9. Complain well
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I work hard for my money, so when I buy something, I expect to get what's promised. If I don't, this squeaky wheel complains loudly and smartly. When I call the 800 number, I always ask for and take down the customer service representative's name or employee number. That way, I know I'm far less likely to be "accidentally dropped." Always prepared for a long hold, I use a headset when I call and multitask.
To speak with a person I know will have more power to solve the problem, I immediately, but politely, ask for a supervisor. If the person I'm speaking with declines to connect me to a supervisor, I inform them that I guess I'll need to send in a letter asking why (naming the rep or referencing the employee number) denied me access. That always seems to work. In the complaint, I try to give the important facts in a very calm manner, sometimes noting I'd like to get a response from the CEO as to why this happened. Usually, the supervisor wants this to go away as much as I do, and will offer a solution such as refunding the purchase price or replacing the item. And if you still don't feel you've gotten satisfaction, the internet is a great equalizer. The possibility of having bad customer service facts posted where everyone can see often adds leverage. If this becomes necessary, make sure you post just the documented facts and don't make it personal.
Payoff: Varies but, when I toured a timeshare for a promised carnival cruise, I turned the worthless voucher into getting reimbursed for the actual cruise.
Thanks - nice comments are always appreciated by the authors!
Thanks - a credit card gives more protection than a debit card. So the same 2% cash back with no fees so I'll stick to the credit card.
(1) Didn't know there was a 60 day thing with CDs out there. Good to know. For the rainy-day fund... I use IngDirect, but the interest rates are ... crap in comparison to your CDs. But more liquid.
(2) 2% credit card? Just get a 2% debit card instead: PerkStreet is the most prominent right now, but there are others.
-t
I'm not sure how you reached the conclusion on where I spend my money. I will tell you two things:
1) Fair competition is good and brings down prices.
2) Most issues are not as one sided as you and most politicians think.
I like most of these - especially #10. Cut your own hair?
Not taking it personally at all. I'm neither pro or con big business. I could get into the psychology of teaser rates but the word "teaser" says it all. Don't have the smartphone app you refer to. Cost benefit of getting a newer smaller car with better gas mileage isn't close. Keep the car.
Not taking it personally at all. I'm neither pro or con big business. I could get into the psychology of teaser rates but the word "teaser" says it all. Don't have the smartphone app you refer to. Cost benefit of getting a newer smaller car with better gas mileage isn't close. Keep the car.