If you plan to downgrade a co-branded airline credit card, prepare yourself for immediate drop-in services.
I’ve had a premium airline co-branded credit card for more than 20 years. Earlier this week, the annual renewal was coming up; with the economic changes we’re all seeing, I don’t travel at all now. So, most of the benefits that the higher-rated card offers aren’t helpful to me.
When I called the credit card company to change the card level, my phone call connected within two rings; before I said a word, the very polite gentleman on the other end immediately called me by name, asking how he may be of service. After a brief exchange, he said he had to refer the call to “retention.”
Moments later, a nice lady answered, again calling me by name. I told her what I wanted to do; she was understanding and asked if she could offer me some alternatives (to downgrading the card.) She was very professional and tried hard to keep me in the fold. However, I prevailed, and the card level was changed. That was the end of my premium customer service as far as the credit card company was concerned.
Two days ago, I called the very same phone number to ask another question about my transition; the call rang for a dozen times, then a recording came on saying they were busy, blah, blah. Finally, I connected to a polite gentleman; however, his command of English was limited and, I respected his efforts. It was the credit card company’s 2nd level call center, to be sure.
I’ll miss that premium card service, yet, I’m happy I’m saving money.
Are we there yet? 