Financial Fellow

Written by J.P. Wicklein

     Complaining about a poor customer experience is an excellent way to save a few bucks.  Often companies will offer you an incentive to keep you happy – whether you’re in the right or not.  By complaining about a pair of bad experiences recently I received a $20 grocery store gift card and a $10 Amazon coupon code. 

The grocery store

     Last week I accidentally missed a sale on Diet Coke by one day.  The new price was $1.49 higher.  I asked the customer service desk if they would honor the old sale price.  They refused.  I retaliated.  I emailed the grocer, through their website, complaining about my experience.  Within a few days I received a phone call from a woman at their corporate office.  She informed me that the store should’ve honored my request for the old sales price.  To make up for my experience the store gave me a $20 gift card.   

Amazon

     A few weeks ago I wrote about my quest to buy a specific TV for the lowest price possible.  After reading your comments it appeared I was successful.  A couple weeks after the article, though, Amazon dropped their price $100.  Unlike many brick and mortar retailers, Amazon won’t refund the difference.  After getting nowhere with Amazon’s customer service department I decided to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.  A representative from Amazon’s corporate office responded to my complaint and held firm.  Although she refused to honor my request to refund the $100 difference she did offer me a $10 promo code on my next Amazon purchase. 

The bottom line

     I’m not suggesting you lodge a complaint every time you make a purchase.  The next time you feel slighted, though, don’t just take it.  Let the company know how you feel.  If, at first, you don’t get the response you’re seeking, escalate.  Ask to speak with a supervisor.  If that approach doesn’t work file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (it’s easy).  You may not get everything you’re looking for but chances are you’ll walk away with a little something extra. 

     What about you?  Did you ever complain about a bad customer experience?  Were you offered something as a result of your complaint?  Add your comments below!

Photo by:  katiebate