Language/Wolof/Culture/How-to-bargain

Trainees should become familiar with the Senegalese method of bargaining. When you are quoted a starting price that is higher than the normal, don’t get angry and assume the vendor is trying to rip off you. Try to get the cheapest price possible by:

• Before the bargain starts it is good for you to know what the item is supposed to cost and what it’s worth to you.

• Walking away is one of the surest to check if the vendor can’t come down any further.

• Check the prices of different vendors.

• Be aware of when bargaining is appropriate and when it’s not.

• Don’t start bargaining unless you are serious about buying

• Go shopping with someone who is familiar with the system and see how it works

• Take it easy. Make it friendly and fun, it doesn’t need to be adversial

Source

http://publish.illinois.edu/wolof201fall14/files/2014/08/NEW_WOLOF_BOOK.pdf