This is going to be a long post, but I need to address some things.
I began Twenty Four At Heart as a result of a terrible car accident I was in. Writing has helped me cope with the struggles I've gone through. It's also allowed me to look outside of my physical pain, and limitations, to find the humor in the small every day things surrounding me. For me, writing has been tremendously healing.
As dramatic as it sounds, writing is truly my oxygen. I don't know if I could have managed to get through such a hard time in my life without it.
In my short time in the blogosphere, I've intentionally avoided Internet drama to the best of my ability. I've got real-life physical challenges to deal with every day, I don't need to get caught up in blogging dramas on top of it. (And for those of you who don't live in the blogosphere, there is always plenty of drama going on.)
That being said, apparently I've unintentionally stirred up some shit this week with my post, Lately, My Life Has Been a Whirlpool. My intention, of course, was just to vent about a situation in my life (just like I vent about so many other things here on 24). I received some heated comments on my post. I also received several Tweets regarding it and some direct emails also.
Emotions ran high.
Accusations ran high.
Support ran high.
Anger ran high.
To be honest, I never expected the Whirlpool post to receive the attention it has. I didn't realize a broken washing machine would create such a fuss.
But I guess, I should have.
I've had every major appliance company imaginable on 24 since the Whirlpool post published. I've also had some of the biggest public relations companies in the world visiting.
** Waving to all the nice folks **
(Some of them are pissed off at me, I think.)
I know I have some readers who have never read any blogs other than 24. They aren't aware of the washing machine "issue" which preceded mine. For them, I will try to explain briefly.
There's a woman named Heather Armstrong who writes a very famous "mommy blog" called dooce. She has over a million followers on Twitter. A lot of bloggers love to hate her because they either a) Don't like her personality b) Disagree with her lifestyle or c) Have all sorts of jealousy issues about her success. Personally, I enjoy her humor and like to read her blog, although I don't follow it every single day. I met Heather briefly on the Dr. Phil show last summer and I thought she was very nice. (Remember? I spoke on Dr. Phil? And the back of my head became famous for five minutes or less?)
In any case, Heather had a washing machine issue awhile back (with a Maytag which is the same company as Whirlpool). When customer service repeatedly didn't handle her problem she became frustrated and sent out Tweets telling her million plus followers not to buy Maytag. Needless to say, her washer got fixed promptly.
Her situation created a controversy in the blogosphere. Some people applauded Heather for forcing a corporation to take action and be accountable for their customer service. Other people condemned her for "abusing her power."
To be honest, I didn't know much about Heather's whole situation. It just wasn't a memorable thing for me although I did remember there was some big controversy over an appliance. (On many days, I'm doing well if I get a post up on 24 and I tend to be a little oblivious to the rest of the blogosphere. Maybe that makes me self-absorbed, but more likely it has to do with the fact I'm living with intense pain and just can't deal with much else.)
Then I started getting dooce-related comments on my post. I had to google "Heather Armstrong appliance problem" and go back and read about it to get the details. That's when I found out Heather's appliance issue was ALSO with a washing machine, and ALSO with the same company since Whirlpool owns both the Whirlpool and Maytag brands.
One of my readers, Lisa, left the following comment on my Whirlpool post and also unfollowed me:
Ok seriously? Am I the only person who thinks you may be looking a gift horse in the mouth a bit? The fact is you didn't buy the extended warranty and Whirlpool doesn't HAVE to do anything. They are because you threw a hissy on Twitter and tried to pull a Dooce. The whole "I'm a blogger and you better give me special treatment" act leaves a sour taste in the mouths of people who see real need every day because of skyrocketing unemployment. You are not shy about talking about all of your financial advantages, leaving us to believe you can well afford the cost of a new machine. The rest of us would have to make the best of this very same situation. Come on.
One of my other readers then responded:
Lisa, Ok Seriously! If you or I had spent $1000 on a washing machine and it broke, I think you or I would do everything in our power to right the wrong that is a lemon! No matter what anyone makes, Whirlpool made a shitty product and it shouldn't break in 3 years. I'd yell it out over the mountain tops but heck there's the internet, baby, I'd use that and make a strong statement!
I don't mind people calling me out if I deserve it. In this case, I don't think I do. Also, Lisa was making some big assumptions about my life that really pissed me off. I replied to her:
Lisa,
I'm "not shy in talking about" all my financial advantages? When have I EVER talked about my finances?
Never. Not once.
I don't discuss my finances, my marriage, my family on 24.
I live NEAR an affluent area I refer to as Money Town. I don't live IN Money Town.
Your perception of my financial status is very misguided. I can't afford to buy a new washing machine every 3 1/2 years.
Even if I could, I shouldn't need to ... nor should anyone else.
I think I was quite complimentary of Whirlpool's efforts to stand by their product in today's post. Do I still have a dilemma? Yes, I do. I am physically incapable of carrying laundry baskets. I have no laundromat in the vicinity of my home. I have a problem.
