How NOT to build your list

Grrr... I'm really steaming this morning.

I've been working to get rid of the junk mail that arrives daily, so every Monday take a half hour and click on the unsubscribe links for those that provide it.

Today it was ConAgra Foods. How did I get on a list about food? I only cook when I have to and sure don't want recipes and advertisements for processed foods full of God only knows what kind of chemicals.

Anyway, I clicked the unsubscribe link and went to a page where I was required to enter a password. I don't have a password, so clicked another link. A while later I got an email directing me to a page where I could enter a new password and log in. Guess what, they said the password is invalid. Too bad for me.

In other words, this company refuses to let me unusubscribe without some long hassle. I suppose I could get through it, and probably waste an hour or more of time just to get off their list.

I then went to the contact page, where I could send them an email and complain - but ONLY if I give them my full name and address. They don't need my address.

Talk about a lesson in how NOT to win friends and influence people. Why would you want someone on your list is so angry with you that every time they saw your email they'd curse? I really don't think that would get you any sales, do you?