There is always so much going on in the blogosphere, and I love it – a constant ebb and flow of interaction, but the most recent activity, the ’100 comments challenge’ has shown me a whole new side to the blogosphere that quite frankly, I wish I hadn’t seen.
The Challenge was a fantastic idea – it really was! I mean who would not want the opportunity to meet and interact with 100 bloggers, potential JV partners, and future friends?! The majority of the contributors to the challenge took the opportunity with both hands. I personally took the opportunity with maybe one and half, but some people completely dropped it, in fact I doubt they even knew what they were holding in the first place!
I think you’re missing the point
The idea was to submit a post. 99 others would do the same and then everyone would attempt to get around to everyone else’s listed post and leave a comment. With this in mind, one would assume that you would submit the best post you ever wrote – or at least one that came close, right? Well, the number of times I chanced upon a post that simply said “I am in the 100 comments challenge and this is my post” was amazing! I think I can recall at least 10 where this was the case. Obvioulsy I DID NOT leave a comment. Sorry but I refuse to take part in that kind of valueless drivvle.
And the comments were not much better! Some people stopped by and commented saying “just commenting as part of the challenge”. OK so that is nice that you made it here and commented as such, but what value add is what again?!? How does that contribute any meaningful conversation to my post? Did you even read the post?!? Call me crazy but I think these people kind of missed the whole point to the activity?! (I actually got a comment saying “I am commenting for the challenge, now you HAVE to come and comment on mine, and do it now, challenge ends soon” GO AWAY! I am not even approving that comment btw!)
I am probably going to get frowned upon because I did not comment on all 99 blogs in the challenge, in fact I barely made it through 50, and then I only commented on maybe 25. The blog posts were either mindnumbing drivvle that actually made me stupider when I read them, or they were not in my niche. I refuse to comment if I have nothing to add, and saying I am part of the challenge is one stop short of SPAM!
Maybe I am being harsh, maybe not – but as far as I understood it the idea of the challenge was to meet new bloggers, build relationships and backlinks, and most importantly learn something!
Blogging up the garden path
The problem I see is that too much new blood is being led up the garden path.But it’s not a problem with the bloggers themselves. They are new to the online marketing world and they only know what their mentor is teaching them (or not as appears to be the case in a lot of instances). That’s another trend I am tending to notice. A lot of bloggers seem to be a student of one mentor or another and although this is usually a fantastic opportunity to learn from someone who knows what works, it can also lead to an inability to think for yourself. And THAT is what I am starting to notice in the blogosphere.
Do you know what the Blog you are doing?
If you have nothing of value to offer, then go out into the blogosphere and learn. There are some Marketers who I meet who have no idea about how any of this works, but they don’t pretend 
otherwise either. I have watched them grow and now have a lot of respect for them as a blogger – so I am of course happy to help promote them and vice versa. On the flip side to this, when I first started online I was honest about what I did and did not know and the relationships I formed with some fairly high profile bloggers is still intact and is stronger than ever today. There is a mutual respect there that even I am surprised exists sometimes, but it just goes to show the power of being honest and accountable with your own knowledge and skillset.
But it’s not just about being accountable, in fact this has not really been the problem I have seen out there lately. The biggest issue I see is originality. Too many bloggers blogging the same thing on the same looking blog with the same ‘unique’ gift and the same Bio line, albeit a different name.
If you want to make money blogging then you need to be noticed! The problem with the above scenario is two fold. This new generation of bloggers are not taught how to really drive traffic, and even if they were – their blogs all look so similar that any potential visitors would assume they had been there before and simply leave.
How to never succeed blogging
This is the trend I am noticing online, and at least 25% of the blogs I visited for the 100 comments challenge were guilty of one or ALL of these.
- Blog for the money that you will make from it
- Promote the same products as your mentor recommends
- Promote products you don’t use or even have a clue about
- Use someone else’s gift to build your list but don’t even bother to at least go the PLR route and rebrand it.
- Use Adswaps and Giveaways to build this list of yours.
- Don’t build relationships with other bloggers. Comment occasionally sure – but don’ take it any further than this.
- Build relationships with your Adswap partners and NOT with your list.
- Drive traffic to your site using the same methods your ‘manual’ tells you about.
- Don’t teach yourself anything about link building, SEO, blogging, social media, or any type of traffic generation technique…ever.
- Listen to the teachings of one group or person exclusively
Pick up on the trend in that list? It’s all about thinking outside the square and finding your unique voice. There are heaps of posts you can read on finding your own voice, and of course you can find my blog for a gamut of information on link building and traffic generation, but really it all comes down to stepping outside of your comfort zone and LEARNING SOMETHING
Perhaps you could try to…
- Learn something relevant and applicable
- Contact at least one blogger requesting to submit a guest post
- Comment on 10 relevant blogs – leave an impact.
- Tweet – Share another 10 posts
- Write a post
- Leverage at least one piece of content (build a backlink)
- Be HONEST
- Be ORIGINAL
- Be YOURSELF
Who knows? Maybe you’ll find blogging is not so bad after all.
- What are your thoughts on the state of the blogosphere at present?
- Do you agree with my take on the ‘100 Comments Challenge’ participants?
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Twitter: markbell10
September 6, 2010 at 9:06 PM
Hey Alex,
I didn’t know about this “challenge” until recently. I wouldn’t have taken part anyway. I think we spoke recently about the state of the blogosphere.
I think too many new bloggers are blogging about the same thing (myself included). Which is why I’ve started to try for a new direction. The use of mentors is brilliant – but the problem, as you said, is that no unique thought appears. You are reproducing what has worked, and reproducing the same stuff – it’s not new – it’s worthless.
I’m for the novelty, and trying to make it in the long run – we’ll see how it goes though lol
Mark Bell´s last [type] ..What can an NHL pre-season fixture teach bloggers
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 6, 2010 at 11:57 PM
Hey Mark, Yeah we had a good rant about the state of it all recently – awesome rant too!
I think you blog about the same thing, but add your own perspective. There really isnt anything new to discuss, so experience and perspective are all we have.
You are showing me that you produce and demonstrate both in spades.
Awesome Mark!
Twitter: markbell10
September 7, 2010 at 8:53 AM
cheers mate – nothing beats a good rant! Maybe there’s a whole new blog in there.. thedailyrant.com – I’m in! You up for it? lol
Mark Bell´s last [type] ..Before you start – plan- plan- plan some more
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 1:49 PM
is the domain taken?!?!
Lets do this!
(If the domain is taken – man I’m going to have to rant about that)
Twitter: moon_hussain
September 7, 2010 at 3:59 AM
Mark, agreed buddy. I feel the same as you do. I guess it all comes down to the angle. For instance, someone could write a boring article about eHow or you could have a kick ass article showing how you’re marking a part-time income through eHow.
I know where you’re coming from. It takes a while to come into who you are, writing online…. so give it a bit of time
P.S. Alex, I’m not aware of the 100 comment challenge and if people are doing what you’re saying they’re doing–it’s all pointless.
Moon Hussain´s last [type] ..The Tool that Could Bring You Exposure By the Thousands
Twitter: markbell10
September 7, 2010 at 8:54 AM
Hey Moon,
I’m finding that – it takes time – but i’ve been fortunate to learn from other experiences that patience helps..
I’m a fan of kick ass articles – which reminds me – love you’re recent post – here’s to more visitors!
Mark Bell´s last [type] ..How accessible are you to your readers
Twitter: danielsharkov
September 6, 2010 at 9:25 PM
I never heard of the challenge you mentioned Alex, but its concept definitely seems wrong to me. The idea to get the most comments as possible has the great potential of bringing a flood of spam. Although most bloggers might get the idea that you actually have to add some value, there’ll always be some idiots commenting without even knowing why they are commenting in the first place. Just to “win” a challenge?
That is a brilliant post, but unfortunately I doubt that the ones who really need to see it will care to do so.
Daniel Sharkov@Reviewz ‘n’ Tips´s last [type] ..Backlinks and Why They are so Important
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 6, 2010 at 11:59 PM
Hey Daniel,
You make some good points about the spam threat in it all, but I have to say your awesome comment was capped with the last line!
SO true man. Even if they did come over, I don’t think they would realise I was making fun of them (not unless their mentor told them anyway
)
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 7, 2010 at 9:30 PM
Hi Daniel,
There was nothing to win!
Just the chance to meet other bloggers and create a community!
The idea was an innocent one that had good intentions.
Cheers
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Hi Alex
This is a really powerful and well written post, mate. I enjoyed reading every sentence. I wasn’t even aware of the ’100 comment challenge’ and by the sounds of it I didn’t miss much. Your points about new bloggers being unique and learning through trial and error and being honest and accountable resonated with me the most. I am striving to be as accountable and transparent as possible and open and honest. I have been guilty of trying to build my list through giveaways, but I was also offering one reader a valuable resource, not just some worthless product.
Thanks for sharing.
Michael
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 6, 2010 at 11:55 PM
Hey Michael!
Thanks so much for the comments man, coming from you that is truly a compliment (I say this because Michael has an awesome and engaging style that is very addicitve – check out his blog people!
)
Giveaways are not all bad, so long as you understand its about value FIRST and also about being original. WIth this in mind – you are forgiven
Thanks again for stopping by mate
Mate, thanks so much for the promo
Michael´s last [type] ..Problogger 7 Link Challenge
Hey Alex,
Great post and the ’100 comment challenge’ seemed a little too much effort if people were just commenting with stupid, irrelevant spammy comments. I enjoyed all the post and I really liked the part where you listed ‘be original’. I believe many people are just creating blogs and just copying others, e.g. the ‘how to make money blogging’ scene. So many people are creating these types of blogs and they’re not bringing anything new to the table.
