Sheepish Envy

Hey, Grandma needs the latest smartphone too!

I work in a fast-paced technology retailer.  Specifically, we specialize in gadgets like smartphones, tablet computers, and the new world of smart accessories.  I have seen the evolution of how people use their phones.  I clearly remember when the cell phone was a luxury item and not just an average "necessity" for every person age 8 and up.  I remember trying to convince people that text messaging was the future of communication.  Most people laughed.  "Why would I waste my time doing that?  If I want to talk to people, I will just call them!"  Oh, how times have changed! 

 

One thing that struck me by surprise was the cult-like following of iPhone adopters.  During our first launch we were told to hire overnight security and put up rope barricades for the anticipated crowds.  We practiced crowd control and studied our fire code to ensure we did not break any capacity rules.  We did this wondering if it was a complete waste of time.  After all, we did hours and hours (and hours) of iPhone training and not one of us was actually impressed enough to buy one personally.  We underestimated the demand.  Thank goodness for all that practice and preparation!  There were actually people camping in front of our store overnight.  In February.  In Bozeman.  WHAT?!!  Let's just say that I am lucky I survived to tell the tale.  It was at that moment that I was convinced of what others clearly already knew.  Those people at Apple are marketing geniuses!

 

The book Predictably Irrational had a section that described the Herding Behavior of consumers.  Consumers have a tendency to be influenced by a majority of other peoples opinions.  In fact, the iPhone 5 was being hyped so much prior to its release that comedian Jimmy Kimmel was able to prank people by "revealing" it to them on the street.  You have to watch.  It is definitely worth a view. 

 

Jimmy Kimmel's iPhone 5 prank.  Hilarious!

 



I don't believe there is a single product that I would be willing to wait in a huge line for.  In a weird way I guess it makes me a little envious of the obvious passion those folks have! 

 

In the meantime at work, I continue to smile inwardly at the objections I hear to new technology.  "Why would I ever want a tablet when I already own a laptop?"  Oh, consumers.......