Tip Of The Day: Talking To A Customer Service Rep Could Be Helpful

When speaking to a customer service rep on the phone regarding any sort of dispute, remember to remain calm and be polite. Nobody wants to be screamed at or insulted on the phone and these people are doing their job, despite what you may think of them.

Always ask for and write down your representative's name and your case number. Sorting out an ongoing issue with your bank, insurance or credit card company can be a headache. But if you can get back in contact with someone who's already looked into your problem, you may resolve it faster.

If things get really heated, documentation will help to support your claims.

Finally, be sure to follow through with a complaint if you feel you were treated badly or did not receive the service you were due. That doesn't mean you can scream at the rep on the phone or treat them badly, but ask politely how you can file a complaint and follow through with it.

Too many times people threaten to complain, but never do. Believe me companies really do pay attention to customer complaints, as long as they are reasonable. If they fail to let you file a complaint, go to the company's website and complain there. Remember to be clear, concise and reasonable.