The Benefits of Haggling

In the November issue of Consumer Report, it reveals the benefits of haggling and how 90 percent of shoppers who attempt to haggle usually are successful. Consumer Reports explains that people haggle in a lot of areas, from from medical bills to buying a car. Yes, even medical bills can be negotiated. Consumer Report shows that 93% of those people who haggle over their medical bill usually will get a price reduction. Most times, these fees are based on the standard fees for the area and the doctor can easily drop it in order to settle things quicker.

I love to haggle! My first experience in haggling came from watching my father when he used to buy cars. He was good! He didn't care what the salesman thought of him however; he didn't hesitate to tell the salesman if he didn't like what he was saying. He was sort of the bad cop, bad cop version. Never flinching and he would walk out if he didn't get his deal.

When I was a sophomore in high school, I took a trip to Mexico. That was my first haggling experience on my own. It is very common to haggle in Mexico as well as many other countries. In fact, it's a way of life. The scenario there would be that you would always tell them that you found the article cheaper at another store and start walking out of their store. They would quickly run after you and drop the price. Mexico though is an extreme in haggling compared to the United States where many feel, they should just pay what is asked.

Today, I take it one step further. If I don't like the customer service I will let them know via over the phone, in person, or in writing. Whether it is disappointing food served in a restaurant or cutting into a bad onion that I just bought from the grocery store, I will let the right party know. If it is in a restaurant, I might get a free dessert, price reduction off the bill, or even my meal free. The produce manager doesn't think twice in replacing my bad onion. They want you to come back. You are doing them a favor letting them know what is happening. If it is happening to you, most likely other people are experiencing a similar situation. They want your feedback.