So when it comes to finding new people to help in our quest for frugality, we have looked to many new venues for locating the right person. No longer relying on newspaper classifieds or using a word of mouth, we place ads and notices on several internet web sites, like Craig’s List.

Normally we get a fair number of responses. Some are other companies looking to find work for themselves, but more often the responses are genuine people inquiring about the job. This inquiry is good. The divide between employer and employee has shrunk. The two way street of what the hirer offers and what the prospective worker will gain has shrunk.

However, and here is the however you knew was coming, what happened to the simple use of manners in these communications?

The Frugal Yankee placed an ad for a viral intern. Someone who would help us get our frugal word through internet campaigns. Not one of the emails sent to us had a “Dear Sir” or Dear Ma’am” or “To Whom it may concern”. Not one of these inquiries had even the simplest form of civility. Here is one, from Ben. “what is the campaign for?” That’s it. The sentence is not even capitalized. There is no signs of greeting, interest in the project or in my humble opinion, respect for the person on this end. It is very sad to think of the arrogance, lack of manners or stupidity behind this cursory inquiry. Maybe Ben feels this is all you need in life. Direct, grammatically incorrect questions make for good relationships. Wait until he gets married!?

Well, Ben, the answer to your question “what is the campaign for”, is simple. It is not for you. You show have shown me nothing other than you need to grow up. Hiring you would be a huge mistake. I’d end up spending money and enjoying it less.