Does it make me an Internet bully to discuss my problems/issues/concerns on my own blog? I don't think so ... that's what bloggers do EVERY DAY.
I appreciate being compared to Dooce, but I am a small blogger. I don't have anything close to her power. Also, I didn't get on Twitter (or my blog) and tell people not to buy Whirlpool OR ask for special treatment because I'm a blogger. Nonetheless, I can certainly understand why she got so frustrated that she DID shout out on twitter. There are few things as frustrating as dealing with a broken appliance which we, as moms, are very dependent on.
I did VENT on Twitter ... just like everybody else does EVERY DAY about the issues going on in our lives. Is venting "throwing a hissy fit"?? Then take a look at twitter and you will see people throwing hissy fits over various issues in their lives ALL DAY LONG.
Whirlpool responded to my venting ... and as I wrote in my post, I was quite impressed that they did and also with their response. I don't see anywhere in this post where I complain about Whirlpool's response to my problem or ask for "special treatment" because I'm a blogger.
On the other hand, consumers have every right to stand up for themselves and to request good customer service from the companies we purchase products from.
Another commenter wrote:
I am glad they are fixing your problem and I would be irate if an appliance broke down in 3 years! I had my last one for FIFTEEN!!! That is absurd and a quality issue that is the problem of the company. I am glad to see that they are doing something to resolve it. If everyone's washer broke down in 3 years and they just said, "Sorry, you didn't buy the warranty" as the previous poster suggested, how many do you think they would sell...not many I would think. I also think that even if you do have money, or not, is irrelevant in this issue and people need to quit hating. A customer is a customer no matter what their economic status and I expect to get a quality product when I spend my money as everyone should. Perhaps people like you and Dooce using your "voice" will make customer service better for everyone and it is certainly a good move on Whirlpool's part to correct the issue.
In a direct email, another reader wrote:
You have a strong voice in the blogosphere and although I understand your frustration, you are abusing your power by writing about your broken washing machine. When my washing machine broke, I had to call customer service lines and wait around in frustration for days. Why should you get better treatment just because you write 24?
I've read every comment, every Tweet, and every email I've received regarding my Whirlpool post. I've also thought long and hard about all of them.
When I tweeted my frustration over my washing machine I wasn't "trying to pull a Dooce" because I didn't even know the dooce/washing machine details at the time. I also wasn't trying to get special treatment. I was surprised, but pleased, when Whirlpool responded on Twitter. As I wrote in my post, I was impressed with their response. I don't think they knew at the time, I'm the author of 24 and I certainly didn't Tweet "my machine broke and I'm a blogger so you better fix it."
A decade ago a frustrated consumer might go to their local newspaper or news station with a tale of woe. Were they abusing their power by doing so?
Now, consumers use social media to voice their opinions whether they be positive or negative. Savvy companies are aware of this and have a strong social media presence.
The issue of "power" and "abusing power" is really troubling me.
Do I, a relatively small blogger, have power?
I've never thought about myself, or 24, in those terms.
I don't have millions of followers like dooce, but I do reach thousands of people.
I suppose I do have some influence/power, but - not much.
When Anthem Blue Cross changed their payment policy towards physical therapists, I lost treatment for my injuries. I blogged about it. No one accused me of "abusing my power" for writing about a situation, created by a greedy disgusting corporation, which influenced my life in a very negative way.
Why not?
To me, that was a way bigger issue than a washing machine failing in three and a half years.
Why am I being accused of "abusing my power" now?
Am I irresponsible if I write about a situation/company/product in an unfavorable light? Is it irresponsible if it's my honest opinion or experience?
When I write about a book I like, or a product or business I love ... and those comments are my honest opinion, no one bitches at me about abusing my power, do they?
Is it freedom of expression if my opinion or experience is positive and an abuse of power if my opinion or experience is negative?
Isn't it a positive thing, for all consumers, for us to demand our corporations stand by the products they make?
For many years, I worked as a manager for a top Fortune 500 company. Every single thing we did was about and for the customer. We wanted to keep our customers for life. When things occasionally went wrong, as things sometimes do, we did everything in our power to remedy the situation as fast as possible.
I expect the very same treatment from the companies I deal with.
I expect it, not because I'm a writer, not because I'm "powerful" (which is questionable), but because it's the right thing to do. If I think highly enough of a company to purchase their products, they should think highly enough of me, as their customer, to stand by the product or service they sell.
And now I'd like to hear your thoughts ...
© Twenty Four At Heart
Seriously people need to get a life. We ALL vent on Twitter. I vent about stuff all the time. I wrote a horrendous post about Chase in December. It involved their employees and horrible customer service. Chase never contacted me. I've spent hours trying to get through to someone on the phone in reference to appliances, my son, etc. I've blogged about stuff. I've also seen PR companies on my blog. Blogs are a newer form of press and media. People need to realize that companies and PR folks "Google" themselves. It is THEIR job. What happened to good customer service. As consumers are we entitled to that, I would think? So what if a company reached out and contacted you. What is it their business?
