How Google stole Christmas

Yesterday evening my partner asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I couldn’t believe my ears since Christmas is only a few days away. Classic response: “Nothing. Don’t worry about me. I don’t need anything.” (Yes, I am still expecting a Christmas present. And it better be a really good one.) Then I thought it would be a good idea to brag a little bit à la “Just so you know, I already bought your present weeks ago.”
[Smile.]

His response: “Yes I know. And I hate to tell you but I am pretty sure I even know what it is.”

Boom. You should have seen the frozen look on my face. The last thing you want is to spoil the surprise. I felt caught out and tried to figure out where I didn’t cover my tracks.

I was sold out. And the culprit had a name: Google. Of course. Bloody Google.

How?

“Well, I used your computer and these banners started to follow me. Banners about a product I knew you didn’t care about at all. A product I mentioned to you I needed. You are too sweet. Thank you so much. And don’t worry I will still look surprised the moment I open it.”

Shit. Shit. Shit. Shit. Shit. Shit. Shit. Bloody shit.

Retargeting that worked – against me.

So what do we learn?

Don’t buy any presents online. Your local shops will thank you.

And if you do, clear your cache every minute or hide your computer, tablets and mobile devices from everyone.

Merry Christmas.

Image Source: http://dragonhomer.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/the-grinch-file-3.html