I had a really difficult time getting on the upgrade list after a SDC...any tips/advice?

I called 75k line two times, both reps assured me i was on the list even though it did not show my name on the upgrade list. Being the skeptic i am, i confirmed w/gate agent at airport, i was not on any list.

Like most SDC-ers, i write off the upgrade as it is very rare to get an upgrade this late in the game; however, i was upgraded this morning at the gate.