2. Introduction to How Craigslist
Works
Craigslist.org is now one of the most visited
English language Web sites. The site's main
function is to host classified ads that cover
practically every category you can think of,
including housing, job postings, items for sale,
services and personals.
3. The Community and Gigs
Categories
The Community category on craigslist
functions like a community center's
bulletin board. It includes subsections for
local news, politics, announcements,
volunteer opportunities, rideshare
programs and other local events and
activities. The Gigs category is for short-
term work assignments rather than
permanent jobs.
4. Video Gallery: Online Shopping
Craigslist is just one Web site to consult
when you're looking for unique items. In
this video from Medialink, learn about the
growing popularity of online shopping
and some sites where you can find some
truly one-of-a-kind merchandise.
5. The Craigslist Network
Craigslist communities appeal to a broad range of
users. The simple, organized layout and helpful
search engine makes navigation easy. Craigslist
members range from teenagers to senior citizens.
They post on the forums, shop online, trade tips
and make new friends.
6. Craigslist Financials
Newmark and Buckmaster strive to keep craigslist
a service-based company focused on online
communities. They have refused offers to sell the
company for a huge profit. Many of their decisions
fly in the face of traditional business strategies, but
Newmark has said that keeping the communal
culture of craigslist intact is more important than
making enormous profits [source: craigslist.org].
7. Craigslist Controversy
One of the biggest challenges for the craigslist
community is weeding out scam artists. The site
has a section describing common scam tactics and
what users should do if they come across them.
Scams might involve fake money orders or checks,
bait-and-switch schemes (in which you think you're
getting one thing but end up with another), phishing
schemes designed to obtain personal information,
identity theft schemes and other unethical and
illegal activities.
