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Cingular - Ordered, Screwed, Pissed

Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 4:28 PM
Hello. I posted this also in http://www.mobiledia.com/forum/index.html, the Mobile Media forums that I found via www.cellreception.com.

I used these sites and many others to research my options into entering into a contract and plan with a cell phone provider.

Here is my story. Cut & Paste from http://www.mobiledia.com/forum/topic31440.htm l.
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After researching different carriers and options, I chose to go with Cingular. So far that has been a mistake. Here is a chronological order of events:

Friday, May 13, 6:00pm: Ordered Phone

Friday, May 13, 10:45pm: Noticed credit card payment did not match price quoted. Called in to verify order, but was unable to. Told to wait for delivery and verify then.
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staceROCK

May 17, 2005, 4:34 PM
did you order over the phone?

if so then this would have been the sales person's fault.

sometimes they do these things and the poor poor secondary sales reps have to deal with all of the angry customers. the sales people do not therefore they do not mind messing up orders. at least that is how it goes around here.

as for the rma's.. thos take 7-10 business days. unfortunately.
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 4:41 PM
Yes I did.

I knew what phone and plan I wanted. I also knew it would be cheaper. I did not, however, know that the representative would be as incapable and untruthful as he was.

That is part of the reason I was so adamant about this being raised in some type of managerial review.

Like I said, had I recorded the phone call and posted it, there would be no mistake about what I ordered and the deception I encountered.

That is what bothers me the most about it. I do not believe it to be a mistake, but inentional.

I still would like to get the phone I originally ordered, however, now I will be giving other carriers a much closer look before I even consider the possibility of dealing with Cingular again.
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BoomBoxing

May 17, 2005, 5:10 PM
I'm not sure about this but isn't it illegal to record phone conversations without the other parties consent? Maybe that is certain states but I was under the impression that was illegal everywhere.
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 5:14 PM
I live in North Carolina. According to the law in my state.
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N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-287: It is a Class H felony to intercept or disclose the contents of a wire, oral or electronic communication without the consent of at least one party to the communication, The statute defines wire communications to exclude the radio portion of a cordless telephone call that is transmitted between a cordless telephone handset and base unit. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-287.

In addition, communications transmitted in a manner accessible to the general public, radio transmissions of aircrafts, ships or vehicles, and law enforcement radio communications, can be legally intercepted.

Violations of the law can be punished by impri...
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texaswireless

May 17, 2005, 6:06 PM
You can record ANY phone conversation. You must inform the party you are doing so and they can object but their only recourse is to end the call.

You cannot use the contents of the call for certain legal actions but that depends on the situation.

My question is this, why did you decide not to just visit a store?
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texaswireless

May 17, 2005, 6:15 PM
Sorry, got my answer below.
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jcamcardo

May 20, 2005, 7:20 PM
you have way to much time to youself-GET OVER IT
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austin316

May 17, 2005, 4:37 PM
Wjhat about the contract were you disputing you said the length did you want 1 year or 2 year,didyou want the prices on the website, cuz those are 2 years, you give vague info, try to be more clear.
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 4:44 PM
I wanted a 1 year contract. The representative I dealt with understood this, or so I thought.

I knew that I would be paying a higher price for the purchase of the phone and accepted this. To me, a slightly higher price versus a year of commitment was a fair tradeoff.

That is what set off the first red flag. The charges on my credit card were less then they should have been.

The issue was, I authorized a one-year contract and was enrolled in a two-year contract despite being told I was being enrolled in a one-year contract.
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staceROCK

May 17, 2005, 4:46 PM
hmm well the way it works (or worked) with att was that we could not send out 1 year contracts and by not signing and returning that contract it automatically switches over to a 1 year.

a lot of customers were confused on that and i have taken many calls dealing with that issue.

i dunno how it works with cingular though, i am still on the blue side..
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 5:20 PM
I don't know how it works either.

I just know I asked for a one-year contract, was told I was receiving a one-year contract, and was being charged for a one-year contract.

That just did not turn out to be the case.
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OrangeTSC

May 18, 2005, 8:53 PM
i am not sure if the rep made a mistake or intentionally deceived you. however i will say this, a rep is paid the same amount of commission for a one year contract as he/she would get for a 2 year contract. also the price a customer pays for a phone does not benefit the sales rep. as for u receiving the incorrect phone there would be no gain for the rep sending the wrong phone because that increases his/her chances of charge backs.

resolution: i do know with the acquisition of ATT some of our systems are new and some issues cannot be corrected until the phone/account is actually activated. as for correcting that issue unfortunately we would have to do a return and reship. i do know that the contract issue is easily resolved by changing...
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 11:59 PM
Basically when I called I had a few things I did in fact want to be achieved by my phone call.

1. Have the correct phone sent to me with the correct contract length.

2. Have the MediaBasic Package removed from my current features.

3. Have my activation period reset. I was unwilling to accept the phone was activated at the warehouse, spent five days in transit, thus leaving me ultimately responsible for the activation fee.

4. Have the "notes" modified, so that it was perfectly clear that I felt I had been purposefully deceived. The original rep I spoke with and placed the order through could not have possibly made an error regarding my order.

Having the contract period shortened, the MediaBasic package removed, and the ...
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Letsgopense

May 20, 2005, 8:36 AM
I really don't think the person intentionally did what they did. They really have nothing to gain from doing so. We're all human and make mistakes. Have you lived a perfect life? Have you never once made a mistake? Most people out in the world don't do things to personally attack another. I will give you a kudos for noticing that you were charged less than you expected and calling in to get the situation rectified. You are honest in that sense. Most people wouldn't and then have a real mess to clean up a year down the road. For that I do applaud you.
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austin316

May 17, 2005, 10:13 PM
Cellboob01 said:
I wanted a 1 year contract. The representative I dealt with understood this, or so I thought.

