We needed to make an in person appointment at both Banks that we deal with.
Bank #1:
Just required a simple appt. I phoned my Assistant Branch Mgr’s number. It immediately went to a Call Centre answered by someone with a heavy accent that I could not understand, I’m not deaf. I ended the call. No voice mail was offered. Tried again just in case. No Luck.
Called the main Branch number now. After listening to the menu on the automated Branch telephone line I was able to input the extension I required. I thought I had the Voicemail of my guy. No. I was again switched to the Central Bank Call Centre in another Province or a Call Centre wherever. Once I confirmed that the operator had no clue what I was requesting and he did not know how I was connected to him in the first place. I thanked him and hung up. Before I broke off contact I asked the number of the other branch in town that I have dealt with. He gave me one in Ontario. So no dice.
Tried the Main Local Branch number once again but tried a different option instead of the phone directory. Was now able to leave a detailed message of my needs. My call was returned but unfortunately, I was outside and did not have my phone. My bad. We will play telephone tag until I get my in person appt time.
About 20 min wasted.

Bank #2:
Attempted an appt online. Online it was not explained well so tried to contact my guy at my branch. He was the Branch Mgr and not available. Fair enough as it should be handled by his assistant. Was directed to a staff member who thought I should attempt the online option. I wasn’t going back there. Thanked them and ended the call.
Decided to phone the Direct Investing Line. Got through and was instructed that I indeed needed to set up a RIF account at a branch first before I could transfer from the RSP. Very helpful info.
I phoned another branch. Bingo! Got a clear voice who was able to set me up with an appointment which I could do from the comfort of my home as long as I could deal with email, scanning and sending docs. Yes! All set up.
About 30 min wasted.

In years gone by, each of these calls would have taken a few minutes to book in person or a message was left. Literally 2-3 minutes each. All of the automation and the hiring of employees who do not speak clear English or know what I am asking for is wasting so much time.

I must say that I have had great service recently when I am in person at various local businesses. The front facing staff are courteous, friendly and usually helpful. I have been made aware that many of these young recent arrivals to Canada had a degree from back home, likely worked a few years there then attended the local University on a Student Visa. Basically overqualified and not working in their field but they take these entry level jobs so they can stay in Canada. They will never afford to stay here and thrive on their salaries as the well-paying jobs are gone. I believe our Government lied to them about the opportunities in Canada. Many will go home. It was bad timing as the labour mkt was flooded at the entry level and we have been in a recession for years here in BC IMHO. Nothing seems to work smoothly anymore.

BC depended upon the churning of Real Estate and all the related industries for decades and now it’s over.