It feels awful finding out that another additional fee has been included in your monthly internet and TV bill. If you think it’s just happening to you, then you’d be surprised to hear that you are not alone in this. While TV and internet bills keep hiking now and then, bundles seem to be a safer option to consider. If you check out the Cox bundles, for instance, you will notice that they are a lot more affordable and flexible as compared to the standalone plans. However, if bundle deals do not appeal to you or fit your requirement, yet you want to get rid of the pesky cable bills that seem to be dodging you with hidden charges, then do not fret. The fact is there is still much that can be done and we have it all covered for you here. So, without any further ado, here we are with the best strategies that can help you lower and negotiate your internet and TV bills to create a significant difference in the current monthly cost that you are bearing. Let’s get started!
Analyze the Situation first
Your biggest ticket to a strong negotiation is the fact that you are a customer. So, know your worth. First of all, ask yourself this: Do you pay your bill on time? Are you bound by a contract? How long is the commitment and what are the terms you’ve signed up for? This background check will give you a stronger stance for your negotiations. Do some calculations as to how much you pay annually to quote it when needed.
If you’ve signed a contract, then the negotiations might be a bit trickier. This is because the representative knows that if you break the agreement, you will have to pay a certain penalty. The no-contract subscriptions, on the other hand, might be a little easier when it comes to bill negotiations. So, the point is to make notes of your account history, the price hikes you experienced, the annual amount you pay, contact details, or any information that goes in your favor.
Know Your Options
You must research well about what offers competitors have for you that can better fit your budget and connectivity needs. Finding out specifically about what competitive internet and TV plans are available for you can help you make a stronger argument and make the sales representative know that they need to lower the cost otherwise you might be willing to quit. Therefore, it can help put pressure on your provider.
Tips for Effective Negotiations
Once you pick up the phone and start your negotiating game, there is no turning back. Here are some quick tips that will help you step it up and end up getting discounts and lowered bill cost:
- Stay Friendly, Polite, and Confident
Having a friendly, humble, and confident attitude is always helpful when it comes to building a strong rapport with the agent. Therefore, you can better deliver your point of view and create a stronger ground with a friendlier tone.
- Interrogate about Hidden Fee
You must ask about the hidden fee that might include installation charges, equipment fees, and activation charges, etc. This will help you narrow down the charges that are negotiable for a waiver.
- Ask Questions
Do not be reluctant to ask questions regarding the plan, pricing, and how you can be facilitated in a better way. Investigate the options and services that you can avail of, especially when it comes to discount offers. This will help you know more about any promotions or incentives that might come in handy for you.
- Be Open to Options
If you set your mind to one particular plan or price, you might miss out on something better. So, it is recommended to keep your options open to seek something that fits your needs and budget better. This again can happen when you ask the agent about the possible options available in your area and communicate with clarity about what you are looking for.
What Parts of the Bill are Negotiable?
You must know that there are certain parts of your internet and cable bill that might be negotiable and there can be incentives or promotions that you can grab to help you lower down the overall pricing. These include free installation, free activation, free channel upgrading, gift cards or rewards, and free equipment, etc. So, make sure to dig into these specific areas with your agent, and surely, you will find something that can reduce your bill cost considerably.
Final Words
The aforementioned discussion highlights some of the most effective tips and tricks that can help you pull out a successful negotiation with your provider and save a good amount of money. Make sure you put them to use before you talk to the agent so you are well prepared to make it happen!
