14 DAY TRIAL // SmithBucklin, the world’s largest association management and professional services company, has made well on its promise to hand staffers free iPad 2 units and a $50 Apple gift certificate each as a way to reward their excellent performance.
SmithBucklin announced plans to give staffers free iPads almost a month ago, when Softpedia touted the move as a great example to motivate personnel.
[admark=1]Today, SmithBucklin employees received a 32GB Apple iPad 2 with Wi-Fi. For a nominal fee, they have the option to upgrade to a 64GB version or one that offers Wi-Fi and 3G service through Verizon or AT&T.
Staffers were also given a $50 Apple gift certificate. They may only use the credit to purchase iPad accessories.
The association management company suggests the new magnetic Smart Cover, Apple’s digital AV adapter, the camera connection kit, or the wireless keyboard, in what is an obvious attempt to keep staff productive.
SmithBucklin employs more than 600 people, with offices in Chicago, Washington, D.C., St. Louis and St. Paul, Minn.
Employees have the ability to use the iPad 2 wherever they are working, as all of the company’s offices and conference rooms are Wi-Fi enabled.
Commenting on the iPad 2 give away, Henry S. Givray, SmithBucklin president and CEO said, “We wanted to do something special for our employees to thank them for their loyalty to the company and to help them embrace social networking.”
“Employees are excited to receive their iPad 2s and we will be interested in gauging the impact this tablet computer has on our company and on our client organizations.”
“SmithBucklin already is a technology-savvy company and the iPad 2 will make it even easier for our employees to access social media channels and new media,” Givray added.