Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis has shared a simple hack that could help you haggle better deals and discounts on your bills
A financial expert has revealed his “secret” word for securing the best deals on numerous household bills. Using this phrase could unlock a range of discounts and offers when “haggling” over the phone.
Many of us attempt to obtain the best value for money regarding our shopping and bills. Accumulating points, utilising coupons, and browsing price comparison websites can all assist with this.
However, there are some less well-known techniques that can prove effective too. In a video posted to his Money Saving Expert (MSE) website, Martin Lewis revealed a straightforward hack to attempt.
Martin said: “Do you want to know the secret to haggling with call centres? We’re talking breakdown, cover mobile phones, digital TV, insurance companies and more.”
According to Martin, deploying a particular word could help secure these deals. He continued: “It’s one of language.”
Initially, you’ll need to inform the company that you’re dissatisfied with your current service, or that you’re considering leaving. You then want to be transferred to a department called customer disconnections, as this is where some of the “best deals” are available.
He said: “What really happens is when they say to us, ‘Okay, I’ll put you through to customer disconnections’ if you say, ‘I’m going to leave.’ In reality, they’re putting you through to customer retentions.
“That’s the place where they have the people who have got the power and authority to keep you as a customer and give you the best deals and discounts.”
Martin explained: “So if you first go through to call centre staff and you’re politely talking with them and they’re not giving you what you want, then again, with a smile on your face, because we must use charm to get the best deals, ask to be put through to disconnections.
“And then you may get a much better deal.” The MSE website provided additional guidance on speaking to disconnections.
It highlighted that timing is crucial. “Haggling works best when you’re near or beyond the end of your contract,” MSE said.
There are also certain phrases that can work. MSE said: “You may find that your customer service rep will only offer a small discount at first, but if you don’t agree with the price, try phrases like:
- I’ve worked out my budget, and my absolute max is £[insert price here] a month
- [EE/O2/Three/Vodafone] can do it for less
- I need to think about it
- My husband/wife won’t be impressed if I pay that
- It’s still a lot of money
- What’s the very best you can do?”
It added: “Don’t say yes to the first offer they give. You should never go with the first offer. Chances are, it’s not the best deal they can do. Remember, be firm.”
For more information, visit the MSE website here.
