www.tcmp.biz

Q:		What is the Oath of Integrity?

A:		The Oath of Integrity is a binding contract which our vendors must agree and adhere to in order to participate in our online Market Place.


Q:		What is the The Christian Market Place?

A:		A global mall directory of products and services.


Q:		Why shop here?

A:		Why not? Our vendors sign an Oath of Integrity and vow to conduct their business with honesty and integrity. What better way is there to shop?

2. General Membership

3. How to Shop?

Q:		Can I place an order over the phone or FAX?

A:		Many of our vendors will include a contact number as well as FAX number.


Q:		How do I place or inquire about an order?

A:		Each vendor has his or her own terms of sale associated with their store. Please contact them directly.


Q:		How do I shop for products or services?

A:		There are several ways for you to shop. Located at the top of all main pages, click on "Mall." Using the search bar(s) you can enter a vendor store ID#, name, service type, key word, Zip Code, etc.,


Q:		Is the mall a secure site?

A:		Your order is encrypted and is as secure as any online shopping service. When you make an online purchase, your billing information is not stored on our server unless you choose the option of keeping it on file.


Q:		What are shipping fees, return policies, etc.,?

A:		Each vendor should clearly state their terms of sale, including shipping fees. If you have any questions please contact them directly.


Q:		What if there are no search results to match my criteria?

A:		We are growing and new members are joining our family, monthly. Please use our contact form to make suggestions or requests.


Q:		What type of payments are accepted?

A:		Payment policies vary from vendor to vendor. If you have any questions, please be sure to email or phone the vendor before placing an order.

4. How to Open a Store?

Q:		1. Where do I begin?

A:		First you need to decide if you want to sell products or services here in the mall. If the answer is yes, than select the SELLER'S ACCOUNT. If you do not want or have need to sell items here in the mall, simply select the BUSINESS E-CARD.


Q:		Are there commission fees to be paid to you for my sales?

A:		No, there are never any commissions paid to us for your sales.


Q:		Can you set up my store for me?

A:		Yes. Just select your web-store plan and complete check out. During the payment process simply include a note requesting set-up. We will then invoice you separately a sum of $99 which includes colors of choice, up to 10 store categories with descriptions, your contact page, about me/us page, and logo uploading (if you do not have a logo, we can create a generic logo at no charge). When we're finished with your set-up, we hand you the virtual keys where your store will be ready for you to stock. Set-up time depends on how complete and quickly you respond to our short set-up questionnaire.


Q:		Do I need a domain to begin?

A:		No! That's the beauty of our Global Market place. With our Internet platform, you no longer need to pay for expensive domains and renewals. Upon registration you are assigned a vendor ID# which you can refer friends and associates to.


Q:		Do I need a logo to begin?

A:		You do not need a Logo to begin. Your Web store comes with a very professional default Logo until you create one. If you would like us to create a logo for you, you can place an order in the member's Market Place Store.


Q:		Do you have a trial membership?

A:		No we do not offer trial memberships or refunds. Setting up your account in our system is both costly and time consuming. However you may choose not to renew your membership once your term expires.


Q:		How do I receive payment for my products or services?

A:		SELLER'S ACCOUNTS and DIGITAL packages come with a FREE built-in shopping cart which allows you to accept credit cards, electronic checks, FAX or US Mail via Paypal. If you do not have a Paypal account, opening one is free an easy. If you prefer not to accept credit cards, simply use the pay by mail or Fax feature.


Q:		How do I sell my services/products here in the mall?

A:		Selling a product or service is simple! Just click on "Open a Store" link at the top of the page and follow the step-by-step registration process.


Q:		I am not a US resident and want to set-up a store in foreign currency. Can I do that?

A:		The Christian Market Place is not limited to US citizens. This is a WORLD WIDE MARKET PLACE where members from around the world unite to showcase, promote and connect to a global audience.


Q:		I cannot afford a web-store, can you help?