Posted by: Julie {Angry Julie Monday} | April 07, 2010 at 12:10 AM
People are crazy. I spent the day debating with someone who believed allowing priests to marry would solve the sex scandals in the Catholic Church.
Did you solve the no washing machine problem? If there is a dry cleaner in town, most do laundry by the pound. It of course won't deal with your son's uniform. Maybe just make him take a shower with it on and line dry it.
Posted by: twitter.com/goDOTchris | April 07, 2010 at 12:23 AM
I'm with Julie here, people need to get a life and deal with their attitude problem. One of the beauties of the blogosphere is that it gives us a voice and when companies are not serving their customers in the way that, let's face it, they all like to claim they do, then the blogosphere is very powerful and useful. Well done girl.
Posted by: Mo "Mad Dog" Stoneskin | April 07, 2010 at 12:41 AM
I think companies have an obligation to stand by what they sell, but unfortunately I also see companies that once they have your dollars, don't care any more. I'm glad Whirlpool care enough to have someone out to fix the problem and hope it is fixed sooner than their estimated time frame. I think they are being responsible by being aware of problems (esp in the wider media), but hope they are also as helpful in the one on one service of their call centres - which means that the people they employ in their call centres should know about their products and have answers or be able to refer to those who have answers.
I don't think you vent was an abuse of power. I think it was your opinion delivered honestly and with integrity. I didn't think you were abusive in any way.
Posted by: Michelle | April 07, 2010 at 12:52 AM
hey, people got pissed off because they're jealous. it's childish for someone to say "you got a washing machine fixed and i had to wait on hold on a telephone, na na na na". If you vented on twitter and there was no response from Whirlpool, no-one would have cared, it's the fact they are A. jealous and B. tell themselves "that's not fair, I should get the same treatment". But, hell, life's not fair. it's not fair you should live with pain every day. it's not fair some money town women (not you) get loads of money without working for it. it's not fair you get bombarded with abusive or disparaging messages just for writing about something. I don't get the negative comments. They should just deal with it! They feel pissed off? it's not your problem. this is YOUR blog.
Posted by: SSG | April 07, 2010 at 01:24 AM
If, and when, I have problems like yours, I am ALWAYS willing to tell the source of my problem that I am fully aware of the online resources for consumers that allow us to "tell the world" (so to speak) of our problems, issues etc with a product or retailer. The I remind them that I am also a very busy hairdresser, who chats with at least a dozen people every DAY. Then I ask them if they are ready to be my topic of conversation for a while. I also have a good record of "dispute resolution" In saying that, I am saying I stand on your side, Suzanne.
People who accuse others of abuse of power (please!) obviously feel they have none, which they dont, because they are not willing to stand up for themselves.
Personally I think it goes all the way back to when little girls are encouraged to "be nice".
Sister, sometimes the world aint a nice place, and women get screwed over a lot by people expecting us to take it.
I for one, am proud that you got some action, and got it with respect, rather that being labeled a crazy old bitch.
PS, I still think you should rent a machine, they will deliver it hook it up and them come get it again when your is fixed. compared to a laundermat, plus travel and pain, it may still be the best deal ( I hope)
Posted by: Joanne | April 07, 2010 at 02:21 AM
I'd forgotten all about Dooce's Maytag triumph too, but it doesn't change anything. You moaned about the washing machine's breaking down, as anyone would with this sort of blog, were delighted that Whirlpool responded, and then moaned a bit more when you were still left with an inconvenience that your bum arm made more major for you than it might have been for anyone else. That's all fair enough, as far as I can see, and if people are ranting about an abuse of power, then it's perfectly clear to me that they just wish they had some of the power that you've achieved through having a popular blog. Good for you!
Producers of goods and services are going to have to get used to global gossip about their stuff. And people with blogs that no-one wants to read need to get over their jealousy and watch that they don't turn into trolls!
Posted by: TravelSkite | April 07, 2010 at 02:58 AM
Wow. I don't think you were abusing power. I think it's great that companies are listening via twitter and blogs and improving their costumer service (I wish the Australian Government would focus and make the visa process easier!).
Keep venting 24, because I find your blog amusing - intelligent - and a worth while read!
Posted by: Deidre | April 07, 2010 at 04:07 AM
Some people need to get over their inferiority complexes.
That's all I have to say. ...well, almost!
Hope everything works out. We buy something, we expect it to last more than three years without an extended warranty. Period. Especially if we are not abusing the machine. But quality control is gone now, and most of what we end up buying is a step above crap. I'd love to see better quality and customer service to back up a product that a company believes in...without the backup, I feel that even the company doesn't believe in what they produce.
Be well, 24.
