Buzz
Mobile phones are constantly evolving, and it seems like your current phone just isn't as good as it used to be. If you're in need of a new one, the toughest challenge ahead is convincing your parents. However, even the most strict parents can be persuaded if you know how to apply the proven techniques outlined below. By doing so, you'll increase your chances of getting that new phone because you deserve it.
Steps
Talk to Your Parents
Start the conversation about the new phone. Sometimes, the way you begin a conversation can lead directly to the solution. Be polite when discussing the new phone you need with your parents, and be ready to listen to what they have to say. If they present reasons why they can't buy a new phone and you don't have a convincing reply, they will not approve the budget. You could ask them questions like:
- "What do I need to do in order to get a new phone?"
- "What do I need to show to prove I'm worthy of a new phone?"
Find a solution. Stay calm throughout the conversation with your parents, and keep your composure even if you hear a "no" in their response. This is your chance to demonstrate maturity and earn points with them. Instead of feeling sad or disappointed, ask your parents:
- "What can I do to change your mind?"
- "What can I do to prove I need a new phone?"
Propose paying out of your own pocket for the phone. This method might be tricky, especially if you're not of working age yet. If you've saved enough from your lucky money, you could ask your parents if you can use it to buy the phone or offer to do chores in exchange for spending money.
- You might offer to babysit younger children for friends or family who need supervision.
- You could also find seasonal work, such as mowing lawns in the summer or shoveling snow in the winter.
Be persistent, but not disrespectful. When you really want something, it becomes all you can think about. However, constantly demanding it will only frustrate your parents and make them less likely to buy you a new phone. Instead of repeatedly asking the same question, try dropping hints about your recent efforts. For example, you could say:
- "How do you think the kitchen looks? I did the dishes. If I do more chores, could you consider the phone idea again?"
- "I noticed how busy you both are, so I helped vacuum the house. Is there anything else you need help with? If I contribute more, could you reconsider the phone?"
Build a convincing argument. Your parents will likely agree to buy the phone if you present reasonable arguments. Your reasoning will depend on your personal situation, so choose a suitable approach. Here are some examples you might consider:
- You can use a mobile phone to call your parents or emergency services if you get into trouble.
- A mobile phone would be very useful when you need to be picked up from somewhere.
- The safety features of a phone, such as advanced GPS.
- Your current phone is outdated and not functioning well.
- Buying a phone with your own money will teach you responsibility.
- Your old phone has issues like randomly turning off or receiving messages late.
Negotiate for a new phone
Choose the right moment wisely. Asking for something when your parents are busy, stressed, or angry will likely result in a "no". To increase your chances, work on improving their mood before asking. Be polite and perhaps complete some chores beforehand. To boost the likelihood of approval, you could:
- Play your parents' favorite music
- Bring up a fun family experience
- Do something that will bring them joy
Ask when the weather is nice and after a meal. Generally, people tend to be more agreeable after eating, which could make it easier for you to ask for a new phone. Good weather can also make your parents more likely to agree. A sunny, clear day might increase your chances of getting that new phone.
- Remember that this isn’t always true. Your parents could still have a rough day, even if it's sunny or after a nice lunch.
Start small with your requests first. Your parents are more likely to agree to a bigger request, like buying you a phone, if you've already gotten them to agree to smaller related requests.
- For example, you could first ask to go out to eat, or make a small suggestion that they're likely to approve before asking for the phone.
Make a commitment to your parents. If your parents agree that you should take on extra chores or tasks to earn the phone, prioritize completing them without waiting for reminders. This shows that you value your commitment, and your parents will likely take it more seriously.
- It may take some time to get the phone. Don’t expect to receive it after a week of doing chores—it could take longer.
- Don’t worry if you make small mistakes along the way. As long as you show you're putting in effort, they will overlook minor slip-ups.
Wait for a special occasion or birthday. On ordinary days, your parents may not be inclined to spend money on a phone, but during a special event, like a gift-giving holiday, they may be more open to the idea. During such times, be clear with them that you'd prefer a phone over toys or gifts you don't use.
- Don’t create a holiday or invent an occasion just to ask for a gift. For example, if your family doesn’t celebrate Hanukkah, don’t ask for a gift on that day.
- Give your parents time to prepare for the gift. Don’t wait until the last minute—ask a month ahead of time.
Summarize what your parents say. Listen carefully to what your parents are saying, and when it’s your turn to respond, repeat back what they’ve said. This shows that you’ve been listening and respect their words, which can improve your chances of getting a new phone. For example, you might say:
- "So what you're saying is that the new phone isn’t worth the money, and you’re worried I might drop it like I did last time. I understand, but here’s how I see it…"
Advice
- Find out how many of your friends have phones. Parents often make decisions based on what other children are doing.
Warning
- Make sure you keep your promises to your parents. They may interpret breaking a promise as a sign that you’re not mature enough for a new phone.