I knew that I would be paying a higher price for the purchase of the phone and accepted this. To me, a slightly higher price versus a year of commitment was a fair tradeoff.

That is what set off the first red flag. The charges on my credit card were less then they should have been.

The issue was, I authorized a one-year contract and was enrolled in a two-year contract despite being told I was being enrolled in a one-year contract.


Now you understand prices for phones on the website are ONLY two year prices, and things like rebates do not get qualify under 1 year contract, and did you...
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 11:40 PM
I always understood there was a price difference. That is not the matter of contention. As you quoted me saying, I was willing to pay more for a shorter contract and expected to.

However, the rep signed me up for a two-year contract, while telling me I was being signed up for a one-year one.

Furthermore, I never activated the phone and it was sent to me activated. This was also a point of contention I explained in this thread, but in short, activation of the phone was supposed to be my consent to the terms of the contract. Cingular in essence forged my consent.

My money will be refunded and I will be hesitant to do business with Cingular, if ever again. I will also be sure that my friends, family, and readers will be aware of m...
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austin316

May 18, 2005, 2:20 AM
please do, and he can help you out while we send you off to outside colllction agency for keeping the phone, so he can help you then to.


Please let me know, i love doing that 😈
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 3:15 AM
Do you honestly believe that *trying* to threaten my credit will intimidate or influence my decision?

Do you even know how the credit system works in regards to this other then the fact that companies can make reports.

If you do, your comments belie your knowledge regarding this manner.

Amusing to say the least. While such threats may work on less informed people, I assure you, I am well aware of my rights and resources at my disposal regarding this matter.
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THE BOX

May 18, 2005, 12:11 PM
ok cellboob I've tried to be nice to you now I'm telling you the truth ! Do you think it matters to cingular that you are upset ? i the time you've spent on this forum ranting and raving we have added a 1000 people to take your place ! so do me a favor return the phone and go to another company because we don't need another customer like you !
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uNt0uChAbLe

May 18, 2005, 12:17 PM
Its people like you is the reason why Cingulars customer service sucks so bad. You should be concerned about each and every custome you have and treat them like theyre your only customer. Pretty soon when everyone realized their customer service sucks so bad they are going to add less and less customers per quarter while someone else is adding more and more and Cingulars status will start to drop.
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Iselltheshitoutofphones

May 18, 2005, 12:35 PM
Untouchable,

You are right 110%.But don't forget that one bad apple will not spoil the whole bunch. It is sad that he feels this way. Yes one customer does not effect him directly, but when that angry customer tells 4 of his friends how he was treated, it can make matters worse. Word of mouth is extremly powerful. To be fair, Cingular's customer service has come a long way.

Another sad point to note is they are offering him a position on the teir 2 support team. This sucks as now he is in a higher position to spread frivolous and incorrect information to more people now. Just ignore him. That is what I do. I can't count how many times a week that he tells someone incorrect info.


Will
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Aleq

May 18, 2005, 12:59 PM
Not to mention the fact that this is someone who is being responsible for his account, verifying everything for errors, attempting to work with reps to find a reasonable solution and is standing up for his rights in a sensible and fair manner. All I gotta say is if Cingular doesn't want this guy, we'll take him at TMobile! I'd rather deal with Cellboob (terrible handle, though!) any day than the run of the incoherent, irresponsible, blame throwing, screaming, cussing, jerks that seem to be the norm for customer care.
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property33

May 18, 2005, 1:22 PM
Aleq said:
I'd rather deal with Cellboob (terrible handle, though!) any day than the run of the incoherent, irresponsible, blame throwing, screaming, cussing, jerks that seem to be the norm for customer care.


.......and some (NOT all) of whom claim to work for Cingular and post here and have that same attitude.
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THE BOX

May 18, 2005, 9:38 PM
blow me
i tried to be nice to him and he would not let it die! i am very nice to my customers and very helpful and informative . This guy is a customer that we do not need he is the type that will call 2-3 times per month about the taxes on his bill and eventually cancel so thats my opinion and im entitled to it
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 11:48 PM
Responding to questions that were asked to me regarding the situation is something you consider to be a useless trait?

Defending my actions to uninformed people when they question and impugn me is unreasonable?

This guy is a customer that we do not need he is the type that will call 2-3 times per month about the taxes on his bill and eventually cancel so thats my opinion and im entitled to it


Your conclusion is laughable, though I must admit curiousity as how you came to this.

I felt it only appropriate to share my experiences.


That was how I concluded my first post. Did you forget that?
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rayban

Dec 27, 2006, 4:51 PM
I think every customer is needed 🙄
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not2brite

Dec 27, 2006, 4:55 PM
FYI
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THE BOX

May 17, 2005, 4:41 PM
ok im sorry this happened to you what sales channel did you go through ? telesales or a third party vendor ? and did you get that reps name ? also you can remove features no problem the contract does not apply to media or text packages those can be removed and all charges credited no problem there ! now as far as recording the conversation you cant do that and if you were to take that to court it would not be allowed in to as evidence because you did not get permission from the company (sorry it really pisses me off when customers think that they are getting a leg up on the company by doing that)And last i sympathize with your frustration because some sales people will add features to an account to get the commission without asking you and t...
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SellPhones

May 17, 2005, 4:47 PM
What would have happened if he did...

Friday, May 13, 6:00pm: Ordered Phone

Done....

