Why run a reader survey? I could think of several reasons to support this idea but I think that we can narrow these down to two main points:
-Enhance your blog
-Encourage readers to join the action.
How can a reader survey enhance your blog?
If you remember, we talked about writing with your readers in mind. You want your readers to like your blog, to keep coming back for more. What better way to do this than to ask them what they think? In this respect, your readers would know best. Ask them what they think the blog has going for it. At the same time, ask them what they think can make the blog better.
How can a reader survey encourage readers to join the action?
The answer is quite obvious, isn’t it? By asking the readers to comment and give their input, you can asking them outright to participate. Nothing more needs to be said.
When conducting a reader survey, you have to be specific in asking questions. You have to know exactly what you want to get out of your readers. As such, you have to take some time in formulating your questions. This would ensure that you get the responses that you want – either negative or positive.
More so, it is important that you set some rules. You would want to set clear expectations and do without feedback like “Your blog is full of @#%&!†The key is to ask for constructive criticism.
Last, open your mind to whatever your readers are going to share.
Originally posted on October 16, 2007 @ 2:21 am
