Top Ten Tips For Selling More Books

Build your sellers' confidence and Attractions book sales! Pass on these tips, and be sure to provide a written list of all the details; your group's needs and goals, deadlines, etc. as well as any selling materials (like the free yard sign, poster, or customized sales flyers) that will help them succeed.

1. Make a list. Start with friends and relatives. Who likes to eat out? Everyone! Don't forget to ask neighbors, the people you work with, go to the church with, your doctor, dentist, hair stylist, etc. Lots of people will be willing to help your group fundraise.


2. Contact everyone on your list. People you know will want to help you and will appreciate the value you are offering. Check off the names on your list after you contact them, either in person, by phone or e-mail, and remember to follow-up on the people you could not reach on the first try.


3. Always take your book with you. Just about any place can be a selling opportunity. Classes, sporting events, family gatherings, etc. You can also enlist family members to take a sample book or customized information flyers to activities and work (doctor's offices and hair salons are great outlets). Hang up copies of the logo flyer or put them in people's boxes.


4. Represent your group. When you're selling, be polite and enthusiastic. If possible, wear a uniform, t-shirt, or cap identifying your group. Tell potential customers your name and group, what you're selling, and why you're raising money. Explain exactly what their purchase will do for you and your group, and what the book will do for them (save lots of money!).


5. Know the book. Before you start selling, look through the book and get to know the offers. Mention some of the more popular places, like Moe's Southwest Grill, Burger King, Chick-fil-A, Domino's Pizza, World Market, etc., and practice your lines. 'You can double your money back at Michael's alone!' or 'There are over $200 worth of free pizzas!' are just two lines that will help you sell more books. Don't forget all coupons are valid until January 1, 2013 and if you use the book only twice it pays for itself!


6. It's not just for dining. Everyone loves to eat out, but there's more to the book then just restaurants. Free oil changes, museum passes, fun parks, greens fees to some of the area's top golf courses, dry cleaning and great retail savings at CVS, Jiffy Lube, Bed Bath and Beyond, Rack Room Shoes, Dick's Sporting Goods, etc. There is truly something for everyone!


7. Show 'Em The Book! That's all it takes. Make sure your customers look through the book and point out the popular places you know they'll like. They're sure to find restaurants and merchants they already visit as well new places they want to try.


8. Upsell. These books offer great value and there's something for everyone. The book will sell itself, but you can sell more. Ask the customer how many cars they own. People carry their books in their purses and cars, so they need a book for every car. Attractions books also make great birthday and holiday gifts - 'Do you know someone who would appreciate this book as a gift?'


9. Practice 'Safe Selling.' Attractions discourages door-to-door selling. If you are selling in your neighborhood, stick to familiar neighbors and never enter a stranger's home. Use the buddy system and/or have an adult come along.


10. Attractions program is a quick & easy fundraiser. Be enthusiastic and as always, have fun.