Rules and regulations can sometimes seem to control every aspect of our lives, but the government also offers heaps of help and assistance. Whether you are new to the world of work and taxes or you are unsure about the options open to you in any other aspect of life, the government can provide guidance and support. But getting this help can be a challenge – for starters, which of the countless numbers do you call!? This introduction should help you get your head around the situation.
Work Out Exactly What You Need
Like any business or organisation, getting in touch with a government body isn’t as simple as looking in the phone book. Nowadays, every issue and department has its own system to ensure that you are able to speak to an expert as soon as you pick up the phone. For example, you might want business support. However this is still quite a broad topic. Do you want to talk about tax, licenses, registering as a limited company or closing down your business? Knowing the exact subject of your query or problem will make your search for a number much easier.
Finding a Number
Google can be a blessing and a curse in disguise. Whilst it does have a wealth of information at the click of a button, it can also be confusing and convoluted. Especially when you want an up-to-date number from an organisation that is constantly changing and evolving. Using a specialist online customer service directory instead will allow you to search for the number you require in seconds, and instantly get connected if using your smartphone.
Information at the Ready
Plan out all of the questions that you need to ask in advance of your call so that you don’t have to ring up a second time, and have all of the relevant information to hand before you pick up the phone. You may need to provide security information or specific details to your advisor, so make sure that you are able to access these straight away to help you get to the bottom of your problem.
You should also have a pen and paper at the ready when calling a government helpline, as no doubt you will be given useful information and other phone numbers that you’ll need to write down. When calling any helpline, you should also make sure you get the name of the person that you’re speaking to, for future reference if necessary.
Dealing with government services on the phone can ensure that you get the correct information at the time you seek it. It also allows you to make sure that the advice or support is specific to you, in a system that is always full of exceptions to the rule. Be prepared with all the details before you make your call and use a directory to find the number, and you should be able to get a resolution to your issue as quickly and simply as possible.
This article is written by Kelly Gilmour Grassam, a freelance copywriter from Yorkshire. You can follow her on Twitter at @KellygGrassam.
