me enough to keep me there more than a few seconds. And my goal was to comment.
Anyway, I know I am very anal when it comes to content and information. I’m learning to loosen up though! 🙂
Thanks for this very descriptive and informative post. It is very educational for us to think about what type of learner we are.
Great job.
Barbara
Barbara Charles recently posted..10 Ways To Make Your Blog More Personal
Hi Barbara,
You know I like to write things that get people’s wheels turning lol.
You are a very visual person but also with your background, you notice tons of things that should or shouldn’t be there!
You may be a stickler, but that is a good thing because the object of reading a blog is to comment. If it is too distracting or the content stinks, it is so difficult to comment.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
HI Donna, Great post to learn from. I am a cognitive learner though I can identify with most of the other learners as well. I love to learn what I can from others’ blogs and really enjoy being out there in blogosphere! I like connecting with bloggers who are like-minded too. Blessings, Amy
Amy Hagerup recently posted..5 Tips for Personal Branding and One Big No-No
Hi Amy,
I just love learning from other bloggers too. Not only for the learning curve, but also from who they are and what they stand for.
It still amazes me how wonderful people are out in the blogosphere!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Congratulations on your 175th post Donna!
Ah…so many interesting blogs out there and so little time to read them. I am a combination of the visual and hit-and-run learner. I would love it if I had the time to really focus on more of them. Oftentimes, I am so inspired by information that successful bloggers have shared (including you), that I go off to implement something new.
Thanks for reminding me of the value other bloggers provide to my development.
Rachel Lavern recently posted..Simple Techniques to Connect to Your Clients
Hi Rachel,
I appreciate the compliment girl! I know blog reading is time consuming. I take it in segments and spend time every day to hit up some blogs. Especially all those who come to mine!
I cannot hit and run because I need to read the content. Otherwise, my comment would be horrid! lol
Thanks for stopping by,
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Hi Donna,
I don’t think there is a pure type of reader. Usually, you are a combination of types. I am a visual reader during the first 10-20 seconds. I like to look at the blog, page, post etc and get a first feeling, positive or negative. A negative (bad, ugly) visual appearance of a blog rarely discourages me to explore it. After a few seconds I want to know what is all about.
The first think I’m looking at is relevancy: is this content relevant for what I am looking for or for my needs?
Relevancy is so important that I rarely look how crafted, killer or magnetic the title (for example) is. What I want to know is the relevancy of the content for my needs. Usually I can determine this from the first paragraphs or so.
If the content is relevant, I read it all and pay attention to everything. If not, I become “hit and run”.
However, I rarely start with the hit and run mode. When I comment on other people’s blogs I, usually, read the whole article and then make the comment. I read the comments but normally just a few of them.
I believe the hit and run mode is a very bad choice. No matter how good you are you won’t be able to understand the article, if you don’t read the content.
One day I decided to test the way people interact with my posts. I wrote a post that had generic content type headlines (you know, that kind of content that you can see all over the blogosphere and everybody likes and reads and praises etc.)but the content was very different.
Actually, the content was written in a very ironical tone and was full of mockery and contempt (towards generic content). Then I waited to see what happens.
You probably guess what happened. People came and wrote comments: positive, delighted comments written to a content that was terrible, offensive and miserable. They didn’t read the post. They were all (almost all) “hit and run” type.
When I told them: “You didn’t read the post, you didn’t watched the video” they were surprised. Some of them make a huge intellectual effort and read the headlines. They were once again charmed and said good things. After 2-3 brutal messages from me (you didn’t … ) they finally decided to read the content. Some of them understood very well and laughed and wrote a real comment. Unfortunately, many of them weren’t able to understand. Not even then. What a strange world.
I gave up.
Have a wonderful day
Silviu recently posted..Macro Marketing or Mini-Marketing Training Methods?
Hi Silviu,
First let me say that you are a great commenter. From your comments on my blog, you give it careful thought and have your say. I appreciate that.
