How did this author score an authentic vintage Chanel handbag for under $50? By using negotiation strategies to get the best deal at local consignment. People may think bargaining strategies are only useful in business. Not so. With good negotiation skills, everyone in a situation can come out satisfied, and this includes consignment shop owners and savvy designer fashion bargain hunters.
Use Negotiation Skills When Shopping Local Consignment
When shopping local consignment stores for designer fashion, there are three main things to keep in mind before negotiating:
- Bring value. Repeat customers are more likely to be successful at negotiating designer deals because they bring in regular business. Even more successful are the regular customers that bring in new customers. Build a relationship. If the service is good and the selection is great, by all means refer people. If a consignment shop sees loyalty, the shop is more likely to negotiate on price.
- Be realistic. In successful negotiation, both parties should walk away happy. Local consignment shops have bills to pay, just like everyone else. They need to stay in business, so don't ask for more than can be reasonably given. On the other hand, don't be afraid to ask for a deeply discounted "add-on" (like a handbag) if it's accompanied by a major purchase.
- Follow up with a sale. If a local consignment shop agrees to give a deep designer discount, be sure to go back and make another purchase as a thank you. By showing continued support for the store, future negotiations will probably be easier.
Don't be Afraid of Bargaining Strategies
Ed Brodow, the author of several negotiation books including Negotiate With Confidence and Negotiation Boot Camp, writes on his website that the number one negotiation skill for 2010 is: Don't be afraid to ask for what you want.
It's true in life, and it's true when shopping: don't be afraid to ask. The worst that will happen is a consignment shop owner will say no. The best that will happen is a great deal.
When negotiating designer fashion at local consignment shop, just remember another of Brodow's negotiation skills: "Show the other person how their needs will be met." Smart designer shoppers are most successful when using bargaining strategies that benefit both parties, especially if they enter negotiations with a positive frame of mind.
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