Everyone makes valid points here. Both parties do have legitimate concerns.
And, yes, fake personas must certainly exist on the Board.
So, I guess for the ladies; the two most important elements of ECCIE are Reviews and Private Messaging -- especially since some "clients" are reluctant to tender personal information.
As in business and our social lives, networking stands out as the best way to communicate, glean information and, as a result, gain whatever foothold we need to ascertain in certain circumstances.
As Victoria says, "...I send a quick pm to the most recent lady they've reviewed asking for a reference." But this practice leaves a few of us at a disadvantage.
As many of you know, and as I've stated on the Board many times; I stopped doing reviews quite a while ago, and wished I'd never done them to begin with. I do understand they may serve a purpose, but I can't bring myself to objectify women by rating service and spinning sophomoric yarns.
What a few select women and I do remains between us, and they're aware of my attitude and fine with it.
By no means am I judging right or wrong or the guys who do reviews, but it just ain't me.
Respectfully to all,
TD