[Deleted]
Community problems As you can see in my profile description, I clearly wrote that I won't make video or voice calls and I won't give my username nor phone number to random strangers, for learning languages. Despite that, many people ask for language exchange via Whatsapp or Skype. I then say that I only text via Italki. Usually, they then start being rude and say it's stupid that I don't want to talk, completely ignoring a clear explanation on my profile. They send a lot of messagges. My inbox is full of messages like this. I do agree that talking is the more effective way, but if I don't want that, don't try to convince me, you are only wasting time. This is not stupid, this is what is called 'online safety'. This is my decision, and don't try to change it. Please learn to respect other people's opinion.
What do you think about this? Does this happen to you too? 
Apr 14, 2018 11:00 AM
Comments · 6
3

I have noticed that a lot of people don't read profiles before setting up a language exchange.  I have a rule on exchanges myself (a time constraint).  I now have a warning in my profile and if they don't mention they understand that rule in their first email, I usually don't respond to them.

You can have any rule you feel comfortable with.  It may be old fashioned but I will add "especially as a woman".

April 14, 2018
2
Sara, I respectfully say that this is not a "community problem." This is a problem with a few individuals.
April 14, 2018
2
Sara,

I'm surprised to read that.

I used to have the same problem, but not having a real profile picture has helped a lot (even though I feel a little uncomfortable hiding my face).

I'm sad to inform that people don't read profile descriptions (check mine, it's pure gibberish!)

You can choose not be shown at the language exchange listing in your configurations. Most people say it helps

April 14, 2018
1
What a surprise! I wish I was instead of you.
April 14, 2018
1

Earlier on receiving a request I poped in respondent's profile to check out the exchange possibility, and then zealously explained why I could not be helpfull. Then I considered this to be tedious, and currently I add everybody who has fulled profile and userpic without any respect to exchange. Sometime they write somthing, like the "How is it going, and what do you plan for today", I answer. But not more! It's seldom they return to the conversation next day.

But I have three my requests hanging to people, whose accounts directly state that the owner seeks for Russian-English exchaged.

April 14, 2018
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