Also, one thing that I kinda wasn’t too sure about was the ‘give away’ part that you listed. I believe give aways can be good sometimes. A friend of mine has started giving away premium themes, plugins, etc. And it seems to be helping new Internet Marketers and/or Bloggers get started online.
Thanks for the great post.
Karl
Karl Hadwen´s last [type] ..How To Setup Permalinks In WordPress
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 6, 2010 at 11:51 PM
Hey Karl,
Thanks for the comments (and backing) my friend!
In regards to Giveaways, I actually meant those list building giveaway things, where you enter your gift, promote the ‘giveaway’ and then hope to build your list from there.
The problem with this is that you are not providing value first. I would rather have a reader sign up because they genuinely wanted to, not because the ‘gift’ seemed cool.
Thanks for the awesome comment man, you have NO place in the challenge with that sort of value add
Twitter: MirkoGosch
September 7, 2010 at 2:32 AM
Hey Alex,
I was just about to leave my comment on your post below but while reading through the comments I decided to stop here for a minute.
I share your questions on Giveaways (and have never participated in Giveaways) but not for the same reason you mentioned in your reply to Karl.
To me it´s fine if someone opts-in to my list because he thinks my free gift is cool.
The exchange of a valuable gift for an email address is an old but still valid concept for list building. Unfortunately many marketers miss the most important part of their “free” gift.
The emphasis here is on Value. Assuming that I provide value the subscriber will stay on and will want more of the good stuff. If he doesn´t like my stuff he can always opt-out easily.
Mirko
Mirko Gosch´s last [type] ..Keyword Tool – Massive Drop in Search Volume Numbers Sends Out SEO Shockwaves
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 2:58 AM
You make a good point there Mirko!
Definitely its about value, but if they are not on the list in the first place, then all the value ‘ain’t gonna do shit’ (so to speak)
Twitter: tnsblog
September 6, 2010 at 10:34 PM
Great Post, as always. I’m totally agree with you.
!
You’ve made some great points
Even i got comments of people saying “i have done comment, now you do” or please comment etc. I think people have taken 100 blog comment challenge in wrong way.
And I don’t think giveaways are bad way to build your list. It works great sometime.
Anyways, Thanks for sharing this great Post.
Keep up the awesome work, as usual.
Dev@Make Money Blogging´s last [type] ..How To Increase Your Incoming Guest Posts
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 6, 2010 at 11:49 PM
Hahaha, I saw that comment too man. It didnt help that the post you contributed was one I wrote – meant for some serious comment replying! LOL
But I did see that last one saying – I have now commented here so you HAVE to come over to mine! What a freak.
Thanks for the support Dev – keep on sending me traffic and I’ll keep up the awesome work
Hi Alex,
You know I thought this challenge was a great idea. (in fact I may of read one of your posts pointing me in the direction of it). However, I just never got round to entering (in fact I forgot the site that was starting it off). Glad I didn’t now!
Someone told me that he gave someone a leaflet that he used in in his business as a template for pushing through peoples doors. A few days later he started getting a few calls from people way outside his patch (250+ miles) he had no idea where they were getting his details from so after the 5 th call he asked them. From your leaflet…..
It turned out that the guy simply copied his leaflet in full even including his telephone number.
Some people sadly can’t think for themselves.
Think outside the box, the square or the fishbowl. Just don’t blindly follow something!
Matthew Needham´s last [type] ..Why franchising might not be right for you
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 6, 2010 at 11:46 PM
LOL!
That is an awesome story Matthew!
Hahahahahahah, oh man, i’m in stitches here!
That pretty much sums up my entire rant, I mean post!
Awesome, thanks Matthew for sharing
That’s great! I wish people did that when I was sending out direct mail.
John
John McNally´s last [type] ..WHY was Clockwork Orange Banned in GB
Twitter: linknami
September 6, 2010 at 11:12 PM
The problem may be in the numbers, 100 posts can take some time to read, so does commenting on 100 blogs with more or less interesting content (which you are forced to read, this also decreases the processing time). Maybe 20 or 30 comments would be more realistic and work better.
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 6, 2010 at 11:47 PM
I hear you there. Might have put more emphasis on the actual value add then!
Thanks for adding your value Andreas! (you would not have fit in the challenge you see)
Alex´s last [type] ..The Pop-up opt-in form What do you REALLY think
You have a point here Andreas but I overall agree with Alex, why? The 100 posts can’t be written in a day – it is a gradual process. It might not be more than 20 posts a day (and you don’t need to comment on all, comment on only the ones you enjoy
)
Onibalusi Bamidele´s last [type] ..Interview With Dynamic Entrepreneur – Martin Njounkwe
Hey Alex, one has to wonder if the person who started the challenge set up a proper set of rules for it. Did they state the importance of the quality of comments? How one should read the post properly so that they knew what they were commenting about? Perhaps it wasn’t all the students fault and a lot had to do with their instructions.
Anyway, I like you probably would have skipped a lot of those blogs. It’s probably why I don’t go for those types of challenges. Loved your title by the way.
´s last [type] ..Teaching People The Proper Way To Comment
Sire@Showing The Blogging Way
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 8:40 AM
Hey Sire
Awesome man, definitely its about quality, but I dont ned to tell you that – just look at his commentluv folks!
Glad you liked the title mate, oh and – I scored this 9/10 (could have made less splash on reentry)
What a bummer, only a nine
Oh well at least you didn’t delete it as spam. 
Keep it up mate you’re doing a great job.
´s last [type] ..How To Change Your WordPress Theme Header
Sire@Showing The Blogging Way
…Build relationships with your Adswap partners and NOT with your list.… This line is so funny Alex!
You are absolutely right with your point, many bloggers just copy the top bloggers from haed to toe and this won’t take them anywhere. One thing I hate that among some set of bloggers is their hatred for SEO, they are not ready to learn it – I get close to 2,000 visitors from Google every month (I don’t know who will want to lose that type of traffic
)
Thanks a lot for the great post,
-Onibalusi
—-
Onibalusi Bamidele´s last [type] ..Interview With Dynamic Entrepreneur – Martin Njounkwe
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 1:51 AM
Hey Oni!
Awesome when a blogger of your calibre agrees in full! (You really are making some serious waves young(prepro) man!
And Organic traffic is the best I agree! Definitely pays to take a step back and think for yourself every now and again.
PS: How did you know this comment was going to get spammed?? That just spins me out that you knew that before it happened. It’s not like you linked to viagra 30 times in the comment or anything either? (or did you? LOL)
Sure Alex,
That is why I comment less on blogs nowadays – Akismet told me my comment is being consistently marked as spam (and I wonder who can be doing this).
Onibalusi Bamidele´s last [type] ..Interview With Dynamic Entrepreneur – Martin Njounkwe
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 3:01 AM
It’s because Akismet knows how much awesome work you are doing in the blogosphere and is doing everything it can to slow you down
That sucks man!
Then I guess they wouldn’t have their way
– I get less than 10% of my traffic from Guest posting – I get almost all of my traffic from GP’ing
Onibalusi Bamidele´s last [type] ..Interview With Dynamic Entrepreneur – Martin Njounkwe
Twitter: Abhishek_saini1
September 7, 2010 at 1:38 AM
Hi
This is great post and I agree with all the points mentioned here.Everybody should know his blog what is it about and what information he is giving.
BTW:I have just post Top 13 Blogger In The Niche Of Blogging Tips(Blog Not Older Than 1 Year).You are in as you deserve to be there.I wanted to contact you but don’t find your contact us page.Post is waiting for your reply.
Thanks For Sharing
-Abhishek
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 1:47 AM
Hey Abishek,
My contact me page is a drop down from the about me tab, but thanks for bringing this to my attention! Making ourselves available is the MOST important thing, so will change that right now!
Thanks for the comments, but even more so for the mention in your list – WOW man, really. Just going over to check it out now – here is the link for your keyword love, and for my ‘look at me’ ego boost LOL
Top Bloggers in the Make money blogging niche
Awesome Abishek
Twitter: Abhishek_saini1
September 7, 2010 at 1:57 AM
Thanks For Making Link Here
Really Thanks
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 2:59 AM
My pleasure mate! Thank you for the link in the first place!
Twitter: MirkoGosch
September 7, 2010 at 2:45 AM
Hey Alex,
The “100 comments challenge” obviously backfired because the rules and intended outcomes from a participation were not stated clearly enough – a pity, I liked the idea when I first came accross it via our friend Sally Neill.
As you know lately I participated in the ComLuv blogging contest and in that contest there were many excellent blog post to be discovered. If you haven´t done so, go and check out the winner´s post. A superb read and a valuable contribution to our market.
BTW: You were absolutely right to delete these stupid comments (here´s mine, now give me yours), these new bloggers totally missed the point and the opportunity. A pity, a pity for them!
Talk soon
Mirko
Mirko Gosch´s last [type] ..Keyword Tool – Massive Drop in Search Volume Numbers Sends Out SEO Shockwaves
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 2:59 AM
That was an awesome post you contributed too!
Still trying to find out who won? where is the link posted?
Thanks for your comments and for stopping by Mirko, always good to see you, even if you do come bearing commentluv gifts of massive keyword drops! LOL
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 7, 2010 at 9:27 PM
Hi Mirko,
“The “100 comments challenge” obviously backfired because the rules and intended outcomes from a participation were not stated clearly enough – a pity”
Rules were stated as clearly as I could put them. Did you find out the rules before commenting here?
Cheers
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:29 AM
Jacinta was not at fault here, she did state the rules as clearly as she possibly could.