I remember that post you are referring to. What a hoot! You PM’d me and told me about that after my comment. But I was being a little snide too lol.
I thought it was fun!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Twitter: suejprice
October 16, 2013 at 2:35 am #
Hi Donna
Congratulations on your 175th post. I had to go and look at mine before I commented. I have now 188. They add up don’t they?
A great topic and I had to think hard on what type of learner I am. Leave aside blogs I am hit and run on many things. Many years studying resulted in me absorbing what I had to. I also did several speed reading courses over the years so I can skim and miss some important details as you say.
It does depend on the subject. It I am reading about plugins I go unconscious to some degree 🙂 If it is a mindset personal development topic I savor every word. So I guess it depends how interested in the topic I am.
I always read some comments but never all of them if I am on a blog like Adrienne’s. I think you miss a lot if you do not read comments.
A great topic Donna. Thank you.
Sue
Hi Sue!
He He…I too go unconscious when it comes to those plug in posts. But I try my best to understand what is going on. I’m like you when it comes to these things and rather have a person do it for me.
But…how can I ask someone to do it for me if I don’t know what the heck it is? So I get a general idea and if I like it I reach out and ask someone if they can do my plugin, back up my blog, etc.
I am in love with personal development blogs like you are and I too savor each and every word.
Of course, I cannot read all comments, especially on Adrienne’s place lol. That would take me all day!
But I do scan through comments and find some that interest me.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Twitter: sylvianenuccio
October 15, 2013 at 8:34 pm #
Wow, 175th post! Congratulation Donna. That’s a milestone here.
I read a lot of blogs too, and I guess I’m a bit of everything you mentioned here except for the scanner reader. I think that if you scan you can’t truly take everything from the post and I know this from being the writer of some of those posts 🙂
If I have time I do read some comments. Rarely do I have the time to read them all, but I do my best.
I always try to leave a decent comment, that’s definitely more than two or 3 sentences. At times, it very easy, and at times not so much. It really depends on the post’s topic. If I read something way above my head, I may not have much to share 🙂
We certainly do learn a lot by reading blogs. By the way, I love it!
Thank you for this very descriptive post, Donna 🙂
Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..Ultimate Written Content Creation Guide
Hi Sylviane,
As a professional writer, you know more than anyone about this topic! I know you NEVER scan!
Yes, I find it difficult also when things are way above my head. I usually thank the person for this knowledge but also am candid and tell them it is over my head and may ask a question.
You are a great commenter girl!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Twitter: marquitaherald
October 15, 2013 at 5:50 pm #
Great topic Donna! I had to stop and think for a moment where I fall on your list because my blog reading habits blur the lines. I also read a lot of blogs, and I’d have to say it’s the subject that attracts me first. I’m quite visual so I do pay attention to how a blog looks, but what keeps me there is what I read in the first paragraph (so a bit of hit and run). If it’s interesting then I’m in till the end. Only in rare occasions do I take the time to read comments – the exception to that would if the subject is something I want to learn about and then I’d be curious to see how others are going about it or what their experience has been.
marquita herald recently posted..Mindless Habits: Our Greatest Assets or Worst Liabilities
Thanks for sharing your view Marquita!
Yes that subject line does attract us. That’s why it is so important for it to be congruent to our content so we can read on.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Hey Donna,
Wow 175 blog posts. This shows how serious and dedicated you are. Congratulations to you! Time to celebrate.
As I was reading your blog posts, I was trying to figure which one I was leaning towards. I guess you can say I’m a pondering learner. I tend to look through the post, see if it relates to the title, if not, I’m disappointed, but I still read through anyways to see if there are some great points here.
If it’s a blog with some recommended plugins, I’ll test a couple of them out to see how well it runs on my blog. I always mention in these types of comments that I’m always looking to improve my blog.
I also compare my blog with others. I notice what words they use and if these words resonate with me. If so, I’ll add them.. I guess when it comes to blogging I’m always troubleshooting and trying to see how I can really implement the 80/20…. must be the computer technician/IT in me 😉
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Sherman!
