Girl Scouts are selling more cookies than ever. "Almost $800 million worth of Thin Mints, Samoas and other coveted flavors were sold during the 2011-2012 selling season," according to Time. There hasn't been a huge downturn in sales because many girls are using social media and other technology not available to the earlier generations of Girl Scouts.
Here's how to sell your brand like a Girl Scout sells cookies:
- Take advantage of the technology available to you- Specifically, social media and mobile technology. If you haven't jumped on the bandwagon yet, now is the time.
- Don't travel door to door- Just like Girl Scouts don't have to go door to door to sell cookies, your brand doesn't have to spend hours pitching a story. Using social media, the possible reach is enormous.
- Make sure there is a customer engagement experience- Girl Scout cookies are still not sold entirely online because the organization feels that the girls and their customers benefit from a face-to-face interaction. The same is true for your brand. Even if it's online, there is a way to let your customers know you are there for them.
- Tell a story- Girl Scout cookie boxes explain the organizations activities and goals. Use social media to tell your brand's story and people will have a more personal connection with your brand.
- Sell something people love- Girl Scouts have this down because they sell delicious cookies, but your brand can still find a way to share something that people want, product or information-wise.