When calling Optimum for a customer service issue, an automated recording greets you with the option to press 9 for Spanish followed by instructions to enter your Optimum account number or say "become a customer." Since I don't currently have Optimum as my internet service provider, I chose "become a customer," and the automated system continued with a more questions.
I was asked whether I needed an internet service for home or business, then I needed to enter in my ZIP code to determine service availability. However, my ZIP code revealed that Optimum doesn't provide service in my area, so the automated system transferred me to the company's partner, SmartMove, to help locate a provider. The automated recording also advised visiting SmartMove's website for more information on providers.
The call was placed on hold, and in a few minutes it was answered by another automated system requiring me to enter in my ZIP code to locate a provider. After a quick search, the system stated that internet providers for my area included Xfinity. I was given the option to be transferred to a representative who could discuss internet options or to receive a text message with a provider's website to consider offers. I chose to be connected with a representative and waited a few more minutes.
A brief hold led me to another automated system powered by Xfinity and again I needed to enter in my ZIP code. This determines if you have an account already. If not, you're told to say the words "new customer." Since I don't have an account with Xfinity either, I said "new customer," and waited to be connected. More hold time finally connected me to a customer service rep who asked how he could help me.
Now that I'd been on the phone for at least 10 minutes and transferred several times, I told the rep I'd initially contacted Optimum to get estimates on new internet service, but had been transferred to Xfinity. He apologized for the jumping around and explained that Optimum is only offered in regional areas so Xfinity is often next in line for customers seeking cable or fiber-based internet options. He also explained that Xfinity will work with new customers to get rates similar to Optimum's if there was a plan they had been considering.
Since I didn't get internet pricing quotes from Optimum, I told the rep I was interested in economical offers for home internet. He directed me to Xfinity's website where I could view the current package deals along bundles for TV and mobile service. By this time I was ready to be off the phone and thanked him for his time, saying I'd browse the website for what I needed. He also shared that most internet providers allow you to check online first to see if they offer service in your area before calling.