Don't Be Afraid to Ask for a Better Deal

Always be polite: When you are asking for all the available options, always be courteous and smile. If you demand information and are hostile, there is no incentive for the salesperson to try to help you. The only incentive that you create when you are rude and demanding is for the salespeople to try to get you away from them as quickly as possible.

Always treat the staff with respect and kindness -- exactly how you would want to be treated yourself. Most salespeople have some leeway in the price they offer. Or if they don't themselves, they can take the request to their boss.

Higher is better: If given a choice of whom to talk with, always choose the highest person in the chain of command. As rank increases, so does the power of the person to make exceptions. A manager will usually have more flexibility and more authority to make a better deal than a salesperson.

Point out the reason: Be sure to mention any legitimate reason you should expect a better deal than the average customer. If a competitor has a similar product or service available for less, mention that. If you have been a long-time customer, mention that. Doing this will not guarantee you get a better deal, but it will let the salespeople know that there are reasons that you feel entitled to a better deal, and it might get them to help a bit more.

Reward: Be sure to reward a salesperson who helps you get a better deal than you would have normally received. Take the time to inform his or her manager of the quality service you received and send a letter to the company headquarters mentioning the salesperson who helped you.

By rewarding, you increase your chances that the next time that you come in looking for a better deal, the salesperson will go out of his or her way to help you find the best bargain.

Asking if there is a better deal than the one you are getting doesn't cost a dime. While it might take some time to get comfortable doing it, it's well worth it. It can be one of the most powerful money-saving tools you possess.