Free drinks? Sure, the trick is to make it about the other person and not yourself. Find out about them, where are they from? Where are they going? What’s their passion? I remember arriving half an hour early for an event in a bar. It was quiet so I talked to the bar man. He had a thick Irish accent so our conversation turned to that. We talked for half an hour and my glass was now empty. “Want a top up?” “Sure I responded” Offering money he told me it was fine. Take your time to connect with people and they will return the favour.

My friend Marcus gets discounts and freebies all the time. One I learnt from him while in starbucks say “Can I get a small tea, in a large cup.” Said cheekily and playfully you will now be paying for a large cup at small cup prices.

Positivity

Be happy. Triggering a good emotion in someone else is a sure fire way to get discount. Maybe tell them a joke or give them a high five. Finish it off with a cheeky “Whats the mates rates on that?” and watch your bill tumble.

Connection

Connection is huge and the golden rule here is always ask the member of staff how their day is. It’s great if you can then carry that on maybe joke a little bit with them and maybe compliment them “you’re very happy, you are having a good day, is this normal?” Something honest and genuine.

Be Memorable

If you fade into the background then no one will remember you. Be outgoing, tell the shop staff you’re going to steal something. Brightening their day in such a way will make you memorable.

Bonus Tip

Offering to buy your bartender a drink is gold. They may not be able to take you up on the offer but they will remember your kind heart.