I am in Costa Coffee. It is a relaxing place – I am actually sitting with my wife, trying to answer the quiz in the daily newspaper. It is relaxing and I have nothing particular to do otherwise today.
Anyway, as is often the case, my mind wanders to business. I find insipration from many sources – most of which I can see or hear. I suck inspiration from others and, when you look closely enough, nothing I do is original. But then, that’s what they say about most ideas.
Sipping coffee (tea, actually) I overhear two conversations. One is simply a lady buying a coffee and being asked if she would like “anything else”. Shortly afterwards a nan is served and is asked if he would like a “nice croissant”. This is not unusual of course by exemplifies the principle of the “one time offer” or the “upsell”. If the conversion rate is enough for these interactions then I am sure the profits would have increased by 10 – 15% or more.
The other matter is another chap sitting down talking to a man he has met ( and clearly knows). The first man is obviously promoting a local heritage building. He mentions the attractions and the current discount being offered for admission. It sounds private and personal but it isn’t. The result is likely that the second man might very well go to the attraction. The result is also that I will probably go as well.
Add to this that I now need a “nice croissant” and you can see the potential power if just TELLING people what is available. Or how they can access things.
