At the inn, we have a policy about not offering discounted room rates. When your business is the only open four months of the year and you have to pay shorefront property taxes, it is completely understandable to me.
We do, however, have different types of rooms available at different prices and a few available “packages” for off-season visitors (our “season” is Memorial Day to Labor Day).
That said, people have been calling to make reservations asking about discounts other than ones I mentioned. I have come up with a good explanation script that I’ve been working from:
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer discounts but we do have rooms at different price points. May I help you make a selection?
And if pressed:
Yes, the economy has made things more difficult. Our costs have also risen so I’m sure you understand why our rates are what they are.
And if further pressed:
I’m sorry we can’t accommodate you. Have you seen our Chamber Of Commerce website? There are a variety of lodging options on the island and that is a great source of information.
And if pressed even more:
If you like, I can leave a message for the owners of the inn. If they decide the price can be flexible, they will call you back. May I take your name and phone number? (In my head: By the way, they won’t call you but I will do anything to get you off the phone with me right now because we are at a communications impass.)
Sometimes there are sob stories or even just insistent pleading. And that’s when I start feeling a little uncomfortable.
Personally, I’m all about asking for discount but if I get a no, I take it that I should shop around. You will not get a sob story out of me but hey, I’m going to at least ask for discount because I’ve got nothing to lose.
I’m curious if other people have boundaries about asking for discounts. How far is too far? Crying? Pleading? Other tactics?