This is an actual Skype IM conversation which happened recently. I’ve changed the name and removed their location and a couple of “brb” type messages from the conversation.

John:

Hi Rachel, I viewed your Cre8d website and feel you maybe an entrepreneurial spirit. I know you are off line right now…My name is John Brown and I reside in ——. I am genuinely looking for New Zealanders in Particular as the Company I am a Distributor/Consultant with has recently pre-launched there. They are planning to launch officially in March 06. I would take it slow and get to know you first but I would much rather find people interested in making extra money easier than they are at present first, then get to know them/you later…I am sorry but since the company is about to launch officially in NZ by march I want to contact as many entrepreneurial minded people from NZ as possible.
All I want to do is share information for now…it costs nothing for me to share information, however it could be what changes your life. This is not a joke…if I was infront of you or speaking with you via skype you would know this is a serious introduction of me to you and could change everything.

Me:

gidday… you’re up early

John:

Sorry Rachel, i was up early cos i hadn’t gone to bed yet…hehehehe but im up now…thank you for replying…i would love to have a chat with you if your up to it.
i am guessing i may have you intrigued a little

Me:

Did you find me via my blog?

John:

nope..via a skype search actually

Me:

ah ok

John:

i typed NZ female as wot i have would suit a female better although there are some fellas tearing it apart as well…take for example …hehehehe

Me:

Sorry, I’m not sure I follow - what are you referring to?

John:

my skype search: NZ; Female…that is how I found you
So before i show you my proposal…do want to tell me a little bit about yourself

Me:

Um, not particularly.. I don’t know you

John:

fair comment…how does one get to know one if we do not start somewhere?
by the way you are like lightning on the keyboard aren’t you i still use 2 fingers…juz cant get my head around how people can type using all digits

Me:

I just had a look at your site and I’m not interested in having another business.. I’m busy enough as it is

John:

you know how many people say the same thing
do like perfume?
oops do you like perfumes
do you like aloe vera products
would you like a mercedes benz motor car

Me:

not particularly to be honest

John:

Rachel at least find out wot it is before saying no…makes good business sense

Me:

No thank you, I’m actually in business myself already

John:

i know i checked out your website…that is the reason i contacted you in the first place

John:

can i place an add here and then if you are not interested i will shut up about it…won”t hear another peep…pleeeeeze

Me:

no thank you - i’m busy enough as it is

John:

you are a hard girl…but point taken…do you have anyone in mind you could put me in touch with…messaging is so impersonal

Me:

Sorry…not able to help you there

John:

I think you will do well in your business as you seem vert assertive and know what you want…good to see…i wish you well…maybe we can start again next time…take care nice meeting you (handshake)

Me:

cya
(blocks John)