Popcorn Tip--Week #7: Try a new neighborhood or business district

After a few weeks of knocking on the neighbors’ doors, selling in front of a “big box” store, calling Grandma and sending a sign-up sheet to Dad’s workplace, it might be time to be adventurous.

Try a new neighborhood. Bike over with a buddy, or see if someone can walk around one evening with you.

In my town there are neighborhoods without a lot of kids. Some of them are where mostly retired folks live.

Give it a try. The same rules apply. Look sharp in your uniform. Be neat and clean. Use your manners. Introduce yourself. Thank folks for their time, whether or not they buy from you.

Let people know that they are helping to “support Scouting”.

You might very well find a street or two or six, that haven’t had anyone stop by to ask yet.

This might be a good neighborhood to try for other projects in the future, like “Scouting for Food”, mowing yards, raking leaves or shoveling snow.

There are lots of people who would love to find a young Scout to help them out all year round. Keep your eyes open to the possibilities!

Tip: older Scouts can try businesses in the area—insurance offices, bookstores, gas stations, dry cleaners, florists, law and real estate offices, or any other small businesses you would find grouped together.

Past Popcorn Tips:

Tip #6: Sign-up sheets at work
Tip #5: Big Box Stores
Tip #4: Neighbors
Tip #3: Civic Organizations and Churches
Tip #2: Call last year's list
Tip #1: Grandparents and Family

Popcorn Tip--Week 1: Grandparents and family

Week 1: Grandparents and family

Start the popcorn season off on the right foot. Make the easy calls first.

Family and friends want to help support their loved ones, and that means quick and easy sales to you. They know you are in Scouts and want to help you succeed.

Treat them like any other customer though. Be nice. Be polite. Speak clearly, on the phone or in person. This is a good time to practice what you will say to others.

If they aren't interested, let them know that is OK, and talk to them about something else. Grandma is a lot more important than a popcorn sale!

Are you selling popcorn? Or are you asking them to help "support Scouting"? Popcorn is cheaper at the grocery store, but they will want to help "support Scouting".

If they are close by, swing by and speak to them in person.

If you won't see your grandparents, aunts and uncles until the holidays, call them for an order, or send them a copy of the order form. Thanksgiving is right in the middle of the "take order" delivery season, which might be a great time to deliver your product.

Good luck!