Just to save a few bucks.
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staceROCK

May 17, 2005, 4:52 PM
ahh. good point.

i don't think that given the choice, i would ever choose to order over the phone.

too much confusion and besides, i know how sneaky those sales reps are.

commission, commission, commisssion.

i've seen and heard it all.
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 5:00 PM
Actually StaceRock, I did investigate the offers at my local authorized retail store.

Firstly, the phone model I wanted was not available there.

More importantly, if I had ordered that model from the retail store, I would have had to pay substanially more for them to order it.

Most importantly is that when you order a product, regardless of the mechanisms to invoke the order, you should not be mislead.

Your comment seems to imply that I am responsible for being told I am ordering one product when in fact I am ordering another. This could happen just as easily at the store.

Furthermore, since I believe this may be of some use to you, I'll share:

MAHATMA GANDHI’S DEFINITION OF CUSTOMER

* A customer is not an outsider...
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staceROCK

May 17, 2005, 5:08 PM
no no that's not what i meant at all.

someone said why not retail store and i was simply agreeing that i would also have went to a retail store based on my experiences on working in a call center and KNOWING what some of the sales reps pull.

of course you as a customer would not be expected to know that. if i would have never started working here, i also would not ever imagine that people would do some of the things that they do. i would never try to mislead anyone and therefore would expect the same treatment from everyone no matter who you are. and of course like you said, the prices are relatively cheaper in telesales versus retail stores.

this is not saying that there are not honest reps out there though. it's just the bad and u...
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 5:16 PM
Yeah, I am sorry. I realized after posting that you hadn't said that at first and were just commenting on it.

I figured if I knew what phone, plan, and had all my info that it would be as easy as 1,2,3.

I think the reps that frequent boards here and other places are most likely the more qualified and honest of the bunch, thus skewing perception.
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texaswireless

May 17, 2005, 6:15 PM
Not neccesarily. Several here are bitter, cruel people who care nothing for the customer or their issues.

Can you share more info about your phone. Which handset did you want that was not available in the retail store? Why would it have been more for them to order and how much more?

As a store owner/operator I find it frustrating when customers think ordering over the phone/online think stores cannot handle their needs. Knowing more about your options will help with future decisions for products and services my store may offer.

Thanks
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 6:53 PM
texaswireless said:
Not neccesarily. Several here are bitter, cruel people who care nothing for the customer or their issues.
...
As a store owner/operator I find it frustrating when customers think ordering over the phone/online think stores cannot handle their needs.


Yes, I've seen those reps as well.

I chose to go with the phone sells to avoid the sales commission, or so I thought it would. I noticed at my local store the prices generally were higher then elsewhere. Most differences were $20 or more.
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themike314

May 19, 2005, 1:08 PM
Cellboob01 said:
MAHATMA GANDHI’S DEFINITION OF CUSTOMER

* A customer is not an outsider to our business. He is a definite part of it. A customer is not an interruption of our work. He is the purpose of it.
* A customer is doing us a favour by letting us serve him. We are not doing him any favour.
* A customer is not a cold statistic; he is a flesh and blood human being with feelings and emotions like our own.
* A customer is not someone to argue or match wits with. He deserves courteous and attentive treatment.
* A customer is not dependent on us. We are dependent on him.
* A customer brings us his wants. It is our job to handle them properly and profitably - both to him and us.
* A c
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 4:54 PM
Thanks, The Box.

I called 1-800-CINGULAR and ended up speaking to a man named Will. The manager I spoke to today, claimed that since my order was cancled that it would be reported to the manager for review and that the notes on the account could be viewed. At this time, I made it clear that I wanted the notes to convey the fact that I believed to have been intentionally mislead.

As for the recording of telephone conversations, I politely beg to differ, as I have had some expeirence with this in the past. While recording conversations can vary from state to state, a company that records any conversation for "quality control" implicitly authorizes the other party of the conversation the right to as well.

Furthermore, I live in No...
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THE BOX

May 17, 2005, 4:59 PM
ok ill agree with you there because she did not know to tell you that you do not have her permission (thats how i was trained ) and i dont want to go to court over a matter of a cell phone and if you give permission and it goes to court we as rep could possibly be called to court in a worst case senerio!

what phone did you order and what price were you given with a 1 year contract ?
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 5:10 PM
Yeah, arbitration and court are the last resort for me. Having said that, they are always an option and one I am willing to pursue if necessary.

The phone I originally ordered was a Noki 6230I, the upgrade to the 6230. I recieved the latter.

The price I was quoted, for a one-year contract was $189 for the phone. The flag that sent up an alarm was when my payment was processed for $156.16.

Also, not to argue, but the statutes that apply to taping of conversations are those of the originating state. I did not have to inform her that I was indeed recording the phone call according to NC State law.

There are only twelve states that currently require the permission of both parties, and once again, this only applies if the ca...
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texaswireless

May 17, 2005, 6:26 PM
Well, considering you were attempting to order a handset that had not yet been released I can see where the issues came up.

To answer my own question, the store would have to order the handset because it wasn't yet available. I know our price for the handset would have been $189.99 on a 1 year agreement, and we have some due to be shipped tomorrow based on the release date from Cingular distribution.

Did the store tell you why it needed to be ordered? You say you did this research but you never came across anything saying the handset was not yet released?
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Bigbmc26

May 17, 2005, 6:28 PM
just a question, Cingular doesn't have the new 6230i yet. only the 6230, how were you trying to order a phone we don't carry yet. i may have missed it, but just asking.
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 6:50 PM
That's just it.

