The other day, as I was going through the YouTube channels I follow, I came across an intriguing video by Hank Green on the well-known Vlogbrothers channel. This got me reflecting on the distinction between. Netflix ( NFLX 2.11% ) and Sirius XM Satellite Radio is a subscription-based radio service that offers a wide range of music, sports, news, and entertainment channels to its customers via satellite transmission. ( SIRI -3.00% ) , although he did not refer to either of these firms.
Hank emphasized the importance of subscription-based companies facilitating an easy process for customers to cancel their service, allowing them the option to return in the future. Reflecting on the extremes of cancellation convenience, I quickly considered Experienced individuals in the field of media streaming. Sirius XM and Netflix are two popular entertainment services.
Ending Netflix subscriptions is a simple task!
We should begin by finding an approach that is easy for users to understand and use.
Netflix allows customers to easily cancel their subscriptions at any time without needing to provide a reason. They even mention this feature proudly in their official long-term business strategy.
It’s actually very simple. Access your Netflix account settings on the device of your choice—be it a phone, tablet, smart TV, or web browser. After you navigate past the subscription plan options and payment details, you will see a prominent button labeled “Cancel Membership.” Click or tap on this button, and Netflix will provide you with four options on the following page:
- Complete the cancellation.
- Take a break for a period of one month.
- Switch to a more affordable plan
- No need to change, just stay here.
I believe it is crucial to mention that the primary and most apparent choice is to cancel the subscription. While there are other options available, Netflix is not actively promoting them.
Netflix retains your viewing history, recommendations, ratings, and gameplay history, including saved games, for a period of 10 months after you cancel your service, in case you decide to return. This relaxed approach allows you to leave at any time and come back whenever you want, possibly sharing your positive experience with others.
Trying to cancel Sirius XM subscriptions? It may not be easy!
If cancelling a Netflix subscription is straightforward, then how challenging would it be to end a Sirius XM subscription?
It is a daunting process with numerous stages.
Initially, it is important to understand the method through which you registered for your Sirius XM subscription. If you enrolled through the Sirius XM mobile application, that is the first step to consider. Apple Whether you have an iPhone or an Android phone, you must utilize the respective app store to terminate your service. Alternative options for cancelling service may involve third-party resellers. Roku and T-Mobile Each of them has a distinct cancellation procedure.
The company’s guidelines do not mention the services included with buying a car. This could be considered a separate Sirius XM agreement, but it is not definite. It is your responsibility to determine the appropriate contact person and location.
Perhaps you were fortunate to initiate your subscription or trial with Sirius XM independently, either with or without assistance from a car dealership. If this applies to you, you’re in a good position, as the company provides a phone number and a website link to assist with the process. It’s worth noting that the online alternative is relatively recent and may not always be effective. In 2014, forty-six states took legal action to revise Sirius XM’s cancellation procedure, yet as of 2023, customers continue to report prolonged wait times and confusing menu systems.
It resonates with my own experience. During the COVID-19 lockdown period, the company provided free trials for its online radio service, which I decided to try out. However, I hardly used the service and faced difficulties navigating through phone menus and experiencing long wait times. The limited pleasure I derived from the trial did not justify the inconvenience it caused.
I probably won’t consider giving Sirius XM another chance as I had a frustrating experience trying to cancel a basic free trial. This occurred six years after the company was instructed to stop using aggressive or disrespectful tactics when handling cancellation requests.
Credit: Getty Images.
The level of customer service provided is an indication of underlying distinctions.
The challenging cancellation procedure of Sirius XM could lead to clients making additional service payments even after they have decided to leave, but this may come at the expense of their loyalty to the brand. Many others share this frustration, as shown by numerous legal actions taken by several states with backing from a large number of dissatisfied former subscribers.
The approach taken by Netflix is more favorable as they understand that people may need to cancel their subscription for different reasons. Netflix allows users to leave without any pressure and aims to lure them back in the future by offering a wider range of improved exclusive content. The company believes in giving members the freedom to cancel and return at their convenience, without their customer service representatives persuading them to stay on the phone.
I once terminated my Netflix subscription, but I re-subscribed when the selection of digital streaming content improved. It was simple to leave and rejoin, even when they were still sending DVDs in red envelopes. My viewing history and DVD list were saved by Netflix, so it was hassle-free.
I envision many Netflix users coming and going with the changing seasons of their preferred Netflix Original series. It is Netflix’s responsibility to ensure that these fluctuating subscriptions continue and prevent cancellations by offering engaging content to keep them interested.
Although customer service policies play a role, Netflix’s customer-centric approach has significantly contributed to its success. The company’s stock has increased by 906% in the past ten years, in contrast to Sirius investors who did not experience the same level of growth. zero percent total return During that time frame, which also accounted for reinvested dividend payments, Sirius XM’s revenues increased by over 100% due to the acquisition of Pandora in 2019. Similarly, Netflix reported a 600% growth in sales.
I am clear on which stock I would prefer to possess. and which company is worthy of my patronage. The two impacts are interconnected.
I believe Hank Green would agree. It is important to prioritize a positive user experience, even when customers are attempting to leave.
