[modernpacifist]

I'll +1 to this. Coming from Australia to the US I've found that (generally, especially in big corp entities/govt.) American customer service is always extremely courteous and eager but ultimately unhelpful or severely limited in what they can do. As soon as you are off script, good luck.

[gavin_gee]

on the counter I think Australian retail is some of the best. fun, low pressure, engaging and helpful.

[modernpacifist]

I would agree. My standard engagement with CS in Australia was a lot more personable and once it was recognized that a situation was off script they were far more willing to go into problem solving mode.