A:		Frankly put, if you cannot afford the small fee that we charge to open a web-store, you cannot afford to go into business. Building an on-line presence takes passion, energy and resources. If you are truly ready to commit to your vision, than we suggest asking family or friends to help you with your initial fees. You may also consider opening a joint store with a friend or business partner to help offset costs.


Q:		I have no Internet experience at all. In fact I thought cut and paste meant get your scissors and glue! Can I really do this?

A:		Yes you can! Upon registration, just click through the setup wizards to create your on-line shop. Our built-in alerts will help you avoid errors.


Q:		Is the SELLER'S ACCOUNT for me?

A:		If you would like upload images to sell products or services directly from the mall, this plan is for you. If you would like to direct people to an outside website or shopping cart, the BUSINESS E-CARD is all you will need. Both are indexed in the mall under the category of choice.


Q:		What is the difference between the ADVERTISING E-CARD and a SELLER'S ACCOUNT?

A:		Both are indexed into our global mall in the category of choice, but the SELLER'S ACCOUNT includes a built-in shopping cart which allows you to upload photos in order to sell and showcase your products and services in your own leased store. As with any 'brick and mortar' storefront you stock and maintain your store.


Q:		Who is The Christian Market Place (TCMP) NOT for?

A:		If you are seeking someone to run your business for you, TCMP is not for you. We simply provide you with a platform in which to conduct your own business. It is important that you educate yourself on the workings of the Internet. If you want to be successful on the world-wide web there are no shortcuts.

6. Shop Owner FAQs

Q:		Can I find out how many visitors visit my store?

A:		Yes, located on your accounting page.


Q:		Can I place sound files in my store?

A:		Yes. If you selected the DIGITAL Plan you may upload your MP3 files at anytime. Our built-in encoder automatically converts the file to a real audio format and places a music player on that catalog page where your visitors can click to listen and buy. If you would like to add the digital plan to your current web-store package, simply contact billing.


Q:		Can I sell eBooks or music/audio in my store?

A:		Yes! We have incorporated a FULLY AUTOMATED process which allows publishers, musicians, artists, and anyone with PDF or MP3 Products to sell digitally. Simply choose the DIGITAL Membership. Just click on the "Open a store" link at the top of this page to begin.


Q:		Can I use my current Paypal account?

A:		Yes. Just enter your current Paypal ID in the accounting section.


Q:		How do I purchase products to enhance and promote my business?

A:		On your log-in page you will see a link to the member store where you will find promotional products such as business cards, letterhead, apparel and more! You can also place orders for set-up, custom logo's, etc., NOTE: These products are only available to registered members.


Q:		How do I set up my shipping?

A:		Your shipping fees are directly related to how they are set-up in your Paypal account.


Q:		I don't see a category that suits my industry. Can I make a suggestion?

A:		Please do! Consider this YOUR mall and feel free to make suggestions anytime.


Q:		What is my URL in the mall and can I forward my current domain here if I have one?

A:		Yes. You will find your URL at the top of your web-store. It consists of the store id# assigned to you upon registration. If you do not know how to perform this forward, simply contact your current registrar and they can direct you. If you need help, we can do this for you at no charge.


Q:		What payment options are there with the built in shopping cart?

A:		Our shopping carts are programmed to accept all major credit cards as well as e-checks using Paypal's secure checkout system. You may also set your payment options for personal checks, and FAX orders so that you can use your own merchant account. You can also send and receive money in most currencies worldwide. If you do not have a current Paypal account, setting one up is free and easy.


Q:		Where can I find specific 'how to' details?

A:		Log-in to your control panel and click on the "Guided tour" link. From here you will access the simple step-by-step user guide.


Q:		Will I be live as soon as I am approved?

A:		No. You are in control of when your store goes live with a simple click of a button. This option is found in your control panel under "Settings". Changes are made in real time (instantly). NOTE: Billing begins upon approval and does not suspend during periods of non-use.

