BEAVERCREEK -- You can buy just about anything online these days, and more companies are handling complaints and other various customer service issues through social media websites.
Local companies are taking advantage of this tool, such as Edible Arrangements in Beavercreek and Dayton Power and Light.
Last Thursday, Edible Arrangements in Beavercreek saw the most call volume they've ever had on Valentine's Day.
"Constantly on the phone, all lines going all the time, and people coming in; we have a lot of people that walk in, especially around holidays," said Christine Hamker, assistant manager of Edible Arrangements.
The business was able to handle all of their orders, but say the Internet and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter were also helpful if orders weren't quite right. Many companies are using these sites and the customers say it's convenient.
"It's right at my fingertips. I have my cell phone, wi-fi is everywhere, computer anywhere, you have access everywhere," said Jenea Peterson, a Wright State student.
"Yeah, I think it would be good, they can definitely get a hold of us easier that way and if that's easier for them then that's always better for us," said Molly Klepper, who works for Salon EXP in Beavercreek.
Dayton Power and Light is utilizing Twitter to help get to customers faster. From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. workers monitor their site to help customers with their problems. DP&L says it's also valuable during severe weather and storms.
"Instant communication is a great thing. It's nice to not have to talk to someone if it's not something you don't want to wait on the phone for 30 minutes to an hour for an answer to something simple like that then yeah, I think it's a great use," said Damien Delaney.
However, the Better Business Bureau says although social media sites are great tools and can get you faster notification, you don't want to abuse it.
"Lots of times if you go to Twitter and you complain about an issue you will get a fast response on it but again, I will try the company first to give them the first opportunity before you air the dirty laundry to the public," said Sheri Sword of the BBB.
According to a survey by an online customer service rating agency, Stella Service, those who complained through social media websites received a response within a minute on average and a follow-up within an hour.
Local companies are taking advantage of this tool, such as Edible Arrangements in Beavercreek and Dayton Power and Light.
Last Thursday, Edible Arrangements in Beavercreek saw the most call volume they've ever had on Valentine's Day.
"Constantly on the phone, all lines going all the time, and people coming in; we have a lot of people that walk in, especially around holidays," said Christine Hamker, assistant manager of Edible Arrangements.
The business was able to handle all of their orders, but say the Internet and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter were also helpful if orders weren't quite right. Many companies are using these sites and the customers say it's convenient.
"It's right at my fingertips. I have my cell phone, wi-fi is everywhere, computer anywhere, you have access everywhere," said Jenea Peterson, a Wright State student.
"Yeah, I think it would be good, they can definitely get a hold of us easier that way and if that's easier for them then that's always better for us," said Molly Klepper, who works for Salon EXP in Beavercreek.
Dayton Power and Light is utilizing Twitter to help get to customers faster. From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. workers monitor their site to help customers with their problems. DP&L says it's also valuable during severe weather and storms.
"Instant communication is a great thing. It's nice to not have to talk to someone if it's not something you don't want to wait on the phone for 30 minutes to an hour for an answer to something simple like that then yeah, I think it's a great use," said Damien Delaney.
However, the Better Business Bureau says although social media sites are great tools and can get you faster notification, you don't want to abuse it.
"Lots of times if you go to Twitter and you complain about an issue you will get a fast response on it but again, I will try the company first to give them the first opportunity before you air the dirty laundry to the public," said Sheri Sword of the BBB.
According to a survey by an online customer service rating agency, Stella Service, those who complained through social media websites received a response within a minute on average and a follow-up within an hour.