Please hold…

“All technical support analysts are currently busy. You can remain on the line and a representative will be with you shortly, or you can press “0″ to leave a message and a rep will return your call as soon as possible.”  OR NOT

Everyone loves the big “G”, but something is fishy in their Affiliate Pond.  I know I’ve brought it up before… but there are some serious customer service issues with the Google Affiliate Network.  Google corporate representatives don’t know anything more than, “you need to call 1-800-404-9332″.  And, that number simply puts you on hold for an unspecified amount of time.  Woo hoo!

We actually made a game of it in our office this time around….  We’ve got 10 bets on the time we’ll actually spend on hold… at a quarter each. (Yes, I know, big money!)

So far, 10 minutes….
Oh they are trying to send me to voicemail…I’ll try the Operator
Nope, she tells me to call the number again….
Ok, back on hold….
20 minutes total….
Hmmm, voicemail,…Again…. automated hold system??
But, I’m not proud…. let’s call again and MAYBE someone will answer (hahahaha)
Ok, hold hold…. at least they could incorporate some awesome hold music… but no.
Ok, 30 minutes total,…. I’m Done.

How does Google expect to tout their fantastic customer service, and continue to capture Merchant revenue, if the merchants aren’t given any support? Mostly, why would I re-up with Google Affiliate if other networks have better reporting, interfaces, etc. etc. And, although customer service can be splotchy with other networks at times, at least it exists.

Anyone else??