I saw here the phone hadn't been released. I have also seen reviews of normal consumers who do indeed have the phone. I was unsure.

Therefore, I called and asked.

My call started off:

"Hello, I was interested in purchasing a phone and a rate plan, but I am unsure if the phone I want is currently available, could you tell me if it is?"

Or words to that effect. I went on to explain how I wanted to purchase the Nokia 6230i.

The representative, said that it was indeed available, and remarked that currently he only saw around 300 or so in the inventory.

I asked why so few, and he went on to say something about how it was a newer phone and probably not many people knew about it yet.

Just a question, b...
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Bigbmc26

May 17, 2005, 6:54 PM
that was the 6230 ENS,(enhanced network) not the 6230i. That's what you needed the store rep for, reps on the phone don't know jack about the phones. they're just trying to get a sell.
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liamdeschain

May 17, 2005, 8:39 PM
"sale", not "sell"

xoxo
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Bigbmc26

May 18, 2005, 9:17 AM
🤭 slippers.
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Bigbmc26

May 17, 2005, 6:57 PM
i work for cinglar in a C/O store in Greensboro, NC. Where are you located?
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 7:02 PM
Greenville =)

That is the first mention of the 6230 ENS I have seen.
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Bigbmc26

May 17, 2005, 7:06 PM
That is the updated software version of the 6230. ENS is used with the 64k SIM to pick up more network.
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liamdeschain

May 17, 2005, 8:33 PM
no offense Bigbmc26, but saying that all telesales reps "don't know jack" about the phones we carry, is an inconsiderate and foolish comment to make.

this particular instance was indeed the fault of the dishonest rep that took this customer's order. every once in a while there will be a rep that abuses the system for their own personal gain. i can honestly say that myself, and every member of my team are completely honest and would never deceive the customer, no matter the circumstances.

i frequently have to try to "clean up" issues that have occured because of a sales agent in a retail store. i'm not in any way saying that all retail store agents are dishonest, i'm just saying that i've dealt with my fair share. i frequently tell my c...
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staceROCK

May 17, 2005, 8:39 PM
very well explained.

couldn't have done it better myself.

i did try but sometimes i just don't have a way with words..

i wish all sales reps were honest because the ones who aren't sure as heck don't think about the reps who have to clean up the messes.

it isn't pretty.
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liamdeschain

May 17, 2005, 8:47 PM
most definitely. and then it's people like you and i who have to try our best to make sure the customer is satisfied.

i wish they did a better pre-screening of some of these people. now a days it's all about hiring people right off the street.


xoxo
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staceROCK

May 17, 2005, 8:49 PM
oh man you're telling me..

not to be rude but you should see some of the hoosiers they've hired here.

rediculous.

not to mention the amount of fraud going on in our very own sales dept.

haha oh rediculous is definitely the word to describe it.
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Bigbmc26

May 18, 2005, 9:16 AM
no offense to you guys, but i have been working for cingular c/o for 2 yrs now and i have yet to talk to a telesales rep that knows the equipment like we do in the store. simple things like not selling a customer the nokia 1100 because it was garbage, or that motorola's come back day in and day out for warranty issues. this is why we always tell the customer to go to a store, it's a much better experience. 🙂
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Wenadin

May 18, 2005, 2:19 PM
lol, you should talk to my roommate then. he absorbs phone info like a sponge, I get most of my phone knowledge from him or from here. I know we don't know as much as the store reps do, but you guys have an advantage: you actually get to see/handle the phones every day. My personal experience with phones is with the ones i have (outdated moto V400) or that my friends have, and not many people i know have cingular as their carrier.
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liamdeschain

May 19, 2005, 4:07 PM
i wasn't saying that you didn't know your stuff. that's not the case at all. all i was saying is that i've had to deal with my fair share or fools from the store. like some genius that asked if i could waive the deposit for a one of his customers.

are you serious? come on people, common sense here.

but like i said, we both know our stuff. just some people don't.


xoxo
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captainplooky

May 21, 2005, 2:36 AM
Is Cingular planning on carrying it and when will they start?
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Bigbmc26

May 21, 2005, 8:38 AM
the phone hasn't been released in the states yet, co there is no way of knowing.
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elihuspeaks

May 17, 2005, 6:47 PM
Just a thought . . . how does recording the conversation benefit you. I could be mistaken, but when you agree to the contract for service, isn't there a clause where you consent to mutually binding arbitration? That would mean that you have already agreed not to take Cingular to court. I always read contracts very carefully because a lot of companies put those clauses into their contracts (credit card companies are another big one).
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 7:10 PM
Recording the conversation documents the services I asked for and authorized and the agreement between the two parties.

Also note, that at the time, I had not consented to the terms of the contract. This is irrelvant however.

The phone was sent to me activated. Therefore, by proxy, I was obligated to the terms of the contract. However, this would not stand up in a court of law.

This also went against the prior established agreement. The phone was to be sent to me, not activated. My activation and use of the phone is what implies consent to the contract and terms. Cingular chose to forge my consent if you will.

Lastly regarding contracts, they are written to be hard to understand while all encompassing. Many of the "agree...
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 7:12 PM
I forgot to close the italics. Please note the text below was not meant to be italized in my previous post.

Furthermore, many state laws prohobit such restrictions on consumer's rights. It really depends on your state how much protection you get.

Essentially the bottom line is that you can't sign away certain rights regardless of what a contract says.
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liamdeschain

May 17, 2005, 8:50 PM
Cellboob01, you are a very knowledgable person. you sound like you have dealt with this sort of "recording conversations" issue before. seems like a very useful bit of knowledge.

xoxo
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 2:07 AM
Thank you.

