Every once in a while you'll have one of those terrific retail experiences when an employee wows you with exceptional customer service. If you're impressed enough to wish she worked for you, why not find out if she's open to the concept?

You can follow the lead of Apple recruiters, who carry a supply of simple business cards for situations like these. The cards include an Apple logo and the text, "You're amazing. We should talk." Flip it around, and it reads:

Your customer service just now was exceptional. I work for the Apple Store, and you're exactly the kind of person we'd like to talk to. If you're happy where you are, I'd never ask you to leave. But if you're thinking about a change, give me a call. This could be the start of something great.

"This tactic isn't limited to retail," notes Douglas Hanna in a post at the Service Untitled blog. "Assuming you train your employees and there isn't a large amount of prior knowledge needed to work in your customer service department, this can work for your company as well. Look for great customer service and offer the card to people who seem like they might be a fit."

The Marketing Inspiration is simple: When you experience great customer service, do what you can to add that sparkle to your team.

More Inspiration:
Beth Harte: Are You a Jack/Jane of All Marketing Trades?
Samir Balwani: A Brand's Largest Social Media Obstacle
Ted Mininni: Runs on Dunkin' with the iPhone?

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