DEAR MISS MANNERS: What is my obligation to reply to unsolicited business contacts? I recently received a second email from a person who wishes to sell me something. I ignored his first message, but his second was personalized and suggested that we meet (presumably in my office) at a specific time and date. I have no interest, and in any case will be busy then.
Should I politely respond that I do not wish to use his product? Or is it acceptable to merely continue ignoring his requests and those like it?
GENTLE READER: You are under no obligation to respond to commercial solicitations. These are not your friends, no matter how familiarly they address you ("Hi, Bob! Can we talk insurance for a minute?").
However, if you wish to put an end to these requests, it might be wise to say, "I'm sorry, but my company and I are not interested in your product. Please take us off of your contact list." Miss Manners does not guarantee results.