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One way to make online time more meaningful

Many of us spend a lot of time online these days. Much of this time is passive, with the only active bit being that we occasionally hit “like” on a post or newsletter that we, well, like.

But spending just a few extra seconds lingering on a post could massively increase the possibility of connection. Don’t just hit like. Leave a comment!

Comments stand out

Perhaps this post will seem self-serving, as I like it when people comment on my posts. But I have noticed on my journey through online platforms that even posts with thousands of likes will often have just a few comments. I suspect that with the exception of social media accounts run by very famous people (think household names), comments generally get read. If you post thoughtfully several times over a longer period of time (think a comment every week or two for three months) your name will get remembered.

This is one way to start building a relationship virtually with someone you don’t know but would like to. But beyond that, when we’re talking about posts from actual friends and acquaintances, comments are friendlier. If you were having lunch with a colleague and she showed you a picture of her toddler in a hilarious costume, you wouldn’t just give her a thumbs-up sign. You’d say “oh, she’s so adorable!” Or you might even pass on information: “If she likes costumes, you should check out the thrift store on Main Street - we found fun dress-up stuff there for years.”

A warmer place

The real world and the online world are different, but if the goal is connection (the social part of social media) then they don’t have to be so different. I understand that leaving comments takes a little time and effort — which is why I am as guilty as anyone of not doing it. I get it. Still, it doesn’t take that much time. Leaving comments can make time spent online feel a little less like wasted time, and can make the Internet feel a little bit more welcoming.