Advertising (Hopefully List Appropriate)

No, this isn't an ad itself... :)   But, I'm hoping since it regards the
technique of forwarding ones self as a web designer, that it is "list
appropriate." My apologies if it isn't, and with a minor slap on the wrist
I will drop the thread here.

Anyway, my question is this: Is it appropriate/ethical (in the grand scheme
of things) to look at 100 web sites, note the email addresses listed on
those sites of contact peoples, and contact the folks of those sites who I
feel I could improve upon with a "generic" email stating who I am, what I
do, and a list of sites/references if they are interested?

I have done this a few times with results on both extremes. At least one
case has seen a finished project, with a happy customer, and continuing
occasional work. I have also had a few emailed responses (and a phone
call!) from people who were offended that I dared to imply that their site
could be improved upon. The two examples I think of I was actually directly
insulted (which took me by surprise because I've done my very best to not
be "pushy" - since I hate salesmen.)

My general feeling is that I have not done something "wrong", and maybe I
just don't handle confrontation well or something... but I'm curious as to
what anyone's objective thoughts might be on this (or similar experiences,
etc.)

(... also, I kept a copy of the original email I sent out, and can forward
that to anyone who wants to see it...)

~Nathan Lyle   (The Tragic Comedian Poet)

Web: http://www.nathanlyle.com
Email:  natlyle(at)nmu.edu    or    jopling(at)geocities.com
Phone: (906)485-4806

"If you can dream it, you can do it." - Walt Disney

HWG hwg-techniques mailing list archives, maintained by Webmasters @ IWA