After months of beta testing, eBay has rolled out their newest feedback version 2.0. The new feedback system will allow buyers to rate sellers in 4 specific areas in addition to the regular feedback comments just as you have in the past. As with any change there seems to be significant concern especially from sellers.

As I read the discussion boards regarding this change, many sellers are concerned that the new changes will hurt sales with low rankings on the four targeted areas of customer service. The four rating areas are:

      Item as described: Is the item received as described in both the title and description. Was the description complete and accurate. 

      Communication: Did the seller communicate well with the buyer such as Winning Bidder Notification, payment instructions, etc.

      Shipping Time: Did the seller ship the item timely.

      Shipping and Handling Charges: Were the shipping and handling charges reasonable?

As I look at the new feedback system, I feel the additions are overdue, and I as a seller, look forward to them. It is my belief that those that are bashing the additions are those sellers that may fear the ratings they will get from buyers. Those sellers that charge excessive shipping and handling fees, those that don't accurately describe the items and those sellers that don't ship items in a timely manner are most fearful and rightfully should be.

As e-business owners, customer service is what sets us apart. Truly the internet makes e-business a level playing field. Price is a big factor but not the only one our customers should take into consideration. How we deal with our customers during and after the sale, should be just as important as the price. 

With the new added ratings, customers (I prefer this term rather than buyers) will have the ability to rate the seller after the sale as well as evaluate the seller prior to making a purchase.

Reputable sellers should welcome this addition and those sellers that don't embrace the additions maybe need to re-evaluate their business practices.

Be well and sell!