Feb 23, 2015 / Community Pool

Community Pool

The place for advice, feedback, and friendly blogging chatter.

Have you just published a new post and are dying for some feedback? Did you recently start your blog and could use some layout or design advice from your more seasoned peers?

Tap into the wisdom of The Daily Post blogging community and leave your question here in the comments. Others can then click through and offer input either on your site, or in the comments here (feel free to indicate which you’d prefer).

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Photo by Brian Cantoni.

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    5. I love your style, and I particularly enjoyed “A Cosmic Reality Check.” I think this perspective is one sorely lacking in the modern world, and more people could benefit from accepting our position as another cog in the machine as it were. I find the notion rather lovely, if not a little overwhelming, myself. Anyway, great stuff!

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Glad you did. And I couldn’t agree more. I hope your superb short story “The Guardian of the Forest” gets published. I’d recommend you all check it out.

        Like

  2. Hi! I did a very clever poetic/rhyming post last week that deals what what you feel like when you are in a depression and a little bit of the mindset you have to get out of it. My family, friends, and some bloggers loved it but I would love to know what you think about it as well! I think you’ll love it! https://whatiliketodobysteve.wordpress.com/2015/02/19/the-poeticrhyminglyrical-genius-brings-you-the-prequel-to-somedays/

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I’ve only read two or three posts so far, and The Paradox sounds pretty interesting to me. Liked the whole idea of posting mood-stimultating music with each extract.

      Like

  4. Hi guys! I’ve added a lot more posts from last week and updated my design! I would love to know what you think about it! In return, I’ll look at your blog! whatiliketodobysteve.wordpress.com

    Like

    1. A rather clear and simple design, good job. The only suggestion I’d make is to reduce the number of items in the top menu bar. Keep the “Featured post of the week” though, that’s a neat touch!

      Like

    1. Hi Michelle,

      I love this subject. I would of liked some more pictures (personal opinion) and some links connected to the hash tags and @smrtgrls etc…

      Overall I love your blog! Im now a follower 😉
      Keep it comin!

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Well written post, enjoyed the read. Anonymity on the internet is a topic I have and am still struggling with intensively. One one hand staying anonymous gives you peace of mind, but opening yourself a little potentially opens you up to so much you haven’t seen yet. I have done a post on this topic a while back, have a look if you like:

      http://onefortyone.ws/?p=267

      Liked by 1 person

    3. I already follow Suzie, and I would highly recommend visiting her blog if you haven’t yet. She has a wonderful written voice and speaks openly on relevant topics. In addition, she is diligent in providing a forum for other bloggers to share their work. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    4. I also blog on mental illness. I have kept it anonymous except for my best friend. I bounce things off of her and she gives me some guidance. Other than that, people in my life know I write a blog, but they don’t much care. I like it that way. I think if everyone read it, it would lose its “venting” power for me.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. I agree – hindsight is a wonderful thing and while I appreciate the support I receive from my friends and family I wish that I hadn’t been quite as open with them about it… Thanks so much for your comment!

        Like

    5. Hi Suzie,
      I tried commenting on your post but the WordPress app froze. My comment might have posted twice or not at all. So, I decided to try posting it here:

      I’m a mental health blogger and find anonymity to be essential. I’ve told a few people I’m very close to about my blog, and I think reading it helps them gain a better sense of what’s going on with me. (My mom decided very early not to read it, which I think was a healthy choice and I appreciate the respect she showed by making it.)

      Otherwise, it’s completely secret and that frees me to write candidly about topics I wouldn’t feel safe sharing with current and future acquaintances (mostly because of sigma) but need someone to read. It’s helped me to grow so much and to deal with very difficult experiences. I’ve gotten so much support from other bloggers, it’s been wonderful! And I’ve learned a lot from reading blogs I wouldn’t have known about if I hadn’t started “a day with depression.” It helps so much to know I’m not alone, to be part of a community.

      The downside to anonymity is having this thing I’m very proud of and pour tons of energy into that I can’t talk about. Some of my best writing is on my blog but I can’t show it to potential employers. I constantly worry about whether writing about a certain topic or reblogging a post on both WordPress and Facebook (under my legal name) will reveal my identity. I feel like it’s only a matter of time before people start figuring it out, or I just can’t take the pressure anymore and decide to come out. To be honest I feel kind of paranoid and anxious about preserving my anonymity.

