Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Caedmon, the Negotiator

The art of negotiation is highly valued in some cultures. Actually, probably most cultures minus the good ol' U.S. of A. We negotiate for some specialty items here, like the sale of a car of home, but most things we just pay the sticker value. In other cultures, almost everything is up for discussion.

Dave Ramsey is a big advocate of at least asking for a discount. It's amazing how often you'll get one just because you asked. Andy's favorite phrase when told the price is, "Can you do better than that?" Ha. Makes me smile just thinking of the looks he's gotten.

Last Friday, we enjoyed our family day at Happy Hollow. We have a membership so we try to get there as often as we can. The last time we were there, Caedmon wanted to get his face painted. The problem was that it costs money and he didn't bring his money with him. So Andy told him to try to remember his money the next time we come and he could get his face painted.

When he found out we were going to Happy Hollow, he must have said at least 30 times, "Don't forget to bring my money!" Andy told him that he would meet him halfway. Caedmon had $2 and Andy chipped in $2.

When we got there they were just setting up all the supplies. The workers explained the 3 different types of face paintings you could get for $3, $5, or $8. Caedmon really wanted a Spiderman mask, which was $5.

Andy pulled Caedmon aside and said, "This would be a great opportunity to practice a little courage and negotiation! You could show the lady your money, tell her what you'd like, and ask her if she'd be willing to do it for $4."

Sounded good to Caedmon. They rehearsed his little speech a few times and then got back in line.

When it was Caedmon's turn, he stepped right up and launched into his speech. But instead of asking for the $5 Spiderman mask, he went straight for the $8 leopard face! Andy & I were trying to contain our laughter while Caedmon stood there with a very serious look on his face holding out his money. The lady just looked at him with a dumbfounded grin. She didn't know what to do!

She asked her manager if she could do it for that amount and the manager said, "I probably wouldn't, but you can if you want." So she did!

Caedmon got a $8 face painting job at a 50% discount just because he had the courage to ask (and because he's ridiculously cute)!


I thought Andy would bust something he was so proud! Negotiation is not typically a desirable trait for a four year old, but COURAGE is! Lord Jesus, please continue to make him BOLD!

(For the record, Andy gave the lady a little extra money so she didn't feel totally taken advantage of!)

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I would have painted that sweet face for free! Blessings to you and yours today, Lisa