It’s like creating a road race. You set rules but you don’t tell drivers which side of the road to drive on, you just assume it’s a given. It’s not Jacinta’s fault a few drove on the footpath, and a few even showed up with a drawing of a car instead of a real one.
You make the rules that are logical – the ones that were not followed were the ones like ‘provide a valuable comment’ and write a post with some sort of personality, opinion, something’
Twitter: MirkoGosch
September 7, 2010 at 3:16 AM
He,he,he
`commentluv gifts of massive kexword drops`:-)
Anyway, here is the link to the winner´s post http://www.famousbloggers.net/strengthen-article-marketing-commentluv-links.html
Talk soon
Mirko
Mirko Gosch´s last [type] ..Keyword Tool – Massive Drop in Search Volume Numbers Sends Out SEO Shockwaves
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 8, 2010 at 4:47 PM
Guess your one of the bullies I was talking about by that comment Mr Mirko!
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: AnaTrafficCafe
September 7, 2010 at 3:30 AM
Sounds like the challenge was a great idea; there was not quality check however.
Here’s my take on one of your thoughts, Alex: “If you have nothing of value to offer, don’t offer anything at all.”
Internet is already littered by a bunch of nonsense bloggers, why add to the noise?
Ana
Ana @ Traffic Generation Cafe´s last [type] ..Treasure Island of Link Building- How to Find the Best Links Every Time
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 8:47 AM
Exactly Ana~
You are a rare occurrence in the blogosphere and a breath of fresh bloggin’ air!
Thanks for your comments Ana
Alex@keyword research tips´s last [type] ..All About Forex Day Trading
Twitter: stevescott1
September 7, 2010 at 4:33 AM
1. Great title
2. For the really bad posts in the blog challenge you could have said this:
“What you’ve just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in the blogosphere is now dumber for having read it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul. ” (stolen and edited slightly from Billy Madision…one of my favorite quotes)
3. I had thought about participating in the challenge, it was a brilliant idea, but sort of feared what you brought up might be true AND I felt I found out about it a little late.
4. In general I do think there are a lot of people regurgitating the same idea’s out there. It is somewhat inevitable since there are only a finite amount of ideas that are really out there. But at least there are some people (like you) who put personality and originality into posts. When people do this even if you have “heard” the idea before it is at least presented in a fun and exciting way.
And repetition to drive important concepts deep into your brain never hurts.
Steve@Lifestyle Design´s last [type] ..52 Daily Success Habits to Develop…Starting Today
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 8:50 AM
LOL! As I was reading that quote I am like ‘this sounds somewhat familiar’ Hahahah
that is seriously the most awesome quote reference anyone could ever want in a comments thread.
My life is now complete!
Thanks for your thoughts and for stopping by Steve, awesome!
Twitter: stevescott1
September 7, 2010 at 4:48 AM
Oh Alex,
One more thing, I mentioned it on the post on my site, but yes, I would definitely like an invite to blogengage. Thanks for offering.
my email is:
stevescottsite@gmail.com
Steve@Lifestyle Design´s last [type] ..Steve’s Sunday Selection Sept 5- 2010
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 8:48 AM
email sent
Alex@keyword research tips´s last [type] ..All About Forex Day Trading
Twitter: TheAvgGenius
September 7, 2010 at 5:27 AM
In the words of Anakin, all grown up and mean, and with asthma no less:
“Impressive!”
Love the images, too, and my goodness – Gary Cooper?? I thought I was the only one brave enough to mention “WATCHOOTALKINBOUTWILLIS?” Long live Different Strokes. And Silver Spoons.
My point, however, is that your post is right up my alley. Read my (when you get a chance) “The Money’s In The List….” rant and you’ll see what I mean. I think I’ll be spending more time here.
Oh, found you through the venerable Ana Hoffman. ComLuv strikes again, though it was more attractive to me what others had said about you in the comments there – I enjoy your good repute before devouring your post here.
Well said, Alex!
JamestheJust on Elance@SEO Powersuite review´s last [type] ..Amazonian Profit Plan Vs Profitzon Christmas 2010 THROWDOWN
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 1:57 PM
James!
Hahaha, awesome man, (I still don’t get the Skywalker reference though)
Just came over from your rant actually – so for you to praise mine is definitely a compliment – man you went off! LOL
Thanks so much for sharing how you found me, always makes it more interesting – especially when I get kudos I didn’t even know about! GO ME!
Thanks for stopping by James, glad you enjoyed the rant.
Love your eloquence too btw, mind if I steal this line for my own blatant self promotion: “I enjoy your good repute before devouring your post here.” Righteous.
Alex´s last [type] ..Article Marketing Part 3 The Unique Article Wizard Review
Twitter: TheAvgGenius
September 8, 2010 at 8:59 AM
Borrow, steal and scrape – and rant on, my friend, rant on. It is interesting to see the rant and anti-rant conversation here – it definitely begs for more conversation.
I’ll leave it at that, there are more feathers ruffled here than in a pillow fight. And I don’t want to crack open another pillow seam.
Oh, the Skywalker reference is simply an oblique way of introducing Darth Vader’s famous line, “Impressive!”
JamestheJust on Elance@SEO Powersuite review´s last [type] ..Make Money Online And Don’t Spend a Dime Part 3
Twitter: Crazyeasyprofit
September 7, 2010 at 11:46 AM
Wish I’d have known about your challenge or for that matter your blog, which I just found tonight.
What IS the state of the blogosphere? Given that:
# The blogosphere is now 70 million weblogs wide
# About 120,000 new weblogs are created each day, or…
# 1.5 million posts per day
# 1.4 new blogs are created every second
# 17 posts are made every second
http://www.masternewmedia.org/news/2007/04/06/blog_usage_statistics_and_trends.htm
who could possibly know what the state of the blogosphere is? Other than “gigantic” and “overwhelming” of course. And no doubt a good bit of it totally pointless.
However, I’m reminded of a book called Global Brain, which — well, here, this excerpt from a review explains it well:
“While technology takes a back-seat to spirituality in The Global Brain Awakens, author Peter Russell takes all the recent hype about global interconnectivity to a fascinating extreme: The Internet as the central nervous system to a newly evolved global organism. Russell draws parallels between the development of the central nervous system in living organisms and creation of Web communications here on Earth, which he argues is the biggest living organism of them all. ”
And then I wonder, in awe, at those numbers and the democratization of The Press (at least until Google and Verizon do their dirty tricks?): We can ALL own a press nowadays! Or several.
Patricia´s last [type] ..The Power of Keywords and Keyword Research
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 1:50 PM
Hey Patricia,
I love stats, and that is some impressive figures. Sheeesh, makes you wonder how we ever get noticed in the first place LOL!
Thanks for your awesome comments and value add Particia.
“The Global Brain Awakens” – A sentient Internet has been done many times in Science Fiction, my favourite was Hyperion by Dan Simmons.
John
John McNally´s last [type] ..WHY was Clockwork Orange Banned in GB
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 7, 2010 at 12:19 PM
Hi Alex,
Hmmmmmmm! Where do I begin to answer this attack?
First: The challenge was a very innocent idea of “receiving 100 comments on a blog post”. Obviously I am one of those dumb new bloggers out there whom know no different that you are talking about!
Good thing I said it was a bimbo moment huh!
Second: This was not a very well thought out challenge of rules etc etc. I completely admit to that. A comment occurred in a forum and before I knew it a few people started the idea of the challenge. And maybe being the DUMB bloggers we are, maybe we should have thought about it more before putting the idea out there!
Third: When I originally wrote the challenge post attracting participants. I had no idea that the idea was going to spread like wild fire. I had no idea that I was actually going to get all the participants that joined. To tell you the truth I didn’t think people would like the idea. I just put the thought out there!
Fourth: The whole concept yes was to get 100 challengers on board to write a post, submit it, honour the challenge and go around to the contributors post, have a read, contribute to the conversation and make a comment, plus socially book mark along the way.
Being the ‘Nice Dumb Person’ I am, people asked if they could submit older post because they felt stressed on writing a post, of which I thought would be ok. As you know people changed their minds during the challenge and changed their submitted posts! This I honoured as well. Dev had a different post submitted before he changed it to your one. He was not the only one a few people did this.
Fifth: I read in one of your comments about winning!
THERE WAS NOTHING TO WIN!! (Maybe the chance to meet new bloggers that you normally would not have met!) (Although maybe that is just the dumb newbie bloggers thinking????)
Sixth: “one has to wonder if the person who started the challenge set up a proper set of rules for it. Did they state the importance of the quality of comments? How one should read the post properly so that they knew what they were commenting about? Perhaps it wasn’t all the students fault and a lot had to do with their instructions.”
Answer: Yes there were a set of rules in place! Yes the importance of quality comments was pointed out! It is not my fault people did not do what they were meant to. There is a saying, you can lead a horse to water, you can’t make it drink!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Again in answer to this attack! And what is more attack from people that had no idea about the challenge concept either.
The challenge concept was an innocent idea to get 100 comments on a blog post, that then grew to encouraging 100 people to participate so we all got 100 comments together. Yes there were a few people that took advantage and just submitted their posts and never went around to everyone’s blogs. And yes there were people that just left really lame comments that had nothing to do with the blog post therefore you knew that they hadn’t even read the post. I have read every single blog post and every single comment on everyone’s blog posts.
So yes if I was DUMB enough to do this again, there would be much stricter rules on contributors and maybe a much smaller idea.
Thank you Alex for pointing out how DUMB of a newbie blogger I am.
