Outsmart the System: 12 Tips and Tricks for Getting the Best Customer Service and Good Deals

A little kindness goes a long way. Whether you’re dining or shopping, remember that many of the employees are working with fewer resources. “A large part of their day is dealing with customers who didn’t get the experience they want and are upset,” Goldberg says. “Being patient and having a bit of empathy for the employee is a great way to get their best service.”

Master online shopping

Many retail chains that you may have frequented for years are reducing their brick-and-mortar stores. For example, about 600 Family Dollar stores closed earlier this year, and Macy’s will close an estimated 55 by the end of the year. So if you haven’t already, now is a good time to embrace online shopping. Follow these tips:

Look for real reviews. How do you know if product reviews on shopping sites are legit? A listing with only positive reviews could actually be a red flag, Goldberg says. “It’s important that there are some negative reviews so that you know the review system is honest.”

Don’t get stuck on one site. With physical stores, it might be more convenient to visit the same one or two repeatedly. But with online shopping, you should search for your item on sites such as Yahoo Shopping or Google Shopping, and those sites will show you how much it costs at various retailers. “People need to be willing to take some time up front,” says Trae Bodge, shopping expert at TrueTrae.com.

Check the return policy. With a physical store, returns tend to be straightforward — just bring the item back. But online shopping involves mailing the item back, and that can be a hassle. That can be especially true when products are shipped from abroad, return policies may be strict, or you may have to pay a fee to send the item back. “Pay attention to the policy of what they will accept and how long you have to initiate a return,” Goldberg says.

Score a deal on a used car

More than 36 million used cars were projected to change hands in the U.S. in 2024. While the average cost of a new car is approaching $50,000, the average list price for a used car is about half that, according to Cox Automotive.

Here's how to snag a deal on a used vehicle:

Be patient. Every day in the U.S., on average, there are 99,000 used cars available. Sean Tucker, lead editor for Kelley Blue Book, says that dealers will try to convince you that the car you’re considering is the only one available, but the reality is another will come along. So it pays to wait for a price you like. All of your leverage comes in your ability to walk away, Tucker says.

Be flexible. Hondas and Toyotas are popular in the used car market, and that means you may pay more for those than for similar models from other manufacturers. Ronald Montoya, senior consumer advice editor for Edmunds, notes that Fords or Hyundais might cost less, and you’ll have more cars from which to choose.

Prioritize low mileage. Many buyers want a “late model” vehicle, meaning it is relatively new. But often those cars are on the market because the owner has racked up miles. Meanwhile, you can find deals by looking for older cars with lower mileage. “That means it hasn’t been driven as much,” Montoya says. “You won’t need some expensive repairs that might come at a higher mileage point.”

Don’t fret a small dent. While everyone wants a beautiful car, scratches and dents might be an advantage. Tucker points out that in a private-party sale especially, those scars can give you a negotiating edge. 

Take advantage of AARP resources. Find expert advice on new and used car buying, including information on models, safety features and pricing, at aarp.org/auto/car-buying.