      But for the time being, at least, it’s worth the cost.
      – Ziya

      Liked by 2 people

      1. What an amazing comment Ziya, thank you! It’s really interesting the hear about the fact that you have kept yourself anonymous but have created something that you are proud of and can’t talk about – that is something that I haven’t really taken into consideration!

        Like

    6. Really loved your post, so honest and true- something I think a lot of people can relate to. There’s the desire to write whatever you want to stranger, but also the pride you should have in showing those that know you what an excellent writer you are.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Your posts are informative and will definitely be helpful to those seeking to expand their online presence. The site overall looks professional, and the posts are well-organized. You might consider adding a bit of color or perhaps more photos, but you are off to a great start!

      Like

  8. Hello everyone!

    It’s been a while since I’ve been in the blogosphere, but really eager to get back into the swing of things and join all your lovelies again.

    I’m looking for general feedback, but on my writing. What works, what doesn’t, what should/ shouldn’t I take with me into a fresh start in blogging.

    I also thought it would be nice to do a little feature once a week, but have no idea what to do – any thoughts or anyone that wants to join in and link up would be appreciated!

    Lots of blogging love,
    Sare
    http://www.newteacherlife.com

    Like

    1. Hi Karen,

      What an interesting topic! I had no idea about Hobo Symbols!
      Keep em coming.
      I would suggest breaking the paragraphs, that you have already put in place, down by using the return key after some sentences.
      Merely for an easier flow on lazy eyes (such as mine)

      Have a great day!

      Like

  10. Hello every one!
    I would love it if some of you could have a look at my blog!! I blog about life as a Christian teenage girl, and lots of other things that I love!
    I’d love it so much if some of you could have a look and tell me what you think! I will be sure to return the favour 😊xxxx

    Like

    1. Hi Graciellen! I love that you are fearlessly sharing your faith; it is so encouraging to see another sister-in-Christ sharing her life. I was particularly fascinated with your post “How to Become a Christian Again.” As a Christian blogger, it is important to share with others what you believe in and essentially always leave that option there for your readers to decide to come to Christ. I wanted to give you just some feedback about that: I like to back up my statements from scripture, so that my readers to understand that I am doing exactly that: staying true to scripture. These breakdowns will also allow for a more interesting layout, because it will give some breaks within your post for your reader to take a breath. Keep on blogging, lovely, and sharing your love of God with the world. (:

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Wow thank you so much Shannon!! That’s really kind of you, thank you for taking the time to look at my blog! I completely agree with the bible verses thing, today I’m planning to write a post using lots of verses to break it up. Thank you so so much!!! 🙂 🙂 xxx

        Liked by 1 person

  13. I’ve been delving into a world of poetry since joining WordPress’ latest course and I’m enjoying the results. I created my first post showcasing someone else’s work at the weekend, with a video, I’d appreciate any thoughts and whether it sits nicely alongside my other pieces?

    I’ll happily return any feedback 🙂

    Blue.

    Like

  15. Hey everyone! I blog about my views on my life and the world around me. I try to be positive and uplifting, because I think the world needs more smiles! This is a post I wrote yesterday tying in some themes from The Hunger Games to life inspiration: http://sherinaspeaks.wordpress.com/2015-02-23/the-hanging-tree-and-hope/

    I would appreciate any feedback on the post, as well as my overall blog. I’m more than happy to return the favor! Happy blogging 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    3. Enjoyed your post, Sherina! I like the simplicity of your blog, I think it keeps the focus on your writing. My only suggestion would be to add some pictures, or just one picture of yourself, if you’re comfortable doing so. It’s always interesting to see what people look like and I think it helps to connect with someone better.

      Please feel free to look at my blog also and give feedback. I’m new to the whole blogging thing and am just winging it right now.

      Good luck with your future writing, hopefully we’ll be seeing more from each other!

      Like

    3. Aside from not watching the Oscars, I really enjoyed the way you write. It is professional – I felt like I was reading a magazine – but also approachable. (Also, I definitely do agree with your choices.. some of those “misses.. well, that was a polite way of putting it!)

