Business magazine TheEDGE has begun a conversation about customer service in Qatar on Facebook and Twitter, and it’s causing quite a stir.

The magazine tweeted to its followers yesterday asking for people’s experiences.

For the next couple of weeks we will be hosting a conversation on customer service in #Qatar so share your stories at #QatarCS and join in!

— TheEDGE Qatar (@TheEdgeQatar) September 11, 2012

The discussion appears to have struck a nerve with Qatar’s residents, who seem to have grown weary of mediocre customer service from many of the country’s companies.

@theedgeqatar Customer Service in general sucks in Qatar. We all know that. Its a combo of unhappy workers and lack of accountability.

— Great Doha Find (@GreatDohaFind) September 12, 2012

There was debate over the kafala system, and whether it plays a role in the demoralisation of staff:

@shabinakhatri @theedgeqatar @dohanews Agree! One of the major issues behind lack of motivation, therefore poor customer service. #QatarCS

— Jody Ryan (@jodygryan) September 11, 2012

@shabinakhatri Why should local companies allow employees to change their job, when they are on a signed contract? That’s just too greedy.

— The Qatar Business (@TQB___) September 11, 2012

Banks and telecoms seem to be the topic of many responses so far:

@theedgeqatar HSBC branch manager: “What do you want, your own 24-hour service team?” Me: “No, I want someone to answer the phone.” #QatarCS

— Brady Creel (@bradycreel) September 11, 2012

@theedgeqatar Qtel, Qtel, Qtel. Gave up on ever getting the proper home installation /fix of fiber optic. Worse than ever. #QatarCS

— Jody Ryan (@jodygryan) September 12, 2012

Do you have a story about customer service in Qatar, good or bad?

Tell us about it! 

Credit: Photo by Vertical Pharmacy