Free pancakes…and a nice reputation
By anthony balderrama on Feb 24, 2009 in Fun stuff
Today’s National Pancake Day, according to IHOP. From 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. today you can get a free short stack just for going in. The catch is…well, it’s not really a catch at all. You’re encouraged to give a donation that will go to local charities.
We like free things. Especially free pancakes.
But it got me thinking that, in addition to the philanthropic efforts, companies seem to be doing a lot more of these free giveaways lately. Even if it hurts the bottom line for a day, it puts people in a good mood (during a rather dour time) and keeps them in everyone’s good graces. And considering that job seekers have begun to focus on charitable contributions, green efforts, and volunteer opportunities when assessing an employer, this probably works out well for the hiring side of the company, too. Sure, as a consumer you’re glad to go eat there. But if a company’s willing to have some fun (and be generous), it might not be a bad place to work, right?
In the coming months, I’m curious to see what other companies are doing to improve their reputation or just to keep their image in front of people during this ecnomy.
Now, if only we could find someone willing to give out free money and free pancakes.