Kind Regards
Jacinta Dean
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 1:48 PM
Hmmm, where do I begin my retort…
Seriously though Jacinta – I actually answered your reply at your blog, but I want to add it here, as well as address all these points because, truth be known – I have heaps of respect for you as a blogger, and I think what you created here was monumentally awesome. IT’s not your fault we are surrounded by ‘dumb bloggers’…
First: The Challenge was a Great idea. I even stated as such in my post. Kudos to you for organising such a prospectively good blogging network.
Second: I don’t think there is much to think out about it. You leave a post with Jacinta (you) and then make an effort to go to all the others, thus getting 100 comments on your blog. As a blogger (especially one who wants to make money from it like most of the participants in the challenge) we ALL know the importance of providing value and engagement first and foremost. How were you to know that this was NOT the case. It seems most bloggers truly have no idea. That is not your fault. that hardly makes you a ‘DUMB blogger’ either.
Third: That’s how things like Twitter get started. Shows you are a true entrepreneur and have a great marketing/networking mind. AWESOME! (Hardly a ‘DUMB’ bloggers trait wouldn’t you agree)
Fourth: as I said in point 2, simple and easy RIGHT? Well the issue is with a bad few having no idea. HARDLY YOUR FAULT.
Obviously this was taken as a personal attack because you keep hyphenating ‘dumb blogger’ so for that I apologise, but again you are quite clever actually.
I don’t know why Dev used MY post – this made me see twice as many horrible comments.
The issue is not with whether they changed the post choice or not, it was with the fact that the ultimate choice for so many was a pointless one announcing their participation in said challenge.
Fifth:I read that comment too, and I knew this was never about winning, it’s about providing value, engagement, and learning something. so that point is mute – we are in agreement for one thing (YAY
)
Sixth: I have to apologise for this comment. It contradicts what I said earlier and for that I am sorry. It should not have been up to you to ENFORCE any rules at all, maybe just a brief intro letting people know what this opportunity could mean. This way they might have not wasted the chance. Again this was not something you should have to be burdened with. I honestly thought all bloggers at least had a grasp of the importance of engagement. Guess not.
I will paste the reply I placed on your blog below, but know that I NEVER intended to attack you personally. I honestly have a lot of respect for you because of this awesome idea and concept – and for organising and following up on it all – (INCREDIBLE FEAT)
I just wanted to point out how so many bloggers really have absolutely no clue. That’s all.
Jacinta,
I actually have A LOT of respect for you as a blogger and networker.
I apologise if the post and comments felt like a personal attack, but at no stage did I intend for this to be the case.
I actually said that I thought the whole idea was a brilliant one, and you know what – I don;t think it should be up to you to have to make the rules. What upset me is how so many ‘dumb’ bloggers missed the concept, the point, and the opportunity.
I also had the added bonus of somehow ending up with two posts on the list, so received twice the no. of ‘pointless comments’
Don;t get me wrong, there were a multitude of amazing blog posts, and those that left a meaningful comment at my blog had the favour returned. I just think it was dissapointing that so many bloggers turned it into a spam-a-thon.
Again, I apologise for what obviously felt like a personal attack, but know that I only intended to point out the importance of providing value and engagement first and foremost. Granted I put that point across in a somewhat controversial manner, but is that not the point?
I honestly do have a lot of respect for you as a blogger JD, I don;t expect that feeling to be mutual
Take care, and God bless
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 7, 2010 at 8:50 PM
Hi Alex,
I just made this reply to you on my blog, however I thought it appropriate that I copy and paste it here too.
Hi Alex,
I did not take the post as an absolute personal attack!
What I did find offensive was the term ‘dumb blogger’ and what I also found offensive was some of your commentators making judgment without understanding the original concept of the challenge.
We were all newbies once and I commented from their point of view!
I do agree that some of the posts submitted could have been better and I do agree that some of the comments that people contributed could have been better too! I did read them and I was disappointed when I saw it happening as that was not the original concept of the challenge.
Yes you can tell if someone has actually read the post or not by the way they commented.
And yes you are entitled to your point of view and to write about it accordingly. I Have sat back as your commentator ‘Sire’ put it and taken the feedback on board.
I actually replied to him nicely on your blog just under Fran’s comment, however my original reply went to spam as I linked to a blog post of Sally’s and by the time I found that out, I had noticed another reply that did feel like an attack and therefore I have replied accordingly.
I do agree that maybe rules could have been set out better, however like I replied on your blog, I had no idea how big this thing was going to get!
I do thank you for your opinion and I do appreciate it as I am sure other people will too, and I have taken the criticisms on board so that if I do decide to be a bimbo again and create a challenge I will know how to do it better from the blogging point of view.
Like I said earlier where I got offended was the term ‘Dumb Blogger’ and ‘Blogging by Dummies’. I know that you were not calling me the dumb blogger as such.
I took response more to your commentators opinions of something they knew nothing about!
Plus I also felt for the newbies so to speak that had joined the challenge not really knowing what they were doing. Some of them had never even blogged before the challenge! Give them 100 points for giving it a go!
Alex I do know that you were not attacking me personally as such, however please remember we were all newbies once!
See you on your blog soon as I am sure I will have to answer to a few more of your judgmental commentators.
Cheers
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:38 AM
I should not laugh – but I am. The only reason is because the term ‘Dumb Blogger’ which to be correct is actually ‘Blogging by Dummies’ is the best keyword to use to optimise this post for the search engines.
Nothing more, nothing less. blah blah for Dummies is a popular term, I was simply jumping onto the large search numbers that that can bring
Sorry
I am glad you realise I am not attacking you (I actaully really like you -and I like you even more now because you have gumption and you speak(write) well~)
I just reread the post. IT’S NOT THAT BAD LOL Seriously – I attack the random bloggers in the challenge who ruined it for everyone .
Ironically the biggest culprits were people like Fran T, the one who went ape shit at me earlier. I found that not surprising at all.
I reiterate – Most of the bloggers in the challenge ROCKED IT, some – well not so much
Twitter: bryanmch
September 7, 2010 at 1:59 PM
Hi Alex,
Your post on the challenge in my opinion is rather harsh….
While you are entitled to your point of view and the thing I like about your posts is that you call it as you see it… some of your visitors who left comments had no idea what it was all about.
Quite a few bloggers on the challenge are new to the IM and blogging arena…me included…we do have to start somewhere and this was a great opportunity for me to see what blogging was all about and interact with people who were experienced and others just starting out.
When you first start out ..you do listen to your mentor until you develop your own identity and personality….a large number of the bloggers on this challenge have the same mentor … so a lot of their work would look similar.
I will admit it was quite a challenge to comment on a 100 blogs in one month with something of value…but hey it was a learning experience.
My thought …it was a great experience and if invited to do it again …. I will!
Cheers
Bryan
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:42 AM
Bryan!
Really glad you stopped by. You are an example of a blogger who participated in the challenge with a clue.
You provided a post with personality and opinion, as well as value – and the comments you left on my blog and others were insightful and encouraged engagement.
That is all I think Jacinta intended for the challenge to be -and you grasped the opportunity with open arms.
I dont think my critique was harsh – maybe a bit upfront, but not harsh.
What’s harsh is a valueless comment left on your blog that you know is NOT spam.
I just dont see the point, and I expressed as such
Your point about the mentor is valid, but I disagree. Plenty of bloggers I have met recently are part of a similar mentorship, yet each one of them speaks with their own personality, and gives their blog its own unique flavour.
Its not too much to ask is it.
clearly yes
Thanks for stopping by Bryan
Glad I did too now!
Alex,
I must say I am VERY disappointed in your rant. I am sure I must be one of “those newbie bloggers” you are ranting against. So much for relationship built on TRUST and ENCOURAGMENT.
My perception is you think of yourself as so much smarter, more experienced and heaven’s gift to the blogging world. How could I possibly DARE to not agree with you or join in as you so smugly crow about how much better you are… At everything. From creating posts, to leaving comments and don’t forget about the witty, knowledgeable replies to comments left on your own shining example of blogging!
I do DARE to disagree AND I will tell you WHY.
First, you attack the creator of the blog challenge. Are you showing superior intelligence by stating what you would do if this was your idea? Maybe, it was an idea you have had but didn’t step up to complete because of the challenge/hard work that would be involved? I really don’t expect an answer.
I am quoting here: “as far as I understood it the idea of the challenge was to meet new bloggers, build RELATIONSHIPS and backlinks and most importantly, learn something!” Being new to blogging, I did meet some very kind, helpful and encouraging bloggers in this challenge. People I look up to, admire and hope to become like. It is with those people that I will build relationships and backlinks with. It is those people I am learning from.
Fortunately for me, I have found out the type of blogger you are. I have NO desire to build any type of relationship with you. I HAVE learned I want NOTHING to do with bloggers who believe they can arrogantly and self-righteously attack newbies who want nothing less than to become successful themselves. The ugliness in the superiority of your attitude and response is unbelievable.
I wonder, are you mean to children and small animals when things don’t go your way?
One more thing: “If you have nothing of value to offer, don’t offer anything at all” The only value I have found in this post is the knowledge I will not associate myself with this type of arrogant and vicious mentality.
Fran T
Fran T´s last [type] ..Nopalea and My Knee
Hi Fran, I don’t think he actually attacked the creator of the challenge, rather the fact that there were a lot of bloggers and commentators who abused the challenge, which wasn’t Jacinta’s fault at all.
Whilst the challenge was to meet new bloggers one would also assume that it’s intention was to improve on the way bloggers interact with each other. That being the case you would want to know the negatives as well as the positives.
That’s why I saw this post as the opinion of one of the participants of the challenge, which is his right. One would hope that rather than taking it as an attack one would sit back discussing it’s failings as well as it’s positives so that the next venture would be more successful.
