Goal-setting
Successful Units always set a Unit goal, but the really successful Units also set “per-scout” goals. One Unit leader explained her Unit’s success by saying that she asks every scout to sell $200 in popcorn, and give examples of how to do it, who to ask, etc. She said almost all scouts made the goal easily, and some did not, BUT there were lots of scouts (ambitious ones) who went well above that mark,  and they made all the money they needed for the year. (The Council average per scout/per selling units is $275.)

Specific Unit and/or Den Kickoffs
Crucially important. Units that are successful with Popcorn sales have a kickoff where they show and explain the Units program to parents and scouts while telling them that popcorn is how they can pay for it. Have fun with a theme, games and skits, explain how to sell and safety tips, and give examples of the prizes the Unit is planning to give Scouts for selling. Then encourage ALL Scouts and parents to participate, and set a Unit AND per-scout goal here. Units who have poor sales, typically just announce at the end of a meeting that Popcorn materials are at the back, and to pick stuff up on the way out the door. Large units are encouraged to break things down at the Den/Patrol level (kickoffs, goals, etc.) The Council will provide a Kickoff Kit which would include popcorn, parents video, and information on how to set up your Blitz Day. You can also incorporate hanging out the popcorn order forms, prize brochures, etc, into this meeting. (Emphasize the new prizes that are available this year.)

Blitz Day Participation
Explain how getting ALL your scouts to participate in the Blitz Day can help your unit get most (or all) the way to your Unit Goal, and more importantly, can allow your Scouts to have more fun when selling (as a team). Encourage your Unit to make it fun: plan a pack event to incorporate selling door-to-door throughout a specific neighborhood, have a hot dog roast afterwards or go to a Pumpkin Patch that afternoon, for instance

Communication to Parents
Research shows that Parents are interested in 3 things: What’s in it for my scout, what’s in it for our Unit, and how do we become more successful? Be sure you are able to explain these at your Unit Kickoff, and if they all give a strong effort, they won’t need to constantly pay for program throughout the year, or do other fundraisers.

For More Information
For more information about Popcorn Sales, contact Michelle Austin at the Council Service Center or send an email to popcorn@CornhuskerCouncil.org.