Cancelling a TV subscription or streaming service only to be enticed back with a tempting discount offer is a common experience for many.
But now, one clever Brit has shared a straightforward strategy to avoid being lured into signing up for a new deal. Sharing his advice on Reddit, he said: « When cancelling subscriptions, don’t give reasons. »
In the LifeProTips subreddit, he detailed: « Subscription services are designed to keep you in for as long as possible. They will use any means to keep you; through discounts, free trials, promos, credit, etc. »
The shrewd individual further advised: « By giving them a reason, you’re letting them think they can do something to keep you. If you legitimately do not want the service and want to cease it, grey rock them. You want to cancel because you want to cancel. Do not justify it. Do not explain yourself. You want to cancel, end of story. »
He also noted that while this approach may not completely prevent them from offering new deals, it can « help shorten the process overall » thus facilitating a smoother and quicker exit.
For instance, earlier this week, Sky TV revised its terms and conditions to introduce new 24-month plans, following the lead of competitors including rival broadcaster, BT.
To make these changes more appealing, Sky has also revamped its offers, presenting a basic entertainment package that includes Netflix for a mere £22 per month. However, should you wish to opt out of the contract within the two-year timeframe, you’ll be saddled with a potentially hefty exit fee.
Expressing gratitude to the original poster for the tip, another Reddit user wrote: « Thanks for this! I often feel like I have to justify every little thing I do, even in a purely commercial transaction. It’s incredibly helpful and even empowering to be reminded ‘you can just say no’. »
Another individual vented: « I really hate it when I call to cancel something or I try to cancel something online and they always ask the question why are you canceling and you are absolutely forced to put an answer in some cases. I always choose other, and tell them it’s none of their business. »
On the other hand, offering a different strategy, a fourth Redditor shared: « I like to turn it around on them and if they start pushing to keep me I politely inform them that pushy sales tactics are another reason I am choosing to cancel my subscription.
« Usually shuts them up and gets them moving on to actually going through with it and not bothering me anymore. »