´s last [type] ..Teaching People The Proper Way To Comment
Sire@Showing The Blogging Way
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 7, 2010 at 6:42 PM
Thank you kind Sire.
I don’t think I could have put it any better myself.
No worries Alex, I just call them as I see them. As bloggers I feel we should be allowed to give out honest opinions on services, products or whatever we review. If we find a particular fault with something we would be errant not to point it out.
´s last [type] ..How To Save Time Replying To Comments
Sire@Showing The Blogging Way
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:51 AM
Fran T.
You are entitled to your opinion, and ironically – if your original comments on my post had been anywhere near as thoughtful and insightful as these – then this post would NEVER have been written.
Funny enough, if you could take a second to listen to Sire below , or even to the advice in the post – you would see that there is a LOT of value here.I attacked the ‘newbie blogger’ for maybe 20% of the post – the rest has GREAT advice on making sure you do not become one of the ‘dumb bloggers’
NB: that term was only used because it was the most optimal keyphrase to utilise for the search engines, sorry it became the catalyst in your response – honestly
Thanks for stopping by Fran, seriously.
And I hope you find blogging success in your chosen niche.
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 7, 2010 at 7:48 PM
Hi Sire,
I HAVE sat back and taken notice of what Alex has said as an opinion as a contributor! I did ask for opinions and do respect all opinions both good and bad.
However what I took offense to was the people commenting here and making judgment without knowing the concept of the challenge! This was what offended me the most! And hence my response!
I have duck feathers and did not take this as a personal attack as such, however I did see it as an attack on the newbies (‘dumb bloggers’ as Alex put it) who really did not know what they are doing!
Therefore I voiced from their point of view.
And yes maybe the next time something like this happens again some people should have a little more education on the etiquette of blogging before joining. Such as knowing about commenting and contributing as well as the right way to social book mark etc etc. A suggestion has been given to supply a guide before the next challenge to help people out. I think this is an excellent suggestion.
Sally Neill is currently writing a guide on “blog hopping” and has an excellent post on the rules of commenting that she contributed to the challenge.
http://sallyneill.com/blogging-tips/five-commandments-of-blog-hopping/
These are perfect guidelines as to how to approach the concept of blog hopping and commenting!
I did see the posts that just wrote about the challenge. I actually asked a few people to re-submit other posts instead of ones about the challenge as I did notice it had become a common theme and I wanted people to submit posts that were relevant to their blog.
There were a few bloggers who did abuse the concept of the challenge and for this I am disappointed, however like I said earlier I could not force people to do the right thing as the challenge was intended. Overall there were a good 70% who did do the right thing, which as far as I am concerned was a success!
This challenge was an innocent idea. The only thing to gain really was the networking experience of reading other blogs that we probably normally would not have and meeting other bloggers that we would not normally have.
Reading the last few posts of Alex’s I have noticed he has new regular readers that have come from the challenge! Which I guess was the whole concept in a nutshell!
I would just like people to remember we were all newbies once!
Kind Regards
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:14 AM
Jacinta,
I reiterate the very first point of this post – I have a lot of respect for you as a blogger, and for the whole idea you put together.
(sorry, nothing to smile at, that’s right)
I do have a few regular readers now, and this is because I provided value at their blog and vice versa. I am actually a regular reader at your blog now believe it or not, because I think you are going to make waves – I certainly know you are well known around these parts now
In regards to Sally, she and I have a lot of respect for each other and I am sure if you asked her she would not think I am the ‘bastard’ that you and Fran are making me out to be (Ok more Fran than you – she WAS one of the few that abused the concept if you aske me)
I am going to refer my readers and you to Thu’s latest post because it seems to be a positive look at the challenge.
hopefully you won’t leave with such a bitter taste in your mouth this time – it really wassn’t the intention.
(Im actually annoyed that you are defending them – you are NOT one of them)
Take care Jacinta – really
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 9, 2010 at 10:51 AM
Hi Alex,
Was not trying to make YOU out to be the ‘b’ (won’t say that word, it isn’t nice).
Where I got annoyed was your commentators here making judgment on something they truly knew nothing about. You actual article itself has merit and your points and feedback are valued.
I just found it harsh on the opinions of the newbie bloggers. I do know it was not a personal attack on me, just like I am not personally attacking you. What I am defending is the right of the newbie blogger to learn and grow and make mistakes. And my defending has been more to some of your commentators than to you.
The last 48 hours has been a very interesting experience to tell you the truth. I have learned a lot about people and bloggers and opinions and judgments, both good and bad.
It has been a long time since I have had to put the heels on and get the claws out!
Alex, just remember I have been defending the idea of the newbie blogger learning and growing than actually attacking you.
We were all newbies once, it is so important to remember where we came from and how we grew and how we improved.
Thu’s blog post is awesome!
I was amazed at how many gems she found. She really went digging! Hopefully everyone will get to her post to see what she found.
I have to take the stilettos off now and actually get some other work done for the day.
Cheers
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:56 AM
Peace. (will create post in a few days that will update the ‘Jerry Springer’ show we have created here and also link to Thu’s post because I think there were more postiives than negatives to it too – I just went the other way in my post)
(Im still reply to comments and this appeared!~ You are effective~ OMG!
)
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 7, 2010 at 7:50 PM
Hi Alex,
I just made a reply to Sire’s comment, however I think it went to spam due to linking to Sally Neill’s blog post about commenting commandments.
Cheers
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 7, 2010 at 7:58 PM
Hi Sire,
Hopefully Alex will fish out the comment that went to spam that I replied to you originally about 5 minutes ago!
Yes you are calling it as you are seeing it, however you did not know the concept of the challenge as it was meant to happen and now I am starting to feel on the attack even though I know that this originally was not meant to be a personal attack!
I do value the comments that I have received about the challenge both good and bad. And like you say I HAVE sat back and looked at this as it was meant to.
What I found offensive was people commenting here making judgment without knowing what the original concept of the challenge was all about in the first place!
I also found it offensive calling people DUMB bloggers and thus I was voicing my opinion from the newbie point of view.
Remember we were all newbies once!
I do respect Alex’s opinion of the challenge and do take it on board, what I don’t appreciate is people that join in on judgment before they understand what the original idea was!
Cheers
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Jacinta, I think we have to face facts., whilst there are a lot of serious bloggers out there, there’s probably more who don’t care for anyone else but themselves. These are the bloggers who spam other blogs. If not spam they leave useless comments that do not have anything to do with the post. Their only intention is to get the link juice.
Calling them dumb is probably probably pretty accurate because even if their comment doesn’t get deleted it will cause their reputation, brand whatever more harm than good. Without reading the comments left on their blogs I reckon some of them must have been pretty bad for Alex to be so dismayed. I know this because I wrote a post where I told people I was grading their comments and whilst the majority of them were good I had some DUMB bloggers leave crappy ones as well. I usually delete these comments but I’ve left them on this particular post because I was hoping they had some instructional value.
To me comments are very important and as bloggers we should strive to educate others as to what you expect on your blogs. It’s for this reason that I have a comment policy that I hope people will adhere to. I’ve also posted many articles on the importance of comments, not only for the blog owner but also for the commentator themselves.
Sire@Commenting The Right Way´s last [type] ..Teaching People The Proper Way To Comment
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 8, 2010 at 4:50 PM
It is offensive to call people dumb!
And I guess you are one of the bullies I am talking about.
Have you forgotten you were a newbie once?
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 8, 2010 at 5:08 PM
Sire,
I agree with most of what you say about the value and contribution people should make when writing posts and commenting on posts.
Right now. This feels like an attack on the newbie and I feel like someone needs to defend them, and obviously right now that is me! Considering I was the creator of the challenge and gave new people the chance they deserved.
What is happening here is absolutely awful and instead of attacking newbies people should be helping them and educating them.
How else are people meant to learn?
You do not learn by getting abused or being called dumb!
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Hi Jacinta, Sire, Alex,
I have participated in the challenge and have to side with Jacinta here.
It’s not true that most comments were spammy. In the beginning most comments were pretty good. I was giving my best comments for the most part but admittedly not as good towards the end as the time was running out. But I have never spam commented.
Perhaps I gave 25% of comments that were not up to the standard. I think most people did the same.
For Alex to attack the whole challenge in his post it was probably a link bait.
Aside from that he does put himself on a pedestal and sounds very arrogant.
A lot of the challenge participants are complete newbies and to be so harsh with them as Alex is is not fair. He acts like someone who is trying to get a following by sounding like he knows it all and sees through everything.
Part of the rules, which were by the way outlined very well but not adhered to by some participants including Alex was the commitment to comment on each blog in the challenge.
This is obviously what Alex has gotten himself out of by taking the few spam comments as an excuse and the reason for his wholesale attack on the whole thing.
Vance
Vance@Get More Readers´s last [type] ..How To Get More Readers- 10 Tips To Make Your Blog More Popular
Twitter: sonasathish
September 7, 2010 at 8:26 PM
Hi Alex, this is my first visit here and I am pretty much impressed with your blog. I agree with what you told in this post. Most people in this blogosphere are blogging without any real meaning behind it. I have seen many Indian bloggers who are blogging because they don’t get a job in their field of study. What’s the point of blogging if you don’t satisfy your reader? I myself came into this world to earn money alone, but after visiting many blogs in blogosphere and spending lots of times online, I have learned it was a mistake. I rectified it and I am on the right path now and I seriously hope everyone will follow this.
Sathish @ TechieMania´s last [type] ..Reality about SEO- Blogging Tips and Social Media
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:57 AM
Hey Sathish,
You have a great blog over at TechieMania my friend, so definitely on the right track!
