Bots are programmed to respond to customer frustration or requests to speak to a member of staff. If the automated system keeps repeating the same thing over and over, try using one of these commands:

• ‘Connect me to a customer service representative’ – this is the most versatile command.
• “Advisor”
• “Other topic” – this command often takes you out of a narrow menu (e.g. one about cards only) and into the general queue.
• “Complaint” – in many companies, this is a priority keyword that routes you to a human more quickly.

The “zero” method

In old telephone exchanges, pressing the number 0 (zero) on the keypad often meant being connected to an operator.

• How does it work today? Many modern bots still follow this rule. If a bot lists options (“Press 1, press 2…”) and none of them suit you – try pressing 0.

Note: This doesn’t work everywhere, but it’s worth trying as a first resort.