Aug 10, 2015 / Community Pool

Community Pool

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

Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/63057306@N04/5734415538">Beachfront Solutions</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/">(CC BY-SA 2.0)</a>

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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  1. Happy family swim time everyone,

    Something a bit different from me this week, taking time out from my usual fictional stuff to write a piece on the GOP debate on Thursday. I stayed up until 5am UK time to watch it, so I’d really appreciate any feedback on the piece as a whole, which you can find here.

    The First GOP Debate: A Bemused Englishman Reacts

    Of course, while you’re there if you’d like to check out my fiction and maybe go for a quick browse round the site that’d be wonderful, but I’m mainly looking for feedback on this piece today. As ever, I’d be more than happy to return the favour.

    Bloggy love,
    Ben

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Ye gods, I’m glad I missed it. Every time I try to follow or care about politics something like this happens and I just can’t. Thanks for the TL;DR version.

      Liked by 2 people

    2. This is great, as another Brit who tried to make sense of the debate you nailed it. Very different to British debates huh? Totally agree with your take on Trump. You managed to convey information and be funny at the same time which is a still every blogger wants. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Yes, funny does seem to be a rather elusive quality in internet writing, so I’m glad you found it so! It’s a completely alien concept to me, all the cheering and hollering that goes on in these debates, so bizarre!

        Liked by 1 person

    6. Hello Ben, nice to meet you! I think your post covered the first GOP debate in its entirety very well. I stayed up to watch it too and am glad to know that I wasn’t the only one who thought it was a complete mess.

      I’m also happy that you touched on the fact that Huckabee referred to allowing LGBTQ individuals to serve openly in our militray as a “social experiment.” I for one think he should be happy that any American, gay, straight, or otherwise, is willing to step up and serve his or her country.

      Thank you for this witty and eye opening review of the debate. I look forward to more of your work! Keep up the good work 🙂

      Lastly, stop by my blog if you get a chance and tell me what you think! http://www.hairysituationz.wordpress.com

      Like

  2. Cheers! I’m Leisel from Skill Up Skillet, a weekly updated geek and game themed food blog. If you enjoy good food, gaming, geek culture, sarcasm, or any combination thereof… probably you’ll love me. Over the past week I’ve had a ridiculous amount of down time and decided it would be a great idea to make social media buttons… which turned into a social media page. I’d like to think it came out nicely but would love your input: https://skillupskillet.wordpress.com/social-ish-shenanigans/

    I also finally got annoyed with Bloglovin’s widget issue and made my own, in the same style as my social media buttons. If Bloglovin’ is your thing (and I’m sure I’ll figure it out on my end… eventually) you can find this button on the right, just under my kitchen fund.

    I published two posts this past week: World’s Greatest Enchiladas from the indie game Guacamelee (if you subscribe to IndieBox, yes; that recipe!) and my nomination for the Premio Dardos award. Feel free to check them out at https://skillupskillet.wordpress.com/2015/08/06/guacamelee-worlds-greatest-enchiladas/ and https://skillupskillet.wordpress.com/2015/08/09/get-me-a-star-on-the-walk-of-fame-ive-been-nominated-for-another-award/.

    As of right now, Skill Up Skillet is hovering at about 300 total followers. 300 since I started blogging in December! Is that not insane?! To anyone here already following, thank you so much! You’re the best. No, really, you are. Here’s to the next 300, amiright? I also received my first donation to my kitchen fund through the blog, which is overly exciting to the point that I’m abusing exclamation points! (!!!!!) While I can’t justify purchasing a WP plan at this time, should I take the plunge and purchase my domain? Can anyone weigh in on this?

    Thanks for the opportunity, can’t wait to interact with everyone. Happy Monday!

    Like

    1. Hi Leisel — I just noticed your comment has been awaiting approval. The reason why is that our site automatically flags comments that are very long and/or contain multiple links (these are often the characteristics of spam comments).

      To make sure this doesn’t happen in the future, I’d recommend making more succinct comments, and limiting yourself to 1-2 links. It also helps others provide you with more focused feedback when comments are less sprawling.

