Dish Network is the leading satellite television provider in the United States of America with clients across the country in millions. Although Dish has price ranges that are quite reasonable as compared to other service providers, you may get better deals through some bargaining skills. The following is a comprehensive guide on how to negotiate for a better deal from Dish Network.
Do Your Research
Before you even consider contacting Dish, do a little homework to find out what the best deals are and what the going rate is for packages. Visit Dish’s website, and go through the forums and the review sites to know what other consumers were offered recently. It will give you a good starting point to begin to negotiate downward. You will also feel more confident when speaking to the agent and will probably sound more on the ball than the incompetent employee.
Consider Bundling Services
If you only have DISH for television, maybe it is time to add the internet or smart home services. Dish often has sale events commonly associated with bundling multiple services where they essentially give or sell hardware for cheap and offer low monthly charges. This is because bundling services puts you in a better bargaining position since it enables Dish to secure more revenue. Let them understand that you are thinking of adding other services to get better offers.
Be Flexible On Channels/Packages
More likely, Dish is going to offer you a discount if you are willing to change your channel package. Do not get locked into a specific TV package. Inform the agent that you can compromise on the number of channels if it means that their packages are cheaper. Another method is to get rid of unwanted additions such as HBO or Starz to bring the bill down. Dish has more incentive to deal if your requests are flexible.
Speaking to the retention department
If the regular agent is not willing to lower the price that much, request to speak with the customer retention department. Tell them you’ve been a long-time customer, but the new prices make you reconsider your choice and change the provider. Retention agents are taught to provide deeper discount offers to customers who are thinking of canceling service. They have more flexibility with promotions to ensure that you continue patronizing their store.
Mention Competing Offers
Dish will almost always attempt to match a competitor’s price if you have evidence of it. Look for new customer offers for cable, cable TV, DirecTV, YouTube TV, or Hulu Live providers in your location. Yes, Dish will often attempt to match or beat Company X’s rate for the same services if you can slyly slip that into the conversation. Just remember that you must be able to support the competing offers.
If possible, one should ask to be given a one-year price lock.
In this case, one should ask that the new lower rates should be applicable for one year down the line. This way your bill will not pop up the next month or later three months. It is important to ensure that the agent checks whether promotional pricing locks in for a full year before signing the deal. In the telecommunications industry, it is common for new customer promotions to have one-year price guarantees.
Bundle In Free Hardware
Apart from a lower monthly fee, you can always bargain for free hardware upgrades. So if you are to engage in a 2-year contract, you will be in a better position to request for upgrade of the free DVR receiver or even other client boxes in other rooms. As these devices normally cost $10-$15 per month, getting them for free results in significant savings.
Escalate Politely If Needed
If the first agent you speak with is not very flexible on the price and promotions, do not hesitate to request to speak to the manager. If possible be polite when making the request but assert yourself and inform them that the offer is not sufficient to keep your business with them. The supervisor will invariably have more leeway to make a superior proposal. To obtain deals one has to get in touch with someone of a higher rank.
New Customer Sign-Up: Get Additional Discounts Online
If possible, get a hold of Dish and inquire about other special offers that are not available over the phone as well as check the company’s website for any online deals available. Most of the time, when one applies for packages online, they are offered steeper discounts such as $100 prepaid cards or free scheduled installation. In addition to this negotiate phone offers, and avail extra incentives as well.
Read All Terms Thoroughly
Remember that it is always important to go through all the terms of the agreement before entering a new contract. So that your rate does not jump up, it is important to understand the duration of price locks. Also, make sure that all new hardware or installation fees are excluded in writing. It’s also important not to presume many issues that were discussed over the phone are included in the terms unless documented. Always know what you’re getting into.
There is a little bit of work in negotiating with Dish but it can help you save a few hundred dollars throughout the contract. Adhering to the above-stated guidelines will afford you the highest probability of success. It is very important not to be rude to agents but at the same time be assertive and always be prepared with other offers. By doing a little research before the call, you should be able to get Dish’s best promotional pricing.
Ready to upgrade your TV experience? Call us now at (877) 471-4808 to find the perfect Dish Network plan for you! Don’t miss out on great entertainment—our team is here to help you choose the best package and get you started today.