Responding to Comments - Poll

A little blog etiquette (or "Blogtiquette") question for my blogging friends!

I've searched high and low and have checked out what a lot of you have done but I still haven't figured out what is the best way to respond to comments left on my blog! I appreciate it when someone has taken the time to stop by and leave a note and I'd like to acknowledge them - but what's the best way? Admittedly I haven't been consistent in my responses but I am pledging to do so now!

So, if you are a blogger that DOES respond to comments (I know not everybody does!) here's my question:

"What is the best way to respond to reader comments?"

I have a poll set up at the top of my blog - I'd appreciate your input! Send your friends over here too - the more responses to the poll the better. I'd like to get a general consensus of what people do/prefer. The poll ends in a week. If you leave a comment I will respond via.....well....I guess we'll find out!

Thanks for your help! Now go vote! :)