AW Daily - Tips & Tactics - During the Auction: Contacting Sellers

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During the Auction: Contacting Sellers continued ...

When Is It Not OK?
Of course there are times when you'll want to think twice about getting in a touch with a seller. Here are a few examples of when it's better to hold back:

Don't ask questions that are already answered on the auction page itself. Read the description text and eye any accompanying photos carefully. Some sellers run a high number of auctions and therefore have a high volume of email--just like you, they don't like to be bothered with unnecessary emails.
Don't inquire how a particular auction is going, or if any bids have been placed. Monitor the auction yourself; don't expect a seller to give you updates.
Don't get impatient and send out a follow-up email an hour or two after your first message. Again, not everyone checks email regularly.
Don't contact a seller and try to arrange a private deal (i.e., "I saw you had an auction for a PlayStation. I didn't place a bid because I thought maybe we could work out a deal…")
Don't send an email that's personal and chatty rather than transaction-based.
Don't bombard a seller with multiple emails. If you have more than one question, compile them into one email.
Don't send an email just to vent. When you feel that a seller has wronged you, it's natural to react strongly. However, keep your cool. Comments should be short and professional. Stick to the facts and avoid personal attacks.

Contacting the Site
If you've tried to contact a seller via email and telephone to no avail and an issue remains unresolved, then you should go ahead and contact the auction site. And be sure to keep records of all your correspondence with sellers and sites.

Let's Be Friends?
It might not happen all that often, but it's not unheard of for sellers and buyers to strike up an email relationship. After all, both parties can have a lot in common, namely a passion for a particular collectible or item. But don't go overboard and become a burdensome buddy. Use common sense. If the feeling is mutual, then fine; however, if a seller doesn't pick up the ball and reciprocate, don't keep pushing--and don't take it personally, either.

Researching Sellers
Backing Out of a Bid
Leaving Negative Feedback