They don't need to be a paid member to start a good guy post on you. (Imo, more important)
There are a few forums that allow trader ratings without having to pay. I have never really seen it abused, but I see how 'bad' people doing that.
I agree with those who feel it is unfair that if they pay and leave a rating, but they cannot receive the same in return because their customer wasn't a paid member. That isn't fair. I was going to sign up, when I saw you had to pay to be able to leave a rating, but I would like to be able to reap some benefit if I have to pay to leave positive remarks for someone who isn't a paid member.
Because there are so many unpaid members, it makes me not want to pay, as I won't reap any positive ratings for transactions. I would hate to ask everyone I do business with if they're a paid member, and if they're not then too bad they don't get a rating from me. I'm not doing something that I can't get back in return. I'd like to be known as a good seller/buyer, but if there's no guarantee that I'm going to be benefited, what's the point?
*My two cents**
(Speaking of which - the Member Benefits Table kinda needs an update, Rich)
Too bad that's how it works. I am suspicious about a possible poacher and feel they need to clarify if their toads are CB or poached.
i cant get many ratings at all because everyone i am doing business with is not a contributing member but me, only thing I am able to do is leave good feedback for NON Contributing members..... doesnt seem fair....
I understand that having the trader rating system "pay to play" is an attempt to encourage members to contribute to this site.
However, I would like to point something out.
I just completed a transaction with a Contributing member.
He left me positive feedback in the trader ratings.
I have not renewed my paid membership at this time and can not leave him positive feedback in the trader ratings.
That just seems bass ackwards to me.
I am able to be left positive feedback, and receive trader rating points as a non contributing member.
The contributing member, that paid his dues is not able to get the credit that he deserves for our transaction.
On a whole nother' subject:
Has anyone else noticed that Chris@TSE still has the #4 all time leading trader rating?
The trader rating system could be improved, IMO.
(Especially if the BOI goes away.)