One of the principal challenges of operating a business like Atlantis Rising is...operating the business. While it would be wonderful if our attention could be focused entirely on ancient mysteries, future science, the unexplained and all the other fascinating subjects we like to cover, unfortunately, itÕs just not possible. We must mind the store, else there would be no printed pages on which discussions of these fascinating topics could appear.
Since our second issue, we have provided a toll-free 800 number which you can call, and use your credit card to subscribe or to order books, videos or other products which we offer. Needless to say, that number is very important to our welfare, so, to fill orders, we contracted, about a year ago, with a full-time fulfillment company. And for a time, we thought our business was in capable hands. Imagine our distress when complaints began to reach us of mishandled calls, confused orders, and other problems.
We tried hard to resolve the difficulties but, despite our best efforts, they continued. The trouble stemmed, in part it seems, from the companyÕs high employee turnover which led to unskilled operators unfamiliar with our products and services. Moreover, we were disadvantaged by their inability to keep up with demand from others of their many clients. Often our callers found it impossible to get through, not because Atlantis Rising customers were ahead of them but, in fact, callers for other businesses with which we had nothing to do. In any event, the situation ultimately became intolerable, and in December we fired them.
While that may be bad news for them, it is good news for you. Our toll-free line (800-228-8381) now comes directly to our own offices where your needs can be serviced quickly and correctly. While the order phone will now be answered by a machine, you can be sure that your instructions will be carefully taken down and followed. And, as a result of the new setup, your orders will be processed much faster, savingÑin many casesÑas much as a week to 10 days off the prior arrangement. Written confirmation of your itemized order will be sent you within a week.
When ordering, please speak slowly and clearly; tell us which products (and how many) you wish; include your name, address and phone number as well as the name and address to which the order is to be sent (if different from your own); and finally, your credit card number and expiration date (Visa and MasterCard only). If you wish to be called back, just say so and leave your number. We will get back as soon as we can. You can still pay us by check or money order, if you wish. Just mail it and your order to Atlantis Rising, P.O. Box 441, Livingston, MT 59047.
Once again, thanks for your loyal and patient support thus far. We promise that our future service, unlike some in our past, will be the kind our loyal supporters deserve.
J. Douglas Kenyon
Publisher
