For those of you out there that have done these please share your experience.

I'm thinking of making up some cake truffles, little pretty cakes or cookies and taking them to some local businesses.

However, the thought of actually going makes me very nervous!

What do you say to them when you go in there?

Have you ever had a business be rude to you and kick you out because it is soliciting?

What kind of goodies did you take to them and what has your success rate been?

Sorry for the multitude of questions but I figure if I hear others experiences then maybe it will calm my nerves.

I used to work for a women's clothing company. We were always having sales and had to go and hand flyers out. We always went to banks and businesses because our clothing was primarily for the working woman. Anyway, I never had any trouble from anyone. They were always very gracious and couldn't wait to come to the sale.

I can't imagine that anyone would turn down delicious cake! Just go in and try it!!

i went all over with cakes when i opened in 02.

the best place to go is teachers lounges at lunchtime.

don't be scared...peeps LOVE free food!

Good idea Littlecake!

Nobody ever kicks out the cookie lady!

"Hi, I'm Debi with Cater It Simple and I'm out introducing myself to my neighbors. Here are some free cookie samples for you ... and you have to share them (Hand them your card and maybe a flyer, as they stuff a cookie in their face). We do special occasion cakes, cookies, and catering, such as for employee celebrations, board meetings, and seminars. CHeck out our website and let me know how I can help!" (Turn and walk out .... takes less than 2 minutes).

You want to be friendly, memorable and not a PITA. In and out.

Oh sure, I've done that in years past. "Hi, I'm Leah with Louisville Wedding Cake. I worked a wedding with you six months ago, and just wanted to make sure you had the opportunity to try one of my cakes. I've included some business cards. And I really appreciate referrals. Thanks. Bye." Hand over cake and leave. I really only go to other wedding vendors, try to compliment them on something (previous gig worked together, window display, anything).

Another angle you could try...since you're nervous....call them a couple of days before you go over so you know that they are expecting you.

Don't be nervous, everybody loves freebies..the key is to cut to the chase and not waste the other persons time. Make sure you give extra cards and include a menu/list if you have one. Good Luck!

oh thank you for this topic.I am looking for any information I can get .I have been doing this from home for some time but I am thinking ( too scared) of doing it full time and open a shop.
Thanks
Zubia

I have individually packaged cookies with a business card stapled to each one. That way, if you drop off 10 cookies to an office, you'll know that all 10 people who get them will have your card. Individual packaging also keeps the person at the front desk from hoarding them - they're more likely to pass them around.

I have been thinking about doing this too ~ great tips! Thanks everyone!

Find out when local organizations are holding their next meeting and drop a cake and business cards by. Your cake will be the conversation of the meeting