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About 6 months ago I heard of a man who conducted an experiment to see how many free samples he could get from companies. He sent out letters to every manufacturer he could think of and requested that they send him some coupons or free samples. After reading of the success of his efforts, I conducted my own sort of experiment and was surprised by the results.

Since I'm the type of person who will do anything for a deal, it didn't bother me to write letters to companies and request items from them. After all, the worst thing they could do is say "no" to my requests, or just ignore them all together. I've found that many companies desire to gain loyal customers, and they will often send out tokens of appreciation for consumers who enjoy their products.

Here are my tips for individuals wishing to contact companies:
Snail mail is an option, although it will obviously cost you the amount of a stamp, paper, envelope, etc. And I found a few times that the coupons companies sent me didn't get me any profit. Why should I be excited about a 35 cent off coupon when I spent 41 cents on the stamp? That's why I suggest emailing or telephone calls.
Emailing is a simple and easy way to contact companies. Often major companies will have their company websites printed on the container. Simply find the "contact us" page and you will be ready to send an email.

1. Be sure to including your name, address, and phone number in correspondence. Not all companies will have a fill-in form for this.

2. Be bold! Ask for the moon and stars. I've requested coupons, free samples, recipe booklets, and promotional materials. While not every company is as generous as the next you can get some great items. I've received pens and flashlights from Dr. Pepper, 4 tubes of chapstick from the Chapstick Company, and Free item coupons from Mission Foods (makers of tortillas, and chips).

3. Finally tell the company why you like/dislike the product. If you haven't ever tried the product before be honest and let them know you'd like to try it but want an incentive.

Sign up on websites for their clubs and newsletters. Often you'll be the first to receive coupons, learn of promotions, and be entered to win prizes.
Join online communities of other couponers to find out about promotions, free products, and swap coupons. I've saved several hundred dollars this year alone thanks to the loyal friends I've made on www.vickysdeals.com

While the advice listed above may sound time-consuming it will benefit you greatly when it comes time to go shopping at the grocery store.

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