Posted by: mama llama | April 07, 2010 at 04:52 AM
Kudos to you for getting the service you needed. Take whatever route necessary I say, Twitter, Blog, Phone, Letter, E-mail, WHATEVER IT TAKES.
Who gives a shit what Dooce did. This is about your needs and if people are going to unfollow for this then so be it.
Di
The Blue Ridge Gal
Posted by: di | April 07, 2010 at 05:02 AM
I had an massive problem with a GE appliance back in 1993. After 6 weeks and 3 appointments with repairmen and having to take 4 days off of work (oh yes, 4 not 3 due to the repair guy calling to say 'I know what the problem is but I'm not going to bother coming out now because I have to order the part and it will take a week or two for it to come in). No laundromat within 20 miles of my house...um, I must say - I called customer service and BLEW my top at the poor customer service person taking the call. I may/may not have said something threatening too. (oops) Had I had access to twitter or facebook at that time I would have been venting to the whole world about what nightmare I felt I was going through. Thank God I didn't lose my job over having to take extra time off, but at the time - I seriously was scared it could have happened as I had already used all my vacation time for the year. You were lucky that Whirlpool noticed and was willing to do something about the defective product. Washers should not be disposable after such a short amount of time... extended warranty or not!
You're in the right. It is a choice to read someone's blog...not a mandate.
Posted by: Jenny in MN | April 07, 2010 at 05:10 AM
I agree with you! I would have done the exact same thing. I purchased a Maytag and had an issue with it the first week, (I repeat, the first week) and they came and fixed the problem. Great service, granted I did not expect to have a problem with the Maytag, considering it's reputaition; but it is what it is. I applaud you for standing up to those that would try to knock you. Don't let the naysayers drag you down their pit of darkness! :)
Posted by: Yvonne | April 07, 2010 at 05:42 AM
I still say that what you did can make customer service better for everyone. I was a manager at a large company as well and it IS all about the customer and if companies want to stay in business, they better build a product they can stand behind. Don't worry about what you write from now on because the people who complained in the comments were just jealous. The fact that those people even attempted to get into your personal business by making assumptions that were none of their business tells you their motives. So, shake their comments off like water off a duck's back and write on sista...about whatever you like! It is YOUR blog,and many people obviously like it and if you have to carefully think about everything you write, it won't be fun for you anymore.
Posted by: AA | April 07, 2010 at 05:52 AM
You write about your life; you shouldn't have to monitor your thoughts when noone is being hurt by them. I don't think this is taking advantage. When a reporter uses their company to expose a scandal do we accuse them of taking advantage? They weren't standing by their product and you discussed it. Unfortunately you can't control people's warped interpretations. Look at the health care bill debate. People see what they want to see and that's that. Besides Suzanne, all the best writers stir up a little controversy, and generally without even trying. So I'd say you're right on purpose here! Love you! xo
Posted by: Maureen@IslandRoar | April 07, 2010 at 05:53 AM
24 you are right on and have EVERY right to vent however you wish...Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, etc. It is VENTING and if the company happens to see you comments and wants to step in than so be it. That is NOT your fault and I'm happy for you that Whirlpool stood by there product...I was actually a little surprised that they didn't offer a loaner while your's is out of commission. I recieved an Ipod for Christmas 2008. In Feb 2010 it broke (click wheel not responing, nothing that I did)...I did not have the extended warranty and it was out of factory warranty by just 2 months. I took it to the Apple store and APPLE was nice enough to replace the Ipod at no cost to me. It was evident that I had not damaged the product in anyway and APPLE stood by their product! My point is, a reputable company SHOULD stand by their product!!
Posted by: Laura | April 07, 2010 at 05:59 AM
Since the Washington Post reporters "had power" they shouldn't have written about Watergate?
Posted by: LPC | April 07, 2010 at 06:23 AM
I am about to leave but decided to check out my reader before going out the door. Can I say fuck in the comments? Because I want to say FUCK YOU to all the negative comments you got and the people who wrote them. The post was nothing, NOTHING like what dooce did and also, big WHOOP.
Glad your washer is getting fixed. And if my $2000 commercial size washer broke that I do 16 loads of laundry in every week I would be LIVID and I would be blogging and twittering all about it.
Posted by: Kim @ Beautiful Wreck | April 07, 2010 at 06:25 AM
You are right about the insurance problem being a whole lot bigger than the washing machine. Funny how it didn't cause an uproar.
I felt so bad for you, having to drag your laundry around with one arm, that I wanted to fly out there and help you myself! Shame on people for acting like idiots!
Please don't let this little squabble cause you to stop being honest in your blog. I think, no, I'm sure, your fresh honesty is the thing that makes you popular.
