Deals are everywhere. Most of us simply go after the published specials or discounts. These low price offers can be found on signs, in circulars, or online. We rely on these price indicators to determine what is a real bargain versus a sales gimmick to get you into the store. It’s how we know the “real” price of the products that we want and need. While these offers are wonderful and much needed, they only represent some of the actual discount opportunities that exist. The others that are out there are usually only available on an “ask for” basis. In other words, they exist but no one will tell you about them unless you ask!
Many cultures use haggling or asking for a deal as a way to always ensure that they buy for cheap, just about everything that they need. In those cultures, it is a basically a part of daily life. In the US, people also use haggling to buy. Cheapest prices available and best upgrades are what people can expect when they ask for bargains. Here are some things that people can expect to save on by simply asking for a deal:
1. Motels and Hotels - The hospitality industry is known for always having some type of deals going on. You can get the best buy, cheapest price, and best rooms by doing something as basic as asking for them. Managers want to sell off all of the space that they have available, and even though there are internet specials and advertised discounts, they are often willing to offer even more breaks for those that ask for them.
2. Restaurants - There is almost always a “house special” going on at a restaurant. Always make a point of asking whether there are any in-house discounts available when dining out. Some of the national pizza chains also offer unpublished in-house specials that you can get only if you ask for them. You can expect to receive anything from 2-for-1 deals to deeply discounted menu items. On rare occasions, restaurants may even allow you to double up on deals, which could allow you to get your meal practically free.
3. Planes, trains, and automobiles - Most travel companies offer discounts either through their frequent users travel programs or through haggling based websites such as Priceline.com. From upgrades to “buy one, get one” to free future travel deals, people can usually expect to buy for cheap when it comes to the travel industry if they make effort to ask for the best possible price. In an economic crisis like we are currently in, people will most likely be doing less traveling. So, there should be plenty of opportunities for families to get cheaper prices.
4. Phone and internet service - All of the telecommunications companies want your business. They usually publicize the deals that they want people to see. These are not usually the best possible price. To get that “special” unpublished price, you will need to call and speak with an agent. Tell them that you want a deal and watch them make it happen for you.
It’s only natural to ask for the things that we want in life. Why not use asking as purchasing power also? The deals abound and your family can experience the saving, cost reductions, and perks that one can expect simply by making an effort to ask.
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