Speak Up to Get A Deal

April 29th, 2008 • Related • Filed Under • by tisha

There are several businesses that like to offer special deals. The only trick of it is – these special deals are on the down-low yell and you won’t get them unless you ask for them. Businesses will be happy to oblige you with their special offers but take advantage of the fact that many consumers will keep their mouths shut rather than make an inquiry.

Here are some of the places you may find a deal kept under wraps:

Restaurants – Going out for a meal but not feeling particularly ravenous? Ask your waiter about the rules for ordering a lunch portion of a dinner entre. You will get the same great food, just a smaller portion, for a less expensive price.

Competitor’s Coupons – Many retail stores do not openly advertise they will accept competitor’s coupon codes unless you first ask about it. This allows you to save on the products you want in the stores you want to shop in. The worst thing that can happen is the store will tell you no. You can also check for online coupons for any given reailer. Often you’ll find deals that aren’t published in the store’s regular weekly ads.

Room Service – When staying at a hotel, ask the front desk if room service provides a menu for children. Many times the exact same meal listed on the kid’s menu is the same size as the adult portion, only for a cheaper price.

Supermarket Rewards – Many consumers opt to register for their local grocery store’s reward programs, which can frequently save money on specially advertised prices, only good for members. However, with busy lives, some people will forget to bring the membership card to the store with them each time they shop. Check with your local grocery’s customer service center for the rules of the membership. Some will accept the receipt from the purchases made without the rewards card and will reimburse you for the amount of the discounts you would have otherwise received. Supermarkets may also offer free merchandise if the price listed scans incorrectly but again you may have to speak up to get the full refund.

Online Only – Before going shopping, check out the company website for the stores you plan to visit. Some may offer special coupons or deals that can only be found online. You may not have to speak out to get these discounts but you do need to do a little bit of homework beforehand.

There are probably many more discounts available if you take the time to ask about them. This may be especially true for local mom and pop stores, who want to keep their loyal customers to keep coming back. For example, in a town close by, a local gas station offers a 20% discount on gasoline to customers who pay cash and mention the special deal. Everyone who does not directly ask for the discount will not receive it. Keep your eyes and ears open for some great deals and when you find them, make sure you open your mouth.