Summary

The article outlines three strategies for responding to hate comments online: responding with kindness, not engaging at all, and asking for constructive feedback.

Abstract

The internet can be a hostile environment, with hate comments being a common occurrence under online content. The article suggests that the best approach to dealing with such negativity is not to retaliate but to either respond with unexpected kindness, ignore the comments altogether, or use them as an opportunity for constructive feedback. Recognizing that hate commentators may be dealing with their own issues, the author emphasizes the importance of not letting online conflicts affect one's well-being. By choosing not to engage in arguments, content creators can maintain their dignity and potentially convert critics into readers. Additionally, distinguishing between malicious comments and genuinely constructive criticism can lead to personal growth and content improvement.

Opinions

Hate commentators are often socially anxious individuals who struggle with self-expression.
Engaging in internet conflicts is unproductive and can negatively impact one's day.
Responding to hate with kindness can disarm internet bullies and may even gain new followers.
Ignoring hate comments can be an effective strategy, as internet hate is typically short-lived and the bully will likely move on quickly.
Not all criticism is negative; some comments can provide valuable insights and help content creators see their work from a different perspective.
It's important to differentiate between trolls and constructive critics who offer feedback with politeness and a desire to contribute positively.
Engaging only with respectful and meaningful interactions can lead to better audience engagement and personal growth.
Trying to change the minds of individuals with extreme or conspiracy-driven beliefs is usually futile.
Prioritizing one's own mental health by avoiding toxic discussions is crucial for content creators.

3 Ways to Respond to Hate Comments

Don’t argue with random strangers on the internet.

The Internet is sometimes full of nasty and rude comments. You know the one-off accounts that write insightful insults under your stories. Individuals have the urge to come to your part of this universe and make a ruckus, drink the last drop of your blood and gloriously bathe in your sadness.

Hateful commentators are often a sad bunch, that is socially anxious and doesn’t know how to express themselves properly. You don’t go around sprawling insults on random content when you’re feeling fine.

But knowing that your wannabe oppressor is in a worse state than you don’t do much justice. You might feel the urge to put the transgressor in its place but don’t. Internet conflicts can’t bring you any good. The best thing you can do is to deescalate the situation. You don’t want to ruin your day.

I’m a diplomacy major, but I still struggle with random insults on the internet. I’m sharing this guide for you, and myself, so we can finally put an end to feeling bad over random comments on the internet.

1. Kill them with kindness

You can blindside internet bullies with an appreciative comment. Nobody expects you to agree with random outrage.

“Hi there! Thank you for your insightful comment! I’m taking into account what you just said and appreciate the time needed to write this comment.”

In essence, you’re saying that you read the comment and that you appreciate the time they took out of their busy day to come here and sh*t all over your work. You might even turn a few anxious bullies into your new reader.

I have new followers because I took their concerns into account and somehow managed to put my pride on the side. I don’t even remember the Initial criticism.

2. Don’t ever engage

Internet critics can be stingy, but you don’t have to engage. Sometimes, that is the best way to resolve a conflict. Internet hate has a short life-span, and the bully is probably aiming at the next victim before hitting enter on your comment.

Sean Kernan often talks about not engaging the haters. The sight is never pretty and the upside is low. I don’t even remember the haters I don’t engage with over ridiculous statements.

If you don’t engage, your haters might forget about you faster than it takes to vomit a 1min read on Medium. You’re creating a win-win situation here.

3. Ask for feedback

Not every criticism is created equal. Individual remarks are in your best interest. You can explore your content from the perspective of your audience.

Every content creator can misrepresent a story. Sometimes it pays off to listen to the critics, especially if you feel like the comment is coming from a good place.

You can often spot an internet friend by the tone and politeness. Good critics leave enough space for you to improve, and offer a building block to the conversation. You don’t feel humiliated, and your whole business can grow.

The takeaway

You can’t change flat-earthers and coronavirus deniers with scientific research and consensus. You’re hopeless in trying to change a random person, but you still have power over yourself.

You can choose to walk away from a comment section that is disrespectful, and find your place under the storage cloud and engage with your true audience.

Don’t waste your time on toxic discussion. Don’t be combative, even though it feels personal. You can do yourself a service, order beer, and play that pop tune that is stuck in your head today. Haters are going to hate. And having a few heaters is often a good sign. You’re going in the right direction.