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Ah, how change comes quickly on the Internet! Since we first issued this article in January 1994, the flavor of commerce on the Internet has changed completely. This FAQ, an article which answers many Frequently Asked Questions, will keep you up to date with advertising on the Internet. If you're an individual buying or selling a single item, or a business looking to expand your horizons, this is a good place to start. Regardless of your prior buying or selling experience, you are guaranteed to learn something which will help you participate in electronic commerce more effectively.
If you need information about the newsgroups, pay special attention to the sections on writing ads and conducting transactions. Ordinary classifieds don't work here; we recommend a completely different format for your ad. Also, transactions through the mails require a number of special precautions of which most people are unaware. Prevent hate mail and protect yourself from unfairness by knowing the right ways to do business electronically.
If you are a business, entrepreneur, or organization, pay special attention to the sections on writing ads for businesses, and on where buisnesses can advertise. Marketing over the Internet is a delicate issue; done improperly, it can cost you your business, and worse. Educate yourself; most traditional approaches to marketing are totally inappropriate on the Internet.
For everyone, the success of any communication over the Internet is highly dependent on the writer's netiquette. Before you post news or send e-mail, we highly recommend the easy-to-read sarcasm of Brad Templeton's network etiquette FAQ according to Emily Postnews. Emily is widely regarded as the authority on simple netiquette issues. What's more, she speaks four languages! (English, French, Italian, German)
We also recommend an extensive workshop web site devoted to developing your knowledge of the Internet, regardless of experience or background. The Roadmap for the Information Superhighway Internet Training Workshop provides excellent background information and exercises on using the Internet, teaching proper netiquette, and making readers aware of all of the available resources. Hint: If you don't know how to post news yet, start with this workshop.
Last, but not least, these rantings and ravings are but the opinions and experience of dozens of individuals who have spoken out and contributed their ideas and suggestions over the years. We depend on your input.
What services does the Internet provide that I can use to conduct business or sell my spare pair of rollerblades? How do I use those services? Also, what activities are considered commercial, and why are improperly-executed commercial activities often looked upon with suspicion?
How do I present my offering so that I reach the right audience, gain their attention, and make the sale?
The buyer's side of the story. How do you exchange your money for the seller's goods while protecting both your and the seller's interests?
Questions without a place, and information about other newsgroups.
The information in this article comes from the opinions and experiences of many users in the Usenet Marketplace and elsewhere. However, in part due to the dynamic nature of the Internet, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Please research your marketing approaches prior to selling on the Internet.
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