I always respond to comments, if they are something I can respond to. Like 1 word comments are kind of hard, so I ignore them. But I like the chit-chat, so I have no issues with it. If people think its desperate, then too bad for them I guess? No one is forcing them to read the comment section. LOL.
My advice would be to continuously work on your craft. I made a goal that each chapter I would work on a weakness, and put a lot of energy into being a better artist in those areas. For example, in chapter 4 of Goblins of Razard, I made an effort to really put love into the backgrounds. In chapter 5 I thought a lot about the weather. In chapter 6 I worked on making my characters not so "stiff." In chapter 7 I worked hard on my coloring skills and setting an atmosphere. Etc. Etc.
So, I recommend picking something specific to work on, and illicit feedback on the forums. It gets eyes and readers on your comic, and helps you improve and get specific usable constructive feedback.