Saving face when haggling fails
I think the real reason many people are scared to haggle is because they will feel sooooo embarrassed if it does not work. So here are some tips to recover when bargaining goes sour.
+ Avoid getting into a heated situation in the first place. If you make the negotiation into a fight, not being able to convince the merchant will really feel like losing.
+ Be nice. Remind the seller that you are a frequent and loyal customer (if you are) and really want to spend your dollars at their store. Buttering up a merchant never hurts ("You have really nice clothes in here") and it will help you maintain a good relationship with the store, even if you walk away.
+ Stay on the fence. Discuss the price as if you have not made up your mind whether you will buy the item or not. A merchant will be more likely to cut a deal if you are undecided, and it will be easier to not buy an item if you are using phrases like...
..."if I buy this" and "I'm not sure, but..."
+ Use body language to show your hesitation because of the price. Put an item down while discussing the price. That shows you can walk away from it.
+ Decide ahead of time what price or price range you are willing to pay. If the seller won't come down, recall your initial price decision and politely say something like, "Unfortunately, that is just a little more than I can pay. Thank you." Then walk away.
+ If you really want the item but can't persuade them to shave a few dollars off, tell them you have to think about it and may come back. If the item is still around a few days or weeks later, they may be more willing to strike a deal.
+ Give them one last chance. If they are not willing to give you 10% off or whatever you asked for, ask them what they can do for you. If they won't budge, say thank you and walk away.
+ If you decide to buy the item even after negotiations fail, save face by saying something like "well, I really do need this new Ferrari, so I guess I will buy it anyway. What's your return policy?"
For tips on how to haggle visit HowToHaggle.com, which also has a page on what kinds of stores are ready to haggle.
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About The Bargain Hunter
Daily News staff writer Julia Scott loves to find bargains on everything from groceries to Gucci. Her tips will help keep your hard earned cash where it belongs - in your pocket.
It is really hard to see the writing on the black part of your pages..and it is quite frustrating to guess if I do not want to print it out.