Friday, March 24, 2006

Part of being a good communicator is being a good listener

I just had a very frustrating conversation with Pearl Vision, here is the situation:

Two weeks ago I had an eye exam where my eye doctor prescribed a new type of contact lens which allows "60%" more oxygen to the eye. I have used the old contacts for 10 years and enjoy them but am always open to new ideas and technologies. I ordered a 6 month supply but after using them for two weeks, I decided I don't like them and would like to exchange them for my old ones. Here is the conversation with the lady who I will call idiot: (my thoughts are inside the paranthesis)

Idiot: Hello, Pearl Vision, my name is idiot.

Me: Hi idiot, my name is Jon Mumma. Dr. Espejo recommended a new contact lens for me and I ordered a 6-month supply but my eyes aren't adjusting to them so I was wondering if I could exchange them for my old ones?

Idiot: How many months supply did you order?

Me: (I just told you) 6-months

Idiot: You'll need to have Dr. Espejo write a new prescription for you.

Me: I just had an eye exam two weeks ago.

Idiot: I know that but he'll need to write a new prescription.

Me: Why would he need to write a new prescription? It's the same prescription I've had for 10 years?

Idiot: Well...I'll need to check your file. What's your name?

Me: Jon Mumma. Thats M as in mother, U, M as in mother, M as in mother, A. Mumma.

Idiot: Miller?

Me: (Losing my patience) No. M as in mother, U, M as in mother, M as in mother, A. Mumma.

Idiot: oh, moooa...

Me: (Growing irritable) Mumma!

Idiot: ok. I'm going to check your file. Can you give me a telephone number so I can call you right back?

Me: Sure. 301.770.3188

Idiot: Are you at that number right now?

Me: (No, this is my aunt's number, I stay there once a year) ... Yes.

Idiot: Ok. I'll call you back.

10 minutes elapse...phone rings

Me: Hello

Idiot: J Miller?

Me: (close enough...I don't even care anymore) Yes.

Idiot: Ok. I ordered a 6-month supply of your old contacts, you can exchange your current supply.

Me: Will you call me when they arrive?

Idiot: Yes, I will call you.

Me: (I'd rather you not) Sounds good. Thanks.

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