People call Verizon when they're interested in subscribing to the company's cell service or getting help with cell phone problems. They might also be interested in internet service, which was my reason for calling Verizon FiOS's 888-438-3467 phone number. An automated system answered my call with, "Thank you for calling Verizon." It then informed me that the company may monitor calls for quality and security purposes, to train employees, and to personalize service.
The automated voice asked if I had an account number. My reply was, "I don't have one." It then asked me for my state to determine the service location. Next, the system asked if I was calling to purchase a service or product. I answered yes. It asked me if it was for home or business. After I said "home," it asked if I was calling about wireless or wired-lined service. I said "wireless," as I didn't know what to say to get internet information. The automated system transferred me to the Verizon assistant, another automated system, for help.
The automated assistant asked for a cell number or an account number. I was surprised it was not in the system since I had already given it to the previous automated assistant. After answering the question, the assistant said if I wasn't a customer, I could press the pound sign.
Next, the system offered these options: Press "1" to become a Verizon customer or for prepaid service support. Press "2" to pay on a disconnected mobile account or collection notice." For support for a new or existing home phone or internet service, press "3." Press "4" to connect with help for a TV. To check the status of an order or for information on device recycling, press "5." Finally, press"6" for help with "connected car" WiFi. I didn't select any menu options because none fit my inquiry. The system then told me to press "1" for personal service or "2" for business.
After pressing "1," the system connected me to a customer service representative who identified herself by first name and asked me for my first and last name. I told her I was calling about home internet service, and she asked for my address. She checked and could not find service in my area but said she could connect me to another support line.
I had already spent 10 minutes on this call, and a transfer probably meant enduring another automated assistant, so I declined. The associate gave me a number I could call later. The customer service representative deserves credit for being friendly and patient and trying her best to assist me.
I wasn’t happy about listening to two automated assistants. The second assistant asked questions I had already answered. The earlier answers should have triggered a connection to a customer service associate. There was no need to listen to an endless list of menu options mainly relating to existing services since I didn't have an account.