Snag discounts with these 3 shopping pointers

Sometimes getting good deals goes beyond the coupons and sales: sometimes it's about playing smart as a customer. From befriending staff to shopping at the right time, we'll go over 3 tips that will save you money.

• The more information you have about a store and its products, the greater chance you'll have of finding a great bargain.
• When exactly is the best time of day to find the inside scoop on a store's merchandise? About 2 p.m. At this point in the day, the morning shift is still working and the evening staffers are just starting their shift.
• Avoid visiting stores during the first 45 minutes after they open: the few workers present will still be busy getting the store ready for the day.
• Late in the evening, staff members are often more interested in closing up the shop than helping you with your purchase.

Picture this: you have your eye on a particular backpack that you're planning to buy for a trip later in the summer, but it's not on sale now. Engage the salesperson (or even better, the store manager) in a little chitchat to establish a friendly atmosphere, then ask if the item will be on sale anytime soon. Since you have a casual banter going, the staffer may share some inside info on upcoming sales that the other shoppers don't know about. Next weekend, or even a few months from now, you may be able to stroll back in and snag the item at a discount.

Wouldn't it be nice if manufacturers filled your mailbox with free cosmetics and other products? In reality, they're happy to do so. All you have to do is say something nice to them.

• Manufacturers get lots of letters from customers complaining about items, and it makes their day when they get a letter complimenting their products.
• If you use a product often and really enjoy it, write a letter to the manufacturer. You'll often get products or coupons as a response. This works especially well for cosmetics.
• Find the mailing address of the company on the product's package or on the company's website. Make sure you mention the exact name of the product you enjoy and how long you've been using it.

It really does pay to be strategic with your shopping. Use these tips to save some money and brighten up the day of the retail workers you interact with, It's a win-win all around.