Ever notice how the Complaint Department in stores have been replaced by the Customer Service Department? There is a reason for that. Nobody likes a complainer and that includes the person behind the counter. To resolve your issue as quickly and painlessly as possible follow these simple suggestions:
- Remain calm – Contrary to what you may think, the person behind the counter or on the phone did not create the problem. Their job is to help you resolve your problem so stay cool. Getting angry at the customer service representative will not help you resolve your issue and will most likely make it more difficult for you to communicate effectively.
- Clearly State the Issue – Explain clearly why the product or service you purchased is not performing as advertised. If you can give a concrete example of how the product or service is not performing as expected, the customer service representative's job will have a much easier job in resolving your concern. If you are having difficulty explaining how the product is not performing, you can expect the customer service representative to have difficulty in returning your money.
- Follow Return Policies – Most businesses have their return policies printed on receipts and available at the customer service department. Walmart has a 90 day return policy and will allow you to make in-store returns for items without a receipt. Best Buy has a 14 day return policy on computers however, Reward Zone Program Premier Silver members have 45 days for returns.
- Don't Abuse the System – Most businesses want to please their customers and will work with you to resolve your complaint so don't expect the customer service department to except returns that clearly violate return policy. A prime example is trying to return an item like clothing that has had the tags removed and has signs of being worn.
- Read Product Warranty – On the occasion when you encounter a business that fails to resolve your concern satisfactorily, it is a good idea to read the manufactures product warranty. Some businesses have a strict policy that manufacturer defects will need to be addressed directly with the manufacturer.
- Consumer Complaints – Your first option should be to contact the Better Business Bureau to file a complaint. When all else fails you have the option of filing a complaint with the Attorney General's Office in your state. Make sure you have documented all contacts with the business's customer service department that provided you the product or service and that you can document clearly what the issue is and what resolution you are asking for.
Have you had an experience with Customer Service that you would like to share?
