“For the sales department, press 1. For customer service, press 2. For everything else, press 3.”
And for a fast way to annoy anyone, set up a recorded message like that one!!
People are used to these telephone filtering systems but research has shown more than 75% of customers are annoyed by them. And while the remaining 25% have no strong aversion, they’d prefer someone answer.
These stats strongly remind us that real people still want to connect with other real people at all levels of a relationship.
Action – Review your own communication systems. You might not be able to control company policy on the automated receptionist, but you can hand write cards, personalize letters, and answer your own phone.
Even if computerized contact replaces personal contact, it will never replace the fundamental human desire for connection.