(KRT) Dissatisfaction with a product or service is an all-too-common occurrence. Many people just grumble, chalk it up to experience and resolve to take their business elsewhere, but even good companies make mistakes, and knowing how to complain effectively can turn a negative experience into a positive one -and save you money in the bargain.

Here are some tips for effective complaining, from the nonprofit national consumer group, Consumer Alert.

w Try to solve the problem quickly by telephoning or visiting the company. Keep a record of whom you talked to, the date and what the company promised to do to take care of the problem.

w If you’re not satisfied, request the names and addresses of customer service representatives and top executives of the company. Prepare a formal letter outlining the problem, the steps you’ve taken to resolve it and what you’d like the company to do. Include a reasonable deadline for the matter to be cleared up. Send the letter by registered mail, including copies of any relevant documents.

w Follow up with another registered letter if the company does not resolve the problem within your given deadline, mentioning further steps you plan to take, such as complaining to government agencies.

For more information about consumer issues, visit www.consumeralert.org

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