Yesterday I purchased a new Dell Inspiron laptop from Best Buy (I have been traveling with a bulky PC desktop… and it was time for it to go).  This was the first time I actually purchased a new PC from a major retailer like this.  What I could not believe was the difference in buying experience from a Mac to a PC.

After I decided on the exact model, I told the Best Buy sales representative.  I wanted to just pick up the box and head towards the checkout, but of course they had this model stored as a “package deal”.  Ok, Ok.. I’ll purchase the entire package that includes a carrying case, mouse, printer, etc…

Standing there in the isle, our conversation goes…

“Now before we checkout can I interests you in our geek squad protection program?”
No Thanks
“We also offer a great warranty protection program that covers xyz” (This description took over 2 minutes).
“Nope.. I’m Good”
[we walk to the checkout]
“Before we checkout what about this extra service”
No No.. thanks anyways
” Do you want to participate in Best Buy’s buyers program and receive $x for every $x you spend?”
Ok.. fine

So I finally get out of the store feeling completely overwhelmed. I get home and turn on the computer. I’m asked if I want to register the computer.  I click no thanks.  Then the computer asks AGAIN.  ”Are you sure… this really helps us…”  Ok Ok fine.. I’ll register.

After I refuse 4 additional offers from Dell, I am finally taken to my desktop.  I thought I was finally free from the solicitations when literally minutes later, a window pops up asking me to purchase McAfree Anti-Virus!  I never asked for this, and can’t figure out how to get the window to go away!

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Compare all of this with my latest shopping experience at the mac store purchasing my new MacBook Pro.  I walk in and out in literally a few minutes.  The mac guy ofcourse asked me if I wanted Apple protection, but a very friendly buying experience.

I get home, turn on my computer and I’m off and runnign with 0.. thats ZERO… solicitations or popups getting me to purchase more things.

THE MORAL: Keep things simple and don’t push services.  If people want something they will ask for it!