Thanks for stopping by and glad you enjoy the blog/post
Kind of liked your post, some personal viewpoint is always cool to read. RSS subscribed : )
pokerstars rakeback
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 8, 2010 at 3:36 PM
Hahha, awesome! Thanks Nestor – best lastname ever.
Sire/Alex,
Is it really coincidence that you so vehemently defend your right to call things as you see it, yet I myself, by virtue of being one of the dumb new bloggers are not entitled to that same right?
Sire states “Whilst the challenge was to meet new bloggers one would also assume that it’s intention was to improve on the way bloggers interact with each other. That being the case you would want to know the negatives as well as the positives.”
What I posted are MY negatives about the challenge. The challenge has revealed the true character of participants involved. “That’s why I saw this post as the opinion of one of the participants of the challenge, which is his right.” Shouldn’t you also be defending MY right to post opinion as one of the participants of the challenge, which is ALSO my right? Or am I NOT extended that same right by virtue of being new to blogging?
“No worries Alex, I just call them as I see them. As bloggers I feel we should be allowed to give out honest opinions on services, products or whatever we review. If we find a particular fault with something we would be errant not to point it out.” Are you allowing ME to give out my honest opinion on “whatever we review”? I did find particular fault with the prevailing attitude here. As far as pointing it out you have been most shiny examples of the intention ” to improve on the way bloggers interact with each other. That being the case you would want to know the negatives as well as the positives.”
These are MY NEGATIVES. Alex has his own set. I should also mention I have had NO prior dealings or knowledge of any other blogger before this challenge. This is my opinion. Not Alex’s. Not Sire’s. Not Jacinta’s. MY honest opinion.
I did find bloggers that have helped me learn and are newbie friendly. I have also found the flip side of that which IS NOT newbie friendly. If this were a corporate environment one might even call it hostile. Again, that is MY newbie opinion, that I have the same right to have, as you more experienced and knowledgeable bloggers.
Now, let me ask one final question: Is my opinion respected/valued here? Is it taken on board to consider “it’s failings as well as it’s positives so that the next venture would be more successful”?
Most Sincerely,
Fran T
Fran T´s last [type] ..Nopalea and My Knee
Hey Fran, I’m pretty sure I never once said you didn’t have a right to an opinion, of course you have. I was merely expressing mine. No need for everyone to get all upset about it.
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:03 AM
Definitely taken on board Fran.
I will admit that I was a bit harsh, but can you honestly say that this post has no value? Have you really walked away learning nothing from this?
I KNOW you don’t believe me – but I am trying to help.
Twitter: Rick_LaPoint
September 8, 2010 at 1:59 AM
Sorry, I didn’t know anything about the contest. I was too busy working on my own awesome content to notice the world around me. BTW, who is our current President?
Seriously though, when bloggers make the rounds to visit their peers, it’s something that occurs naturally. Friendships are built, camaraderie is strengthened, encouragement and praise is passed around.
Try to force this and it all falls apart. Seems kind of like the computer generated blog spam we all get, or emailing your Mother a Happy Birthday greeting, “To whom it may concern…”
To be honest, though, when I came by to see what mischief you were up to today, I saw 58 Comments and instantly thought, “I’ll bet we can get it up to 100!”
Count me in as # 59
Rick
Rick LaPoint´s last [type] ..Are Comment Links Really Relevant Backlinks
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:06 AM
Hahahaha, and now that I have replied (or retorted as is the case) you are coimment # 80
this is becoming the 100 comments challenge you to a fight LOL!
You make a good point about it becoming too forced. Perhaps that was the reason it went the way it did for some. But the intentions were good
100 comments? we’ll get there – watch. hahahahaha
Thanks for stopping by Rick
Twitter: jblack2012
September 8, 2010 at 3:18 AM
Alex,
I was worried about that 100 comments challenge. So many people are wrapped up in the free traffic myth that it seems as though that they don’t care what to do with the traffic when they get it and they definitely don’t want to help someone else.
I know that I tend to obsess about my own stats on a daily basis and I know that many other bloggers do too. However, it’s NEVER about how many people you get to comment on your post. It’s all about the content of what you are providing and how you are turning those readers into buyers.
Once again, you fall into the latter category, Alex. Always sending out that great, very valuable content.
-Joshua Black
The Underdog Millionaire
Joshua Black | The Underdog Millionaire´s last [type] ..How to Get Your Cheapest Cheapskate Customers to Buy
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:09 AM
Hey Joshua~
Very true about consistency of traffic and knowing how to utilise it once it starts coming in.
Think that is a learning curve we are constantly on, but unfortunately – the ones who stood the most to gain from the challenge appear to be the ones up in arms about me writing bad stuff (I am like that when I dont want to hear the truth so I cant exactly say there is anything wrong with it – human nature I guess)
Thanks for the awesome Kudos Underdog
Twitter: bankaim
September 8, 2010 at 6:46 AM
It is an easy trap to fall into to only do what the “Experts” say to do instead of getting out there and testing what works for you an your blog.
Markets and niches are different and need to be tested. That is what brings success.
Ben´s last [type] ..24 Month CD Rates Fall Below 200
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 8, 2010 at 3:34 PM
Hey Ben~
Exactly right brother! Took me 5 months to figure that out too!
I really like the diagram you made there of “missing the point”. Great Article!
jackson´s last [type] ..Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbell Info
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:03 AM
Thanks Jackson,
Certainly need to be fit to keep up with the storm being created here LOL!
Twitter: bizchickblogs
September 8, 2010 at 8:16 AM
I am so tempted to just give you a pat on the back for this truly great post, but that’s what everyone does, so I won’t just say ‘hey that’s a great post Alex thanks for the back link.’
I will say that you’ve found a great way to say many of the things I have been saying (and thinking) for a long time. There was a lot up there so I’ll just focus on a couple: Comment rings and giveaways and things like that have their place – I am not going to knock them – but I would rather produce something of great value and have people comment than receive comments “just because.”
It’s difficult to understand whether
a) people are so insecure about their content that they must participate in such things, or
b) people truly feel what they have to offer is golden, yet for some reason, on their blogs specifically, they have to resort to competitions and prizes and promises of comments based on loyalty.
Anyway, you replied to James that you came back from his rant and now I am really scared. lol I guess I will get up the courage and go check it out.
But I don’t think you’ll find me doing any of that crap above. If you do, call me out.
Cheers,
Tia
Tia´s last [type] ..Two Cents Tuesday- One Amazing Blogger Broke All the Rules
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:11 AM
Hey Tia,
I don’t think I will ever catch you doing any of the above either.
You provide awesome content and certainly making a name for yourself quickly enough.
Btw, don’t feel like you can’t give me a pat on the back anyway
Thanks for stopping by Tia
Twitter: mmangen
September 8, 2010 at 9:48 AM
Alex:
I think I remember reading your post about the challenge and knew that I couldn’t take it on myself. Heck, I have a hard enough time already keeping up with ones I like. (not to say I would not have found ones of interest in the pile).
@websiteweekend called someone out in a comment on one of my staff writing posts on his site. Both Dave and I agree that we are both blogging about that….(can’t wait to see how closely our posts resemble each other). Anyhow, he called the person out as they were quite clearly commenting in the hopes of getting a backlink. The actual nature of the comment was OK but I felt they definitely had not read the post, rather poorly skimmed it and then tried to drop in their keywords for their company.
All in all….fine we say, right? Except that their company PROVIDES virtual services to business owners, which includes blog commenting. If they can’t represent their own company properly, who in their right mind would hire them to perform services? (certainly not moi)
I changed my blog to DoFollow some time ago and almost every day I think that I am going to remove that (if it can be done easily) as it seems to attract spammers….granted I’m sure that it is not the sole reason I am getting spammers but it seems the quantity of spam increased since I switched to DoFollow.
Sorry for the tirade here.
Michelle Mangen´s last [type] ..Calendar Scheduling Software Services
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:13 AM
Hey Michelle,
I think I am going to change my url to ‘thedailyrant.com’ (pity it’s taken
)
You are more than welcome to start, end, or simply bring with you any Tirade you like
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 8, 2010 at 9:51 AM
Hi Alex & Everyone,
This is really starting to sound like a personal attack on newbie bloggers!!
I now feel like I am defending all the newbie bloggers out there trying to give this industry a go and do something online for their families.
NO they are not as experienced as some, and yes their content could have been better, but how about giving them a chance!!!!!
How else do they learn?
And that is what I did with the challenge. Yes there was a quality check as one of your commentators made comment on, and yes some of the quality was not that great (and maybe in hind sight I could have been stricter), but you know what….. I wanted to give the new people a chance.
A chance to feel like they were part of a community, a chance to learn and grow as a blogger.
OMG I feel like I am in a school yard fight!! This is unbelievable and so so so disappointing!
I know that the internet is meant to be a place where we can express our opinions etc etc,
It is not a place for bullying!!!!!!!!
OMG I had no idea that people could be so opinionated without knowing the true facts.
And in response to “The Underdog Millionaire” it wasn’t about free traffic!!
And in response to Tia and people being insecure, it was not about any of that either!!!
Thank you Alex for showing me the darker side and people of the internet. I am so so so disappointed and have lost all out respect for this situation.
This makes me sad to know that you can never get away from bullies.
I am so so so disappointed.
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: Rick_LaPoint
September 8, 2010 at 11:46 AM
Don’t loose any sleep tonight.
Way back in the day, a few political types were upset that the funny papers cartoon, Doonesbury, was mocking them. When Henry Kissinger was asked his opinion about how he was portrayed in the cartoon, he responded, “The only thing worse than being in Doonesbury, is NOT being in Doonesbury.”