      Thank you for your continued presence here in the Community Pool!

      Like

  3. Hello good people of Community Pool!
    I need your help!
    While in many ways my blog is shaping up to be every thing I hoped and dreamed it would be, the tagline has, been a divisive issue for my visitors. Some people think it’s far too wordy while others have heaped praise on it.
    So I decided to put the whole thing to a vote and created a poll.
    There are three choices, the original tagline and two others. Although I created the poll last Wednesday, I’ve been quite self-indulgent and allowed it to run until tomorrow, so there’s still time for you to have your say.
    The poll can be found in my ‘featured post’ which is entitled ‘James Proclaims Needs You’.
    Please vote. It’ll make me happy!

    Like

      1. Thank you for looking at it! I’ll add the “read More” function to it. I’ll see if there are any pictures that would be good.

        I took a look at your blog and I think it is designed really well! Your writing style is interesting! Keep up the good work!

        Liked by 1 person

    2. It’s an interesting idea for a blog and you explain it well in your purpose section. As Leisel pointed out its a weighty subject and smaller paragraphs, maybe some images will make it easier to digest. Good luck with the blog. 🙂

      Like

    3. I like the concept behind your blog. The interview questions are thought-provoking, but may overwhelm a reader who just drops in for the day. I would recommend making the posts briefer-perhaps limiting your interview to one or two questions per post. If you are committed to using the longer format, Leisel’s suggestion of using “Read more” is a good one. Nice job!

      Liked by 1 person

    4. Hi Steve! I really like where you’re going with your blog, it seems really interesting! Your latest post with the cognitive scientist was a good read.

      I would advise that you proof read your posts with a finer toothed comb. I find that reading my entries out loud help me the most. I find all kinds of mistakes when I speak than I do even after reading it through a couple times.

      Also just watch for redundant speech, like “…the username and name of these people will not be named,” which is a little awkward to read. You could say the names will not be shared, or will be concealed to respect their privacy.

      Otherwise, consider me a follower and I look forward to what you post next!

      Stormy
      https://thespazmatazz.wordpress.com/

      Like

    5. Wow. You have a wonderful blog here.. An extremely interesting concept if I may add.. I have not come across many blogs that deal with these topics.. Maybe you could work a little on the title of the posts but otherwise pretty great..

      Like

    5. Your blog is stunning. It is the most artistic and bold WordPress blog I have ever stumbled across.

      May I suggest you write an “About” page? It’s the best way for readers to connect with you. Also, are the photos yours? They’re gorgeous!

      Liked by 1 person

    8. Nice structure on your blog. It demands attention, and one becomes satisfied with the visuals until he/she discovers that there’s more. Scary thing about only having the photos and title visible is that some readers are reluctant to start reading something they can’t preview (me, for example).

      Liked by 1 person

  6. Hello good people of Community Pool!
    I need your help!
    While in many ways my blog is shaping up to be every thing I hoped and dreamed it would be, the tagline has, been a divisive issue for my visitors. Some people think it’s far too wordy while others have heaped praise on it.
    So I decided to put the whole thing to a vote and created a poll.
    There are three choices, the original tagline and two others. Although I created the poll last Wednesday, I’ve been quite self-indulgent and allowed it to run until tomorrow, so there’s still time for you to have your say.
    The poll can be found in my ‘featured post’ which is entitled‘James Proclaims Needs You’.
    Please vote. It’ll make me happy!

    Liked by 1 person

    2. Hello Bri! My mom suffers from a thyroid condition as well, so your post hit home for me. I can’t wait for your follow-up post about the seminar so that I can pass your new information on to her. Thanks for such informative posts. Keep up the good work 🙂

      Also, if you have a moment, please stop by my blog and tell me what you think. Thanks in advance! http://www.hairysituationz.wordpress.com

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks for this, I think I better update mine as well! I knew when I first started that my concept would require a bit of an explanation, so much so that I wrote an introduction to the blog in addition to my About Page. While I feel like I hit the first of the criteria you mention, that longer list is something I think I may just have to tweak now!

