Why No Keywords in the Comment Form?

If you are reading this, you may be wondering why I ask you not to use keywords in the comment form.

Personal Interaction

The reason for leaving a comment on this (or any other) blog is to contribute to the discussion, to ask questions, to participate. It’s not to get backlinks to your website.

We’re trying to build a community here, and that’s difficult to do if you insist on being known as “Discount Homeowners Insurance.”

If you’ve been to a class, or some “expert” has told you that leaving keywords as your name in a blog comment “helps your SEO”, then you should ask for your money back. Or re-evaluate the “expert” advice you are receiving.

It is difficult to have a conversation if readers only know you as PHOENIX HOMES FOR SALE! That depersonalizes the entire experience and discussion.

SPAM

Leaving keywords in the comment name field is a tactic often employed by spammers. You don’t want to come across as a spammer do you?

Of course you don’t. And you’re not a spammer (if you were, you wouldn’t be taking the time to read this).

Leave nothing but keywords in the name field though, and you will look like a spammer.

Wouldn’t you rather look like a normal human being?

Of course you would.

Anonymity

I understand completely that you may not want to leave your real name for a variety of reasons. Sometimes topics on this blog get a little personal, perhaps controversial. In some cases you may have a valid point to add to the discussion, but not want everyone to know your real full name. No problem, leave your first name only. Unless you are Madonna, Cher, Oprah or Fabio, then leaving just a first name means no one will really know who you are.

So please, just leave your name in the comments. I know for a fact that a lot of readers click on the URLs left in comment forms. If you leave good comments, those that contribute to and further the discussion, you will get people visiting your site. And that’s a good thing.

Way better than looking like a spammer…