All of us who build Bonanza also use Bonanza, and as Bonanza users, we find it nosy and maybe even a bit annoying that our site requests a phone number to verify your account and sell items. What if your only telephone number is a cell phone? You certainly don't want that number getting into the wrong hands!
That's why we want to make clear that there is one reason we require your phone number: to contact you when repeated efforts have failed to resolve a case between you and a buyer (or you and Bonanza).
Over hundreds of thousands of sales, we have realized that email addresses tend to change frequently, and when a buyer needs specific information about a transaction but can't get it, we run the risk of losing a repeat buyer. If you have sold an item that a buyer needs to discuss with you afterward because it wasn't received, or wasn't as described, communication is necessary. If repeated attempts to communicate over email fail, then we will use the telephone number you provide to help resolve the transaction.
With that being said, happy customers are repeat customers. When your buyers can't get information about their transactions, you risk losing future business. You've worked hard at building a solid reputation by providing excellent customer service. Including a customer service phone number for buyers to contact you on directly can make buyers feel more confident in making a purchase from you. You can answer any questions or resolve problems over the phone, and your customers will feel great knowing they can count on you.
We realize that not all sellers are available via a customer service phone line. We respect your privacy and give you the option to provide your telephone number to Bonanza staff only. If you select "Bonanza staff and your customers" when adding your customer service phone number, your customer service phone number will be available to buyers after they purchase from you. If you select "Bonanza staff only," your customer service number will only be available to our support team. We'll use it to contact you if we can't reach you by email.
On average, less than 0.1% of all Bonanza transaction will ever require us to use a phone number to establish contact. But in those very rare cases, it's an invaluable tool to get a tricky transaction settled quickly and amicably for all parties.