[Dx-qsl] Disappointed

[Allan & Bridget]

I think that a part of this comes from those new amateurs who don't know
better.  Doesn't make it any easier on the QSL manager, nor does it make it
right, but I get a lot of cards sent by 2x3 calls that are done a little
"differently".  It's a shame that there isn't a "QSL Meter" out there that
can tell us "thoughtless" or "completely clueless".  ;-)

I've been talking with a new amateur who is interested in DXing, and you'd
be amazed at what we take for granted...like how to address a card/envelope
sent to another country, or how to find/understand QSL information
(strangely enough, 5U4R wasn't in the QRZ database when she looked it up!).
She knows to send an envelope and money and we'll soon go over how to use
the bureau, but only because she's done some DXing with me (she got to work
VP8THU and VP8GEO before she ever worked the US).  Quite frankly, her
husband has neither the patience nor the know-how (and used to send a
business card to anyone requesting his QSL).  I think that there are plenty
of "experts" available, it's just a matter of knowing who to ask (and
knowing what needs to be asked)...a lot of guys learn through the
"university of hard knocks" and some of us are fortunate enough to have an
elmer who has been through the "university" and can keep us from some of the
same mistakes (my husband has STACKS of cards from people who sent notes to
him explaining how his cards shoudl be filled out...including things like
time and date in UTC...almost twenty years ago when he was a Novice...I hope
I made a lot fewer mistakes because of his experience).

We know that this information is available, but obviously the right people
aren't getting it...and the burden shouldn't fall solely on the shoulders of
the QSL manager who has enough to do...  any suggestions?  =)
73,
Bridget, KS4YT