So it's basically just how I suspected, people have different reasons for posting and want different feedback in return and there's just no way of pleasing everyone.
From what I gather, the safest way to go about it would be to post a positive comment in the thread itself both for encouragement and support, as well as number of posts, followed by a PM asking if they'd like a few suggestions/tips instead of making suggestions right away. Then make sure those tips are put in a way that's thoughtful and helpful, therefore easier to swallow without feelings being hurt.
Gotcha.
