Replies to feedback e-mails

[JadedHeart]

I recently submitted a story here and have really enjoyed the positive response I've gotten through the feedback e-mails. I have replied to most of them simply to thank them for their comments, but there are a few I'm not sure if I should answer. A couple of them have offered assistance in researching my next story, and since my first one was non-consent I'm not sure exactly how to deal with this. I definitely do not want to encourage them, but it seems rude to just ignore them. I'm sure others have received this type of feedback and I'm wondering if there is way to politely tell them I'm glad they liked the story, but I really don't need any research assistance.

 

[Weird Harold]

Just ignore e-mail from weirdos especially if it's via the instant feedback link. If you reply, then you're sure they have your e-mail address.

 

[CRaZy]

I like to personally reply to all emails as well. When people write comments such as the one you received, it is difficult to know if they are trying to be humorous or not. I simply cut and paste a standard reply I keep on the computer for "problem" emails. Basically, it thanks them for the time taken to read my story and respond. It then says that I hope they continue to enjoy my stories and I intend to have my next one ready in "x' weeks. I don't acknowledge the content of their email at all. Seems to work.

 

[KillerMuffin]

I always respond, thank them politely, answer any questions, or just give a personal tidbit about the story, whatever seems appropriate. I always reject any requests for personal stories, pics, and audio. If the email comes from someone strange, or someone who gives me the creeps, I delete it without replying. I've only had one person offer to help me with the stories, I turned him down, I have an editor and that is plenty.

 

[Madame Pandora]

Okay...not that I'm going to support the "creeps" or anything, but sometimes, these guys (and I'm sure there's girls too) are really just trying to be funny or they're paying you a compliment in a very...unique way. I've had a few that kinda made me shudder when I got them, but after I responded, they turned out to be just regular Joes with a twist. Due to the nature of the site I think we're always gonna have one or two who are just...well...a few french fries short of a happy meal.

Dave Barry tells a story that when he and Stephen King were at a gig one night, a woman lit her hand on fire to get King's attention. All she wanted was an autograph (which she got). Not everyone expresses themselves...normally.

I respond to everything that isn't anon. Even the "creepy" ones. I usually thank them, answer any specific questions, and tell them the title of my next story (if I know it).

Personally, if the guy is a lurking serial killer, I'd rather not be the one to set him into action by ignoring him or telling him to smeg off. But that's just me.

MP

 

[Richard Janice]

The email I get, I always answer. It's an honor to get this kind of feedback and lets me know that my efforts are appreciated. I get a lot of anonymous comments and it is impossible to reply to these. That is too bad.

[Edited by Richard Janice on 01-21-2001 at 06:44 AM]

 

[KillerMuffin]

I've received one or two emails where I was referred to as "my love" and "darling" and "dearest" and oblique references were made to how wonderful we mixed and we should be together. Those are the ones that creep me out, I don't respond to those.

Everyone else, I just love hearing from, makes writing worthwhile.

 

[JadedHeart]

Personally, if the guy is a lurking serial killer, I'd rather not be the one to set him into action by ignoring him or telling him to smeg off. But that's just me.

Good point! Thanks to everyone for their great advice. I was just worried about making a stupid newbie mistake, but now I am not as worried.

 

[Tawny T]

I answer almost all of my readers posts to me. If they took the time to send a comment then I think they deserve a reply.

I will agree if they are really wierd, then delete it unanswered. I have blocked only one readers crude e-mails.

Standard reply. I love the one I read years ago written by some critic who got all sorts of letters with all sorts of opinions in them.


[Form letter from - don't remember is name)]

Dear Madame or Sir,

You may be right!

Signed Mr. X -