If you need another excuse to crack open a box of Do-Si-Dos, the Girl Scouts has named February 7−8 National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend.
And while you're scarfing down these delectible desserts, local Girl Scouts are not only earning money for their troops, but also learning valuable entrepreneurial skills. According to a survey from the Girl Scout Research Institute, 85 percent of Girl Scout “cookie entrepreneurs” learn money management by developing budgets, taking cookie orders and handling customers’ money. Eighty-three percent build business ethics; 80 percent learn goal setting; 77 percent improve decision-making; and 75 percent develop people skills.
Farah Desai, a Girl Scout Cadette and sixth grader from Cincinnati, agrees that the cookie program teaches essential life skills. “Selling cookies is not only fun, but helpful," she says. I have learned so many things, such as managing money, setting goals and communicating with people, all from the Girl Scout Cookie Program. It's one of my favorite times of the year!”
This year, the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio developed a guide to buying Girl Scout cookies, encouraging buyers to engage the girls as they would adult salespeople so that they can build important business skills through the selling experience. The list includes:
• Say "hi."
• Look me in the eye.
• Please don't call us cute.
• Ask about our inventory.
• Let's talk money.
• Notice our new package design.
• Let us know how we did.
Local girl scouts were also given a jumpstart on the Girl Scout Cookie Program during three rallies held in January. Designed to be high-energy and fun, the cookie rallies provided an opportunity for girls to learn early business skills and proven strategies to boost sales.
Girl Scouts took door-to-door orders throughout January and early February; cookies will arrive and deliveries will begin February 28.
If you missed your chance to order, or just want another opportunity to satisfy your sweet tooth while supporting young entrepreneurs, look for Girl Scouts cookie booths in your community throughout March.
“The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the premier entrepreneurship opportunity for girls, but it is just one part of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience,” says Roni Luckenbill, Girl Scouts of Western Ohio CEO. “Girl Scouts participate in many activities throughout the year and work on many projects. Cookies are just one of those activities. It’s not too late for girls to join Girl Scouting—we want all girls who wish to be a Girl Scout to be able to join. We also welcome adults who wish to make a difference in girls’ lives to volunteer with Girl Scouts.”
By Sarah Whitman
Sarah Whitman is Soapbox Cincinnati's Managing Editor
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