I don't think it will make a huge difference, but if you're unable to get someone to be your nominated 'friend' for the friends & family rate, then corporate rates can give you a small discount.
Find out a 6 digit corporate rate code and enter it when booking - I leverage my work corporate rates for my leisure travel which gives me a small discount on personal stays. Doesn't work wonders but it all helps, and I've never been asked for employee ID as a result.