"What's a Bootblack?"

If I had a dollar for every time I got this question, either personally or via PM, I'd be moderately wealthy. :-)

And it's a wonderful question so I'm not complaining.

I just keep wondering: why is it such a mystery?

I've gotten questions like:

"What is this black-booting thing you talk about all the time?"

"What is the attraction? What do you get out of it?"

"I've always wanted to sit for a Bootblack, but what's the protocol?"

"So is that like a foot fetish?"

When I am wearing my title sash, I've noticed that people seem a little less intimidated to approach and talk to me. I never realized it would have that effect. It has led to some great conversations.

I am trying hard to figure out exactly what my mission is while I have this title.

A sash is just a sash, IMHO, until you make it mean something.

One thing I would like to do is continue starting conversations. Educating people about who we are, what we do, why we do it. Dispelling some of the mystery.

Making the approach easier is a big thing for me. When I am at my chair, and not with a customer, I try to make sure I am welcoming, that I look like I want to be there (because I do). I avoid too much socializing, which can put a new person off. I keep my eyes open for that someone with the deer-in-the-headlights look, and I am not afraid to reach out and (playfully) shame the condition of someone's boots as they walk by.

This is my way, not necessarily another person's way. It just works for me.

Be open, be inviting, be willing to educate.

Every person we touch is a potential customer for life. And one by one we will draw others to us. Our customer pool will grow, and new Bootblacks will be born.