It Seems To Me

Thoughts and Rants on Technology, Business and Politics

Over the last few years I have sold more than 35 items on eBay. In addition to being great fun, I have redeemed a few pennies on the dollar for some of the gadgets and toys that I have "repurposed."

My online reputation is extremely important to me and I have worked very hard to maintain an impeccable record on eBay. I answer all inquiries promptly and ship immediately, usually the same day. I only post items when I know I will have the time to respond to inquiries quickly and ship immediately after the close of the auction. I have returned payment to buyers in the past who reported that the product arrived defective. I always leave positive comments for buyers when appropriate and have received dozens of accolades in return.

Last summer I was clearing out a bunch of old DVDs. A customer bought a copy of Short Circuit for a lousy $3.75 (with $3.50 shipping). I shipped it immediately and was happy for the extra shelf space on my DVD rack.

Three months later she posts the following negative comment on eBay:

DVD does not play properly! Would not buy from this seller again!

This is news to me. If the DVD didn't play, why didn't she contact me? She had my email address. I would have refunded her money immediately. I even would have let her keep the damn thing since it isn't worth the trouble to return it. (I will still refund her money as soon as she confirms her email address to me.)

Some DVD players can be finicky and Short Circuit is not exactly a Criterion Collection disc. It is not unreasonable that it did not play on her machine. Instead of allowing me the benefit of the doubt and the opportunity to refund her money, she slammed me on eBay with a negative comment. Thanks!

My online reputation is precious to me and negative comments weigh heavily on people's perception of a seller. I know that a single comment is not going to ruin my career on eBay but I am astounded at the thoughtlessness of this petty buyer. With one click of the mouse she has tarnished my reputation without giving me the opportunity to make it right.

Go figure!