Advertising, Affiliates & Referrals

Q:		Do you pay referral fees?

A:		Our vendors earn a $10 referral fee for each successful registration. On our sign-up page there is a space for the referring Vendor ID. If you're using the business cards that we offer in our member market place, be sure to write your store ID# in the space provided so that people can easily refer to it when signing up.


Q:		How do I advertise here?

A:		There are two ways to advertise in our mall: The first way is to create a BUSINESS E-CARD so that your company can be indexed into the mall directory. The second way is to SPONSOR A LINK. This option can be selected on the home-page under "sponsors." With a sponsored link your company name & URL is continuously displayed across the mall for your selected duration. There are a limited number of sponsors set-up on a first come first serve basis.

Auctions, Tradeshows, Catalog

Q:		Will you list my item for auction?

A:		We would love to explore the idea of adding items on ebay as a group.

Current Website Owners

Q:		Can I direct people to my current website outside of the TCMP.biz?

A:		Sure.


Q:		Can I point my current website URL/Domain name to my store here at TCMP.biz?

A:		Yes! You will need you current store URL which is located on your "Settings" page. Technical support is available anytime to help with this.


Q:		I already have a website. What can The market place do for me?

A:		You should utilize every single opportunity to gain exposure for your craft, business and service. If you already have a website, so much the better. Drive traffic to both!


Q:		I do not want to sell on the TCMP website but I would like to upload images. Do I need a SELLER'S ACCOUNT?

A:		Yes. The ability to upload images is incorporated into the shopping cart software.

Custom Design Services

Q:		Can you create a logo for me?

A:		Yes! Simply complete registration and then log-in to your control panel where you will find a link to the members market place. You can order custom services, supplies and other enhancements.

Digital FAQ's

Q:		How does the Digital sale work?

A:		Simply create a custom catalog for all of your MP3 or PDF products using our web store templates. Music files (MP3’s) are uploaded and instantly converted to an audio format that visitors can listen to using the built in player. You have full control over which items you would like to make available for physical shipping or immediate download. All non digital items purchased, are verified and shipped by you, all digital purchases are verified by our automated system, where the purchaser will have immediate access to their selection(s). ZERO SHIPPING FEES and FULL AUTOMATION means that your store works for you even while you sleep!


Q:		How large a file can I upload?

A:		There is a maximum upload file size of 8MB for each item.


Q:		My MP3 is not loading, what's the problem?

A:		Make sure your file extension has "MP3" capitalized and that your file does not exceed the max allowed.


Q:		What type of electronic files can I upload and sell?

A:		You can upload MP3 and PDF files.


Q:		Where can I find more answers to specific digital uploading, payments, etc?

A:		Log in to your control panel and click on the "Guided Tour" link. In this section you will find a step-by-step tutorial on making your store set-up quick and easy.

Domains

Q:		Can you register a domain name for me?

A:		We do not provide this service to your directly, but can make several suggestions on companies that do.

E-Mail, Personal Info

Q:		I'm with the media. I'd like to feature you on my web-site or publication.

A:		We are always looking and appreciative of any exposure that we can bring to our vendor's. Just drop us E-mail using the contact link above. We will get back to you right away.


Q:		I've changed my email address. How do I update it in my info?

A:		Log in to your control panel and click on "Settings" and then click "Edit." This is the area where you make all changes pertaining to your administrative information including store name, mall category, etc.,


Q:		I've lost my password can you send it to me?

A:		Yes. Just visit our homepage and enter the email address that you registered here at the market place with. Within a few minutes your password will be emailed to you.


Q:		What do church's pay for an indexing into the mall?

A:		In order for our software to process and place your account into our system, a payment must be processed, so the cost is a one-time fee. This plan includes a zip code search feature, and complimentary 3 page web-site to describe your church vision, programs, etc.,

Images, Logo Uploading, Content

Q:		I just bought an BUSINESS ecard and cannot upload images. What's the problem?