As long as we stick to our 80/20 rule, we are fine. I think I can be a bit of all the above EXCEPT the hit and run type.
Even if I am short on time, I rather hit up a blog later so I can read all the content.
Thanks for sharing your views.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Congratulations on your achievement, Donna 🙂
I think I am a mix of these, but it depends upon the time too. If I have a lot of time, and only a few articles to read, well, then I will take my time. I will ponder and all 😉
If not, then I will be a hit-and-run guy learner. One thing I haven’t done (At all) is comment reader. I don’t read the comments of others’ blog posts (time is the main problem. Who has time, anyways? I have the time to do it, but I would have to sacrifice other activities to do it).
Visual learning is one of my strengths. I don’t have a photographic memory (I have learned that there is no such thing as photographic memory. I am not so sure. Science is still working on answering that), but I do have a strong visual memory. For instance: I can remember facts or things from a certain page of my text book (I can visualize the page, and get the information from my subconscious mind, even though I couldn’t retain the information consciously/directly).
Anyways, thank you for sharing your insights, Donna 🙂
And good luck with the future!
Hi Jeevan!
Thanks for your awesome comment. I like the way you explained how you are a visual learner. Very interesting. I think when I get stuck on something I will try to do this myself!
Time is short and it is difficult to read through the comment section, but when there is a hot topic I find interesting sometimes I do.
I like to see what others have to say, and if it is great….then I will go over to that person’s blog and become a follower!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
I do use that strategy to find commentators, but I don’t use it occasionally, just once every 5-6 weeks? It depends. But, I only do it when I am free. I don’t like to mix that with commenting. I just visit the blogs I know and look at the comments 😀
Twitter: maryjstephenson
October 14, 2013 at 1:52 pm #
Hi Donna
Congratulations on 175th post. I have a ways to go before I am there.
I think I am a little of both visual and cognitive. But that depends. If I like the subject matter I am all into it. If I can totally relate to what the post is about and I have had a similar experience or advocate for the subject I may leave a long comment.
There are times I may thoroughly relate to the post but cannot leave a comment for personal feelings on the subject that may not be so good for the writer. As always, one has to be careful what they leave in print. It is fine to have an opinion, but sometimes it serves no purpose to let the world know what you think.
Great list and never thought much about what we take the time to look at.
Mary
Mary Stephenson recently posted..Things That Go Bump In The Night (or in this case the day also)!
HI Mary!
Indeed we need to be careful of everything we do online. Once it’s done it is there forever.
I like to comment too, sometimes very long ones…. But never negative. If it is something I am strongly opposed to, I won’t leave a comment.
But, if it is something I can politely disagree with, I will first thank the blogger for the information, and then give a short and sweet opinion.
I like to have those kinds of comments on my blog too. It causes a great conversation.
BTW…I LOVE your post!!!!!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Is it normal to identify with a little bit of each learning type? If it’s not then my mom was right to always tell me I was the different one :).
Before I jump to the post I take a look at the site’s design and layout and while I’m doing that I’m thinking how I can make mine better (pondering learner). I do tend to zone out the ads everywhere, if the content is engaging. I don’t mind them so much because I know they’re trying to monetize their blog.
After working in fast-paced environment I learned to read fast and understand what a piece is about. I always had to be ready for feedback and discussions.
Finally, after reading the post, I do read the comments because I like to read other points of view and their shared experiences.
Diagnose me Donna, am I normal or no LOL :).
Thanks for sharing these learning types with us! It’s great to identify the type of learner we are, as long as we continue to learn.
Happy Monday lady!
Corina Ramos recently posted..5 Tips for Avoiding Online Survey Scams
Hey Girl,
Of course you are normal!!! I would say you benefit the MOST from reading and pondering.
I think it is normal to ponder because we have our own blogs that we always want to improve.
As for reading comments, I would say you are the diligent one!
