Expert: Marvinator - 6/17/2004

Question
hi, is there a tool to make the job easier for requesting feedback from buyers...I have approximately 100 users who have not left feeback and would like to request positive feedback, thanks, bob

Answer
There are no special tools other than good email use, and in actuality, I'm glad there isn't.  No one wants an automated letter, whether they paid for a $5000 item or a $5 item.  Now, As an ebay seller or buyer, there are a couple of things you need to understand and come to accept about Ebay Feedback.

First of these is that Ebay feedback is Voluntary.  This means that no one has to leave it if they don't want to.

The second thing is that you will probably only get about one half to two thirds of all the feedbacks you deserve.  This is a fact that many people get upset about and try to do something about but never will affect anything other than get themselves (and their buyers/sellers) upset.  The sooner you realize that you won't get them all, the better off you will be.  

Now, how to get the most feedbacks you can, is another subject and probably what you want to know.  

Start by being the best bidder or seller you can be.  Always be polite, on time, and understanding of problems.  Bidders: Pay quickly and accurately, ask quetions politely, never assume, learn as much about Ebay as you can.   Sellers: REspond to all emails, mail things out promptly and always be polite and professional.  

Lastly, there is one way to ensure that you will get a few more feedbacks than you may get otherwise, and that is to "ASK".  Now, I've had a few people ask a bit too much and others demand and others try extortion, so it's good to get to know what kind of 'ask' you are going to use.

Feedback can be left for up to 90 days, so don't be asking for feedback  unless it's been at least 3-4 weeks since the end of the aucton. I had one buyer ask for feedback at the time he paid, again two days later and then again in a demanding tone at a week.  (No, he did not get any feedback from me.)

Don't insist on feedback.  Remember, Feedback is Voluntary.  YOur email of asking should be a reminder and include a thank you.  "Hello.  I notice that you have not had time to leave feedback yet.  I look forward to your positive feedback soon and thank you in advance!"  See? Something polite, simple and to the point.  

Don't ask more than once or twice.  Three times asking for feedback will only get people mad at you.  

I hope this Feedback Primer has helped.
Please feel free to return and ask more questions in the future.