If you're completely transparent about the fact that they're you're client, the sincerity of your positive comments and the motivation behind your negative ones is automatically suspect.

If you don't explicitly disclose the relationship, you run the risk of looking like you're trying to play “innocent bystander.”

There are some conversations you don't belong in, online and in real life. Even though you might have a great thought to add. If that's the case, I'd think a better strategy would be to write a post on your own blog that links back, with full disclosure.

If you're completely transparent about the fact that they're you're client, the sincerity of your positive comments and the motivation behind your negative ones is automatically suspect.

If you don't explicitly disclose the relationship, you run the risk of looking like you're trying to play “innocent bystander.”

There are some conversations you don't belong in, online and in real life. Even though you might have a great thought to add. If that's the case, I'd think a better strategy would be to write a post on your own blog that links back, with full disclosure.

If you're completely transparent about the fact that they're you're client, the sincerity of your positive comments and the motivation behind your negative ones is automatically suspect.

If you don't explicitly disclose the relationship, you run the risk of looking like you're trying to play “innocent bystander.”

There are some conversations you don't belong in, online and in real life. Even though you might have a great thought to add. If that's the case, I'd think a better strategy would be to write a post on your own blog that links back, with full disclosure.

I do agree with you that possible differences of opinion could lead to unhealthy tensions with clients, especially if they are sensitive. I guess it could be like any other relationship: tread softly at first until the relationship solidifies and then proceed a little farther.

Great question about setting up commenting expectations! I am stumped, but that is a good risk. Will there be a sense of rejection as a part of the relationship slows down? I do know a few of my clients geek out about my commenting, especially when their blog is new and no comments come forth. It is encouraging to them.

I do agree with you that possible differences of opinion could lead to unhealthy tensions with clients, especially if they are sensitive. I guess it could be like any other relationship: tread softly at first until the relationship solidifies and then proceed a little farther.

Great question about setting up commenting expectations! I am stumped, but that is a good risk. Will there be a sense of rejection as a part of the relationship slows down? I do know a few of my clients geek out about my commenting, especially when their blog is new and no comments come forth. It is encouraging to them.