There are days when I don’t think I will ever talk to a real person again. I go from automated voice to automated voice. I often think, “If I could only talk to a real person, I could get this done so much faster.” Dream on, Lois.

Then today I learned there are ways to reach a live person when you are caught in automation hell. You just have to be willing to play games.

Here are some tips.

1) Hit zero. Some older phone systems will transfer you automatically to an operator. If zero doesn’t work, try the # symbol.

2) Speak softly. This is a surprise. Some phone systems are programmed to connect you to a person if the computer program does not understand you. The same thing will happen if you speak gibberish.

3) Select “Cancel Service.” Operators are instructed to instantly jump on the phone.

4) Say “Get human.” Then just patiently wait.

5) Don’t push any buttons or say anything. Operators may sense the caller is calling from a rotary phone.

6) Curse. My favorite technique! Telephone systems are programmed to detect angry cursing, which often puts you next in line.

Do you have any tips or experiences you can share?