There are two things you can do that will tell the salesman you're serious. And if the salesman thinks you're a serious shopper, then he'll be more likely to make a deal with you.

First of all, take a notebook with you and keep notes on all the beds you like. I know I mentioned this in the introduction, but I need to say it again. This is important for many reasons. But here it's important because it tells the salesman that you're taking this shopping experience seriously.

It shows that you're shopping around at different stores. It shows that you'll be comparing whatever he offers you with other offers you've gotten. It shows that you're not an impulse buyer. It shows him that he's going to have to work to get your business.

When you go shopping, look around at the other shoppers. Do they have notebooks? I don't think I've ever seen anyone else taking notes in a mattress store. Most people probably don't think about it. And if they do, most people don't like to stand out, so they don't do things to draw attention to themselves.

But you don't care. You're out to get a good deal. So carry your notebook with you and write in it when the salesman tells you something interesting. Especially when he mentions a lower price. When you come back in a couple days, you'll want to remember what price he offered you.

Now the second tip I'm going to give you here will really make you stand out and get attention. But it sure sends a message to the salesman. Take your own pillow with you when you're shopping.

Yes, you will look a little odd. But do you want to save money? I promise you that you'll get more respect from the salesmen if you're carrying your own pillow around with you. As soon as you walk into the store, they know you're no sucker.

My wife originally did this. She just wanted to use her own pillow to get a good feel for the beds. But she got attention everywhere we went. Even some of the other customers were commenting on the woman who brought her own pillow. But we noticed very quickly that the salesmen all took notice of it.

This really serves two purposes. First of all, without even saying anything, you tell everyone that you're very serious about buying a bed.

Second, you can evaluate the beds better if you're using your own pillow. Of course, the stores have pillows on all the beds for you to lay on. But it's better to have the feel of your own pillow. And besides, everyone else has laid their heads on the store pillows.

And since I'm on the topic of evaluating beds (which is really not what this ebook is about), I'll give you one more tip. Lie on a bed as long as you need to in order to decide if it feels good or bad.

Most people probably lie on a bed for less than 15 seconds because they feel silly lying on a bed in a store. And I'll admit that I do too. Usually, there's a salesman standing at the foot of the bed watching you. But that doesn't stop me from lying there for a couple minutes if I need to. Take your time.

So remember, take a notebook and a pillow. You'll have a better chance of getting a good deal even before the salesman introduces himself.