Everybody knows who you are, Jacinta; you’re a player
Rick
Rick LaPoint´s last [type] ..Are Comment Links Really Relevant Backlinks
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 8, 2010 at 4:53 PM
Yes and I wear 6 inch high heels as well!
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:14 AM
Between you and me Jacinta – you HAVE to love that response
Of course now I am picturing Henry Kissinger in 6 inch pumps LOL~
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:14 AM
HA HA!
Touche Rick, Touche
“The only thing worse than being in Doonesbury, is NOT being in Doonesbury.”
Oscar Wilde should be on everybodys book shelf.
John
John McNally´s last [type] ..WHY was Clockwork Orange Banned in GB
Twitter: Rick_LaPoint
September 9, 2010 at 10:58 PM
“It is perfectly monstrous the way people go about nowadays saying things against one, behind one’s back, that are absolutely and entirely true.”
Kissinger was a little more current.
Rick LaPoint´s last [type] ..Are Comment Links Really Relevant Backlinks
Twitter: bizchickblogs
September 11, 2010 at 1:24 PM
Hi Jacinta – The insecure remark didn’t have to do with the 100 comments challenge! I knew nothing about it! Alex listed a few things people do to lure comments, so to speak, and I was just throwing in my two cents.
Cheers,
Tia
Tia´s last [type] ..27 Posts That Will Save Your Blogging Life
Twitter: TheAvgGenius
September 11, 2010 at 4:04 PM
Quit lyin, Tia.
We can see right through it.
You called everyone on here insecure. It’s too late.
(( ** saunters out, stage left, clandestinely ** ))
JamestheJust on Elance@Freelance Copywriter´s last [type] ..Amazonian Profit Plan Vs Profitzon Christmas 2010 THROWDOWN
Twitter: thublogger
September 8, 2010 at 12:53 PM
Whoa Alex!
You went John Chow and started up a storm! What a rant for the holiday. I remember reviewing his Ultimate Blog Profits Blueprint and he said something about handling negative comments. You sure did build traffic for this one and on both sides of the spectrum. ;P However, as a participant of the ’100 Blog Comments Challenge’, I’ll have a say as well.
It definitely is the numbers here. 100 is a lot for someone just starting out. Let’s say, more refinement can help. The ‘bimbo moment’ which Jacinta started is brilliant but now that it’s over, your points are valid as well. Good lessons for those who weren’t involved.
I do feel for the newbie bloggers as Jacinta points out, however I’m not going to lie, I agree with you as well if I didn’t know the bloggers in this challenge. Perhaps ‘dumb’ was a bit harsh however knowing you, you say it like it is Alex. I wouldn’t change it any other way. That’s why I love you.
But for me, I try to look at it from a positive viewpoint despite the distractions.
Yes, there’s a lot of copy and paste.
Yes, there’s a lot of non-valued posts.
Yes, there’s a lot of following.
Did I turned my cheeks and ignore these time-wasters? I guess I did. Point is I wanted to make it work and the last thing which I thought was going to happen was the opposite – not make it happen. Who says to stop when the going gets tough? I thought it would be worthwhile to see it for what it is, a challenge. Overall, your tough love on blogging needs to be heard.
Thus, we have a right to disagree and with that build a following on varying levels. Can’t we all just get along? Most of the participants in the challenge do not know blogging right from wrong. They see a challenge and that’s just it. Just in for the ride. Heck, me too! I rather not get into the politics of blogging though. Give me art or give me facts. If you can give me both, we’re grand.
Keep on truckin’ as bumps in the blogosphere like these happen all the time. With that, let’s shift the energy instead to find some gems. (Hint, hint – see commentluv).
Talk to you soon Alex!
Thu
Thu Nguyen´s last [type] ..Gems of the 100 Blog Comments Challenge Part 1
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 10:10 AM
Hey Thu!
I have no idea how this little rant turned into an almost apocalyptic mess, but needless to say – I LOVE IT! hahahahaa.
In response, not that your comment really requires one…
I think you approached the challenge like most of the bloggers participating, that is – making it a fun experience. All I did was dare point out the random ‘dumb bloggers’ who made it a shambles at times.
But the only reason I called it ‘blogging by dummies’ is because that was the best keyword to use LOL! There was no other reason~
Checking out your post now – if only to show my face there and see if I can start another blue LOL!… no seriously, I started this post stating I had a lot of respect for Jacinta and the whole concept – so I dont know why she feels like this is a personal attack.
Fran T is the one who has no idea – and ironically, she is one of the ones to show her face here and get all ancy about everything LOL..
Thanks for your comments Thu. You are a perfect example of a participant that HAS A CLUE (and there were a lot more of you too)
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 9, 2010 at 10:31 AM
Thu’s post is awesome!
There is some amazing stuff to be found on some of the blogs.
I was amazed when I read it yesterday.
There are some gold nuggets in there.
Cheers
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: thublogger
September 9, 2010 at 1:01 PM
Hey Alex,
Ya know as I’m whipping up part 2, I couldn’t help but think that the list could be Part 2 of the challenge. LOL. Perhaps it might be received in another light from a blogger who’s looking for value. So let’s say I filtered out what was given and found the gems worthy of looking at. If only I thought of this sooner. You brought it mate, it just had to be done. My head is whipping up another post soon on this topic.
Ah, the magic of relevancy!
Thu
@Jacinta
Thanks for the kind words! You can say that I was the lighter side of the finale here. Because honestly, Alex really brought the challenge further. There’s lessons to be learned here as he is very knowledgeable in the blogging industry. Hence, the numbers of comments on this post has made you a star!
So please do forgive that he can be downright up front!
That’s just who he is and that’s part of marketing effectively to see both the black and white and that’s why I admire his marketing tactics. He doesn’t call himself the keyword guy for nothing! 
Talk to you soon!
Thu
Thu Nguyen´s last [type] ..Gems of the 100 Blog Comments Challenge Part 1
Twitter: bryanmch
September 8, 2010 at 3:05 PM
Hey Alex,
I noticed that my reply is still awaiting moderation.
There are comments after mine that have been moderated.
Did you miss it?..
Well at least you did not delete it as spam.
Cheers
Bryan
Twitter: TheAvgGenius
September 8, 2010 at 4:56 PM
Wow. Are you purposefully ignoring the glaring irony that you are not in the “contest” (since it’s over) but here we are…at, what? Comment 70+…how odd.
Oh, lookee! Deadline…gotta run.
JamestheJust on Elance@Freaking Amazing Blogger! Represent!´s last [type] ..Make Money Online And Don’t Spend a Dime Part 3
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 9:32 AM
The irony is certainly not lost on me….
Thanks for stopping by James.
I find it fitting that James ‘the Just’ is sitting on the fence on this one LOL!
Good to see you mate!
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:15 AM
LOL! Just noticed your Keyword Luv optimisation.
Represent indeed (plus I just wanted to carry this post over the 100 comments margin!)
Twitter: keithalston
September 8, 2010 at 8:58 PM
Hi Alex,
I may be putting my neck out here but I actually defend Jacinta on the great work she did on the challenge unlike many of your unforgiving commentators above.
What Jacinta did was a great worthwhile cause and the object was to get NEW marketers together with experienced pro’s who could possibly be later jv partners etc etc.
While many blog posts I agree were mundane, boring and lacking in originality it was the first time a lot of these ‘newbies’ had contributed to a huge task. It was a learning curve for them which I am sure a lot has been learnt.
All in all the 100 blog challenge has been a success in it’s own right as many people are talking about it but it is a shame many of your contributors did not come forward in the challenge to show how it should be done correctly.
Jacinta had the idea of this challenge and it was greeted as an excellent idea by the mentor who is a greatly respected marketer himself so while opinions may be divided between folks, it has created an impact.
As a relatively new blogger myself I have (and am) learning all the time I would not attack a really good initiative taken by a ‘newbie’ as many here have done. At least by reading the above comments I see some people I would not want to be associated with so once again I have learnt something.
A good post by you Alex, very constuctive and honest one which is appreciated. It’s a shame I will probably be attacked by some for my views but hey, we all have to start somewhere..remember!
Keith
Keith Alston´s last [type] ..Free WordPress Themes
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:19 AM
Keith,
Mate you are not putting your neck out, not any more than anyone else here at the moment LOL.
I am with you, Jacinta did an awesome job! I have two kids, I can see from here avatar that Jacinta has at least one, so managing to organise all of this AND be a fulltime MUM….hello!!
I simply attacked the idiot participants- and did it controversially.
But you know what – this post is over 100 comments now – so it worked! LOL
Can I also add (Fran, you listening?) that you actually are on the right track, and although you maybe a ‘newbie blogger’ as you put it, you have taken the post as constructive criticism, which is what it was meant to be all along.
And I will admit, it was a bit harsh at times – but I didn’t realise so many bloggers were so precious
Twitter: newbizblogger
September 9, 2010 at 10:56 AM
Well Alex, looks like you touched a nerve here with this one, huh?
What a shame, sounds like it could of been a really valuable challenge. It sounds to me as if someone may have to reinvent the challenge …mmm???
Maybe that’s a challenge you can take on…I would join.
Anyway, I can understand when you are first starting out, you are like a toddler on training wheels learning to ride a bike. It takes time to take them off and find your own balance.
But once you let go and are free to move on your own, you should begin to find your own individuality and voice and think for yourself. That’s what makes you unique. That’s what set you apart from the THOUSANDS of other blogs out there.
It’s a process though, and we can only hope that people eventually learn that lesson.
Anyway, enough of my yapping…great post. I applaud you for having integrity and not playing by the “rules” because you knew that it did not feel right for you.
