Hi Pat, Happy New Year!
I finally ordered my Dell yesterday. It is due to arrive on 1/27. Although I initially ordered on-line, a rep followed up with me by phone.
On Sunday, I checked out the competition for a last minute look. I planned to buy the Dell, but I wanted to see if I was missing anything. I told the different sales reps that I was going to buy a computer, so I pre-qualified myself as a buyer. I asked why I should consider anything other than a Dell. I could not find a reason to buy anything other than the Dell.
At the Gateway Store, they told me that Gateway would have to ship a computer to me. What is the advantage of going to the store if you can't walk away with the computer?
At Circuit City, the focus was on a $400 rebate for signing up with CompuServe. After telling the salesperson that I did not want CompuServe, he kept trying to talk me into it. He was pushing the HP. I asked about IBM and he said that they were "going Direct." I asked about Compaq and he was not interested in selling the Compaq. The Gateway sales Rep was better prepared, but his main argument was that I would have to ship my Dell back to Austin if I had a problem. Actually, Dell says that they will come to my house.
I found a snag with Dell, mainly in their voice mail jail. They admit that they are working to improve in that area. I feel like the quality control auditor. But, Dell was professional and knowledgeable about their product. I ended up adding to my order. A friend in California, ordered her Dell last week. It was at her house on Friday. They beat the promised date. She was impressed.
Once I am sold, I am a customer for life! What should I do with my Compaq now? I could give it to my three-year old to play games. I could give it to Goodwill, but that seems to be a contradiction. Any ideas?
Go DELL! :) Leigh |
