HOW TO SWITCH PROVIDER (AND WHY SILENCE WORKS WONDERS)
SWITCHING to a new TV/broadband provider not only saves money, there are other benefits too.
You could get a better service, increased speed and access to new technology, such as a more modern wifi modem, says Eoin Clarke of the comparison site Switcher.ie.
But price is still the main reason for consumers to switch – you could save up to €500 (a year) on some deals right now, even without switching your provider.
‘Because there are so many top deals on the market, you’ll have a lot of leverage when it comes to persuading your current provider to reduce your bills (if they don’t, simply switch away).’
HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR SHOPPING AROUND: REVIEW YOUR TV CHANNELS
Ask what TV channels you really want and ditch the rest. We pay too much for access to rubbishy channels that we never watch.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Make a note of when you’re near or beyond the end of your contract. Every extra month past the honeymoon period is going to cost you up to €40. But when out of contract, you are in the driving seat. Just tell them straight out that you are going to leave.
COMPARE THE BEST DEALS
Know the facts before you pick up the phone. Use switching sites such as Switcher.ie or Bonkers.ie to see where the best deals are.
GET TO THE RIGHT PERSON
That’s usually the dedicated Customer Retentions Team.
DON’T SAY YES TO THE FIRST OFFER THEY GIVE YOU
Never go with the first offer. Chances are, it’s not the best deal. Say you are still going to leave – and mean it.
DON’T FILL THE SILENCE
They may push you to agree because it’s a ‘limited-time offer’, but don’t feel pressured. As negotiations near a close, a classic sales technique is to stay silent. They want you to feel awkward and fill the silence by agreeing to what they say. Outlast them – make them fill it with a cheaper offer.
ASK IF THEY CAN THROW IN ANY EXTRAS
If they won’t slash the price, they may include extras.
SOME FREEBIES MAY COME AT A PRICE
Sky’s deal to include Netflix is a nice extra – but after 12 months, it gets very pricey at €103 a month.
IF YOU’RE NOT HAPPY, VOTE WITH YOUR FEET
If you don’t get what you want, leave.