Don’t Discount The Customer’s Ability To Completely Ignore You

Client: “Hello. I’d like to speak to someone about a possible discount.”

Me: “I am not able to issue discounts; that’s something my manager takes care of. His name is [Manager], but he’s not here at the moment.”

Client: “Can I speak to him?”

Me: “I’m afraid he’s not here, but I can leave a message for him and have him call you.”

Client: “I just wanted to talk to someone about a discount on my order.”

Me: “Yes. You would need to speak to my manager.”

Client: “When will he be in?”

Me: “Tomorrow afternoon.”

Client: “Can I speak to your manager, please?”