The Art of Bargaining

Okay I admit that I have been somewhat neglecting this blog, but I'm back with my stories. For those of you who don't know I've recently resigned from Costco - I figure with only a few weeks left of summer that I look for some other unique things to pursue. Looking back, Costco was actually a good experience - the people at the warehouse were really nice; managed to make some new friends so I think that's always a good take away from any job. In the mean time I'm really interested in doing some volunteer work, but my availability is not as flexible as I would like so I'm still on the look for a charity/organization to volunteer with. Let me know if you guys have any suggestions.

Anyhow, on to today's topic "The Art of Bargaining". Now I admit that I'm not the best bargainer in the world maybe because bargaining is not very common in North American culture or not very popular amongst our generation, but I do know the difference between places where you can try and places where you shouldn't even think about it. Ma and pa shops are doable, street vendors are okay, even places like Pacific Mall are acceptable. Giant enterprises like Costco Wholesale not a good idea. But you can't stop people from trying. Here's what happened:

Product: Stainless steel BBQ
Set Price: $1000
Asking price: $500

This person literally asked for 50% off. I figured if you're going to make an offer like that you better have some convincing arguments, but this lady fell far short of that.

Argument 1: Summer's almost over and you still have BBQ's in stock sell it to me for half price.
Argument 2: Do you have any idea how difficult it is to transfer a BBQ we deserve a discount.
Argument 3: Do you have any idea how hard it is to assemble a BBQ - discount.
Argument 4: We might have to come back for missing parts (even though the box is closed) - discount.
Argument 5: Look at all the scratches and dents (referring to the demo) - discount.

Argument 5 was my favorite because she wanted a demo discount on a brand new BBQ. Honestly, was she expecting to confuse us? Number 4 isn't bad either she was asking for a discount on the potential of missing parts. If we could all get discounts on chance wouldn't that be great. Ummm I would like to buy that car, but due to the potential of being in an accident I would like you to take off 50% from the selling price. Anyway, she obviously did not get the discount but it was a good attempt. Personally, I don't think there's a problem with people being frugal I would just recommend using discretion when practicing it.