      Like

    2. Very insightful. Mine is set up a little differently, but I hope it gets the point across nicely. Some things you recommend adding to the About page I have listed elsewhere.

      Like

    3. I’m quite the opposite in motivation to follow. I always read the posts to get a feel for a person. I’d rather hear your style than someone modestly or arrogantly talk about their style; I feel that it never conveys to me clearly enough what I’m looking for.
      That said, it’s refreshing to know what people really look for. It gives me a better idea about how I come across to my readers. That said, am I putting enough on my about page to draw attention?

      Like

    2. Your sense of humor really shows through your words. I definitely think humor keeps people engaged. I would also say, stay with the amount of facts you have; just enough for the reader to know you’re not making things up, but not too much that you lose yourself out of the story. It’s your personal experiences that make it really intriguing! Great work!

      Liked by 1 person

    3. I like your style of writing. Also, your blog is very informative. It is factual and amusing. I just posted a new one addressing In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Writing Space.” Let me know what you think.
      http://amanpan.com/

      Like

    1. As a total pizza snob (y’know, considering my parents own a pizzeria), well written! I’d eat there in a heartbeat if I could. The photographs are excellent as well.

      Like

    2. OMG! I love this! Now I am dying to have pizza. Beautiful pics and a delightful read. I just posted a new blog addressing In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Writing Space.” http://amanpan.com/

      Like

    3. Hi Dane, nice to meet you! First off, I love the subject of your blog; it’s very unique! The photos really bring your blog to life as well. My only suggestion would be to shorten the length of your posts, or utilize the “read more” tab. Other than that, I think your blog is great. Keep up the good work!

      Also, if you have a moment, stop by my blog and let me know what you think! Thank you 🙂 http://www.hairysituationz.wordpress.com

      Like

  14. Hi,

    My blog is about my dealings with anxiety and depression, through mindfulness and through poetry.

    I would appreciate your honest opinions about my poems – even though they are used mainly for relief, I would like to improve.

    My latest poem titled “Monster” can be found here -https://mentalchattering.wordpress.com/2015/08/10/monster/

    Thank you very much

    Liked by 4 people

    3. Wow, amazing poetry… “Again” really just hit me, I have never thought of it like that, just… The truth. You have a way with words that is sure to reach out and speak to the people that need it. Sorry I can’t give you anything to improve upon, the truth and emotion just leap out to me. Good luck with your blog! Looking forward to reading more!

      Liked by 2 people

    1. Hello:)
      Your blog looks really good, I’ve really enjoyed your posts:)
      A suggestion from me would be to create an About page…let your readers get to know you and what your blog is about:)
      Good luck!

      Liked by 1 person

  17. Would love anyone’s thoughts and feedback on my blog 🙂 Also does anyone know how to do graphic design or good websites for it!? Thanks ❤

    Liked by 2 people

  18. Hi everyone! I’m Mark. A new writer and soon to be published author. I have almost reached the last hurdle in my journey to complete my debut psychological thriller novel. If you have the time, please stop by and check out my blog. I shall also be starting my next short story very shortly. Follow if you can, I need all the support I can get. I would be happy to take a look at your creation in return. Take care and thank you for your support. Mark
    http://www.markdraycott.com

    Liked by 1 person

      1. Hey! I’ve just been on to look at yours and so far so good! Your ‘encounter’ short story had me picturing the scenes which is how I know the story is working. It’s difficult with short stories to bring it all to life in such a short space of time but you did it well! Keep it up! Mark

        Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi, so nice to meet you! I think your writing is beautiful – the poem titled “New Nakedness” really moved me. I also like minimalist theme of your blog; it’s not overly busy but still has pops of color here and there. I look forward to more poems from you so keep up the great work!

      Also, if you have a moment, please stop by my blog and tell me what you think. Thanks in advance 🙂 http://www.hairysituationz.wordpress.com

      Like

    1. I love these blogs that have a little bit of everything because there’s something for everyone! Your poems are awesome but I especially love some of your ramblings, such as the bedtime stories! Keep it the great work!

