Customer Service: Human or Technology? — 1:00 – 11:19
Technology has contributed many advancements that make it easier for businesses to provide customer service at any time, at any place — often times without the need for a human representative. But is human-less customer service something that we’re ready for, or do we still crave the face-to-face (or at least voice-to-voice) interaction?
We run down a few scenarios of brands utilizing technology to provide customer service and offer our opinions on whether we’d be willing to try these methods.
- chatbots
- human-less checkout
- robot store assistants
- virtual reality kiosks
- in-room hologram product placement
Embracing the Un-branded — 11:20 – 20:30
We discuss several businesses that are changing the eCommerce game, and they all focus on being un-branded.
- Brandless is making “generic” cool with their eCommerce site where shoppers can find household items, food items, and health and beauty items (many labeled as organic and non-GMO)— all for $3. The savings come from the fact that there is no “price markup” for a well-known brand name.
- Boxed is an online alternative to bulk buying at a massive warehouse store. Although this website is filled with endless brand name products, Boxed is working to build its own line of over 100 private label products.
- Dote is a mobile mall that brings all your individual brand shopping apps into one place — including the sales.
We’re sold!
Elon Musk Disapproves of the Willy-Nilly — 20:31 – 29:08
In the wake of Facebook’s apology tour, Elon Musk deleted the Facebook account for both of his companies, Tesla and Space X. He’s also advocating for social media regulation for the public good, along the lines of tighter controls on fake news and simplified user agreements.
Also, we promised and we delivered — this link will tell you if your Facebook information was compromised: https://www.facebook.com/help/1873665312923476
Preparing Your Brain for Creativity — 29:09 – 38:05
We wind up this episode of the podcast with some advice on how to prepare your brain to get creative. Consider yourself the next Mozart or Hemingway.
- Routines — start them and stick to them
- Have something to pursue — even if you fail you can make an impact
- Be prolific — channel your inner-child and don’t be afraid to create
- Consume everything — inspiration can strike from anything
- Walks and naps — they’re scientifically proven to help!