      Like

      1. Thank you so much for your feedback.
        I do try to write as if I’m simply discussing something with people in person. But always try to add some humour to it 😉
        Made my day thanks!

        Liked by 1 person

    1. There is a potential in your blog. I love quotes and I like your collection. Try to join blogging courses in future. You’ll learn a lot out there(I have also learned a lot in these courses)

      Wish you best of luck with your future posts!

      Liked by 2 people

    3. I agree with naturelover – the blogging courses would really help you further develop your blog. I am also a student, which is the reason I haven’t done them; even if you are not “officially” a part of the WordPress blogging 101 and 201 (and etc) courses, you can still see their posts. Maybe try some of these, when you have time!

      Liked by 1 person

    1. I’m totally not a tech-y person, but that’s a cool idea! I would be interested in reading more about it from different perspectives (eg. maybe how it limited communication, productivity, your life overall).

      Like

      1. Thanks for the input! I am eventually planning to test out the current state of convergence developments myself as it’s something I am very intrigued by.
        It’s encouraging to read that my post managed to interest a non-techy, too! 🙂

        Like

    2. Hi Phillip, I enjoyed your post and agree how keyboards are missed using smart phones and the challenge you set yourself with your post.
      I also totally understood about your comments on music in gyms, obviosly designed to numb senses in your article ‘Home alone & avoiding the gym’. Cheers.

      Like

  23. hi I just created an account here I really love writing short stories §real life stories) I have always wanted a to blog but didnt know how but yesterday took courage and made an account just that am afraid of if someone will ever read or where i will get readersa and if they will like what I write…

    Liked by 3 people

    2. Always listen to your heart. Do not fear others.
      My feedback to your blog will be to have an “about” page so readers can have an idea of who you are and what is the blog about. Good Luck!
      Thanks! 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    3. You will find this to be an encouraging, supportive community! It can be intimidating and scary to think about putting your words out there for the world to see, but I promise it is also exhilarating and freeing. Just jump in and write! Best of luck!

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Ooh I remember your blog, commented on it a while back 🙂
      I personally wouldn’t limit myself to fitting into specific categories, but if you strive to do so I’d recommend categories like “Back to Nature” or “Self Healing”.

      Like

    2. Wow, you write beautifully! Your blog itself is beautiful and, somehow, relaxing. Categories would be “Life” essentially, as you are talking about personal experiences. However, there are aspects of Philosophy, Psychology, Poetry, Writing and Photography too. You can possibly use these as tags or categories, which would bring you the readership that writes similarly. I do too, but my style is very different! Keep up the good work though. I like your layout too, very in sync with your content. Good luck!

      Like

    4. I’ve been following your blog for a few weeks now and I absolutely love it! I especially love when you sign off your posts with “fireflies aren’t meant to live in jars”… this is a beautiful and powerful mantra!

      Liked by 1 person

    5. Storytelling perhaps? You are still young and vibrant and there is a surreal element in your writing and photography that is really appealing.

      Liked by 2 people

    1. Commented on the post but just to say it’s a really interesting exploration of a complex and subjective subject, the sort of thing that really appeals to me. It’s well-written and easy to read as well. Good job 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Thanks again! I do like to write in an informal, reader-friendly manner. It helps in dealing with complex subjects better, on the rare occasion when I do deal with them!

        Like

      1. rule of thirds is when the subject is off center, but since I don’t have so many images of flowers that way I went for the bokeh effect which is also a prompt for this challenge. Bokeh meaning blurred background sharp subject.

        Liked by 1 person

    2. It looks nice and clean and I loved your bubble header. Just a suggestion – you might like to add a few more tags to your posts. For example you might add ‘starting a blog’ to your latest post.

      Liked by 2 people

  30. Good Afternoon Bloggers,

    My blog is heavily fashion based and my basic post are my Polyvore sets with no writing. On Christmas, I tried something different and wrote a detailed piece along with 3 outfits I created. This post didn’t get as much attention or feedback as my usual.

    https://daidreamr.wordpress.com/2014/12/10/a-plum-guest/

    What are your thoughts on this post compared to my usual? Is there anything else I can do to make my blog more engaging?

    Liked by 1 person