Whine Moan Amp Complain Then Contribute

Writen by Ron Kaufman

Every month I receive messages from students and readers that begin, 'I got such terrible service from…' and often close, '…and I'll never go back there again!'

I find these stories upsetting, occasionally entertaining, but rarely are they motivating or instructive.

Here's why:

Anyone with enough intelligence and emotion to muster a written complaint also has the ability to offer a constructive solution. If you can see what's wrong with a situation, you must have some idea about what would set it right.

Noticing problems is half the puzzle; getting things improved is the more important part.

If you are upset with a vendor, colleague or business partner, you must have some expectations unmet, some needs ignored or some preferences overlooked.

Your view of the situation is unique and your perspective may be very useful to the other party. Clearly stated, your requests and recommendations could make a difference.

Unless you enjoy complaining for its own sake, follow these five simple steps to help everyone improve.

How to complain for action

1. State your original understanding, including the promise you heard and the standards you expected.

2. Identify the flaw, gap or oversight you experienced.

3. Explain the consequences you have suffered: costs, anxiety, adverse impact.

4. Request specific remedial action and/or compensation.

5. Make a suggestion for improvement. Help the other party do a better job the next time.

Key Learning Point
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You have the right to complain when things do not work out as you expected. But complaining is only half the job. You also have a responsibility to contribute.

Action Steps
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The next time something goes wrong and you want to `give someone a piece of your mind', make sure that piece is constructive.

Ron Kaufman is an internationally acclaimed educator and motivator for partnerships and quality customer service. He is author of the bestselling "UP Your Service!" and founder of "UP Your Service College". Visit http://www.UpYourService.com for more such Customer Service articles, subscribe to his Newsletter, or to buy his bestselling Books, Videos, Audio CDs on Customer Service from his secure Online Store. You can also watch Ron live or listen to him at http://www.RonKaufman.com.