SHOPPING TIPS 2 

Tips when returning goods to a store.

Ok.  You have a return to make.  Now what?  Here are some tips that might make the actual return process run more smoothly.

Prior to leaving the house:
-Do not attempt to call the store to plea your case.  Trust me when I say it's a lot harder to say 'NO' to someone's face and this holds true to store employees as well.  Many times you won't get anywhere and you'll just end up getting angry.  Most customer service lines are handled by 'call centers'.  They are not even located at the store.
-Be sure you have all the original packaging.  You should probably keep original boxes, tags and manuals for at least 30 days.  Most stores require the original boxes.  **Note...if there was a rebate, and you needed to cut the UPC symbol...you might get a refund...but it will be the original price LESS the rebate amount.
-Be sure you have the original receipt.  Many stores require the original or gift receipt.  Although some stores can look the purchase up by the credit card and date of purchase...it's still a good idea to have the original paper receipt.

Once at the store:
-Find the location to make the return.  You might need to ask someone at the front of the store where the return desk is.  They might also need to 'tag' the item so that it is known you are bringing it into the store.  This saves a lot of time...since you don't want to wait in line to find out you should have gone to a different location in the store.
-Explain the issue to the clerk.  You might want to go over what the issue is in your head prior to getting to the front of the line.  Don't sound reversed...rather, try to skew your issue to fit the outcome you are looking for.  Let’s say for a clothing item for example...if you want an exchange...you might want to say the size is wrong. If you want a refund...you'd say that the style is just not what you wanted.
-Remain calm.  Remember the clerk is human.  If you get angry and start yelling and making demands...they will more than likely...freeze up and become difficult.  Also, remember that many times the clerks are not the most seasoned employees in the store. 
-Ask for the Manager if you are not satisfied.  The store clerk is not the last word.  If you are not happy with the options, ask to see the Manager.  Many times they can override the policy and get you the desired return/exchange.
-Take store credit.  If they are offered only store credit and not a cash refund (or credit card refund)...take it.  Many stores will give you a 'gift card'.  You can always give it away as a gift...shop on line (if they have a store) or use it for something else later.

If you still are not satisfied:
-Take notes.  Take notes of employee names, date of the interaction.  This could be used if you should have to escalate your return to a complaint.
-Contact the District Manager.  Going up the chain can help.  Write a letter to the District Manager outlining the issue.  Make it short and to the point, list employee names and dates, from your notes.  Try to watch the tone and make it sounds like you are 'disappointed' at the whole experience.  Remember to leave your return name and address. 
We'll cover this area more in depth in a later post.

I hope these tips help.  We'll be posting more soon...so be sure to check back.