IT is one of the most frustrating things to face if you are dealing with a complaint or trying to return an unwanted item - an AI chatbot.

But now I reveal how to best deal with robots and automated systems, and the quickest route to a real-life person.

Consumers should give random words to voice prompts to confuse the bot if they want to get through to a customer services representative.

Many people have had incredibly frustrating experiences with AI chatbots and I empathise with that.

But AI has become a permanent feature of customer service, like many other aspects of our lives. It’s only going to become more widespread.

When you understand how chatbots operate, you can use AI strategically to get your query resolved quickly and efficiently.

Alternatively, there are ways you can bypass the bot and get to speak to a human.

But always remember that if you have been let down by a company, it is their responsibility to solve your problem, so the sooner you can escalate an issue, the more of your own time you will be saving.”

Here are my top tips for dealing with AI Chatbots and automated systems

1. Don’t play the numbers game

There’s no need to trawl through endless numbered options on calls. Don’t press anything at all and wait. Alternatively, you can dial zero, multiple zeros or press a hashtag.

2. Provide nonsensical answers

AI bots are programmed to deal with keywords with the algorithm designed to direct you to automated answers. If you provide answers which they don’t recognise – ‘carrot’ or ‘tea’ for example – then they will have to direct you to an alternative, such as speaking to an actual human. Human representatives take over when AI can’t make judgements on overly complex or unique situations, so confuse the bot.

Alternatively, you can try saying ‘no’ to every question.

3. Say you’re thinking of leaving

If you’re calling a company which provides you with a service like a utility company or subscription, the last thing they will want you to do is leave.

The customer retention team is where they will focus their resources, so simply tell the bot you’re thinking of leaving to be diverted to that team.

4. Escalate sooner rather than later

AI chatbots are like triage. They’re trained to gather key information and prioritise issues for the human representatives. By gathering context and details, the system allows more time for representatives to focus on solving unique and complex problems. AI bots can help with simple enquiries.

If your query requires quick intervention or human judgement or remains unresolved, use phrases like ‘escalate issue’ or ‘speak to real person’ to be connected to a customer service representative quickly.

5. And if a bot can help…

If you think that AI may be able to help you with your query, there are some key rules to follow.

AI doesn’t work like a human brain, so use simple and direct phrases throughout your interaction. Start by clearly stating your issue in one or two sentences.

Chatbots are typically wired to a company’s database, so they include key details like order numbers, dates, and error messages. Break down problems into stages, handling one at a time. For example, sort a refund before going onto a replacement. Such an approach avoids confusing the bot and going through the wrong workflow.

AI is great during periods when human availability is limited or overwhelmed. In the past, you may have spent hours of your precious time in the call centre queue. Customer service often is still like that, but AI can speed things up.