A few days ago, in my local newspaper, there was a feature story on a couple of Realtors who use fresh-baked cookies as part of their marketing efforts. They offer their own homemade cookies at open houses, workshops, and other job-related activities. Obviously, they are becoming as well known (if not more so) for their baking than their home selling capabilities. I couldn’t help but think this was a great way to set them apart in an otherwise competitive business!
Years ago, when my son was in the second grade, he had his own brief home-based business baking and delivering homemade cookies too. It only lasted about two months before he grew tired of the weekly work, but he made several hundred dollars and there are individuals who purchased cookies from him who still remember him as that adorable, ambitious buzz-headed boy who baked and delivered his brown paper bags of cookies every Friday. The fact that he’s now a shaggy-headed teenager adds to the nostalgia for his sweet little cookie business. I kid you not when I say there are still people who ask if he’s thought of starting up that business again!
There’s just something about cookies that people warm to. Fresh, homemade, imperfect—they are charming and homey and I applaud those Realtors for coming up with a “gimmick” that not only sets them apart from the competition, but also is a good fit with what they are trying to do—sell homes.
I’m wondering if I sent homemade cookies (or jam or pickles or something otherwise charming and homey) to editors and agents—would they be more likely to publish my pieces and support my work? Well, at least they might remember me and I could make a name for myself with my homemade treats, if I can’t get the writing work across!
See Also: When in Doubt…Bake Cookies and Self Promotion Woes