      Like

      4. I just looked up the penicillin cocktail. Sounds interesting (and way better than real penicillin I bet!). At this time of year I love a good old gin and tonic especially. Very refreshing in the summer 🙂

        Like

      7. I’m afraid I never try gin yet (aside from few escapades on the rooftop a long time ago when we used to mix cheap gin with fruit juices and lighted the concoction for effect) I will put it on my list of next things to try before I die 🙂

        Like

    3. Your writings are very enjoyable. I will have a glass of red wine please. I released a new blog today addressing In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Writing Space.” My site http://amanpan.com/

      Like

  24. Hello Community Pool experts! Had heard a lot about blogging. Just tried my hand at it a couple of days back. It is a cricket blog post about Michael Clarke’s retirement. Do give it a read and feel free to comment. Also been a bit flummoxed with the themes application for the blog. Would appreciate any help on that front. Thanks. Cheers!

    Liked by 1 person

    2. Did you know your footer has duplicate content? You may want to play with that a bit to get things the way you want them. Nice start.

      Like

  28. Yo, guys, wassup? This, my newest piece, is like a few minutes old, so I’d really really like a few reads and comments. It’s an allegorical piece…

    Where I Dwell

    Please, pretty please let me know what you think! And have a great week ahead, everybody!

    Like

    1. How lucky to get actual constructive feedback! Usually when I send anything out (especially a resume for a position I feel I’m perfectly suited for) I never hear anything back, like I don’t even exist. Best of luck to you with your future submissions!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Thanks, Leisel. Yes, sometimes it feels like you’re sending things out into a black hole. I don’t mind receiving rejection notices-at least then I know that the piece was received.My mantra is “oooh, look–there’s that rejection letter I sent away for!”

        Like

  30. Hi everyone, I just started a humor blog where the annoying, frustrating, selfish things that people do in society (i.e. standing side-by-side on escalators, or say whisting at work) are highlighted, mocked and then discussed within the parameters of a fictional place called “Society Camp” where members of society are sent to learn to be less awful. Together, we will make society better, or something like that. Would love to know what you guys things of the layout (I’m graphically challenged) and the content of the posts. Thanks all! -Herb

    Liked by 1 person

      1. I read the newest one and will try to go through your other posts. Very funny and well written. My only advice would be that the design and writing is simple and effective, but larger images (or more of them to illustrate your points) might make it pop a little more. Also some tags or social media links on the sides might help. I know sometimes they can look a little busy but it is a way for your readers to reference your content in an easier way.

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Thanks for the feedback, Robert. I’m still getting the feel for the layout and inputting graphics (not sure how to put them in the body of the post, as so far just figured out the featured image option. But will look into more graphics for the body itself, as that seems to be the way of Gawker and Slate etc. Thanks!

        Liked by 1 person

      3. My pleasure. Depending on the layout, when you are writing you should see “Add Media.” Click on that, and it will allow you to post photos of your choice, a link to another page, or even a Youtube clip. With the photos you can size them. Not too small, not too large is the general rule of thumb. Looking forward to reading more from you!

        Liked by 1 person

      5. I enjoyed reading this. I found myself skimming when the paragraphs looked too long, though. My husband and I literally ran into some concrete assholes this weekend, so I found myself laughing out loud while reading that. Keep up your good work! 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

    2. Hey, I checked out your blog too and as for the layout, maybe have a short summary for each one and a button for “read more”?
      Also, your stories are pretty funny but I’d suggest going over them to edit, there’s a lot of grammatical errors that are making your paragraphs a little bumpy and hard to read smoothly. Otherwise, keep it up!

      Liked by 1 person

    3. Oh my God. Yes. I need this in my life. I might suggest breaking up some of your paragraphs a bit smaller, and definitely add an About page!

      (Please feature creepsters who sing to themselves and other people in public restrooms. I mean really, WTH?)

      Like

      1. Thanks Leisel, great advice. My paragraphs are def too long/verbose, I will scale back ha. I thought I had an about page, I will have to get on that! I have the gravatar thing, but think that is different? Total newb at this, but I will get it thanks to such a supportive community! I will be sure to add a post on people who sing to themselves, we can’t be having that!

        Like