Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I was so thrilled to get my new American Express Card in the mail Saturday. In addition to a huge credit line, it`s linked to my Starwoods Rewards Guest membership, and since I am starting to travel a lot, I am getting free rooms and upgrades.

Anyway, I went to activate it, and guess where I was transfered? India. And when my card was blocked on the first purchase and I called back? India. And when I needed to add another employee? India.

I swear, there must be an Indian Express Card you can get in New Delhi where the customer service reps are in New York or something.

Anybody else find that a little strange? Not that they would outsource to India, necessarily, but that the very first interaction the new customer gets is over there? I would think they`d want me to have a nice, well, English conversation right out of the gate and all.

At least they could give out coupons to Subway - not a New Delhi, but a deli, at least.

I no longer accept the American Express Card at my firm.  I have gotten such poor service from them I can`t imagine doing business with them unless absolutely necessary.

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James Lindon, Ph.D. Patent Attorney
Lindon & Lindon, LLC
Cleveland, Ohio
Patents, Trademarks, Copyrights, Pharmacy Law, Litigation
[this is not legal advice - provided for discussion only]
Intellectual Property for the Individual and Small Business: Identify, Protect, Enforce, Defend.
"Fools rush in where angels fear to tread."
http://www.LindonLaw.com

After the trip through India, I`m actually assigned to a group in Greensboro, and the customer service has been great. I think the Amex Card is a great asset, especially when you travel. But I don`t have any experience as a merchant, like James, so I can`t comment on that.