by Mary Lake

Created on: August 29, 2008

Competition between companies appears to be decreasing, and with that good customer service appears to be on the decline. Granted, major companies do have competitors but there may be limitations as to what they can provide to satisfy your personal needs. After having several instances with companies where I received horrible customer service, I decided it was time to fight back. I refused to accept the way I was being treated when I was spending my hard earned money on their product and not being satisfied with what I was getting to consume. There are several steps you can take to get what works for you rather than the company.

Do Your Research
This is the key to resolving most issues. Most people make a purchase not knowing exactly what they are purchasing and what it should include. The average consumer will purchase only the packages or items that are offered and not question the options they are given. Representatives do not expect educated consumers or customers that question how they are being treated. For example, I recently dealt with a company that offered package deals for their product. The representative tried to sell me the "deal of the day" and assumed I did not know about the other packages. I mentioned I had visited their site and was aware other options were available. In this case the representative denied these options existed, at which point I felt taken advantage of as a consumer. When this occurs there are several ways to deal with the situation depending on the circumstances.

State You Will Cancel / Not Purchase the Service or Go to the Competition
No company wants to loose business. They know unsatisfied customers will tell others of their experience. As a result future consumers will pursue other options because they know of another person's previous experience. Businesses know that word of mouth can be the most harmful advertising for them if it is based on a negative experience.

When the Representative Become Rude
I have encountered several representatives that did not like dealing with an educated consumer. In response to my inquiries their tone of voice or comments became unprofessional. If this occurs, under no circumstances should you be rude in response to the representative (as much as you might want to be) because it will give you an advantage when you take further action.
When this happens remember you are purchasing their product, and it is their obligation and responsibility to treat you with respect. It is their job to provide

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