FEEDBACK - Who Goes First - When To Leave A Negative

Feedback is probably the most hotly debated subject on eBay.  I have been selling for many years, and have read many debates on the subject, and have developed these opinions:

WHO SHOULD LEAVE FEEDBACK FIRST and why

Scenario number one- Your buyer is awesome, paid right away, sent a friendly email.  So far, he/she has earned a glowing positive feedback.  You carefully package the item and mail it promptly.  The buyer receives the package and holy cow ... it was run over by a truck.  There are even tire tracks on the package.  They email you and you make things right.  You either have them return it for a refund or replacement, or submit an insurance claim and refund the entire auction and shipping price to the seller.  This seller has earned a positive feedback.

Scenario number two:  Same beginning, but the buyer goes into a rage, sends you a nasty email, even though the damage is clearly not your fault.  You offer to replace the item and they refuse to return it.  You send insurance papers, and they won't sign them and send them back.  Your carrier requires proof of damage, and they won't cooperate with the carrier.  The buyer leaves you an undeserved negative.  This buyer has earned a negative feeback, but if you have already left them a positive feedback, you have little recourse to clear your good name.

Scenario number three:  Same beginning, but the seller stone-walls you (the buyer) and refuses to answer your emails.  Or offers you a replacement, but only if you pay the return shipping and a re-stocking fee.  This seller has earned a negative feedback.

THE BOTTOM LINE:  The transaction IS NOT COMPLETE until the package has been received by the buyer, and they have indicated via an email or a positive feedback that they are pleased with the purchase.  This is the time when the seller should leave a glowing positive for a transaction that was complete to the satisfaction of all parties.

HoodaThunk's Patagonia Outdoor Gear

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