Discount Requests

While we may not notice them, we are surrounded by negotiation opportunities every day. I was on a shopping trip recently with a friend at a large box retailer. As guys we found what we needed rather quickly and proceeded to the checkout. At the register I asked the employee if there were any discounts that she would be able to give me for our purchases. She said no one had ever asked her that before and called for a manager. The manager seemed lost when I restated my question to him.

Remember just asking for a discount isn't necessarily the end goal. What you are trying to do is improve your buying experience and give the retailer an opportunity to make a lasting impression. I have heard and read many stories from employees who have the discount question asked of them often. Many times it is rudely stated and results in a lose-lose situation for the store and employee and the customer.

Common courtesy and respect cannot be lost when attempting this form of negotiation tactic. You can reach a win-win situation without getting what you originally asked for. Respectfully inquiring or demanding a discount due to the economy/weather/horoscope are entirely different approaches and will result in completely different outcomes.

Be polite, courteous and kind! You are not trying to make a hard sell, you are asking for something that you dont necessarily deserve.

I was given the first discount this manager had ever given due to following the rules of negotiation and not being demanding.

With these in mind try them on your next shopping trip.