Today’s guest post is written by Terence Stephens.

Business inspiration and ideas come from funny places.

In an October episode of The Office, Robert California launched into a short monologue saying customers either know what they want and buy it on the Internet, or they don’t know, and go to stores with customer service to help them figure out what they want.

Because of this, he continues, big box stores actually fear shops with knowledgeable staff who aid the customer in fulfilling their needs, “Customers will willingly pay our higher prices and then they will say to us, ‘Thank you.’”

Was this just an example of Hollywood establishing a successful CEO character or a valid observation?

I reflected on my experiences and spoke with sales and entrepreneur friends.  There is definitely something to learn for anyone operating a small business whose income depends on ongoing business relationships. (more…)