you might find coupons, deals, and even negotiate with companies directly.

But when it comes to using the hashtag to find deals and coupons it is often used incorrectly.

While Twitter is the gold standard for finding deals by hashtag, youll also have decent results on Facebook.

For example, many users will search #GuitarCoupon, find very little and give up.

#(Store Name)Deals:This search will typically give you results tailored toward in-store purchases.

#(Store Name)Coupon:This search is equally geared toward in-store and online shopping.

It can be a bit hit-or-miss, especially with lesser known retailers.

Also use seasonal hashtags when appropriate.

This became clear recently when I was responding to a fellow blogger complaininghow expensive his Verizon bill was.

Use this to your advantageits a great tool to start the conversation when attempting to negotiate a lower bill.

Be sure to include the companies Twitter handle in your tweet.

Be careful you dont co-opt the conversation, though.

Instead, use theirs to start your own.

That way both of you get the help you need.

To ensure a positive response from the company, be respectful and stick to the facts.

you’re free to search hashtags but youll often find very old pins that wont help much.

Also consider creating your own board on Pinterest for coupons and deals.

By updating it regularly with useful content youll attract and connection with like-minded deal hunters.

Its also a great way to categorize your bargain finds for later use.

You simply click Message from their official Facebook page and send them a direct message.

Whenever I try this, I usually get a response in less than 15 minutes.

Many store reps are waiting to hand out exclusive online coupon codes to those who politely ask.

Another tip is to hit up live chat directly from the retailers website and ask for a coupon.

But it absolutely can be done.

Heres how to make it happen:

Search the retailer youre interested in.

Tap the magnifying glass and pop in in their name to find their page.

The text description is where retailers drop the goods on exclusive coupons and deals.

Simply scroll through them looking for coupon codes and exclusive deal info.

The key takeaway from all of these ninja producing tips is to be proactive.