subject: Get the Most from Craigslist Part 1 – Making Contact with Other Craigslist Users [print this page] Get the Most from Craigslist Part 1 Making Contact with Other Craigslist Users
If you want to use Craigslist to find good deals, a job, or a paid gig, you must take into account how you intend to contact someone whose ad you are responding to. After all, contacting someone on Craigslist.org doesn't seem that hard, but there are some important points you should take into consideration. Here are some helpful tips for you.
Craigslist Tip #1 - Decide If It is Worth the Time or Not
Remember, your time is worth something. You might not associate your time with money, but you should. If you waste hours trying to contact a magazine editor for a freelance writing job, but don't get the position, you wasted those hours. Those hours could have been spent finding another paid writing gig.
Luckily, it is easy to tell right away if a for sale item is worth your time; look at the picture or the price. You know immediately if you want to make contact. Jobs or gigs can be tricky because their rate is rarely disclosed on Craigslist. Be on the safe side and make contact for all jobs or gigs you are interested in. Also consider time, it is usually pointless to make contact after something has appeared on Craigslist for weeks.
Craigslist Tip #2 - Email, Fax, In-Person?
One of the most common questions asked by new Craigslist users is "how do I contact someone on Craigslist?" It all depends; read the listing and you will see. If some says call me; call. If someone leaves their address for free items, just show up in person.
In most cases, you:
Show in person for free-curb alerts.
Call to arrange a meeting for items you want to buy.
Call or email a person to respond to their serviced needed.
Email, fax, or mail a resume for a full-time or part-time job.
Note: Always do what you are told. If a car seller wants you to phone them, do it. Your email may sit unread for months, while the car sold within the first three days.
Craigslist Tip #3 - Politeness is Key
In today's society, we are always on-the-go so much that we rarely have time to be polite. Stop and do it. Rarely does a Craigslist seller, hiring manager, or homeowner looking for a construction worker get just one reply; they usually get 20 or more. Since they have a choice, they are going to opt for the nicest person. Remember what your mom always told you; be sure to say your pleases and thank yous.