Posted by: Ginger | April 07, 2010 at 06:29 AM
I have an issue with our Sony Playstation 3 and I wish I could just write about it and get it taken care of! I bought it when they first came out and figured I was spending 4-5 hundred dollars on it and why should I need an extended warranty for another $150. Well, the first time it broke they replaced it (under the 1 year standard warranty) and we've sent it in 3 more times to have it fixed at $150 each time. And now it is broke again and I REFUSE to pay any more money for it! I say if tweeting, blogging, etc. gets a company to stand by their product then everyone should be doing it! We work hard for the money we spend on their products! And love your blog! Don't change a thing about the way you post!
Posted by: Kay | April 07, 2010 at 06:57 AM
Oi vey - you're abusing your "power" because you blogged and tweeted about something (and got what *I* think is less than satisfactory service) when another (less technologically savvy) person would have had to pick up a telephone and OMG actually WAIT?
Puh-LEEZE. Give me a small break. I'll tell you right now that if the $7000 worth of furnace/water heater/AC that I just purchased doesn't last more than three years I will be bitching so loud on my blog that Quality Heating and Cooling in Massillon, Ohio won't know what the fuck happened to them.
Posted by: Jan | April 07, 2010 at 07:23 AM
Yes. Companies should do right by their CUSTOMERS because without CUSTOMERS they would be out of business.
Posted by: magpie | April 07, 2010 at 07:35 AM
Honestly am quite surprised that people are complaing that you are abusing power by using the internet to complain. I don't have a blog, don't tweet, use facebook etc. but I think that if you complain about a product and the company is willing to stand by that product and get the problem resolved then great. I had a similar issue with my plasma tv in December I bought it almost two years ago and it just died one day black screen wouldn't turn off etc. I called the company and luckily I was three days within my two year warranty so they replaced my tv. For some reason they didn't order it and when we called to find out why I hadn't gotten it they were like oh it was the holidays sorry it must have fallen through the cracks that part did make me a little unhappy because my childrens big Christmas gift this year was a Wii that they were unable to use until I got my new tv but at least the company took care of the issue and I always find it refreshing when they are willing to stand by their product. Trust me the company that I bought my tv from said that the screen goes out all the time and I was like in two years that is ridiculous and I was told that is just how the flat screen tv's are ugggggh. It was frustrating to hear that pretty much the company is counting on your tv going out in a few years just so you can buy a new one, I had saved for a year and a half to buy that tv so I was unhappy to hear that. Good for you for doing what you needed to get the problem resolved. I know that doesn't help with getting the laundry done in the meantime and wish I had a good solution for you for that.
Posted by: Di | April 07, 2010 at 07:46 AM
Just let me say "ditto" to all of the above. You have such a great group of readers Suzanne-very rational.
Posted by: missy | April 07, 2010 at 07:47 AM
Let me get this straight...you wrote a blog post about something that happened to you...it had positive and negative aspects...and somehow you have done something wrong? Seriously?
My sister and BIL had a TV problem. They had bought a third-party warranty that was dragging their feet about doing anything. She blogged about it, a higher-up at the company saw it, and made sure her TV got fixed, quickly and quietly.
It's about time regular people had a way to make their voices heard.
Posted by: middle-aged-woman | April 07, 2010 at 08:12 AM
I never hesitate to use Twitter to get a customer service problem resolved. I'll also sometimes blog about issues, but usually only after they're resolved (which is how one of my posts ended up in Jiffy Lube's employee newsletter several years ago).
Is it a little unfair that some companies respond faster in social media than via their regular channels? Maybe, but that's not the consumer's fault.
Posted by: Average Jane | April 07, 2010 at 08:40 AM
I'm curious to find out if they'd feel the same way if say I, who has maybe 100 readers a day stop in and a handful of loyal commenters, would have received the same treatment from Maytag?
You vented, they responded. Match did the same thing when I bitched about them on Twitter. At no point did you use anything that could be likened to the "I'm a blogger hear me roar if you don't fix it!" Where's the harm in that? You got results.
People need to get a life and check their jealousy at the door.
Oh can I bring my laundry with me if I come visit? ;-)
Posted by: Cute~Ella | April 07, 2010 at 08:46 AM
When all else fails, why not use the power we have as writers? If companies don't do their jobs, they should be called out on it. We're living in a 24/7 information society, with few secrets. Actions (or inactions) have consequences and the sooner companies realize that and back up their products with concrete action, the better. It works both ways; happy customers also write about their experiences. It's your blog and you can write about anything you like!
Posted by: Tara Bradford | April 07, 2010 at 08:47 AM
I'm a blogger with a small following but I vented a teeny bit on Twitter about faulty faucets I purchased at eFaucets.com and the CEO replied on Twitter to me right away and made sure I was taken care of. I exchanged 2 faulty faucets beyond their return time, no problem for good ones.
I had problems with AT&T and a customer care person replied right away and said she'd take care of it and didn't follow through and I had to deal with customer service on the phone for 3 hours a few times, calls kept getting dropped. Long story. I replied back to her and told her she was worthless. Some companies stand by their products, some don't. It's a toss up.
These companies are searching for keywords to see who's talking about them. They are paying attention. If they are smart!
