Agree’d.
Personally, I think it all comes down to how well your known within the community. Someone who is new to SON or any other community at that matter will most likely get picked on. It’s a common hierarchy trait almost everyone has.
Subconsciously, until they “prove” themselves no one will give a rats ass who they are. By proving themselves, I don’t mean they need to go do some outrageous action and gain the “like” of others, I mean, by staying active, NOT being a total tool, being respectful…etc etc.
A rep system will do no good. The iTrader IS good strictly because it gives you a sort of background on yourself and the person your dealing with, knowing that you could be swindled by a scam artist or helped by someone who’s a great person.
Again, it all comes down to “proving” yourself really. I mean unless people can actually vouch for you it’s very hard to join a new community and automatically be respected. However, there are many times that within the first few words of someones introduction or first post that you can grasp a sort of concept on their forum personality. At this point you than make your decision.