Selling Your Brand

I just finished reading my weekly copy of The Chronicle of Higher Education. In the May 23, 2008 offline edition I see what people are reading on campus. According to a survey of universities and data provided by Barnes & Noble and the Follett Higher Education Group, the following is the top 10 list of best-selling books on college campuses in the USA.

A New Earth; Awakening to Your Life's Purpose, The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream, Armageddon in Retrospect, The Last Lecture, Unaccustomed Earth, Flipping Brilliant: A Penguin's Guide to a Happy Life, Curious You: On Your Way!, Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India, and Indonesia, I Am America, Skinny Bitch.

In looking at the list, I wonder what it says about the image and reputation of America's college campuses, and how closely aligned those books are with the school's mission, vision, values and goals. The list also reminds me of how important it is to include those who manage your organization's products and merchandise. They play a significant role in shaping your identity. My experience tells me that they can become some of your biggest brand champions. Plus, don't you think they want to know what are the right items to order, so that they effectively represent their organization?