How To Complain And Get Results

Every family has them. They are the fixer. The one you call for advice, to confide in or seek out to get results. Of late, the television network ABC launched a show featuring a woman of such aforementioned talents. They call her Olivia Pope from the hit series Scandal. But you may go by a different name. In my circle, it’s me.

I cannot pinpoint when or how I became everyone’s default for issues but it is what it is. Maybe it is my no nonsense approach to life or the fact that I am usually the more vocal one in a bunch. But whatever the reason, I have learned to embrace my roll with grace and humility. Just recently I had a customer service issue with our internet provider for which I had to utilize my specific set of skills to my advantage. It made me think that there is a right way and a wrong way to complain. In fact, the main objective in lodging a complaint is to get the quickest resolution possible. Often we complain so generically that nothing is ever done or resolved.

How To Complain And Get Results

Here are a few pointers to make sure your voice is heard:

• Before you do anything, calm down: The first thing in getting your issue addressed is taking note of your tone. I am not saying to hide the fact you are upset or frustrated, but take into consideration that the person you are talking to, whether by phone or in person IS NOT the enemy. You will get farther by enlisting them as your ally. Being calm shows you are not just another angry person jumping down their throat.

• Write out your grievances for clarity: A dull pencil is better than a sharp memory any day. In the heat of the situation we tend to either forget what’s important or amplify what isn’t. To make sure you reach the resolution you really want, take a moment to write out what happened, who was involved and what your expectations were.

• Go into the situation with your list of needs: As you write out your list, also include what you would like to see happen. If you want a free voucher, say it. If you need a charge reversed, speak up. Closed mouths never get fed. And neither do hot heads. To show you are ready to solve the problem, be vocal about what you feel should happen.

• Put it into writing: What I find more than ever is people are generally angry until the mood passes. Once it subsides they go on as usual. Or worse, they simply blast the issue to their friends via social media and everyone chimes in but nothing is done. I am a firm believer of taking it straight to the source with a nice, stern email. This lets people know you are serious about getting things done.

I am definitely not in the league with the type of problems Ms. Olivia Pope tackles. I don’t have an inside track to the White House or high powered figures. But I can say my phone rings often from family and friends who what a ‘real’ and objective perspective. I have learned to like myself and how I handle business. My style of leadership makes me who I am and thus far has been successful. Hopefully you can glean something from my style that assists you along the way. Because chances are you will have some things spring up that will require you to address them.

© 2013, Cherese L. Jackson. All rights reserved.