If your interested in what the laws are in your state, you can check out http://www.rcfp.org/taping/states.html.

Note the source =) *hint* *hint*
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austin316

May 17, 2005, 10:41 PM
Cellboob you sound like such a weenie, i think you are just trying to scam the company to get a hot new phone for a price that we are offering with two year contract on a 1 year, and the may may have said its with a 1 year and you taped to make sure, otherwise there would no need to record the last part of the call, and now you are trying to force the company to give you 1 year contract but a two year price.

It won't work we will just tell you to go to hell or walk away.Or maybe it will be me to tell you if i get you on the call, you can record that too!!!!!
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 2:03 AM
Do you honestly believe that if I took the time to read and research as I have, as evidenced by my prior posts at the Mobile Media forum and others, that I am solely seeking a deal on a phone?

Also, your reading comprehension seems to be lacking. I recorded the second conversation, not the first which would have contained the original sale. Additionally, you have glossed over the fact that once I realized that my payment had been processed for LESS then I was quoted, I called customer service to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

What you are also unaware of is, when I placed my call to customer service today, approximately seven minutes after the phone was delivered, I was seeking a resolution. I explained my problem, and asked...
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Aleq

May 18, 2005, 10:40 AM
Dude--remember those "bitter, nasty" reps referenced in another part of this thread? You found one... 😉
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austin316

May 18, 2005, 10:44 AM
Aleq said:
Dude--remember those "bitter, nasty" reps referenced in another part of this thread? You found one... 😉


Oh whatever Aleq, just fuel the flames, i will douse them and him real damn quick if he gets me on the phone.
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Aleq

May 18, 2005, 11:27 AM
austin316 said:
Aleq said:
Dude--remember those "bitter, nasty" reps referenced in another part of this thread? You found one... 😉


Oh whatever Aleq, just fuel the flames, i will douse them and him real damn quick if he gets me on the phone.

Put your gascan down, dude. The guy has legitimate concerns, presented in a rational and intelligent manner, his rebuttals have been factual and supported by reasonable citations and you're just jumping all over him as though he were a crazed crack addict trying to spare change your girlfriend. I've been a care rep for two years and spend a lot of time on floor support, and if I heard a rep talking to a customer the way you cam...
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muchdrama

May 18, 2005, 12:54 PM
Aleq said:
austin316 said:
Aleq said:
Dude--remember those "bitter, nasty" reps referenced in another part of this thread? You found one... 😉


Oh whatever Aleq, just fuel the flames, i will douse them and him real damn quick if he gets me on the phone.

Put your gascan down, dude. The guy has legitimate concerns, presented in a rational and intelligent manner, his rebuttals have been factual and supported by reasonable citations and you're just jumping all over him as though he were a crazed crack addict trying to spare change your girlfriend. I've been a care rep for two years and spend a lot of time on floor support, and if I heard a rep talkin
...
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Aleq

May 18, 2005, 2:08 PM
Damn, dawg, you are MEAN! *golf clap* 🤣
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muchdrama

May 18, 2005, 2:51 PM
Aleq said:
Damn, dawg, you are MEAN! *golf clap* 🤣
My sister thought it was funny. 😁
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Wenadin

May 18, 2005, 2:27 PM
I wholly agree aleq, and I have been appalled at some of the responses to cellboob. Especially austin's.
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 5:58 AM
Well, now I see that you are in fact a customer service rep.

What is more disappointing is that you are proud of your deception of customers, as evidenced by https://www.phonescoop.com/carriers/forum.php ?fm=m&ff=3&fi=261102.

Congratulations on making your fellow employee's job harder. I am sure they appreciate it.
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austin316

May 17, 2005, 10:16 PM
your state law does not mean jack, you deal with FEDERAL LAW with a NATIONAL CORPORATION!!!!!
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Cellboob01

May 17, 2005, 11:47 PM
Actually your are quite wrong.

Let us pretend, however, that you are correct.

The federal Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, 18 U.S.C. Sec. 2510
Consent: In the absence of more restrictive state law, it is permissible to intercept and record a telephone conversation if one or both of the parties to the call consents. Consent means authorization by only one participant in the call; single-party consent is provided for by specific statutory exemption under federal law. 18 U.S.C. Sec. 2511(2)(d).


Your point is?
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austin316

May 18, 2005, 2:29 AM
the law was repealed in 1976, good job looking at 40 year old law, good boy here's a cookie,sit, sit ,good boy!!!!!
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 3:11 AM
Really?

That is interesting.

Perhaps you should inform Congress of that, seeing as how the House passed admendments to it as recently as October 16, 2001. Reference H. R. 863. You can view the bill at http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/F?c107:1: ./temp/~c107jcWryv:e274:

Also you may want to double check your not confusing the government's rights, in contrast to an individual's rights. You will find they are quite different.
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OrangeTSC

May 20, 2005, 9:13 PM
Cellboob01 said:
Really?

That is interesting.

Perhaps you should inform Congress of that, seeing as how the House passed admendments to it as recently as October 16, 2001. Reference H. R. 863. You can view the bill at http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/F?c107:1: ./temp/~c107jcWryv:e274:

Also you may want to double check your not confusing the government's rights, in contrast to an individual's rights. You will find they are quite different.

good job cellboob01. finally somebody shut him up! i generally choose to ignore this guy b/c he obviuosly likes to hear himself talk.

im not sure of the laws but if it were done intentionally it may have all been avoided if you did inform the orig rep that ...
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texaswireless

May 18, 2005, 10:09 AM
Must be multiple personailty disorder.

