“Etiquette (
/ˈɛtɨkɛt/ or /ˈɛtɨkɪt/, French: [e.ti.kɛt]) is a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms within a society, social class, or group. The French word étiquette, literally signifying a tag or label first appeared in English around 1750.[1]“
As I have been doing a lot of Craigslist searching in the past few weeks I have determined two things: One; you can really find amazing pieces on Craigslist for very good deals. You have to be patient and you must search frequently, but the deals are out there. Two; people on Craigslist are insane. There is no common courtesy, manners are optional and timely communication is subjective. Why is there no general etiquette for Craigslist?
Case(s) in point; I found a great cocktail table I was to pick up today between 1:00 and 2:00. I emailed the woman yesterday to confirm the timing. She responded and said “I’m sorry, someone just bought it.” Why did she not contact me and offer me an opportunity to get there first? I understand a lot of these people just want to sell their sh*t but if someone has scheduled a time to pick your item up there’s an understanding there. Ugh! So rude. Another seller (who I am still dealing with) took five days to respond to my email. I had assumed the piece was sold. Since then she has been incredibly flaky about scheduling a time for me to come by and complete the transaction. What the heck, lady?! I just want to hand you cash and take the stinking secretary.
This is turning into a all-out-rant session so I’ll get to my point…
Here are a few rules *I believe* sellers on Craigslist should follow:
1. If your item has sold, delete the effing listing!
2. If you do not frequently check your emails, then provide a contact number.
3. Once a buyer has scheduled a time to pick up your item, honor that appointment or contact them to let them know someone else is honing in on the item.
4. DO NOT set a price in your listing then decide to go “auction” style when you receive multiple inquiries about the item. That is what eBay is for.
5. If someone sends you a reasonably well-written email about your listing, provides a phone number and doesn’t say something like “I’ll wire you the funds” or “my associate can arrange payment,” chances are they aren’t trying to scam you.
6, 7, 8, 9 and 10. If your item has sold, DELETE THE EFFING LISTING!
Certainly there are as many (if not more) offensive behaviors conducted by Craigslist buyers, but as I’m the buyer in this scenario (and I am lovely) I don’t feel I need to go into them at this time.
Fingers crossed for a weekend of smooth transactions.
Here is some totally unrelated eye candy. It just seems odd to not include at least one image in a post…
I do want to re-create one of those darling arrangements for my little kitchen. If it’s even half-way successful I’ll post it. That said I have a black thumb so don’t hold your breath.
xx, M
