When you’re getting ready to leave school/university career advisors often tell you to include a list of hobbies on your CV and invariably they list an example that includes reading. As a result every CV I’ve ever seen lists reading as the owners hobby. In my case it’s actually true. If there’s one thing I’m addicted to it’s reading, I just can’t help myself. If you see me on a plane you can bet I know the safety card inside out, not because I’m worried about flying, but because I just can’t help myself if it’s got writing on it I’ll read it!
As a result I’m usually reading a few of books at a time, typically one or two business related books and a novel or something of personal interest. I’ve also often got a range of business or technical books spread about my desk that are currently being used as reference books.
The problem I have is I can never find enough bookmarks. Years ago Amazon used to send out a free bookmark with every book I ordered, it was great and I’ve still got dozens of them, but I need more. I’ve asked Amazon nicely, but they’ve not brought them back. I’ve also often looked for some in the local bookshops on those occasions when I’m buying a book from them, but none of them sell bookmarks.
Why? Why don’t bookshops upsell them? If I buy a book, I’m probably going to want, perhaps even need a bookmark. They’re also cheap to make (and therefore have a high profit margin) which could really help to drive up the profit margin on the average book sale. All you need to do is put them by the counter and train your staff to ask every customer “would you like a bookmark too, they’re only twenty pence” not everyone will buy one but I expect enough will for it to be profitable.
Alternatively the bookshop could copy Amazon and give one away with every book, after all it’s a great way to advertise to your target market and as we all know it’s a lot easier to sell to your existing customers that to new customers.
Finally I also think bookmarks would be quite a good promotional tool. A series for a business consultant for example could include a tip about a business topic on each bookmark. In fact if I can find a suitable printer I might just get some Business Opportunities and Ideas bookmarks made…
This blog is about business opportunities and ideas that I spot, think of or hear about and think are useful and interesting. It is intended to provide ideas and inspriation for you to help you find the right business idea for you to then grow it into a successful business.
My Mum always says “you can’t have too many bookmarks.”
I like the idea of bookmarks as free promotional giveaways for business advisers, coaches and consultants. I may take that one up myself.
I intend to as well. Combined with another marketing approach they’d do very well to promote a blog too…