Putting up a fuss

I hate to be "that girl" who puts up a fuss. But, after spending time in the hospitality industry and listening to customer complaints day in and day out, I really learned that if you want something bad enough, just put up a big enough fuss and you will get what you want every time.

I know "REALLY GOOD" and "REALLY BAD" customer service. When I find great customer service, I go out of my way to recommend that company and I become a repeat customer... like most consumers. (that's why I worked at BR so long, and will always shop there). Similarly, if a company hires awful employees or has unfair policies, then so long suckas ... its easy to take my business elsewhere, and spread the word about that 'awful' place.

Getting to the point:
Today I found a gift certificate to a spa/salon that I received a little over a year ago. It's worth $50 - and I'm completely broke, credit cards are maxed out, no job, interest on my debts racking up faster than I can even contemplate (yes, my self-pity wagon). I never used the GC because the spa is about an hour away from my house. (And, I found the best stylist ever here in Boulder. So why bother going somewhere else??? Well, I just can't afford him right now, so on to plan B).

I need a haircut before my best-friend's wedding in a few weeks so I don't look like a nightmare (re: Monica from Friends). What better time use the GC... but wait... it's, it's expired!!!

WTF???

In Vegas, its illegal for gift certificates to expire... and most businesses today will never set them to expire... if you ask me, its bad business. (sure, its an accounting nightmare, but its also ripping off somebody if they pay you and you keep their money for nothing!!!)

Needless to say, I fussed.* I talked to the receptionist, then the manager -- who then called the owner. They're not honoring the complete $50, only half its value. Not the ideal outcome... but I'm happy. They've kept a customer, plus I won't bad mouth them to others (well, at least I'll hold off judgment until I see how my hair looks after Saturday).

*I'm not normally high maintenance.