A:		The image upload feature is integrated into our shopping cart. If you want to upload images whether to sell or showcase products or services, you must upgrade to a SELLER's account.


Q:		My text is spacing weird; Double spacing in some places, dropping in others. Why?

A:		Microsoft Word may be the culprit. To solve this problem go ahead and type your text in Word and perform your spell check. Once satisfied, paste the completed text into NOTEPAD. From Notepad copy and paste your text into your store content table.


Q:		What image file types can I upload?

A:		You can upload jpg images only.


Q:		Where can I find a specific how to on uploading images?

A:		Log in to your Control Panel and click on the "Guided Tour" link. In this section you will find a step-by-step tutorial.


Q:		Will my images automatically be resized?

A:		Yes. Your jpg files will be resized for you to fit into the cubby very nicely. Please note that all images must be 2 MB or under in order to upload. If your image is larger than the maximum allowed, your image simply will not upload and you will need to reduce the file before the upload can take place.

Member Billing

Q:		Can I cancel my account and be credited back for the unused term?

A:		The Christian Market Place does not offer pro-rated refunds based on the early cancellations. However, you may choose not to renew your membership at the end of the term. Please note that if you wish to cancel a hosting package prior to the end of the term you will forfeit any money paid for the our hosting services. Your contract begins upon approval of your store whether or not you begin set-up.


Q:		Can I temporarily suspend my account if I go on vacation?

A:		Sorry but we do not offer this service. You term begins upon approval and continues until the plan you selected expires. However you can take your web-store out of the mall itself for any period of time if you wish. Doing so will prohibit your store from being indexed by our internal search engine.


Q:		How am I billed?

A:		Payments are billed through our merchant account and renew automatically until canceled. Services canceled during your lease term are not refundable, however you will no longer be billed once the term expires. Billing cycles will continue automatically until the package is canceled by the customer.


Q:		I don't have a credit card, can I join?

A:		If you cannot pay by credit card, we do accept electronic checks using the same automated system. You will see this option at check-out.


Q:		What if my subscription payment is returned for lack of funds?

A:		We understand that issues arise and will give you 10 days to bring your account current. If payment is received after the ten day grace period, your account will be temporarily suspended and there will be a $25.00 re-activation fee. If the account remains delinquent for 30 days the account will be terminated and all inventory deleted. Please note that we do not accept partial payments so please ensure that the funds are available each billing cycle to avoid any problems.

Other

Q:		Do you have data on visitors and demographic info?

A:		While TCMP.biz does have access to the above statistics, the key to any successful business is offering products and services at a fair price, and conducting your business with integrity. The Christian Market Place consistently ranks in the top-tier of most every search engine and if you have a product or service that someone is searching for, they will find you.

Sign-Up/Confirmation

Q:		How long will it take for approval?

A:		Upon verification of payment, you will receive an email notification confirming your new account. We ask that you allow 72 hours for processing (most accounts are processed within 24 hours). Until then your site will not be active.


Q:		My account was not approved. Why?

A:		There are two reasons that this may occur: Either the content being offered did not fall within our Terms of Service, or the payment was unable to be processed. Please use our contact form if you feel that there was an error on our part.

Sponsorships, Charters

Q:		Can I sponsor my church, or another?

A:		Absolutely! You can use the "Sponsor a link" located at the bottom of this page which will place a link on our main pages to an outside URL, or visit the "Open a Store" link and select the Church e-Card.


Q:		My link is not correct and is displaying the multiple http's link this, http://http://www.mysite.com. What's up?

A:		This occurs when you add the http:// yourself. Your URL should begin with "www" and then yoursite.com

Terms and Conditions

Q:		How old do you have to be to open a store?

A:		Participants in our global mall must be at least 18 years old or be able to legally enter into a contract in the state of California.