Top Tips For Complaining

People who know me will say I am the king of complaints. Whether it’s a refused refund or finding ear wax on a cotton bud in one of the most exclusive hotels in London, (that actually happened!) there’s nothing worse than bad customer service. And you can rest assured I won’t get a wink of sleep before sorting it out. After the ear wax episode my moaning got Rich and I got a complementary English Breakfast and a Spa Treatment, worth around £100 each, which I was quite proud of.

I didn’t realise how much I love to moan until Rich joked the other weekend and asked, “When have we gone to a hotel and not complained?” So yes, I admit, maybe I take it a little too far, but I’ve never walked away without getting what I want. I see too many rude staff ignoring people who are too weak willed or too embarrassed to make a fuss. So here’s a couple of top tips that will turn any of your customer service nightmares upside-down.

Keep Your Cool

You may be angry with the situation or wound up that the stupid, dumb idiot won’t play fair and give you what you want, but if you keep composed you are far more likely to get a positive outcome. Smile as well, even if you’re wanting the strangle them inside. For some reason they love it if you smile.

Stand your Ground

Being polite doesn’t mean you can’t be firm. Make it clear what the problem is and that it is unacceptable. Then hold your nerve. Not taking no for an answer will soon have them scampering off for their manager.

Go To The Top

On the subject of the manager, that is exactly who you should be speaking to. Complain to the top and get your problem sorted out within hours, even minutes. Speak to the mere minions and you could be there all day – especially in retail!

Take Every Opportunity

Don’t wait weeks to make your feelings heard. March down to reception or customer services etc and complain there and then. You can write a letter, which is good for your records, when you get home. Speak to them in person to get a better, faster response.

Keep The Paperwork

If the problem were to go to a small claims court any emails, letters and phone calls are brilliant material to shove under the judges nose and prove your point. Keep everything you send as it’s great evidence to help your case.

Don’t Give Up

Keep going where most people would give up. If you are not happy with the response repeat all of the above steps again. They will soon get sick to the back teeth of you and sort your problem out. Keep reminding them you are there and they won’t ignore you for long.

It’s Their Job

And remember it’s their job to sort out your problem and deal with your complaint. I like to think they will only sit there being bored if you don’t make a fuss. Makes me feel better about standing my ground and making a stand. After all, the customer is always right.

Right, that should have your complaining problems ironed out… who wants a free drink? I have a cafe loyalty card somewhere from when my drink was served cold.
Mike x