Some days you make sense Austin316 but most days you make a fool of yourself.
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Aleq

May 18, 2005, 11:04 AM
It's that Little Hitler syndrome kicking in... 🙄
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texaswireless

May 18, 2005, 11:11 AM
Ouch.

Someone once told me Hitler was named Time Magazine's Man of the Year (before he freaked out on the world that is). I wonder if there is any truth to that.
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HeroPsychoDreamer

May 18, 2005, 11:13 AM
I've heard that Hitler is the only person to be on the cover of Time magazine twice! The first time may be what you speak of and the second time after he went nuts, who knows! 😕
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Aleq

May 18, 2005, 11:54 AM
HeroPsychoDreamer said:
I've heard that Hitler is the only person to be on the cover of Time magazine twice! The first time may be what you speak of and the second time after he went nuts, who knows! 😕

Well, to be fair, TIME does make it clear that they choose the most influential person, not the most popular. They're picking the person who has had the most impact on the world for that year, for good or ill, and Hitler definitely fit the bill, so it seem reasonable...
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davidg4781

May 17, 2005, 11:53 PM
There are no such things as national corporations. A company has to be set up in a state. It can do business across state lines, but that doesn't not make it incorporated on a national level. The government isn't in the business in creating business. That is left up to the states.
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 12:19 AM
At most, it could be argued if the phone call crossed state-lines that Federal Law should apply.

Argue that, and I have the right to record.

Of course, you get into the issue of state rights being usurped by Federal rights in other jurisdictions
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Darth_Ix

May 18, 2005, 11:49 AM
The law you are quoting is stating that it is illegal to make a recording of and electronic communication without having the consent of at least on of the parties you are recording (As the recorder you do not fall into the definition of one of those parties).

N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-287: It is a Class H felony to intercept or disclose the contents of a wire, oral or electronic communication without the consent of at least one party to the communication, The statute defines wire communications to exclude the radio portion of a cordless telephone call that is transmitted between a cordless telephone handset and base unit. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-287.
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UOQuack

May 18, 2005, 9:32 AM
CellBoob, whether it was your intention or not, you have given a prime example of why it is so important for a customer to purchase a cell phone in a store as opposed to over the internet or telesales. Now all you telesales reps, I don't mean this as an insult; I'm sure there are many of you out there who are ethical and honest. My point is this: when you purchase over the internet or telesales, you HOPE that they send you the right phone, you HOPE they charge you correctly, you HOPE the phone comes with all the parts/manuals, you HOPE the phone comes in a timely fashion, and you HOPE the sales rep you spoke to is knowledgeable and honest. When you purchase in a store, be it agent or company owned, you walk out of the store with the rig...
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texaswireless

May 18, 2005, 10:13 AM
Well said except one thing...

In most cases you don't even save money buying online or via telesales. Online only specials are there, but not often on the top selling handsets.
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alejandro

May 18, 2005, 2:58 PM
people who order over the phone or internet are screwed no matter what company because if something gets messed up you cant yell at the person you know was responsible and see them in public every day. when someone sees you every day they are more inclined to make you stop being mad.
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liamdeschain

May 19, 2005, 5:14 PM
i actually give out my extension to all my customers, that way if they have an issue they can contact me directing so i can help solve the problem. if i can't help them, i immediately get them in touch with someone who can.

believe me, i can't tell you how many customers appreciate that. i've had customers call me back just to tell me that they got their phone and are happy with the service. they also usually give my extension out to their friends so i can help them as well.

it's just good business.


xoxo
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BIGBOOB

May 18, 2005, 11:07 AM
DEAR CELLBOOB01,
THIS IS THE WHOLE PROBLEM WITH ORDERING A PHONE OVER THE PHONE OR THE INTERNET, YOU DONT DEAL WITH A PERSON FACE TO FACE AND WHEN YOU GO INTO A STORE YOU ACTUALLY SIGN THE CONTRACT INFRONT OF THE PERSON WHICH CLEARLY STATES THAT IT IS A ONE OR TWO YEAR CONTRACT. MAYBE YOU SHOULD GET OFF YOUR BUTT AND ACTUALLY GO IN TO A STORE, PICK OUT YOUR PHONE AND SIGN THE CONTRACT IN THE LOCATION!!
AND IT IS ILLEGAL FOR YOU TO RECORD SOMEONE WITHOUT TELLING THEM THAT YOU ARE RECORDING THEM!! SO MAYBE YOU SHOULD GET YOUR FACTS RIGHT BEFORE YOU STATE THEM TO THE PUBLIC.

P.S
PHONES ON A ONE YEAR CONTRACT ARE $50.00 MORE THAN A TWO YEAR CONTRACT, NOT $30.00.
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Darth_Ix

May 18, 2005, 11:43 AM
If you really used these sites as a resource you would have noticed everybody complaining about telesales and web ordering. You would have gone into a store where all of these issues would have been fereted out before you left the store, you wouldn't have had any issues with the model of the phone, and you would have had someone to hold accountable (that smiling face of the retail rep who helped you out) in the event that something did go wrong.

