HW Feb 9

Write: think of a product or service which did not go well for you. Write a complaint about it.

 Find out whom to complain to:

1.        Company, school, organization etc. . .

2.        Agency: Office of Attorney General, American Bar Association, Insurance Commissioner

 HW: Focus on writing one good paragraph. Type it, e-mail it to Joe before 2 pm Feb. 9.

Also, bring a hard copy to class Feb. 9

Additional info:

 From: http://www.usa.gov/topics/consumer/complaint/complaint-letter.shtml

 Keys to an Effective Complaint Letter

·         Describe your purchase.

·         Include the name of the product and serial number.

·         Include the date and place of purchase.

·         State your problem.

·         Give the history of your purchase.

·         Ask for specific action.

·         Allow time for action.

·         State how you can be reached.

·         Enclose copies of your documents and receipts (but never send originals).

·         Keep copies of all your letters, faxes, e-mails, and related documents.

 Tips for Filing a Complaint

When filing a complaint, remember these tips:

·         Remain calm. The person who can help probably didn't cause the problem.

·         Don't use an angry, threatening, or sarcastic tone.

·         State exactly what you want done about the problem.

·         Document each step, and keep copies.

·         Start with the seller first. You can resolve many problems by calling a company's toll-free number. Even on the phone, you should know the details of the complaint. You can use the sample letter below to jot down a few notes before you call. If necessary, ask to speak to a manager.

·         If that doesn't work, send a letter or e-mail to the manufacturer's national headquarters or consumer affairs office. Some experts suggest that a letter is the most effective method for contacting a company, so if e-mails and phone calls don't work, try mailing a letter.

Success means justice and sometimes money.