When I logged on tonight I wanted to do one simple thing. 1. Post a Classified Ad I could not find anywhere to post! No hint as to how to create a new post and it wasn't until after many minutes of screwing around that I did a search for "how to post to classifieds" and found out from another user that I have to be a contributing member to post. Fine! Then I spend another ten minutes searching for how to become a contributing member. This is absurd. Most websites, businesses, FB pages, everyone wants your money! Here, I cannot give it away. Incredible.
Calm down. Your frustration is causing you not to be able to concentrate. I find navigating here simpler than most sites.
I found it, but it is not obvious. If TalkBass wants supporting members, they should place this at the top of the page. Also on the Classifieds page it should be stated clearly that one must be a supporting member to post, with a link to do that.
Glad you found it. The site isn't perfect, nothing ever is. That said - I am a bit stunned that someone who has been a member since 2006 was unaware about the supporting membership requirement for classifieds. Comes up regularly.
I can't say I disagree with what he says. I knew had to be a supporting member to sell my last bass but it did take me some time to figure out just how to go about doing the upgrade.
It's actually really easy to navigate, and has a lot of great options... once you figure it out. Only took me about 6 years, but I'm slower with this stuff than most. Ya know, I gotta agree that this forum is really difficult to navigate for newcomers - but I think we're all spoiled, as I do believe it to be the Ferrari of forums. I think it scares lots of people away too though. There are tons of bass players here, but it seems like 90% of the bass players in the world aren't. At least in my experience. I talk to bass players at gigs all the time and I've yet to run into an active member. I believe the complicated nature of this place has a lot to do with that. But we've come to love it, and I'm fairly certain it ain't gonna change. I wouldn't really want it to.
I have not been active. That being said, if you wish to compete with FB or other media sites, this is not in the same ballpark. My opinion. I wanted to contribute. The biggest, easiest to see button (link) should say "Support" or "Become a Supporting Member". And the classifieds page should have instructions on How To Post right at the top of the page. These are suggestions. That's all.
I guess next you'll be telling us you didn't get you green jacket and key to the private sitting room either. Once you have contributed for a year you get matching slippers! (None of the previous blathering has even a grain of truth. I am a total goofball and should be ignored at all costs. I sincerely hope you find what you are looking for and are able to place your ad.)
Agreed, and your suggestions are good ones. I do think they are constrained a bit though, as I think this is a "moderately customizable", yet "off the shelf" platform. Could be wrong though.
At the very bottom right of every page there is a link with the heading in all caps "SUPPORT TALKBASS!"
If this comes up regularly, perhaps a note near the top of the Classifieds would be a good idea. Also, I just became active here today, after many years of not utilizing this resource.
Thanks everyone! I was a bit frustrated when I wrote this. I appreciate your kind responses. I am ready to enjoy and utilize this wonderful resource. Cheers!