It's been said here time and again in post just like yours and the response is always the same: Go into a company owned retail location. You are not going to have the issues like this. Before you leave a COR store the rep hands you a CSS and explains the plan you have, any features, the term of...
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uNt0uChAbLe

May 18, 2005, 12:08 PM
So its his fault that he called and wanted service? Its his fault that the sales department is there for a reason but shouldnt use them? Just because he called instead of going into the store doesnt mean he should get any less service quality. And yes they can see whol helped him out because everyone has a code when logging onto an account. Cingular needs to get rid of most of their customer service people and start over. I worked in customer service for Qwest Communications and when they first opened up in my area they hired anyone that walked through the door whether they had a record or any experience whatsoever. And that all showed after 8 weeks of training when most of them got fired for getting an attitude with customers and not being...
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Darth_Ix

May 18, 2005, 2:38 PM
No it's not his fault for wanting the best possible service. What I am holding him accountable to is the statement that he had used this site and others like it to do research. If people want to complain about these things they can't say that they have researched the methods to doing this and then decided, despite the findings they have come across, to utilize the route that they know is the most inefficient. I agree that there is a need to change the process, but there are ways to circumvent these issues, like going inot a store. My point is that we have time and again heard people whinning about this very issue and everytime the answer is the same, visit someone with a pulse instead of pushing buttons or holding a cold telephone reciev...
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texaswireless

May 18, 2005, 6:30 PM
Ok, I know this thread is long but the question was aked of this poster and he was told by the store they could not offer the phone. Unfortunately the store should have told him why and maybe he would have waited.

I felt the same, buy online or telesales and risk issues since you don't walk out with product in hand. That is why I asked him why not use a store. He answered and it seems the local store dropped the ball.
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alejandro

May 18, 2005, 2:42 PM
now what i dont get is, this guy was obviously screwed by cingular and he wanted to post his complaint about cingular... it supports his claim when every reply who seems to be an employee, agent or corporate. wants to be a total prick to him and question at least 3 times every sentence in his claim. blah blah blah this and blah blah blah that... as far as im concerned a contract over the phone isnt a contract at all. i guess when you have a crappy company like cingular and they get to be the biggest through a merger instead of expertise and customer service this is what happens, complain to the FCC like everyone else already has and get a Verizon or if not offered in your area another cdma carrier. you dont get futuristic phones but at least...
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uNt0uChAbLe

May 18, 2005, 2:45 PM
Uh oh the flodd gates have opened... 😳
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jramossteel

May 18, 2005, 6:38 PM
It is kinda sad, I know, but on the flip side, this happens alot with people who are "quick to save a buck" go through the online ordering system. The reason that the prices are cheaper is because there is no one to go to when it comes time to need help... I know it seems mean to brush him off but it is kinda harsh to the sales rep that he may ask for help. I know you guys may see it as the same company but when it comes to sales it is not even close really... Its like walking in a McDonalds with a Burger King bag, you just don't do it. But I do feel his pain. It is just kinda hard working for free when you are a sales rep in a store helping everyone else make money by fixing their problems that "someone else" caused while your bills are...
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texaswireless

May 18, 2005, 6:48 PM
I always ask the question, "So did you call the online sales department and they couldn't help you?"

Just a subtle hint that you bought from them but want me to help you. I am not rude about it at all. I alo mention the $50 referal credit my store offers when then send me any new activations. If saving a bit of money is that important maybe they will take some of mine for sending people my way.
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jramossteel

May 18, 2005, 6:52 PM
I try that too... And I normally do well for myself, but I can not tell you how many countless customers come in here and talk to me and are ready to go, until they realize that my phones are like $20-$40 more than they are through the website, and people are cheap... I spend the hour with them and then they go online and do it there instead... It is frustrating, but you get what you pay for in all honesty, you get something that much cheaper something else is also going to be given up.
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texaswireless

May 19, 2005, 10:56 AM
I always ask up front if they have shopped anywhere else yet. Helps to know what handsets they may have seen beforehand. Also helps to lead them to a handset that does not have a price difference, as long as it fits their needs.
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OrangeTSC

May 18, 2005, 9:33 PM
that works both ways because i send numerous customers to the retail stores after spending 30+ mins explaining the rate plans and features, then they remember they "let their spouse use the credit card today", or "i have to check with my spouse", or "i need my phone today". so again it works both ways. we all know that estore has us all beat! 😡
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jramossteel

May 18, 2005, 9:59 PM
I know... ☹️
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THE BOX

May 18, 2005, 9:47 PM
hopefully by now he has gotten his money back to his credit card and moved on to another company ! so we can stop giving this issue so much attention and space on the site !
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Cellboob01

May 18, 2005, 10:15 PM
Actually I haven't 🤣 but that should only be a matter of time.

I'm currently waiting to receive the RMA label to affix to my return package. It is my understanding that it should be arriving early next week.

Once the phone is received back, scanned through, my account should be credited. I opted to not exert pressure to have the credit restored faster, though it would be within my rights as I understand.

Reading the responses here have been most enlightening and I appreciate the majority of them. I can not say I agree with them all, but I appreciate the various opinions regarding the matter.

Like I said originally, I felt it only appropriate to share my expeirences. Hopefully, the resolution will be a painless expeirence...
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drewsoccer17

May 20, 2005, 3:17 PM
THE BOX said:
so we can stop giving this issue so much attention and space on the site !

Customers NEED to be aware that this kind of thing happenes when dealing with telesales or internet sales. not so much the deception by the time delay on ANYTHING that you need done. In my opinion telesales and internet sales give this company a bad wrap.
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jramossteel

May 20, 2005, 5:20 PM
Amen to that!
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PhoneTwit

May 18, 2005, 10:23 PM
I work at a sales center call Convergys. I sit next to people lying to customers all the time. The fact is, they still have jobs. In fact, sometimes their names are displayed as examples of people who are "meeting sales goals." I hear people assure customers that there are no coverage issues because that phone "works using Satellite."

On the other hand, we fail our quality audits for all sorts of minor, weird stuff. I believe that if Cingular or Convergys wanted my coworkers to quit lying to customers they would.

