R’s DESK: Best tips to connect with a liver person in a company answering system

Here are the key tips for reaching a LIVE CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE by phone:

Getting Through to a Human:

• Press zero on your keypad – many phone menus automatically route you to a CSR
• Stay silent – most phone menus will time out after no response and default to a human agent
• Choose the “spending money” option – select menu options about upgrades, purchases, or add-ons to get someone on the line quickly, then ask for transfer

Timing Strategy:

• Call during off-hours – try very early morning or very late at night for 24-hour services to avoid busy times and get more attention

Working with the CSR:

• Ask for a supervisor – or request “someone who can solve my problem” (CSRs must transfer you upon request)
• Repeat your request – ask for the same thing multiple times; scripts often require transfer after three refusals
• Stay on the line – longer calls pressure CSRs to resolve issues or transfer you to someone with more authority
• Pre-refuse alternatives – start by saying you don’t want freebies, discounts, or new services – only your specific solution
• Call back immediately – if unsuccessful, hang up and call again to get a different CSR who may be more helpful or have more authority