Did you hear the one about the client who went to his inbox to find a "happy anniversary" email with a handy dandy gift certificate attached.
No?
Nor will you because it rarely happens.
Unbeknownst to me, it was my 1 year anniversary with audible.com and they decided to do the unthinkable . . . show gratitude with a surprise.
And this isn't the first time. They sent me a free download at the holidays too.
It made me think that whether it be . . .
The shear "WOOHOONESS" of getting a surprise 
The waking up of our "inner child" or
Just the feeling of acknowledgement that we are indeed valued . . .
Perhaps the surprise is an underutilized Jedi mind trick?
Some things to think about
1) Birthdays: Don't believe anyone who tells you they don't give a sh*t about their own birthday because they suddenly do when you miss it.
2) Anniversaries: I like this one and would invite all our leaders out there to remember employee anniversaries too!
3) Gratitude: How can you thank your clients in new and exciting ways? Bonus points if you surprise them just because!
Way Cool Surprise My Family Received:
My Dad worked for General Mills many years ago. Every once in a while, when Dad was away on business, the company would send a box filled with their products along with a note thanking us for letting them "borrow" Dad.
I know a very successful sales rep (now President of his own company) who used to randomly hand out Starbucks cards to his support team. Just in case you didn't get the memo on this type of thing . . . people dig it!
Homework Assignment (Yep you aren't gonna just come here and read my rants and not own the material dude)
Today (as in not tomorrow) you are to think of at least one way to surprise:
A client
An employee, coworker or what the hell . . . the boss!
And just for good measure . . .
Surprise someone in your personal life!
Before you go, I have a little word of advice for you . . .
"Courtships" should never end after the marriage!
