Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate

It's hard to find someone who doesn't have a cell or mobile phone today. Sprint is my current carrier. I have used their services for about 10 years. And because I have been a loyal customer for so long I decided it was time for them to give me some extra services without the extra cost. A customer service representative transferred me to someone in a position to make this request a reality.

As I conversed with the representative, I was quick to remind them that I could easily get these additional services from their competitors. Let's face it, in this economy companies aren't trying to lose their current customers.

I was put on hold and later told that my request would be honored with these additional amenities. Of course I will be checking my bill with a fine-toothed comb to see if they did what they promised. If they don't I won't hesitate to close my account with them.

I couldn't help but think back when I purchased a car many years ago. When I was younger my father taught us how to negotiate when looking for a car. He always told us not to agree to the first price that the car salesman came up with. More than likely they had a lot of room to negotiate.

And who hasn't used their negotiating powers while at a garage or estate sale? If for example, the last day of the sale has come. It is quite possible that the seller will be more willing to negotiate because they want to get rid of all that stuff and at least make some money off the deal. You know they are really desperate when they tell you to fill your bag and all the contents will be at a very low price.

Now while negotiating may not work with every scenario it certainly might be worth the effort. You certainly don't have anything to lose by trying. In fact you may even save some money in the process.

SOURCE:

Personal experience