Slow Reply to Free Donation Request

[HighHorseVintageShop]

I was recently asked to donate to a fundraiser and my response time slipped through the cracks as I was overwhelmed with work and unable to make it a priority.  This wasn't a customer and it will now effect my Star Seller rating.  I find this frustrating indeed and would like it to be cleared from the record, but it seems Etsy is unforgiving in these regards?  

I understand implementing strategies to hold sellers more accountable, but not allowing one error in response times seems a little much, especially depending on context.  These rules feel unforgiving to small business and allow no leeway for human error.  I am one woman running two small businesses.  I am not a machine. 

[Jewels2at]

Next time I would move that message to spam, unless you plan on donating.

[HighHorseVintageShop]

You know I didn't even realize that was an option!  Very good to know for next time. ♥︎

[JustMeToo]

@HighHorseVintageShop   I will assume you know that this is a legitimate fundraiser?  There are many scams on etsy, so be very wary of people asking for money, or items on etsy, with a sad story.  It is the wrong place to be asking for anything free.  It is a business platform.

[HighHorseVintageShop]

I didn't feel like I was in a position to donate and ship something for free so I hadn't looked into the legitimacy, though it was in the city I live and work.  Either way it's certainly good to be reminded, so thank you. 

[TROPICALBREEZECANDLE]

Etsy will not clear it. All orders must ship in your timeframe you set.

[HighHorseVintageShop]

It wasn't an order, it was a message reply.  But my understanding is that they wouldn't clear it anyways. 

[LittleCreekCardCo · Accepted solution]

Move to spam, problem solved. I'm so sick of the people requesting freebies on Etsy for "fundraisers." Most aren't relevant to our shops and we are struggling to make a profit as it is. 

[UppNorthEh · Accepted solution]

yes, mark it as spam and it will be "cleared from the record."  totally in your control.

[HighHorseVintageShop]

Yes too true.  I had no idea this was an option and have done so. Thank you!