Online buying etiquette♥

source: Google.com

I have been into online selling since 2011.  I started in Multiply, one year before it closed down - I have already shifted to Facebook where I created a page and weeks after that - Instagram.  I still have both accounts on Facebook and Instagram, though I am more active on the latter.  

Yes, I have encountered different types of buyers..and sellers (I also shop online).   Well let us concentrate first with the "Buying" side.  I can say that around 95% of the buyers online are amazing, remaining 5% are so-so. :)  

I am writing this based on my experience and hopefully it will help old and new buyers/customers if they wanted to purchase something online.

• BE POLITE : Be well mannered when inquiring.  Try to be courteous and ask the seller in a nice way.  Start with a "Hi or Hello" before you inquire about the price.
• DON'T CHANGE THEIR RULES OR GUIDELINES : Most sellers (that includes me) have their own shopping guidelines: couriers, modes of payment, pricing, pre order policies.  Please don't try to bend the rules... to ship to a different courier or to accept payment through other means.  
• DO CONTACT THE SELLER IN A GOOD TIME: Be considerate of the time when you contact the seller and be patient in waiting for their response.  Don't bombard them with messages especially in the wee hours of the day.  Remember sellers also have a family to take care of, personal matters to attend to.  Like on my part I have a day job, so usually I answer inquiries during break time.
• DO NOT LOW BALL:  Haggling is a common practice of buyers.. but do not low ball.  Meaning do not offer a price that is way too low.  Sellers usually give you the best price.
• CONTACT THE SELLER IF YOU ARE BACKING OUT:  Some online shops can reserve an item for you for one to two days without commitment.  But if change your mind, please do inform the seller, so they can open it up for sale for other buyers.  It's rude and I am sure that you don't want anybody to do the same thing to you.  
• PAY ON TIME: Especially in case of pre-ordered or layaway, please settle your account/s promptly on the day or date agreed upon.
• BE ON TIME ON MEET UPS:  If you decide to pick up the item you purchased, schedule an earliest available or a convenient time.  Be punctual.  If you are stuck in traffic or there is an emergency, please do contact the seller right away.  Don't stand them off.
• ALWAYS SAY THANK YOU:  This is common sense.  Always end your conversation with the seller with THANK YOU.  

Hope you learned something on this post.  Please practice this for a wonderful buying experience online.

xo, 

Chiq♥