I live in LA and called this location (638 SW Alder) moments upon them opening to see if I can make a purchase over the phone as a gift for a loved one who lives in Portland. ( this happened 12/19 approximately around 10:15am )
The man who picked up the phone seemed annoyed from the time he said hello. Sounded rushed or like picking up the phone was the last thing he wanted to do which I understand if someone's busy but they don't have to come off as rude.
I asked him if I can make a purchase over the phone. He said no abruptly. Conversation quick but not pleasant.
I begrudgingly decided to call back maybe 1-2 min later to ask if I purchase item here in LA and attach a gift receipt to it could the person receiving the item from exchange it at a Portland location... So I'm back on the phone with him again. I can feel his sighs and irritation through his tone then he confirmed what I already felt but tried to overlook...
Dialogue:
I said " I just called regarding over the phone purchase which you said no. May I purchase it in LA and provide gift receipt for ....[INTERRUPTS!] ( by the man) "WHAT IS YOUR QUESTION?!!"
As if it took me too long to get to the point.... I kept calm and said " I'm trying to see if my loved one can exchange item there with a gift receipt" and he was like " yeah you can anywhere worldwide" very hastily. I said " Thanks. That's all I wanted to know. Happy Holiday" which he at least said t back to me in his nasty tone.
Firstly I like to say- Ive worked in hospitality, retail and customer service in various capacities whether associate or Manager and I strongly believe phone etiquette is just as important as when someone walks in the store. Even though it's not face to face interaction- the person in the establishment answering the phone is still representing the company.
I've bought shades from Sunglass Hut on multiple occasions which I am impressed with their variety. For that I will continue to patronize this establishment. Just not this location and I will proceed with said purchase in LA, ship to Portland and let my loved one know if they want to exchange or have future purchases they can go to a nearby location but caution them to steer clear of this location.
To the man who picked up the phone, my apologies to you if a mere question inconvenienced you within the early part of your shift. Your rudeness still was unwarranted and trust me I've dealt with waaaaaaaaaaaaay worse or loaded questions, time consuming customers, customers who's phones sound muffled, elderly people hard of hearing, even rude customers that mirror your attitude over the phone but I did so with class, grace and utmost professionalism.
To Sunglass Hut the company- I hope the man was an associate and not in a leadership position of any kind whether a key holder, Assistant Manager to a General Manager because that type of attitude is the contrary of what any business would want as a Leader shifting and cultivating the culture of one of their beloved store locations. read more