Why are we so lazy to switch?

Most of us know this: We put off what we really want or need to do. But something is keeping us from getting things done. Experts call this procrastination procrastination. “It’s basically about wanting to get rid of things that can trigger a negative emotion in us,” book author Fuschia Sirois, of Durham University in England, explains to “The Guardian.” When we put aside an irritating, frustrating, or stressful task, we feel at least temporarily relieved.

Time consuming, frustrating, confusing

This is also true for some of us when it comes to changing cell phone subscriptions, health insurance companies or fitness memberships. Even though we know we paid too much for it. “For many, switching subscriptions is almost like tidying or cleaning the house: They know they have to do it, but they can’t pull themselves together,” says telecom specialist Walter Salchli of the alao online store.

In a survey of 1,000 people (25-45 years old, German-speaking Switzerland), the telecommunications service portal revealed what challenges lie ahead of a mobile subscription change. There’s quite a few: at least 96.5 percent of respondents said they have one or more barriers that prevent them from changing their contract. Specifically, almost 60 percent find a change annoying, 52 percent find the procedure too time-consuming, and 47 percent shy away from formalities.

Walter Salchli explains that many mobile phone users have trouble keeping up with the wide range of products or understanding the vendors’ products. “The problem is that there are very few independent providers that provide a really good and straightforward overview of the entire product range.”

This is how it works without bureaucracy

One possible solution for customers who want to switch is to purchase the new subscription online. It’s an increasingly important need for Mr. and Mrs. Schweizer, as the survey shows. According to this, 56 percent of the respondents said that they would prefer to buy their mobile phone subscription from the internet. The reasons for this are greater transparency, lower prices and, above all, less time required. Also, there is independence of store opening hours. On the other hand, there are reservations: Some respondents argue that they cannot ask any questions about the online transaction when something is unclear, for example in the store.

That’s where Alao comes in with his offer: identify the best subscription for everyone online and offer it on unbureaucratic and affordable terms – a system reminiscent of the hotel provider booking.com model. Available at any time, customer service helps clarify any open questions immediately. With alao it is possible to save up to CHF 50 per month and the new subscription can be picked up online in just a few minutes (see box).

Good moment to switch

Salchli recommends that you don’t put off the subscription change for once because it’s ideal to try to get a new, cheaper cell phone subscription right now. “The price performance offered to Swiss mobile users in November is not coming back anytime soon.” This is because, thanks to special offers like Black Friday or Cyber ​​Monday, providers have the last big chance of the year to hit their sales targets in the month they are in. Salchli: “With the widespread increase in prices, customers are looking for ways to save money everywhere. Cell phone subscriptions are a great option – and discounts of up to 75 percent are a good argument to break the procrastination.»

Especially considering that more expensive tariffs are expected next year – primarily due to the current energy situation. “Every time we search or surf the Internet, we need energy,” says the expert. Providers require large amounts of electricity to maintain their supply, and rising electricity prices are factored into the 2023 cost calculation. And in the end, the customer feels it.”