You make me laugh so much Corina…Thanks and I wish you a very lovely week ahead.
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Twitter: AdrienneSmith40
October 14, 2013 at 11:55 am #
Wow Donna, congratulations. 175th post and that’s a big turning point. Bravo young lady and I’m so happy to hear that you’re still going strong.
I love this post and you came up with some awesome titles for people. I never gave that much thought but you’re so right. There are so many different kinds of people in this world so some go straight for the content and could care less about the appearance of the blog while others will nick pick things to death. I think those are more of the designers or creative ones.
Let’s see, which one am I! Well you KNOW I read the posts and then take my time to comment. I will go through some of the comments, sometimes not all. It depends on how much time I have to be honest with you. But I will look for new faces that I might not have seen before and I’ll use that fabulous CommentLuv link to hop over and check out their blogs too.
At times I admit being a skimmer and I think we both know it’s only because the post is just not that interesting. There, I admitted it in public too! lol…
I “think” that would make me more of the Cognitive Learner. I don’t really pay that much attention to what’s in the sidebar unless it’s annoying and driving me nuts. I’m more about the content and the people as you very well know.
Great topic Donna, I love this! Thanks for pointing this out and I sure do hope that there are others out there soaking up this awesome content like we are. I learn so much from my fellow bloggers all the darn time.
Have a great week and hope to see you this week.
~Adrienne
Adrienne recently posted..7 Ways To Run An Unsuccessful Mobile Email Campaign
Hi Adrienne,
Thank you for you awesome comment! I know you are not the type of person that will skim and run….Hey just look at your comment he he he!
I love to read comments too…when I have the time. That’s where I do most of my “skimming” – After I read the content, I sometimes like to skim down the comment section and see what others have to say.
If I find them interesting, I will go over to their blog and see what they are about.
You know Adrienne, I find that those who leave great comments usually have great content on their posts.
Thanks for sharing!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs
Twitter: harleenas
October 14, 2013 at 5:44 am #
Hi Donna,
Congratulations! Great achievement on your 175th post 🙂
I loved the different type of learners you listed out here, and I think I’m a bit of all, though not really the hit and run kinds, except when I am really very-very rushed, which is rare because I do believe in taking my own sweet time to leave a thoughtful comment, as you already know.
I do notice the immediate changes when I visit a blog, but wouldn’t spend much time in going through the other details because like you I read 7-8 variety of blogs every single day, if not more, besides the weekends, when they are just 1-2 or none at all. So, keeping all that in mind and the limited time in hand we all have, it wouldn’t be wise to go into the details. However, sometimes when it’s a noticeable change or the blogger asks you to notice the change or others talk of it, or it hits the eye – you do spend more time on checking out the header, sidebar and other things.
Most of my time goes in reading the content, absorbing it, and then leaving a comment almost immediately before I head to the next blog post. I don’t ponder much unless again it’s a thought provoking post or the one that needs you read through 2-3 times, as it’s a little tough to follow – happens sometimes!
Like you, I get many blog readers coming through the CommentLuv link as well, and I agree, blogging is all about visiting each others blogs consistently and that’s the only way that really works. I wish more people would understand this fact 🙂
I think the amount you learn from each others blogs is commendable indeed! And if you could use the best of what you learn in some way or the other, you would be source of knowledge I think. Not to mention the amount we learn when we research a post to write too – that’s additional.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful post with us. Have a nice week ahead 🙂
Harleena Singh recently posted..Quality Of Life – Let’s Understand It Better
Thanks for your wonderful share Harleena!
I think I do all the above too, except the hit and run. I like to absorb what I read and then leave a comment.
I find it so exciting to keep on learning and one of the ways I do that is reading blogs.
But when it comes to those techie blogs, I must confess that I am challenged. But I try reading it over and over again so I can get a better understanding of it.
Not a techie myself, but at least if something goes wrong, or I need to implement something, I do learn that techie language!
-Donna
Donna.Merrill recently posted..Learn From Reading Blogs