I know the implication here is clear and wanton breach of ethics. But I think greasing the wheels is a surprisingly useful and underutilized tactic. While man

I know the implication here is clear and wanton breach of ethics. But I think greasing the wheels is a surprisingly useful and underutilized tactic. While many people "get it" when bargaining at the flea market or for some craigslist item, those same people bawk at the idea of paying more than the listed price for something they want. Example: A month back I went to a nice and popular restaurant at prime time without a reservation. As I'm slowly getting closer to the host, I see no less than 3 parties all turned away by the host's matter of fact "No tables available tonight". I request the same table as others before me and am greeted by the same cold response. But, I respond: "Fifty bucks?" Host: "SIR! Please! No need for such things! Please wait right here and we'll find you a table right away!"