A nine-foot iPhone/iPad charger sounds like an exciting purchase, but is it a necessity? Probably about as necessary as a spork, a two-sided belt or a keychain flashlight.
When I saw the $15 Groupon for the nine-foot cord, though, I was intrigued. I even tweeted about it. But I had no intention of buying the two-sided monkey wrench of phone chargers. That is until someone from Groupon responded to my tweet.
I was impressed considering the company has only tweeted ~1,850 times and has more than 57,000 followers. I still wasn’t going to buy the charger, but responded to @Groupon’s response.
Another reply! Albeit a slightly creepy one. (When were you in my apartment, Groupon?) Also, I was flattered. Two responses, both fewer than 10 minutes after my tweets. Eight hours and one Widmer Brothers Drifter Pale Ale later, I caved. I bought the nine-foot iPad/iPhone charger.
No, I wouldn’t have bought it if Groupon hadn’t replied to my tweet, but I felt obligated to reward the timely, personal interaction.
Unfortunately, my apartment lease ends next week, so I won’t get to test the charger on my couch. But I’m sure I’ll find a good place for it in my next abode. Like the time I used a keychain flashlight to find my iPhone when it fell between the couch cushions.
Social Meditation 
I love seeing bigger brands such a Groupon still be able to interact on a one to one level, not to mention they totally understand the principle of reciprocity!
Great post Brad.
Thanks, Dave; I completely agree. I guess it says something that we would be surprised by this interaction, but it was well worth sharing! I appreciate the feedback and have enjoyed keeping up with your posts. Have a nice weekend.