Hey was there ever any kind of a recall on any of the parts? Maybe that's why they were so hip to jump right on the bandwagon. Hmmm. Hopefully they just cared enough.
Posted by: Shari | April 07, 2010 at 08:47 AM
I think Lisa is just jealous. She sees a company responding to you (as they SHOULD) and it bothers her to think she might not receive the same type of service. Corporations are getting smarter in how they deal with customers. I don't see how sticking up for yourself or the right thing is ever an abuse of power.
Posted by: Kelly | April 07, 2010 at 08:55 AM
I was impressed with both Maytag and you for the way this situation was handled. If I didn't live in the middle of the country, I'd be there to help you do your laundry while things are being fixed. Not because you tweeted or blogged, but because you need help and it's the right thing to do.
Posted by: angi | April 07, 2010 at 08:57 AM
People may not recognize it as jealousy when they spew at bloggers like that, but that's where it comes from.
Hey, most of us have felt screwed by a manufacturing company at one point or another: it's extremely frustrating and demoralizing to realize you have NO recourse and do indeed have to pay hundreds of dollars to fix something that's a month out of warranty and only just over a year old. People feel ripped off and powerless. So when someone gets a break, especially someone in cyberspace, people FREAK out and their inner four-year-old screams "but it's not FAIR!"
I'm a tad envious but also so happy that you got Whirlpool's attention. And you bet your ass I'm going to use Twitter, FB, and every other social media outlet I can think of the next time I'm in a similar situation.
Posted by: Liz Tee | April 07, 2010 at 09:05 AM
Suzanne I am just pretty much speachless today...but I think you are spot on...it truly comes down to customer service. How sad for those that don't feel that they deserve better. You've just proven once again why I adore you!!
Posted by: Michelle Pixie | April 07, 2010 at 09:12 AM
In reading all the comments on that post I saw Lisa went on in another comment to write about her refrigerator dying. She's just bitter over her own lack of power to stand up for herself. Bitter and jealous. I hate to say this, but you've got a popular blog here. You're only going to get more and more haters as 24 grows. There are, sadly, a lot of jealous, bitter, petty people in the world with nothing better to do in their lives than lash out at those who are more successful.
Keep being true to who you are and write what you want. It is why so many of us show up here everyday. We love you.
Posted by: Tami | April 07, 2010 at 10:05 AM
Suzanne,
You're fine. You definitely do not abuse your power. Keep doing what you're doing and don't get worked up over it. You have a fun blog - ignore people who have nothing nice to say.
Posted by: j. vance | April 07, 2010 at 11:09 AM
-->I instantly thought of Dooce last week when I saw your tweets and the response you received from Maytag but not in a negative way. It actually made me feel like the larger companies are paying attention to the consumer and not because of the number of blog readers and twitter followers they have at the time.
@debthaxton
www.WebSavvyMom.com
Posted by: WebSavvyMom | April 07, 2010 at 11:25 AM
Don't you dare let the Blogosphere drama get you down. Believe me I understand. But you know who you are and what you stand for. You are an amazing writer, an amazing mother and an incredible human being.
WRITE WRITE WRITE and screw the meanies!!
MEAN PEOPLE SUCK!
Posted by: Sandi | April 07, 2010 at 12:05 PM
The people who complain that you are abusing your power are jealous that your problem was solved. These are the same people that are secretly envious of the people they know who stand up for what they need/want and push the issue when necessary - but it's the internet, so while they aren't able to express their problems in person, they can be haters online.
Everyone with web access is more than free to start their own twitter/blog/etc. Whirlpool/Maytag monitors twitter as a customer service tool and it works for them. Shake off the haters, you rock!
Posted by: Jen | April 07, 2010 at 12:52 PM
Oh, good grief! You don't need to justify yourself. Your machine should work. If it doesn't, and the manufacturer thinks other people might notice, then they are going to pay attention. You have nothing to apologise for. And well done you to have a blog that attracts enough attention to make corporations behave. That's a real achievement and you should be proud.
Posted by: Duchess | April 07, 2010 at 02:25 PM
Venting about a problem on your blog is the same as sitting down with friends and bitching about something that's going on in your life over coffee. The only difference here is that you're reaching a bunch of people all at once.
You weren't "pulling a Dooce", you were getting this off your chest. And you know what? Even if you WERE, that's totally your perogative and those who aren't as fortunate should shut it.
Posted by: MommaSunshine | April 07, 2010 at 03:31 PM
I remember my high school journalism class and my teacher proudly passing on the belief in the power of the pen. You used it. Just like anyone would if they wrote a letter to the company, wrote a letter to the editor of their town paper, sent emails to all their friends that eventually turned into an email forward featured on snopes. There is nothing wrong with it. You wrote about your life. You tweeted. Which in this particular day happened to deal with problems with your Whirlpool. Isn't that what a blog and twitter is for? Documenting your life.
