I Asked ChatGPT To Renegotiate My Subscriptions: Can Its Script Help Lower Bills?
Millions of Americans are paying for more subscription services than they can comfortably afford. I stand before you as one of those millions. Here's the thing: Many of us could cut down. But we also may want to keep the convenience of being able to watch and listen to what we want.
So before taking the painful step of canceling services, I consulted ChatGPT, giving it the following prompt: "Write a polite but firm cancellation-avoidance script to request retention discounts on streaming, internet or software subscriptions."
Let's see what it came up with to help save money on subscription services.
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Be Direct and Confident
Right off the bat, ChatGPT wanted me to know that yes, I can do this. I just needed to muster my confidence and be direct.
It suggested saying the following to start: "Hi, I'm reviewing my monthly expenses and noticed my subscription has increased. I've enjoyed using the service, but at the current price, I'm considering canceling."
This statement alone seems like it would do the trick. No human customer service agent appreciates being bombarded with complaints and explanations. Say what you want/need upfront without being longwinded.
Be Neutral
Next, ChatGPT suggested I say, "I'd prefer to stay if we can find a more affordable option. Could you let me know what might be available?" Again, it's sticking with a down-to-business tone. It's also very neutral. I asked ChatGPT why this tone is effective.
"When you're negotiating with customer service -- especially about money -- calm, measured, emotionally steady language tends to work better than passion."
ChatGPT said that if I sound "angry, desperate or overly enthusiastic," I'll lower the "leverage" of the situation. Fair enough.
Or Be a Friend
ChatGPT said that "firm and polite" isn't the only way to push a service provider to lower my bill. I could also take the "friendly and relationship-focused" approach if I am a longtime customer.
Here's the message ChatGPT suggested: "Hi there, I've been a customer for quite some time and have really appreciated the service. However, with recent price changes, I'm reevaluating my subscriptions..."
Here, ChatGPT is suggesting I lean in to the fact (if true) that I'm a longtime user who has (most likely) tolerated price hikes in the past.
The ChatGPT Approach Broken Down Simply
With brevity in mind, combine ChatGPT's recommendations: Be direct, be neutral, approach the ask like a friend rather than an angry customer and if you have a long-standing relationship with the provider, lean into that.
The ball is more in your court than you may think. Customer retention is the primary way these companies make their money. Losing your $14.99 (or whatever it is) a month may not seem like a big deal to the provider, but that adds up, and if enough people leave, it will seriously hurt their business.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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