Final answer:
The associate should courteously acknowledge the complaint, apologize for the inconvenience, gather details about the delivery, work swiftly to resolve the issue, and offer appropriate compensation if necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
In handling a customer complaint about a late refrigerator delivery, the best approach for an associate would be to:
- Thank the customer for bringing the issue to their attention.
- Apologize sincerely for the inconvenience caused by the delay.
- Request necessary information about the delivery to understand the situation better.
- Take immediate action to resolve the issue, such as checking with the delivery department for details and providing the customer with an update.
- Offer compensation if appropriate, like a discount on a future purchase or expedited delivery once the item is available.
This approach addresses the customer's concern respectfully and efficiently, while also working towards a solution that is satisfactory for the customer.