Most of us are not complainers. In fact, when you think about it, it's surprising how infrequently most folks do complain.
But, sometimes there is just no choice.
If you buy a car that turns out to be a lemon, if you purchase an appliance that doesn't work, if your mechanic charges you hundreds of dollars but doesn't fix your problem, or if your contractor falls months behing schedule, walking away quietly is really not an option. The problem is that complaining rarely helps wronged consumers.
The reason is simple. Few consumers know how to complain. Try these simple suggestions and you are likely to be pleasantly surprised.
1. Effective complainers, like good negotiators, always know what they want to come away with. Complain only after you have decided what you want.
2. If the person to whom you complain does not offer you what you want, ask for it. Leave no doubt about what will satisfy you and why you think it is fair. Do you seek a partial refund, full refund, product exchange, or a discount on a future purchase? Be as specific as possible. But, give the person to whom you complain a chance to make you an offer before you ask for a remedy...you may get more than you expect.
3. Do not talk down to anyone and do not use insulting or profane language. Good manners and civility are far more likely to get you results.
4. Recognize that the first person with whom you speak may not be able to give you what you want. If that is the case, politely ask to speak with whomever has the authority to resolve your problem.
5. If you have had good previous experiences with the company about which you are complaining and/or if you expect to buy their products or services again if your problem is resolved fairly, say so.
6. Avoid ultimatums and attempts at intimidation.
7. Don't be deterred easily. Remember that it is often the second or third person to whom you speak who will be most anxious to ensure that you are satisfied.
8. The threat of complaining to a consumer watchdog agency or hiring an attorney seldom leads to a quick solution, but it may be worth trying as your very last resort. But, only as your very last resort.
How likely are these eight suggestions to get you the results you seek? They have helped me get $1,000 back on a car purchase, an insurance settlement increase of $3,000, a free week of golf, complimentary meals, and more. Be assured that they can help you get similar results.
But, sometimes there is just no choice.
If you buy a car that turns out to be a lemon, if you purchase an appliance that doesn't work, if your mechanic charges you hundreds of dollars but doesn't fix your problem, or if your contractor falls months behing schedule, walking away quietly is really not an option. The problem is that complaining rarely helps wronged consumers.
The reason is simple. Few consumers know how to complain. Try these simple suggestions and you are likely to be pleasantly surprised.
1. Effective complainers, like good negotiators, always know what they want to come away with. Complain only after you have decided what you want.
2. If the person to whom you complain does not offer you what you want, ask for it. Leave no doubt about what will satisfy you and why you think it is fair. Do you seek a partial refund, full refund, product exchange, or a discount on a future purchase? Be as specific as possible. But, give the person to whom you complain a chance to make you an offer before you ask for a remedy...you may get more than you expect.
3. Do not talk down to anyone and do not use insulting or profane language. Good manners and civility are far more likely to get you results.
4. Recognize that the first person with whom you speak may not be able to give you what you want. If that is the case, politely ask to speak with whomever has the authority to resolve your problem.
5. If you have had good previous experiences with the company about which you are complaining and/or if you expect to buy their products or services again if your problem is resolved fairly, say so.
6. Avoid ultimatums and attempts at intimidation.
7. Don't be deterred easily. Remember that it is often the second or third person to whom you speak who will be most anxious to ensure that you are satisfied.
8. The threat of complaining to a consumer watchdog agency or hiring an attorney seldom leads to a quick solution, but it may be worth trying as your very last resort. But, only as your very last resort.
How likely are these eight suggestions to get you the results you seek? They have helped me get $1,000 back on a car purchase, an insurance settlement increase of $3,000, a free week of golf, complimentary meals, and more. Be assured that they can help you get similar results.
About the Author:
Ed Greene is a college instructor and freelance journalist. His most recent articles have been on online colleges, online degree programs, effective resume writing, and the importance of professional networking in a weak economy.
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