Posted by: Lex (@laprimera) | April 07, 2010 at 03:32 PM
I had a problem with Morgan Stanley, the brokerage house. They ripped me off for fees that I didn't even know they were charging because I had CLOSED THE ACCOUNT. I bitched on Twitter. I've only been on Twitter for 6 months. But I have a popular Hollywood Blog and I've been on TV and tour as a standup comic. And guess what?
Big bad brokerage house refunded all the money they stole.
We are not abusing our power. WE ARE USING OUR POWER.
Posted by: Suzy | April 07, 2010 at 03:50 PM
Nothing I could possibly say here would sound original after all the great comments posted above.
All I WILL say is, keep on keepin' on my friend. I am a bit of an "odd duck" blogger (after all, who talks about wieners as much as me?) and rarely find blogs that I puffy heart so much as yours. And you know why? Cuz you're refreshingly funny. And friggin' funny! Couple those two together and you get a bad ass blogger not willing to write ONLY what "others" think she should.
Vent, bitch, laugh, smile, complain, entertain (hey, that rhymes!) or cry.
I truly don't care WHAT you do...just keep on doin' it.
You rock my wiener world.
Hallie :)
http://wonderfulworldofweiners.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Hallie | April 07, 2010 at 03:51 PM
well the way i view it. we the people spout off our gripes opinions and the such in the newspaper now, on any comments, magazine articles, tv, call in talk show radio and ect ect.
if we did not do this to produce awareness of something then the world would not know .
what about consumer reports that come out. is that bullying? secret shoppers?
its one thing to get greedy and expect everything at any cost but its another thing to but and not expect a very expensive washer to not tear up.point being if washers are being produced then shouldn't they have a bit more life . and those warranties.. most are a joke anyway.
just me 3 cents :)
Posted by: tonya cinnamon | April 07, 2010 at 04:08 PM
I've been following this saga here and on Twitter and you have been very professional about everything, including the "venting." Your posts and tweets about Whirlpool customer service have been positive. I don't see the problem. Why in the world can't we write what we want on our own blogs as long as it doesn't hurt anyone?
I've also followed the drama over on "The Girl Who." I think it all boils down to plain, ugly jealousy. Jealousy over the success and happiness of others.
Enjoy the success of your blog - you're a funny, intense writer and you've earned it. Ptwththhtp to anyone who disses you!
Posted by: Jane | April 07, 2010 at 04:39 PM
Wow Suzanne, people need to get a life.
While I have read Heather as well (BTW, her daughters are adorable), I don't read her every day. I hadn't read the story about Maytag as a matter of fact.
I started reading her (and believe it or not, more of you) at the advice of my daughter Lor. She thought you were hysterical and as a product of the SoCal school system, she really appreciated all of your references to "Money Town".
We have revisited that beautiful area through your photos.
Also, if I had the same problem with my washer as you did, you bet your ass I would have complained about it on my blog (modest as it is) and on Facebook. I would also Tweeter it if I could figure out how the hell to do that.
O.K., the old lady needs to figure that one out.
Hang in there, we love you.
Posted by: Yvette (Lo's Mom) | April 07, 2010 at 06:33 PM
Good God, people just LOVE to have something to bitch about, don't they? EVERYBODY vents on Twitter & on their own personal blogs -- it is your RIGHT to do so. You are by no means FORCING someone else to read your venting. The fact that Whirlpool actually listened and responded to your tweets is very encouraging, in my opinion. That is not "abuse of your power" by any means. I say more power to you! Don't let the negative energy get you down -- the supporters FAR outnumber the haters. Keep on keepin' on with the great things you do!
xoxo :-)
Posted by: nuckingfutsmama | April 07, 2010 at 09:01 PM
People who complain are either envious of your writing ability and your blog; just plain unintelligent; or trying to create controversy so that someone will pay attention to them.
You did nothing wrong, whether or not Dooce had issues that were similar; you have a write to speak about what you want on your blog. When will people understand that if they don't like what they read, then just need to leave? We don't force ourselves upon them - they are free to choose to be here.
Posted by: Vixen | April 07, 2010 at 09:11 PM
You are entitled to have an opinion, and voice your opinion, whether it be positive or negative. That isn't abusing your power, it's using your voice. This is YOUR BLOG. Why should anyone care what you can or can't afford? It is nobody's business and irrelevant to the fact you bought a lemon from Whirlpool. Whirlpool should take care of the problem and they are.
Whirlpool should take care of the problem faster than they are so shame on them, but at least they're making some effort.
We come here to read you because we WANT to hear what you say and your take on things. If you never voiced an opinion what would be the point? It would be like reading a boring novel. I LIKE to read the ups and downs of your life and your opinions. Don't let a few jealous bitches change a thing about how you write. You are pure awesomeness.
Posted by: Jeannie | April 07, 2010 at 10:28 PM
Missed your post yesterday, got caught up today. Hate that there is so much DRAMA surrounding you and your washing machine. People can be so STUPID.
