Universally Speaking

(I work on a sales chat service for a large IT company. Customers come through and ask us questions about products, prices, etc. We offer a discount for students so this is something we get asked on a lot.)

Customer: “I would like to buy a computer. How much is it with the education discount?”

Me: “I’d be happy to help with that! If you can let me know where you’re studying and which computer it is you’re looking to purchase then I can certainly check if there is a discount available on that for you.”

Customer: “[University], [model of computer].”

Me: “Perfect, thanks! With your discount, that model would cost you £945.60. Are you happy that this is the best computer for your needs?”

Customer: “I don’t know. I’m working in a budget. Is there a cheaper option?”

Me: “What sort of budget did you have in mind?”

Customer: “£1000.”

Me: “Well, the model above does cost less than £1000, so it does come in under your budget.”

Customer: “Okay. This model will be fine, then.”

Me: “Are you sure that this model would be suitable for your university work?”

Customer: “I don’t know. What can I not do on this computer that I can do on another?”

Me: “Well, that’s a very difficult question to answer. If you can tell me what sort or stuff you’ll be using it for, I’d be happy to let you know if it’s suitable.”

Customer: “Is [lower spec model] better?”

Me: “Again, it really depends on what you will be using it for.”

Customer: “University work.”

Me: “Okay, and what sort of thing would that involve?”

Customer: “Using software for assignments.”

Me: “Can you clarify what sort of software you would be using?”

Customer: “I don’t know. Things for university.”

(I gave up asking at that point and wished him a nice day.)