
Photo: Wikimedia Commons- Adam the atom
As consumers, we deserve to get quality products and services that deliver value for money. It can be disappointing when an item fails to deliver what is promised, or for some reason is defective. Equally annoying is poor service.
Recently one of my children bought a chocolate bar, from a well known company, only to find a piece of plastic inside. I was very concerned at the safety issue regarding this, and rang the company to make a complaint. Luckily, I had kept the packaging, so they sent me out a pre-paid sealed bag and asked me to return it to company to enable them to launch an investigation. The also sent an apology letter and $40 worth of gift cards for my trouble.
It is important for customers to make a complaint if they are unhappy with a good or service as many businesses may not even realise that there is a problem. The complaint serves as the beginning of rectification and solution which in the long term will benefit all consumers.
It can be hard to find a tactful way to complain, so here are a few tips.
Stay calm
As frustrated or annoyed as you may be, remain polite and calm. Ask to speak to the manager, phone or email the company. State your problems with the item or staff member and the reason for your complaint.
Take it further
If you feel that the issue has not been resolved or you are not happy with the outcome you are entitled to pursue the matter with the
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
Retain packaging
Make sure to keep any boxes, receipts and warranties from purchases. Keep track of these and when the warranty expires, it's safe to throw them out.
Leading supermarket chains like Coles and Wooworths, also offer money back or a replacement guarantees on some of their brand products. If you are unhappy with the item, you can simply return the remainder of the product or the empty box. This can be done easily and without a receipt.
You can find out more information on customer rights
here.
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#Frugal Living
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