Only the Kremlin still has an official taster on hand to sample the Russian president's food and make sure it hasn't been tampered with.

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Just ask and a salesperson will hand you a packaged sample or fill jars with requested products for free.

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In validation, especially if you have a sample product in hand, the temptation to cross the line from asking to selling is almost irresistible.

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Ms. COX: I remember, when they've debuted it on the radio, and I heard it, and it just was, you know, it's like, wow, Joe Sample has a great hit on his hand.

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You could hand out your business card, brochure, or product sample.

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