Last month I wrote a review of the iPhone 5c and what it had come to mean to mean in just half a year. One of the things I mentioned in my review was that there were several things I still maintained by hand, including my address book and agenda, but that I looked forward to learning how to transition that to my iPhone — and iPad! — as well. It wasn't long before I was gently reminded that Apple offers a range of instructional services at the Apple Store, including group workshops, specialty classes, and even One to One help. Long story short, I went to try out a One to One session and here's how it went!
After arriving at my local Apple Retail Store I was matched up with my specialist for the session and we went together to one of the large tables at the back. She introduced herself and immediately asked what kind of learner I was. As a recently retired school teacher, I was very impressed. Different people learn in different ways and understanding that allows a teacher to better tailor their lessons.
I responded that I was a visual learner and was pleasantly surprised to find out my specialist had just completed the art program at one of our local colleges and was about to start the next phase of her education at the university I myself had taught at for many years. Instant bonding!
From there my specialist asked what I wanted to learn, I told her, and we began our session. Her technical knowledge was outstanding and what's more, because I'd said I was a visual learner and because she was an artist, she not only showed me what to do on my iPhone but drew diagrams and notes for me on paper that I could take with me as reminders.
The hour passed quickly. We went over Contacts and Calendar, Photos and iCloud backup. She showed me how to check up on the amount of storage I had available and how to start managing that as well. When we were done she asked me if I had any more questions. I told her I had more than enough to digest and practice already, so she thanked me for coming and invited me to come back if I needed further assistance.I, in turn, thanked her for her time and patience, and we were done.
One to One isn't for those already steeped in technology, for those who've spent their lives with computers on their desks and on their laps and in their pockets. It's designed for people like me, for people for whom computers and computing are a familiarity but still something that's being felt out.
Yes, I read iMore daily and soak in all the tips and how-tos Allyson and Peter, and others posts, and yes, when I have trouble I ask my son, Rene, for help and he's very good at providing it. But not everyone has or wants to burden family with constant tech support requests. That's where Apple's programs come in.
Many people are familiar with the buying experience at Apple and the repair experience at the Genius Bar but the training part doesn't always get the attention it should. I admit to not really being familiar with it until it was suggested to me. Now I'm very happy to know it's available, and to recommend it to anyone who wants to get some hands-on help with their iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Thanks to the managers, specialists, and everyone at Apple for a terrific experience. Some friends and I may try out one of the iLife or iWork group workshops next. Never stop learning!
- Learn more about Apple Retail Store training programs (opens in new tab)
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What an awesome post! Mobile Nations and iMore have gone all family now. :) Sent from the iMore App
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Definitely a great post. THIS is definitely something that would benefit my mother and father who are considering getting their first iphone
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Great post! Rene's mom is a perfect addition to the iMore family to post things that the typical iMore reader may already know about, but that less experienced people googling things can find info from someone on the same level... And learn something or at least know there there at places (Apple store) to go for great hands on learning!
While I personally don't need the info, I send the links to my less tech inclined family members and friends whenever they have questions I don't have time to deal with. Thanks iMore, Rene's mom, et all for the good work! Sent from the iMore App -
I agree that Apple's in-store training services are truly underrated. However I do disagree with the statement that it's not for the tech savvy. About 5 years ago I purchased a One To One membership at my local Apple Retail Store and I used it to learn pro apps such as Final Cut 7, Motion and the Logic suite. Whereas similar courses can cause hundreds of dollars when taking into account the number of hours (even online training like Lynda), a full year costs $99. I definitely got my money's worth during that year and I had some of the best trainers who were there to address my specific questions and teach me the apps in and out. Fast forward a year and I landed my first job as a video editor so that money easily paid for itself. The rant is over but it's just to prove that there's always something to learn no matter how savvy you may consider yourself in certain domains. Sent from the iMore App
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Nice story, and now I think I can more appreciate a bit where Rene's fine skills as a writer, tech observer, and interviewer come from, having a bit of insights about Mrs. Ritchie. Yes, the Apple instore training, device setup, Genius Bar help, and associate customer service are all aspects that help Apple achieve the sales and service performance and satisfaction that is at the top level of the retail experience. I look forward to Apple's rapid global expansion of these services to exploit the vast market potential throughout the world. Many people don't realize that already 70% of Apple's sales comes from outside the US yet perhaps 80% or more of the total number of Apple stores are in the US. So, hopefully Angela Ahrendts will be VERY busy VERY soon. And I believe she is more than up to the task.
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Good to highlight this super service offered by Apple.
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I believe Apple's One-On-One is only available if you bought your computer at an Apple retail store and only available for a short time after purchase. I told a friend struggling with his first Mac about One-On-One and this is what both Apple and the closest Apple Store told me when trying to help get them signed up. He bought his iMac at Best Buy. Not sure why this is Apples policy since they charge $99 a year for signing up for One-To-One. I was pretty disappointed. Sent from the iMore App