A lot of it comes down to personal preference of the blogger. Sure asking a question about something some wrote is fine. There are spammers out there though who have automated scripts that send out comments like "wow great blog thanks for the great info"
The best thing since sliced break is comment approval that you get on the latest blogs. Switch it on!! Getuk, I won't condone spamming other blogs, it just puts your blog in a negative light. If you make honest comments it's fine, but don't spam, ever. I HATE people putting non relevant comments on my blogs and it is usually the automated scripts as hyipfarm is mentioning. Usually porn, finance or mortgage related.
I would recommend against comment moderation completely. The easier you make it for people to comment and see the fruits of their labor immediately, the more likely the are to comment. Also, comment moderation has turned me off of commenting on many blogs because I've found that the moderators sometimes forget to moderate them. I get a lot of comment spam, but I ignore it. Over time I tend to delete it as I trim through my blogs, and my readers know to avoid clicking on spammy links. This is the best way I think to reduce spam, not blocking out your regular posters from posting and seeing their post immediately.
Getuk, nice one Won't add it as I'm sure it's a test ;-p But I understand your drift. That must be a nice spinner!
Yeah - you have a point - I like the blogs where the posts are instant. I might try your method for a trial next week. I hate those ads and I was turned off by the prospect of spammers simply going to every post and submitting their crap.
Here's what I recommend doing if you want to comment on a blog without coming off as spam: 1. Make your first 1-3 comments, but don't attach your blog link. Become a regular commenter. 2. Further comments should only have your link attached to your user name, and it should not be highlighted or mentioned. If people want to see who you are, they know they can click on your name. Other posts that highlight your link, include your link, or ask to click on your name to see your site are all spam.
I think that writing a good response to a post is key. Doesn't have to be long, just keep it relevant. You name-link is already all you need. If you add another one, only do so if it makes sense
I still prefer to moderate. Through 3 years of blogging most of my comments have been spam. Especially on my high traffic blogs. I agree with dadasays about comment etiquette though.