Financial expert Martin Lewis has shared a simple yet effective 'secret' word that can help consumers secure the best deals on their household bills. The trick involves asking to be transferred to the 'disconnections' department when calling service providers.
How the Hack Works
In a video on his Money Saving Expert (MSE) website, Lewis explained that the key is to let the company know you are unhappy with your current service or considering leaving. Then, request to be put through to 'customer disconnections.' In reality, this department is often 'customer retentions,' where staff have the authority to offer discounts and special deals to keep you as a customer.
Lewis said: '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.'
Timing and Phrases Matter
According to MSE, timing is crucial. Haggling works best when you are near or beyond the end of your contract. The website also recommends specific phrases to use during negotiations, such as: '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,' or 'What's the very best you can do?'
MSE advises: 'Don't say yes to the first offer they give. Chances are, it's not the best deal they can do. Remember, be firm.'
Wider Application
This strategy can be applied to various services, including breakdown cover, mobile phones, digital TV, and insurance. Lewis emphasized the importance of politeness and charm throughout the process to maximize success.
