Hello there. This week I got a daunting call from TD VISA claiming that my current VISA card got compromised and they have deactivated it. Apparently, they suspect a third party has gained access to my information and have the potential to commit fraudulent acts. As well, I came across an outside blog (ChrisKwan) regarding TD’s VISA and the costs and benefits of using it. Hence, this is what really inspired me to write about marketing and CR cards in this week’s blog post.
Picking up my new, uncompromised VISA at the nearby TD branch made me so happy. I don’t know about you, but I feel so much safer and more secure having a credit card with me at all times! As I opened the envelope and picked out my card, a small yellow sticker was attached to it and stated that in order for me to use the card, I had to call and activate it via phone. And so I did – thinking that this was a trivial task that must be done. As I got connected to the customer service representative, the friendly rep was sincere, friendly and verified my information to ensure I was the correct cardholder. Afterwards, she immediately recommended for me to take part in this LIABILITY FREE promotion in that if I lost my job, and/or could not pay my bills, TD would cover it for me. In essence, it is like purchasing insurance for my VISA. I decisively declined as I could not care less, for my limit is only $500, but the representative used every trick in her manual to try and make me reconsider. She would giggle, explain and re-explain to me the profound benefits of the promo and how it is so dangerous not to have it. Though she was VERY convincing, I said, “Nawww dont worry bout it… im good” and hung up. At that moment, I realized what she – the VISA corp. – was doing. They were soliciting a promo to an already established customer. In other words, they were using this “activation” process as a mean to market a new promotion to gain so extra cash from my pocket. I could really tell how much research was put in with these sales pitch and training with regard to these Customer service Reps, for the girl was outstanding. I am almost certain she was able to convince hundreds of new cardholders to take part in the promotion.. but not me! I don’t know about you but I hate paying extra bills.