Like a kid, I had never heard about Black Friday. I did realize that it marked the most successful one day of shopping in the entire year, though. For most unknown reason, people will go out and purchase, buy, buy on Friday. Not to theorize, but I’ve been convinced there’s some chemical additive in those phony fat turkeys people ingest that causes this phenomenon. I cannot find any references towards the Friday after Thanksgiving being a massive shopping day during the 800s. Eat Heirloom!
Be that as it might, I think we are able to at least start thinking of Christmas gifts for the computer-using friends. This means everyone, since everyone uses a computer. Within the next few weeks, I’ll suggest gifts but first let’s think about strategies. You can’t just buy tech gifts for people willy-nilly. They might not have the compatible systems to utilize the product, they may already have the product, or it may be something they’ll never use. And then there is a junk gift category that also has to be avoided. I one got a USB fan which was on the end of a goose-neck so you could plug that to your laptop and have a nice breeze on a hot summer day.
• Spy: The very first thing you have to do is discover what system someone has. The best choice is to spy on your target by looking into his or her office or asking when you can use the computer to check on your email. Nose around the OS a bit. Check and find out what programs are running. If you are lucky you can find some good suggestions for yourself, too!
• Ask his or her spouse or friend what things to get. These people could have likely heard complaints about needing something or another. These types of gifts tend to be greatly appreciated and remembered. “Wow I truly needed this! How are you aware?” This trick also prevents a double gift since the person may be thinking about buying the same gift. Now you get to do it for them and thus saving them the money and hassle.
• Check out Facebook: Read recent posts to see if she or he has been alluding to tech needs and scour pages he or she has liked.
• Buy a hard disk: If you’re lazy just buy a portable USB hard disk from one of the many suppliers. Do not get anything smaller than a terabyte. Everyone can find a use for these little devices.
• Be nosy: I’d advise you beginning the conversation by stating what hardware and software you use. Then, ask for recommendations to get some clue as to what the person may or may not have, or even know about. You should be able to figure out what he or she does not have but might need.
• Be blunt: This could be the easiest way to go. Tell someone you are buying tech gifts and you would like him or her to give you a wish list. Most people will do it. Just do not get the cheapest thing on the list, if it can be avoided.
Begin the process now and be ready to go shopping on Friday. As for me, I’ll wait until Christmas Eve and hang out with the Christmas Eve Men’s Club of last minute shoppers. See you then.
