Apple is set to launch a new pilot program for retail employees that will allow them to borrow an iPad for up to a week. (Yes, a whole week!) The initiative is intended to give staff a better understanding of the product so that they can be more helpful to customers who want to know about the device.
The program will launch first in Apple’s flagship San Francisco store on One Stockton Street, according to sources for CNET, and will allow retail staff to “check out” the device like they would a library book. After a week of use, employees will then have to return the device to the store for other staff to loan.
At the moment, it’s unclear whether the initiative will roll out to other stores, according to CNET, but we’re assuming that if it is successful, other retail stores will also adopt the loaner program. It’s also possible that Apple will introduce other products for loan as well.
An Apple spokesperson has declined to comment on the existence of the program, but it certainly seems like it could be plausible. Apple is famous for its excellent customer service around the globe, and teaching its retail staff the ins and outs of its products through a loaner program is a great way for retail staff to gain a better understanding of the company’s hottest new gadgets.
Killian Bell is a freelance writer based in the U.K. He has an interest in all things tech and also covers Android over at CultofAndroid.com. You can follow him on Twitter via @killianbell.
16 responses to “Apple Retail Staff Will Get iPads on Loan With New Pilot Program [Report]”
you’d think they’d get one for free just working there, sheesh what tighta++ses
Why? I don’t hear of other stores giving away such and expensive product to their employees, pretty sure they already get a discount on stuff they buy already.
My sessions with the Apple Store trainers caused me to realize that often I knew more about the product than they did (unless they spent time using the program for business outside of the store such as photography). The best way to learn about technology is by using the technology. If the employees do not have an iPad, then how can they advise people beyond stating the obvious and some facts they have memorized? Granted it is an expensive device. I am assuming that this has become a problem based on the institution of this program. Not sure how one week with the thing is going to improve knowledge but it is better than nothing.
The situation being addressed is getting store staff more familiar with the iPad. If most Apple stores are like mine, staff are generally too busy to spend enough time doing this while on the clock. Plus, if they borrow an iPad to take home in a more relaxed environment, they can get a better learning experience.
Though such an exercise is valuable, it ISN’T worth the cost of providing staff free machines. This is based in part on the principle that anything is more valued if it has to be worked for than if it is free.
I work for apple the discount is shite (most of us are full time students lol). And yes with all the cash Apple has we would all love a free iPad
why Apple doesnt gave an iPad to each retail emloyee, who say 1-2 + working in the store?
Why don’t they just hire people who know and appreciate their products. I’ve been to two hiring events and have been applying for four years. Despite my retail experience, smiling face and positive attitude, I still didn’t cut the mustard.
Be careful what you wish for.