The Do’s and Don’ts in a Blogging Community
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years of blogging, it’s that the community can be one of the best parts of the whole experience — when we’re actually supporting each other. Blogging isn’t just hitting publish and hoping someone reads it. It’s connecting, showing up for one another, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome to share their voice.
But let’s be honest: not every corner of the blogging world feels that way. Sometimes people forget that behind every blog is a real person doing their best. So I wanted to put together a simple, down‑to‑earth list of do’s and don’ts — the things that genuinely help build a positive blogging community, and the things that… well, don’t.
Nothing complicated, nothing dramatic. Just the kind of common‑sense, supportive habits that make blogging more enjoyable for all of us.
The Do’s: How We Can Lift Each Other Up
Do show support in ways that feel natural to you
Support doesn’t have to be complicated or time‑consuming. Sometimes it’s just showing up. A few easy ways to do that:
- Leaving a thoughtful comment on someone’s post
- Sharing a blog post you enjoyed
- Engaging with their content when you see it
- Cheering them on when they hit a milestone
These little things really do matter, and they help build genuine connections.
Do find blog interactions that actually work for you
Not everyone interacts the same way, and that’s okay. Some people love link‑ups, some prefer one‑on‑one collaborations, and others enjoy hopping around and reading whatever catches their eye. You can:
- Join blog link‑ups
- Collaborate with bloggers in your niche
- Swap guest posts
- Participate in themed challenges
- Or simply visit blogs you enjoy and leave supportive feedback
There’s no “right” way to be part of the community — just find what fits your style and your schedule.
Do visit other blogs and leave meaningful feedback
If you want engagement, you have to give engagement. It really is that simple. Visiting other blogs helps you discover new voices, stay inspired, and build relationships. And honestly, a kind comment can make someone’s whole day.
The Don’ts: Things That Don’t Belong in a Supportive Community
Don’t judge how another blogger earns their income
This one needs to be said.
A lot of bloggers use ads. Many people use affiliate links. Some use both. Some use neither. And none of these choices make someone a “better” or “worse” blogger.
Yes, ads can be a little annoying sometimes — especially pop‑ups — but going out of your way to talk badly about someone else’s blog because they have ads, while you’re sharing affiliate links that earn you money, is… well, a bit off. Let’s be honest.
Everyone’s situation is different. Everyone’s goals are different. And many people use ad blockers anyway, so if you’re one of them, the ads shouldn’t even affect you.
At the end of the day, talking badly about how someone gets paid is just plain silly.
Don’t gatekeep what “real blogging” looks like
❤Some bloggers write long posts.
❤Some share quick updates.
❤Some focus on photos.
❤Some treat their blog like a business.
❤Some treat it like a hobby.
All of it is valid. There’s room for everyone.
Don’t copy someone else’s work
Being inspired is normal — copying is not. Your voice is what makes your blog special, so lean into that instead of trying to sound like someone else.
Don’t expect support if you never give any
Community is a two‑way street. If you never visit other blogs, never comment, never interact, and never show up for anyone else, it’s unrealistic to expect people to show up for you.
Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s
We all grow at different paces. Some bloggers take off quickly, and others build slowly over time. There’s no timeline you have to follow. Focus on your own path and what makes your blog meaningful to you.
My Final Thoughts
A blogging community works best when we’re actually supporting each other. When we show up, share kindness, and respect the different ways people choose to run their blogs, the whole space becomes more positive and enjoyable. There’s room for all of us — and when we lift each other up, we all benefit.
I want to commend you on this post. It's a topic that many of us bloggers don't discuss often, but it’s so important. I've been blogging for many years, and it truly amazes me how some bloggers go out of their way not to support one another, whether out of jealousy or other unclear reasons.
ReplyDeleteEarlier in my blogging journey, I perceived things differently than I do now. I no longer participate in blog link-ups because some people get upset when they aren't featured. While I thought it was a nice idea at first, I've grown weary of it.
Stephanie, you’ve chosen a fantastic topic, and I appreciate you addressing it.
Wishing you all the best,
M.B.
M.B., thank you. It was something I wanted to write about for a while and thought this was the perfect time. I've had both good and bad experiences with blogging. I've even had many comment anonymously just to leave something negative (which, by the way, I think I know who those people are), lol. No worries, though. Thank you for your support. I appreciate your comments and you taking the time to visit. 😊🤗
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