
This is a sponsored post by Microsoft. All opinions are my own and were not influenced by any parties.
Winner: jenn.1105@xxxxxxx
To be honest, when I first think Microsoft Store, I think “just another computer store.” Or, at least that is what I use to think. I recently had a chance to visit our local store and walked away with a head full of knowledge and anxious to go back to learn more and spend more time there!
When I first arrived at the store, I was instantly greeted by someone. When I told her I wanted to just learn more about their store, I was introduced to a gentleman and without hesitation, he took the time to give me a complete tour of their store. We went through each and every department and service that they offer and he explained them all in detail (and he didn’t even have to look at at any notes — he really knew everything). Being a consumer, I appreciated his knowledge and the way he explained product features and differences in language I could actually understand!
He shared information about the different Surface Tablets (which are totally incredible, by the way), the difference between ultrabooks and laptops. He showed me what the windows phones functions could offer. I learned about Smart Glass — a feature which allows you to take your games and other Xbox items with you on your mobile device. I experienced the Xbox 360 corner and checked out all of the accessories they sell. It was more than just products, I also learned about services.

They offer Answer Desk as well as personal training and workshops. You can get free technical support and protection right in the store – with highly qualified technicians. While you can make an appointment if you need help, you don’t need to do that. You can walk in with your PC and they will help you out. They can teach you everything from how to put parental controls to work to how to set up your mailbox. If your PC has malware or registry errors, they can do a tune-up and get that taken care of for you. The best part of all – you did not even need to purchase your product from them to get this service! If you can’t get into the store, they can even try to remote connect and fix your PC in your home! I love the Answer Desk (and am sure I’ll be using it to get my husband’s PC fixed up – it is a mess).
The other feature they offer is the theater. You can actually host organization meetings (Girl Scounts), birthday parties, meetings, homeschool sessions – anything you want You can bring in your own food and beverages to make your meeting just what you want for it to be. And believe it or not, this is all free! If you happen to host 6 or more sessions within a year, you will be entered to win a $50 gift card. They’ve always supported non-profit organizations from Girl Scouts to the YMCA, so helping support your local group by hosting a meeting is something that they are more than thrilled to offer (available only in stores with the theater – contact your store to arrange a meeting).

Make sure you also check your local store for Youth Spark Summer Camps, starting June 3rd; Tech Tots camps for kids ages 2 – 5 to learn things such as keyboard skill; they even offer different Gaming Events.

Microsoft offers 31 full-line stores (which include a theater) and 35 specialty stores (no theater). So there are stores available coast to coast. You can learn more:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MicrosoftStore
Microsoft retail store website - http://content.microsoftstore.com/Home.aspx
I really was impressed with not only the knowledge of those working at the store, but the store itself.
Like I said above – going to this store is more than shopping – it is an experience!
You can learn more and join in some fun during our Twitter party this next week!!! We’ll be on Twitter – follow the #GoMicrosoft hashtag to track the conversation. You can see the details and RSVP via this Twtvite: http://twtvite.com/GoMicrosoft. The party is Tuesday, May 14 at 1p ET/noon CT/10a PT). Sign up – we will have a lot of fun!
THE GIVEAWAY:
One reader will receive a $100 Microsoft Giftcard!

This contest will be open until May 15, 2013, at 11:59 p.m. CST. The winner will be chosen at random and contacted via email and the giftcard mailed to them at the address provided on the form. GOODLUCK!!!
Be entering this giveaway/sweepstakes, you are attesting that you have read and can comply with the Giveaway Terms & Conditions.