It’s almost like some people don’t want you to comment on their blog or site at all. When they ask you to register, that’s a big red flag waving at me right away. You want me to hand over my email address before I even know if I like your site? I just wanted to leave a comment, not become your friend. I really don’t want to risk you selling my email address to be spammed. Thanks anyway, I’ll just move along…
The other type of blog that doesn’t really seem to want comments are those which use word verification (which annoys me enough all on it’s own) then they also moderate your comment, keep it on hold to be approved by the blog admin/ owner. I’ve already passed your first test, performed for your twisted amusement, isn’t comment moderation over kill at that point? Kind of like being in a store and having sales people hover and watch you in case you might suddenly steal something. It’s not a nice, warm, fuzzy feeling.
People who use these tactics will justify it but… if you don’t really want my comments just say so. Or turn off comments, save yourself moderating anything. Put up a video of a mad, barking dog so I will know you don’t want me to come back. That makes it easier for both of us.
I was annoyed when I originally wrote this post. That explains the typos I missed and the tone. I still do think I’m right however.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Oh, I totally agree with the “register first thing” stuff. Who wants to have to sign up for something before knowing if it’s right for them? Whatever. I’m gone.
The word verification bugged me for a while, too, but doesn’t anymore. Not since the month I had to help a good friend of mine delete comments left by spambots, well over a hundred and fifty a day, every single day. That was insane. And the only way he could stop it at the time was by having us humans do what ‘bots could not–word verify. After living that nightmare (and being greatly relieved that it wasn’t MY site), I don’t let it bother me now.
I just realized… I haven’t run into anyone yet who does word verification AND moderates too. Ugh. That IS overkill.