And who knew how much POWER you wield!! I'm gonna start calling you the Wizard of OZ!
P.S. I'm with Jeannie, you ARE pure awesomeness!
Posted by: Jenn in Tenn | April 08, 2010 at 07:00 AM
I personally don't think you did anything wrong, taking your frustration to twitter. That Whirpool is savvy enough to be there too to head off problems of their customers and to help you out is great. You gave them credit where the credit was due.
But you also have a unique situation that others don't face with your limitations. Whirpool is fixing the problem eventually but not in a manner that is convenient for you (and is more expensive for them, which I don't understand).
If they were to totally replace your machine, take your old one and refurb it, then sell it to a discount appliance company, they could actually make money on the whole thing instead of wasting $400.
But that's just my two cents. I just wanted to chime in my support and say that we all tweet/blog/talk about what's going on in our lives. This problem looms fairly largely in your life right now and you talked about it. That the right people were listening isn't something you can control anyway. I don't think you abused anything. I also think you made a very good point about how no one complained when you vented your frustrations about losing your PT and how you were treated by The Torturer. Speaking of which, has there been any headway on finding a new PT place and your insurance situation? I'm hoping for the best for you.
Posted by: Andrea (@shutterbitch) | April 08, 2010 at 07:51 AM
I think Lisa is a troll. You rock 24- don't take anyone's shit.
Posted by: Linda Tustin | April 08, 2010 at 09:32 AM
"You have a strong voice in the blogosphere and although I understand your frustration, you are abusing your power by writing about your broken washing machine."
Sorry, this comment just makes me want to yell moron. There is no abuse of power taking place here. It is a blog. A personal corner of cyberspace in which you can write about whatever you want.
You are allowed and entitled to speak your mind. It would be different if you acted with malice and wrote things that you knew to patently false and untrue.
Posted by: Jack | April 08, 2010 at 11:16 AM
Everything has already been said. If this had happened to me with a blog post, I would have become obsessed with the issue, too.
Freedom of speech. The end.
Posted by: Jason | April 08, 2010 at 02:37 PM
You're very good at speaking freely. That's why your blog is popular and powerful. You've never abused that power. The accusation is ridiculous.
Posted by: Erica | April 08, 2010 at 02:47 PM
This is your blog, where you can and SHOULD write about whatever you want. Companies are all signing up for Twitter for exactly this reason,....they want to know what people are thinking. They want to be able to respond. This is a new age. Social media rules. Blogs, Twitter, Facebook....it's all at the forefront and replacing things like newspapers where yes, people would have done their complaining before now.
So Lisa and others got their knickers in a twist. So what? Forget them..move on. You did nothing wrong.
Whirlpool is doing what they should, albeit slowly, and you did NOT abuse your power as a blogger.
Posted by: Mad Woman | April 09, 2010 at 03:33 AM
I suppose I'm a bit late to the party on this one, but I feel overly compelled to chime in here. I had issues with HP last December (or sometime late in the year) and I overly tweeted my frustrations being fully aware of the Dooce Maytag fiasco and even going as far as to mention verbatim that I'm "pulling a Dooce on HP". What came of it? Nothing. Not a damn thing. I still have the same computer I spent $400 on that has been broken since the week after I had it. But...that information is irrelevant (and yes, I know that means I didn't need to include it, and could very well delete it, but I'm not gonna. winks).
Basically, I feel you have not "abused your power" as a blogger to obtain special treatment in the case of your young washing machine. I think your expression of gratitude that Whirpool responded to your venting of frustration is a solid reflection of the quality of the company and their attempt at bettering their customer service practices on a more broad level. If that means "calming down" those who are ballsy enough make it public knowledge (regardless of the facet), then so be it. Every local news station that I've ever watched has an "investigative" segment where some unhappy consumer in the area hires on reporters to do undercover work on their behalf to rectify poor service of local companies and air their dirty laundry...no pun intended. Isn't social media simply a different form of that very same thing? Or going to the newspaper? Or sending an angry letter to the president of the company? Or placing multiple phone calls to customer service call centers? It is all the same thing. Every. Last. One.
Some are obviously faster than others. Case in point, blogging and tweeting your displeasure is more easily noticed by companies who play an active role in social media.
I'm getting all scatterbrained and probably have not made sense for the last four paragraphs...oh shit, I'm writing PARAGRAPHS in a comment...sigh.
All this to say that anyone who is going to point the finger of "abuse of power" or "vying for special treatment" is merely disillusioned by the way things work nowadays. Technology is the revolution that is bringing companies and their consumers closer. Providing the companies with the opportunity to correspond one on one in a more efficient manner with dissatisfied customers and even pleased customers alike (read: sponsorships/ad space).
Jumping off my tiny little soap box.
xoxo
Posted by: Jess | April 09, 2010 at 03:32 PM