A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Minneapolis: DL DM charter 2.3MM
Programs: A3*Gold, SPG Plat, HyattDiamond, MarriottPP, LHW exAccess, ICI, Raffles Amb, NW PE MM, TWA Gold MM
Posts: 100,409
If someone asks me nicely, I'll switch for an equivalent or better seat according to my criteria.
If I find that someone has already taken over my seat without asking, I start with "excuse me, but this seems to be my seat...." I call the FA if the person doesn't move. I don't explain or negotiate, I just politely insist on getting my seat.