I always approve and respond to these types of comments. First, because I feel it would be dishonest of me to avoid them – and I would obviously lose credibility with the person who posted them. And second because I think ALL sides add value to any conversation.

If you really do provide quality products then you should not be afraid to let people vent if they have issues with your product. The positive comments should be in the majority and unfounded negative views would be seen for what they are by readers.

Sure, there is a logic to building inbound links with the strategy but it is against the social aspect of the web like Lynn suggested.

That being said, there’s often an antagonistic side to him that entirely fits with turning off comments because he thinks that they’re low quality – almost a love/hate relationship with his customers.

I guess the issue becomes how to attract an audience that will provide meaningful comments vs. attracting spammers or “low value” contributors.

(Good point about the link baiting nature of this too (and one I never considered). If you want to write about the issue, you do have to link to those posts…)

Very interesting indeed. I suppose it’s his perogative to do what he wishes with his own blog, but he seems to have lost sight that everyone who ventures into an online business has to start somewhere.

Blatant spam is one thing, but comments and questions from people just starting out are hardly “low quality.”

Quite the contrary… they are a reminder that what we say/do has a direct impact on those who are watching us for guidance and direction.

The only time I close comments on my blog is when I create a product page (or something similar) that remains static and really has no relevancy for a comment.

Patty