Michele @ NewBizBlogger´s last [type] ..RSS – Feedburner – What
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:23 AM
Hey Michele,
I agree that when you are first starting out you make mistakes and take a while to learn the ropes, but some of the participants had 100 blogs to practice on, yet still showed up to the 76th blog and said ‘here is my comment for the 100 comments challenge’
I’m sorry – but if you are still doing the same thing after 75 visits and expecting a different result, then you are either insane or just a ‘dumb blogger’ (sorry JD – Iknow you hate that term, but I need to be consistent now )and I am a male so arrogance is playing a part too
)
Thanks for your comments Michele and for respecting that it was just my opinion (and that of 50 or so readers LOL)
Twitter: stevescott1
September 9, 2010 at 11:19 AM
Whew, glad I grabbed a bowl of popcorn before readin’ through these epic posts/ MMA cage matches. Good stuff! I hope you are all ready to shake hands and be friends.
Steve@Lifestyle Design´s last [type] ..Info Income Coaching Class Week 10
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 9, 2010 at 11:20 AM
LOL! MMA Cage match!
That’s it- hahahahahaaha OMG< it feels like it, certainly from where Jacinta and I are sitting (OK maybe just Jacinta
)
How’s the popcorn?
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 9, 2010 at 11:34 AM
OK so do I need to keep the stilettos on here?
Or can I actually get out of the cage for a while, go have a drink and popcorn sounds yummy right now considering I was meant to be watching some seminar DVD’s this morning.
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: KathyBlogger
September 9, 2010 at 11:36 AM
I wanted to be comment number 83. (lol)
Next time you guys fire up a blog hopping comment frenzy, you be sure to include me. Just find a way to weed out the people that you know you cannot trust. One way is by finding all the good commenters on your blog and doing it by invite only. Collect all the email addresses. Shoot them a quick email and let them opt in. Then you won’t get the worst of the worst. You might still get a few abusers, but for the most part, the ratio ought to be a lot smaller and definitely worthwhile.
Kathy´s last [type] ..How Will Google Instant Impact Internet Marketing
Twitter: JacintaDean
September 9, 2010 at 11:42 AM
Hi Kathy,
Good Suggestion!! Thank You!
Jacinta
Jacinta Dean´s last [type] ..Did You Complete The 100 Blog Comments Challenge
Twitter: TheAvgGenius
September 10, 2010 at 10:01 AM
Ditto Jacinta…KB’s a smart cookie.
Just less fun that way.
JamestheJust on Elance@Freaking Amazing Blogger! Represent!´s last [type] ..Amazonian Profit Plan Vs Profitzon Christmas 2010 THROWDOWN
Twitter: bizchickblogs
September 11, 2010 at 1:46 PM
Funny I never even heard of this until Alex mentioned it. Not sure how I missed something that 100 bloggers were participating in. But hey Kathy – if you get the invite, be sure to pass it to me, too!
Tia´s last [type] ..Are You Ignoring the Best Source of Content Ideas
I think I spent more time reading this, than I did on the challenge.
It’s been fascinating. I’ve learnt two things; 1) The power of keywords (“Dummies”), and 2) The power of blog-hopping (thanks Jacinta). 
John
John McNally´s last [type] ..WHY was Clockwork Orange Banned in GB
Twitter: thublogger
September 10, 2010 at 2:25 AM
Isn’t that a truth!
I’ve learn something from this article too!
I found that Alex outdid himself this time however, he’s got it from both ends, his own readers and the challengers who truly are providing relevant thoughts. 
Way to go Alex! LOL
Thu
Thu Nguyen@BloggingFor´s last [type] ..Gems of the 100 Blog Comments Challenge Part 2
Thanks for this great article, Alex. Clearly you practice what you preach!
“Be honest. Be original. Be yourself.” should be the mantra of every blogger. It’s easier said than done, but it’s a recipe for success every time.
Would love to hear your thoughts on my recent article: http://www.famefoundry.com/4224/shut-up-and-blog-already.
Cheers!
Beth
Beth | Charlotte Website Design´s last [type] ..8 Must-haves for the Ultimate TV
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 12, 2010 at 7:10 AM
Hey Beth!
Thanks, checking out your article now – with a title like that!
Twitter: Crazyeasyprofit
September 12, 2010 at 8:15 AM
That is easily one of the best — and quite possibly THE best — article I’ve ever seen on blogging. Period.
But you know what? I kept looking everywhere for a name that went with it, for ownership. It’s possible I may have missed it, but if not, then I hope that can be remedied.
Finally, I LOVE this: “Be honest. Be original. Be yourself.” I think I’ll tatoo it to my forehead. It’s not so much that I needed a reminder (see my blog and my response to Alex’s comment), just that it’s such a perfect and succinct way to put it.
Patricia´s last [type] ..Two Awesome Blogs to Follow
Alex, you have a way with words that get me fired up (not in that way).
I’ve noticed this lately and frankly it almost made me quit blogging – I kept seeing a few guest posts that were almost exactly identical to their previous guest post – boring, boring boring. It made me think “what’s the point if people just eat up the same stuff over and over again”.
In fact, I have a post that I’m debating that digs through our derivative culture. It’s a bit too negative for the blog though but maybe it’s actually quite perfect – time to ruffle some feathers, ya know?
Murlu´s last [type] ..Murlu Musing- Things I’ve Got Going On
Ha Ha Ha, you are have created a storm here, mate. Some of the arguments for and against are gold!
Love your work!!
Michael
Michael´s last [type] ..How To Turn Your Readers Into Buyers
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 11, 2010 at 5:17 PM
I am but merely a vessel. A conduit through which ….hahahahaha, yeah I know it is a shit storm, but my traffic stats are through the roof LOL
Twitter: TheAvgGenius
September 10, 2010 at 10:00 AM
Wow. 121 comments? Are you SURE you didn’t just set this up to prove a point, Alex? No matter – I think you did set a good standard here.
Controversial? Sure. A little heated? Yes, but I think overall there was misunderstanding, and a lot of pride getting bandied about (not sure that blogging is good for egos – unless you just plain rock, you stand a lot to lose).
NOT throwing stones – this ain’t my dog fight! – but it was entertaining to read, and salient points all around.
Alex, I officially crown you “Bloody Genius.” Darn. Another person smarter than me…I hate that.
JamestheJust on Elance@Freaking Amazing Blogger! Represent!´s last [type] ..Google Instant Ain’t Coffee – Keyword Research Tactics Changed
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 11, 2010 at 3:05 PM
Lol! I love your comments James! Granted you compliment me, but you do itwith such grammatical flair! Awesome (I am so smart. S M R T
Hi Alex,
I agree 10,000% on your view of the comments challenge. Yeah, that much.
What the ” Comment Drive By” crowd fails to realize is that it’s not about them. Effective commenting is about adding value to a post. It’s helping out your fellow blogger, not trying to make numbers for a contest which benefits you. It’s not about you.
Thanks for sharing the wonderfully comprehensive post.
Ryan Biddulph
Ryan Biddulph´s last [type] ..How to Slap Your Next Blog Post Out of the Park
Twitter: Crazyeasyprofit
September 12, 2010 at 8:19 AM
So, Alex. Just how long IS the world’s longest Comment thread?
Twitter: michaelpedzotti
September 12, 2010 at 10:05 PM
Hey Alex,
I was in on the 100cc and mostly enjoyed it. I did see those drive-by comments and I did see valuable, well constructed comments. Just like it takes a lot of different parts to make a Boeing 747, the blogosphere is made up a many different people. There are lots of rivets in a Boeing that all look very similar and there are some pretty neat bits that are really impressive (eg engines) but every bit plays its part and is there for a purpose. The challenge for the rivets is to be different and be noticed.
I cannot recall where but I left a comment on one of the 100cc participants blogs along the lines of your post above (but with a little less mustard) indicating that it would be a good idea for that particular blogger to be original (or something like that).
What can be missing sometimes from the cookie-cutter blogs is the spark of originality. Every one of us started out somewhere and very often it is through failure that we experience success. After all, success is not a lot more than a series of failures overcome by a will to achieve.
For the rivets, it is a matter of passionately believing that they are where they are for a purpose. I see myself as one of those rivets and I am slowly colouring and shaping what is visible so that it is different from all the others. What I make of it will not appeal to everyone but will stand out enough to get me noticed.
Perhaps the culprits, so cleverly staying below the radar, are the handful of people selling the rivet shops. Those people who are making money telling other people that they can make money by telling other people how to make money. That really does make sense if you read it again slowly.
Too much emphasis seems to be placed on churning out more of the same rivet shops when what the world needs is a few of these blogs to retool and begin making coffee carts, arm rests and puke bags.
Cheers, Michael.
Michael Pedzotti@software tools for bloggers´s last [type] ..A simple solution to a bogged blog
Twitter: TJ_McDowell
September 13, 2010 at 5:18 AM
It sounds like the challenge didn’t go exactly how they planned it. In theory, it sounds good, but because people would rather take shortcuts, it wasn’t too effective. I’m new to the whole blogging scene too. Sure, I’ve posted here and there over the past few years on different blogs, but I’ve never stuck to it. I think you can only truly build community when you’re dedicated to building up your blogging network, and that’s where the work of being a genuine participant comes in. Don’t you think?
TJ McDowell@Photography Education´s last [type] ..Jpeg Or Raw – Which Is Better
Twitter: buildrankprofit
September 13, 2010 at 1:27 PM
I think the challenge got a bit bigger, a bit quicker – than expected, but apart from the few ‘dumb bloggers’ it went quite well.
Maybe not as well as this post though
Thanks for your comments TJ, and yes I totally agree – you need to be a genuine participant in order to reap the long term benefits of blogging
Awesome point!
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