The simple answer to this is that good customers will also have more leverage on any negotiating over a bad customer.
Paying all of your credit lines on time is the key – specifically for the credit card you want to negotiate. The length of time you’ve been a customer is another key benefit.
If you a) pay your bills on time constantly and b) have been a long and loyal customer, it is hard for ANY business to say no to your needs.
But are there any secrets to negotiating?
Not really.
In fact, if you’re a good customer, credit card companies want to keep you. They will be more than willing to give you lower rates, transfer you to a different card or even give extra rewards sometimes.
With the idea of negotiating on ‘good terms’, you should never try to negotiate lower rates if you are late or are approaching your max. The easiest go you will have through the process is when you are on time, and as close to zero balance as possible.
Finally, like everything else, remember to be polite. The person that you’ll be talking to does not have to extend you better terms on your account. Instead, they are doing you a favor – and they don’t owe you anything. So, be polite, be friendly, and ask.