11. Be Fair and Responsible
Don't waste your time or the sellers by making an offer that you aren't willing to keep. Just as at an auction, if you begin negotiating and a seller accepts your offer, you are expected to purchase the item at that point.
12. Return to the Same Shop
Assuming that you first interaction went well, returning to the same shop over several days will sometimes help you get a fairer price when the vendor recognizes you as a return customer.
13. Purchase in Bulk
Buying more than one item from the same seller greatly increases your bargaining power. When souvenir shopping, try to make all your purchases in the same place.
14. How to Negotiate with Desperate Tactics
If you absolutely cannot live without making a particular purchase, the last tool in your arsenal of negotiating prices is simply to be open and honest with a seller. Convey the message that you understand they are only trying to make a living or support a family -- which is probably true. Try using expressions such as “Please help me give you this business” or “I really want this item, but I need to get a fair price first.”
Breaking out of the usual game will sometimes yield a little respect and ultimately a slight discount on the final purchase.
15. Allow Sellers to Save Face
The laws of “saving face” in Asia come into play during every interaction, including negotiation. Even if a seller wants to make a sale, they cannot do so when there is a risk of losing face. Avoid being rock solid about the final price and expressions such as “I won't pay a penny more.” Never make a seller feel cheated or small; give just a little on the final price to allow the vendor to save face.
After the sale -- assuming you received an excellent price -- appear extremely happy with the item purchased, thank the seller, and even mention that you will tell your friends about their shop or may return later for more business.
- Learn more about the concept of saving face.