Tips on Buying Cars: negotiating, switchboard operator, fleet cars

Question
Hi Bud,
Having had about a dozen new fleet cars, most of my experience with new car dealers consists of going in and picking up a new car with no discussion. Soon I plan to buy a new car (probably a Kia, Honda, Toyota, etc.)and would appreciate advice on the best way to go about it. Before starting the process, I will determine exactly what I want and I will pay cash and will not trade in a used vehicle. I'm not afraid to negotiate and fully realize they need to sell and I don't need to buy. I want them to make some money....but not much. How do you think I should handle it?

I went with my son to look at a new car he was interested in and we were treated as though we had very little sense. I worked in sales/management for years and thought the sales people made no attempt to "read" the situation and respond appropriately and it was a total waste of our time. Thank you very much for your advice!

Answer
Hi Charley.
Great question!
Easy Answer.
Do your homework about the exact, repeat exact, vehicle you want.  Probably the best site is edmunds.com.
Print out your question and my answer along with the research and the go to a dealer of your choice(check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure they do not have a lot of complaints).  Go to the switchboard operator and tell you want to buy a car with no hassle, you know exactly what you want, and who would she go to if she were in your situation.  Unless she happens to have a boy(girl) friend who is a sales person and/or manager she should be more than willing to help you.  Assuming all works well and you are pleased be sure to send her a letter with a copy to her boss and tell how pleased you are.  Best of luck.  Bud