When Stupid Customers Attack

by | Jun 11, 2010

Brain Cells-small

Have you ever been frustrated by a stupid customer? Go on, admit it. There are times where it’s a good thing your facial reaction is not onscreen when you are asked something really stupid.

In an earlier post, I shared the frustrations of a bad day with technology. It wasn’t this customer that was stupid. I cannot say the same about their canned customer service response.

Stupid is as Stupid Does 

Shortly after that experience, I ran into problems with a template I had purchased. Since I was without access to the Internet, at the time, I decided to focus on some offline work. I confess, my patience level was not at an all-time high. I think my frustration burned some working brain cells, the few I have left.

Normally, I follow good instructions pretty easily. Neil Tarvin, creator of ebook graphics, included a great guide with the templates I purchased. Trust me; the problem was mine – not the instructions. That really frustrated me. My whole persona is Keep it simple, clear & uniquely yours. Neil did that and I was being totally stupid that day.

Stupid Customer Calling

I dashed off an email to Neil. It wasn’t rude, but I probably should have practiced what I preach about hasty emails. I told him I was having “horrible problems’ and that it was “very frustrating.” The first line of Neil’s response was, “Sorry you are having trouble,” and then he went on calmly, laying out a simple step-by-step solution.

When I followed up with a second question, apologizing for being so dense, Neil assured me, “You’re not dense at all.” I love it when people lie to me when I am being stupid.

Genius Customer Service

Neal’s response was quick, simple, clear and uniquely his. After the bad customer service experience with my ISP, Neil’s handling of this stupid customer was gratifying – and a bit humbling. It made me want to do a much better job. So, the next time a stupid customer attacks, teach them a lesson. Show them what real customer service is all about.

I am not an affiliate of Neil Tavin, just a very satisfied customer. Check out his templates and design services at ebookgraphics

How about you? Have any stupid customer moments you’d like to share?

2 Comments

  1. Stacey

    Love this! I’m willing to bet we have all had those moments. I definitely get practice with my Army site at answering questions without making the person feel stupid for asking. I hope I have done well with it. 🙂

    Reply
  2. Cathy

    I have no doubt that you are most gracious, Stacey!

    Hey, do you have CommentLuv? It’s a great way to give visibility to your last post.

    Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. It is definitely appreciated!

    Reply

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