Take Notes: The Intersection of People and Politics

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Take Notes: The Intersection of People and Politics

If you’ve been following my platform, you know it’s all about the intersection of People, Prayer, and Politics. Today, let’s zero in on the crossroads of people and politics — specifically, how they collide in our everyday interactions, even when dealing with corporations and their ever-shifting prices and packages.

Here’s the deal: I’ve always been a meticulous note-taker, a skill honed through years as a journalist and strategist. It’s a tool that has repeatedly proven invaluable, most recently during a frustrating encounter with my cable and internet provider.

You know how it goes — the sales reps are trained to upsell, bundle, and play the “friendly expert” role while subtly trying to get you to agree to things you don’t need. But when armed with detailed notes, you can turn the tables and advocate for yourself effectively.

Let me walk you through my experience and share some tips for taking notes that not only protect your interests but also help you stay calm and in control.

The Cable Company Chronicles

After noticing an inexplicable spike in our bill, I called customer service. The representative began with the usual: “The package you have is no longer offered, so let me build you a new one.” That’s when my note-taking instincts kicked in.

I asked for the rep’s name and had them spell it for me. I made it clear what I expected and noted everything they said. Then, they made a mistake — a big one. On a recorded line, they promised, “Everything will stay the same.”

By the end of that call, they had offered me a new package at $100 less than my previous bill, assuring me multiple times that everything would remain as it was. But when I checked my account online, things were far from the same.

Over the next three days, I made four more calls, speaking with multiple reps and even a top executive. Each time, I referred to my detailed notes — complete with dates, times, names, and exact quotes. Eventually, they acknowledged their errors and resolved the issue.

The moral of the story? Take notes. Always.

Note-Taking Tips to Protect Yourself

1. You’re the Customer — Act Like It:
   Remember, you’re hiring them. Stay calm, patient, and authentic. Politeness goes a long way in getting results.
2. Get Names and Details:
   Ask for the rep’s name and how it’s spelled. Write down the date and time of the call, and if you’re transferred, note the new person’s name and the time.
3. Document Everything:
   Write down key points of the conversation. If you’re transferred, confirm whether the new rep has been briefed or if you need to repeat your case.
4. Repeat and Verify:
   Before ending the call, summarize what you’ve discussed and confirm that you’re both on the same page.
5. Hold onto Your Notes:
   Keep your notes until you verify that your issue has been resolved or your first bill arrives.
6. Address Discrepancies Immediately:
   If something doesn’t add up, don’t disconnect until it’s resolved — or escalate the issue.
7. Email Backup:
   For email exchanges, highlight key points, reference previous messages, and document agreements.

Taking notes might feel tedious, but it saves you time, money, and stress in the long run. And once companies realize you’re paying attention, they’ll often step up their game.

A Word for Companies

If you’re a corporation reading this, take note (pun intended). Consumers have choices. To retain customers and build loyalty, train your employees to:

1. Use consistent scripts for transparency.
2. Provide an exceptional customer experience.
3. Ask meaningful questions to understand the client’s needs.
4. Confirm details and check in during the conversation.
5. Summarize and thank the client for their time.

The Political Connection

Why did I frame this as an intersection of people and politics? Because everything is political. The Consumer Price Index (CPI), retail reports, and GDP all connect to the Federal Reserve and the NYSE. The policies behind these metrics shape corporate practices and, ultimately, your experiences as a consumer.

So, whether you’re negotiating a bill or navigating broader societal changes, taking notes is a form of empowerment. It’s about holding people — and systems — accountable.

Let’s stay sharp, stay engaged, and keep advocating for ourselves and others.

About the Author
Gail Dudley is a bold and authentic writer, advocate, and strategist with over 25 years of experience empowering individuals and communities. Known as the Audacious Advocate, she connects the dots between people, prayer, and politics, inspiring others to take action and drive meaningful change. Gail is the author of INSPIRE: A Call to Action and hosts the podcast News in Motion. Through her EVERBLOOM initiative, Gail equips people to live freely, embrace their purpose, and make a lasting impact. Connect with her at gaildudley.com.