Sep 09, 2001 03:57 AM
1739 Views
There are some really great websites out there for our viewing and ordering pleasure. And, it should be a pleasure. There are some common sense measures we all should take concerning browsing and ordering online. One of my favorites is Deal.com {which is actually a product search engine} and Amazon. Always game for checking out new product sites, I use this advise, too. {smile}
Site Maps
When you are looking for a product, generally, you will 'key' it into a search engine. I have my favorite sites filed, but often will search an engine. As I surf and check these 'stores online', I approach them all the same. My first stop is always site maps. These always give you the 'departments' that are offered on the website. I like to see a bevy of information on CUSTOMER SERVICE. That is a major for me. The site maps tell you where everything is, whether, customer service, help, contact, search engines, and main products offered.
Actual Purchase/Pay
After checking out the site map, I usually email that particular business to see if they have a toll free phone number I may call to submit my credit card numbers. That is the way I always buy on Amazon. I order what I want, after quietly, and alone, checking out the merchandise, and submit my card by their toll free order number. I am one of those people who are not comfortable just submitting the card online. That will be a personal choice and you can be quite comfortable after questioning them through email or phone for their security. Some sites have 'locks' at the bottom of their page. If it is closed, it is secure. If it is open, it is OPEN. Be cautious, but not to extreme.
Return Policies
It is a family joke, that the best gift you can give my mother is one that she can return. {smile}. On their site map find out the return policies. If you do NOT see any offered. Email them and save that confirmation. {for later use}
Extra 'hidden' Charges
Make sure up front what you will pay for shipping and return. There is always a shipping cost. Still, that is cost effective, as you are saving all that wear and tear, gas and 'eats' money by shopping on line.
Demand your Satisfaction
I once surfed for a doll house that my granddaughter wanted. {yes, she has me wrapped around her finger} It was a bit much. I emailed the company and ask if they could alert me {usually found on that all important site map} when the product would be on sale. They did, and kept me as a customer. You can get on mailing lists. Make sure they will not SELL your email address. How? Ask and save their confirmation to file.
Buy this:
Shopping on websites can be a very pleasant experience. Most companies want to keep you as a future customer and are very fair. But, they are in a business and will stick to their advertised policies. Don't expect to be treated as special above regular ah..special customer service. Website businesses will never replace 'live' stores, but they are a necessary way of shopping which is just as important. There are many people who have widely benefited from online shopping websites that are disabled, don't have time to run out, or just enjoy this tech marvel. I hope that any tips help you in your general use of merchandise websites. :-)
