Don’t Be Afraid to Switch Providers

Do you have services or business providers that you want to change but you worry that your current provider will make this difficult? If another company is offering you a great deal and comes highly recommended by several sources, don’t let your current company push you around while making the switch.

Matthew Focht, president of Tru®, a consulting company that negotiates credit card processing rates for jewelers, says to be wary of tactics used by companies who want to keep your business, even if you feel forced into the decision.

He suggests using the following tips to avoid getting stuck with a difficult service provider:

• Don’t Be Bullied: If you call your current company to check on “cancellation fees,” this could send up huge red flags. You’re likely be directed to a “retention specialist,” who often tells customers about the high financial penalties incurred for switching. Rather than get to that point, Focht suggests you first get a written commitment from the new company you are considering that they will cover any fees incurred while switching. They should pay 100% of all costs incurred and plan on making it back by keeping you as a satisfied customer.
• Don’t Be Misled: Avoid switching to a provider who doesn’t make the process easy, making you less likely to want to deal with the hassle of switching in the future. Bottom line: Switching providers and services should be a cinch. Go with a company that understands switching you over painlessly and giving you great service and pricing means you will stay with them longer, give them more referrals and give good feedback to the association that referred you to them.

Take The Tip:
Interested in switching to a service provider who guarantees the lowest rates on your credit/debit processing? Tru is an exclusive Jewelers of America partner that provides services that include credit/debit card processing, check conversion/guarantee and custom gift cards. For more information visit www.jewelers.org/tru, or contact Michael Lepore at mlepore@itstru.com or 877-878-1777.