The fact is, everyone is too short-sited to see how much your experience damages the company.
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Cellboob01

May 19, 2005, 12:33 AM
Thanks.

As I posted on the Mobile Media forums, I haven't ruled out trying Cingular in the future, however, I will be paying a much closer look at the competition first.

I was really looking forward to my new phone. It took me awhile to find the one I wanted and now all that was for not.

I just wish the rep would have told me straight out that the phone was not currently available and that I would need to wait.

I know there are good and bad examples of everyone, so that is what I'm trying to remind myself.

Of course, if they try any of that "satellite" talk with me, I will promptly call shenanigans.
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bluesnot

May 19, 2005, 2:33 AM
Hahaha.
Awesome.
Wasn't that from South Park?
Shenanigans!
I declare Shenanigans on Cingular and ATT because I hate them both equally (and technically work for both, too.)
Their methods are clearly dubious.
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drewsoccer17

May 20, 2005, 6:32 PM
Now, I would like to say that it is not just Cingular that these things happen with. It is ALL COMPANIES that use Telesales and Internet sales. Dell is the perfect example, and I'm sure people have had bad experiences with other companies. I am sure Verizon, T-mobile, etc. are just as bad as Cingular as far as problems with telesales and internet sales. I personally would hate to see you chose an inferior carrier because you have had a bad experience with our telesales department. I would also like to apologize for the inconvience that all of this has caused you.
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Cellboob01

May 19, 2005, 12:31 AM
🙂

I can't find it again, but whoever joked me about my screename, I have to say thanks.

That was pretty funny and to be honest, I agree. That in part was why I chose it.
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BlueCingular

May 19, 2005, 2:35 AM
I don't mean to be rude or anything. But just letting you know that a 2 year contract MUST be signed (can also be done verbaly and saved in to a special program.) but it is not like the one year where you just say yes. It needs to be signed in general...no if's ands or buts.

And I deal with cingular daily being on the blue side. I am not on commission nor is anyone as far as I know 😕
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Cellboob01

May 19, 2005, 5:16 AM
I wasn't aware that a two-year contract must be signed or the verbal agreement.

It was my understanding that my activation and use of the phone implied consent of the terms of the contract.

Do you think it be prudent in the future, to inquire if the representative works off commission? Honestly, I wonder if that question would be met with an honest response everytime.
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texaswireless

May 19, 2005, 5:20 PM
Commission makes the world go around.

A good friend of mine and former boss wrote a paper about this in college. If there was no commission, or incentive, the vast majority of people would not get off their butt to learn and become better at their job.

Yes, there are some who take advantage, but they soon find that their success is very short lived.

A great example is Circuit City. They stopped paying commission. Service quality dropped. You cannot even get help there now from someone with the least bit of knowledge. They read of their product cards like it is a presentation manual. Before when they were paid commission (where I proudly started back in 1992) reps knew they could sell more if they were smarter about their produ...
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westgirl

May 19, 2005, 7:21 AM
Nope, no sales reps left on the Blue side that get comisssion. Unless you are a corporation and then they have thier own sales account managers that get comission, but none left for regular consumers.
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texaswireless

May 19, 2005, 5:21 PM
All Cingular agreements in North Texas are electronically confirmed, no signature required.
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THE BOX

May 19, 2005, 7:06 PM
as for the response of "you have to sign a contract" not true by accepting the equipment and using said equipment you agree to the terms and conditions even if you don't get a copy of the contract its legal ive seen it hold up in court a 100 times

so who posted the information about having to sign a contract that works on the blue side research you info alittle more before you post crap like that ! maybe thats how it works with the blue side but on the orange side this is how it works
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austin316

May 19, 2005, 9:19 PM
THE BOX said:
as for the response of "you have to sign a contract" not true by accepting the equipment and using said equipment you agree to the terms and conditions even if you don't get a copy of the contract its legal ive seen it hold up in court a 100 times

so who posted the information about having to sign a contract that works on the blue side research you info alittle more before you post crap like that ! maybe thats how it works with the blue side but on the orange side this is how it works


Its the same on blue if you take a service and use it for a period of 30 days or more you are bound to a 12 month service contract, unless you sign a contract-which is for 24 months.
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davidg4781

May 20, 2005, 12:25 AM
How in the heck would it matter whether they're blue or orange. The Statue of Frauds states that any contract which has a term longer than one year requires it be in writing, whether that be printed or electronic. The Uniform Commercial Code states that a contract must be signed by the party whom enforcement is sought, and again, that signature may be written or electronic, or, and I may be wrong about this, but it may fall under the electronic part, when a phone is activated, if that clause is in the contract and the end user knows of that clause before activating the phone.

If that's the only way the end user can "sign" the contract, and the phone was activated at the factory, that may void the contract and be grounds for criminal f...
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THE BOX

May 20, 2005, 1:15 PM
if we ship someone a phone and its a 2 year upgrade then most times they never recieve a copy unless requested they call a number and a recording comes on that says by pressing 1 you agree to the terms and conditions of this legally binding contract for a period no less than 2 years and by activating and useing the equipment you agree either or !
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lisam

May 20, 2005, 10:55 AM
im a retail store employee in a corporate store. this is exactly why i warn customers who think about ordering thru online. i make sure they know what can happen when ordering their phone online. i say ship it back and go to a coporate store to get ur phone and it can be set up right without problems
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EscalationQueen

May 20, 2005, 9:49 PM
Is this thread SERIOUSLY still going on? Anyone wanna give me the short version? I got way too confused when I tried to go thru it all.
...

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