The Techie Guy – Liron Segev

Ever had that frustration with your Blackberry that you just had enough and need a hug ?

Blackberry has introduced Blackberry Buddies – whilst this concept is not new (Apple has their “Genius desk”) it is nice to see that RIM is serious about keeping their customers happy. Blackberry Buddies  mimics real life – when you have a phone problem, you ask a buddy who knows to help you. You can choose the self-service web option or a hands-on option where you meet a designated buddy to help you.

So when you are stuck, frustrated, confused, don’t know how or just needs help with your phone, here are two approaches you can take :

Option 1: the Website Approach:

Go to: http://za.blackberry.com/campaign/blackberrybuddies/

Then simply select your phone, the model, the topic you are having a problem with and the question you want to ask. The Buddies will answer it for you:

Option 2: The People Approach:

If you would prefer a hands on approach where a person helps you, just head over to any one of these shopping centers  and look for the Blackberry Buddy stand:

• Sandton City – Johannesburg
• Menlyn Park – Pretoria
• Mimosa Mall – Bloemfontein
• Canal Walk – Cape Town
• Gateway Shopping Centre – Durban

They will answer all your questions and even set up your phone for you.

As always there will be those who ring the bells of doom saying how Blackberry needs help yada yada yada, but I disagree completely. There is a new vigor within RIM where its customers are priority - especially in South Africa.

I think its awesome to see how Blackberry is loving their customers (and putting their money where their mouth is). Nothing better than having  a support option for people who are unsure of exactly what their phones can do and how to set them up. I am no-longer surprised when I see people using 15% of their phone capabilities and then making comments that their phone isn’t good – this will go a long way in helping solve that. At the same time, it doesn’t hurt to keep the loyal Blackberry customer coming back for more !