There are a handful of reasons why one might wish to cancel their current cable service. Perhaps the economic downturn and/or an unexpected emergency has left one reducing unnecessary expenses, a move might be in the offing, or perhaps there are better offerings from the competition. There may be other perfectly valid reasons as well, but before considering whether or not to cancel a current cable service, one should look at their reasons to ensure that they are not losing focus on their true goal. In these aforementioned scenarios the true goals are (in order): saving money, moving to a new locations, and receiving a better deal on different package. These same goals may be achievable in other ways, and one should not only think about these for their own benefit, but realize that retention specialists will have thought of them too.
This means that one can either prepare for arguments from the retention staff that is paid to keep as many customers with the cable service provider as possible, or relent. It may be wise to listen to what these glorified sales representatives have to say in some cases, but knowing exactly what one wants before they pick up the phone or pay an in-person visit to their local cable company office is very important. As is reading the contract.
What to Expect From Retention Specialists
As previously mentioned, many large cable service providers have retention specialists that take calls from customers that want to cancel their cable subscription service. The job of these people is to save as many as possible while up-selling whenever possible. This can be turned to one’s advantage in some instances, as it is not uncommon to receive complimentary upgrades or even discounted services. If saving money is the name of the game, bundling may be a viable alternative. The same holds true for those desiring to switch to another provider; there is a good chance that a comparable package is available with the current provider and one might be able to score a discount by staying with their existing provider. Those moving to new areas might be able to transfer their service, or put it on hold for a discounted price while they establish themselves in a new city and/or state.
These arguments are all very common, so be prepared and act accordingly. It is also worth noting that most of these specialists are excellent at what they do, and many have learned what Harvard Law professors refer to as basic ‘Negotiation-Jitsu’. Surprisingly easy to teach and learn, these techniques render typical customer attempts to lie or bully past a well-mannered retention specialists who only seems interested in getting to facts will likely result in a customer sticking with their current provider. Instead, come up with logical and honest reasons why quitting is important before contacting the cable service provider.
What if There Was a Bad Experience With the Cable Company?
An old expressions suggests that living well is the best revenge, and while bad customer service is certainly something that no customer should have to put up with, it still does happen. Everyone has bad days and no cable company intentionally sets up an antagonistic customer service operation, especially in such a highly competitive environment. Getting the service crew reprimanded or fired might seem like a proper revenge, but if that is the sole reason for canceling, consider counting to ten and make a plan to get something lasting and tangible rather than revenge. Perhaps approaching the customer service manager with an understanding attitude and professional manner will win a concession in the form of a discounted month of service or a free upgrade to a higher-tier package.
For Those That Simply MUST Transfer: Look at the Fine Print
If the reason for the switch cannot be addressed in any satisfactory way, then it is time to look at the contract or agreement. Many consumers may not realize that receiving introductory rates or short-term upgrades sometimes comes with a minimum duration service agreement. These agreements often come with early termination fees, and such a fee should weigh into one’s decision making process. After all, switching to another provider to save a few dollars a month may not be as attractive if a large lump sum payment is involved. Then again, if the cable service has been out 3 times in 2 weeks or a favorite network goes offline while the cable service provider and the owner of that channel enter into protracted negotiations, then it might be a time for a change. In such cases, a contract or agreement will almost certainly outline the termination agreement. Never assume that unilateral termination is due to unsatisfactory performance on behalf of the cable company will negate early termination fees. Contracts are not necessarily written for easy understanding by a broad audience, and many terms have different connotations in legalese.
Have a Backup Ready
Have a plan of action ready to execute before terminating service. If no move is involved, then make sure to contact other providers in the area and shop around for the best deal. Ask if they can install their service without waiting for the other service to be terminated. After all, unless one is moving or cutting their entertainment budget to the bone, a new cable provider is probably part of a larger plan. If this is indeed the case, pay close attention to the deals offered by the retention specialist, especially bundles.
Contact Your Company
Here’s the customer service contact information for the most popular providers. Use this list to find the contact information for your current provider, as well as shopping around for a new provider. While these aren’t the only providers on the list, this a good place to start.
