Dealing with Dead Beat Hosts: A Frustration-Filled Vent Session

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Discussion Overview

This thread revolves around participants expressing their frustrations with unreliable hosts for their Pampered Chef shows. Many share personal experiences of hosts canceling or rescheduling at the last minute, leading to feelings of disappointment and aggravation.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shares their experience of a host who failed to return calls and ultimately decided not to host, causing frustration.
  • Another participant recounts a similar experience where multiple hosts rescheduled or canceled their shows, leading to a challenging month.
  • Several users mention the emotional toll of dealing with flaky hosts, particularly when they are family members.
  • One participant expresses annoyance at the lack of communication from hosts, preferring honesty over silence regarding cancellations.
  • Another participant shares a positive outcome from a show with low attendance, suggesting that effort from the host can lead to success despite challenges.
  • One participant discusses their discomfort with confrontation but acknowledges the necessity of addressing issues with hosts directly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on how to handle unreliable hosts, with some participants advocating for direct communication while others express frustration over the lack of accountability from hosts. No clear consensus emerges on the best approach to manage these situations.

Contextual Notes

Participants share experiences primarily related to the challenges of hosting shows, particularly during busy months. The emotional aspect of dealing with family and friends as hosts adds complexity to their experiences.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants facing similar challenges with hosts may find resonance in these shared experiences and perspectives.

V
vwpamperedchef
I just really need to vent. I was supposed to have a show tonight with one of my aunt's co workers, who I called four seperate times, once speaking to her spouse and she never had the decency to return my calls. She told my aunt she didnt intend on hosting, but never called me back.

Now, my SIL just texted me and said that Feb 22 will not work for her, when I just mailed her host packet and I hand wrote all the invites for her because I know she would not do it. (usually I do do labels, but I had run out at this point.) I am so aggraved. So I called my SIL and left a really detailed message like "we made this plan a month ago and I dont know why it won't work for you, but I am really counting on your show for my Feb sales". I know the guilt trip, but really its so aggravating. Esp. when its family.

Anyway, my Feb was looking bare, and I have 3 shows, and now if she cancels, just 2. I am bummed.

Just had to vent. Thanks for reading.:mad:
 
My January was like that. 1 host rescheduled a week before her party because she said no one was coming. Another host called me (finally) two days before her party that we had just scheduled two weeks before to say she had to reschedule. The third (who is semi family and I trust completely and am not too worried about) switched to a catalog show that now switched to a February catalog show! Must be the time for flakey hosts! And the time for me to strongly consider sending out my invites.
 
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  • #3
I seriously thought about just showing up at the hosts house tonite, or calling her and saying "see you tonight". UGH! Sooooo annoyed.
 
I had a show this past Saturday that ended up being me and the host. :grumpy: Everyone who was supposed to come didn't. :mad: I told her she has until the 30th to collect $150 in guest sales. I need to submit $100 in sales for this month or I will go inactive! :eek:

So I'm totally feeling your frustration. I can't stress about it since it ultimately is out of my control.

Sorry to vent on your thread. :balloon:
 
vwpamperedchef said:
I seriously thought about just showing up at the hosts house tonite, or calling her and saying "see you tonight". UGH! Sooooo annoyed.
Click to expand...

I tried telling all my hosts last summer that I rely on their booking as I rely on my regular job. That I needed at least 3 weeks notice if they wanted to cancel their party. That didn't work either, they just don't get it sometimes. My favorite is the MIA host. Why else do they think we spend time and money trying to help them if they just cannot say no. I thank people who come out and tell me no. I had one potential host who kept apologizing that she couldn't have a party. I think I shocked her when I said "Thank you, I appreciate you being honest with me!" I'd rather have someone just say no or cancel their party than to ignore me.
 
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  • #6
Exactly. I couldnt agree more about honesty, although I just received another text from my SIL and she said "John and I decided to go away that weekend, and I can't get 2 people to come, sorry nothing I can do". Let me just tell you, that she is a flake and that is why I did everything for this show all she had to do was INVITE THE PEOPLE. I told her I would do everything else. Trust me, I know there are at least 5 people who would come being in the family. So I know she is full of it.

Thanks again for letting me vent. Back to cleaning the office!
 
vwpamperedchef said:
Exactly. I couldnt agree more about honesty, although I just received another text from my SIL and she said "John and I decided to go away that weekend, and I can't get 2 people to come, sorry nothing I can do". Let me just tell you, that she is a flake and that is why I did everything for this show all she had to do was INVITE THE PEOPLE. I told her I would do everything else. Trust me, I know there are at least 5 people who would come being in the family. So I know she is full of it.

Thanks again for letting me vent. Back to cleaning the office!
Click to expand...

I've had very successful shows with little or NO attendance. I had a $500 show earlier this month for a host who had no one show up. It's all in the effort the host puts into the show. I had a $700 show for my sister last year with only 2 guests in attendance.
 
I am so sorry for you all, I feel your pain too! I had a host book a Feb show from her sis in law in Sept. then called two weks ago and changed the date, then called again Friday and said she had to fly out today to see a sick family member, so I was P***** and I asked for my 5 catalogs back that I sent her in the mail along with invites etc... she said she would but she has not, and today I get an "friendship" e mail from her???? whatever...
 
vwpamperedchef said:
I seriously thought about just showing up at the hosts house tonite, or calling her and saying "see you tonight". UGH! Sooooo annoyed.
Click to expand...
I'd do that anyway. And if she says anything, tell her that, "You never called me back to let me know you were cancelling, so I figured we were still on." It won't help your situation for tonight, but maybe she'll start to learn that she needs to exercise some courtesy.
 
chefann said:
I'd do that anyway. And if she says anything, tell her that, "You never called me back to let me know you were cancelling, so I figured we were still on." It won't help your situation for tonight, but maybe she'll start to learn that she needs to exercise some courtesy.
Click to expand...


I think Ann is right (like always), I would call and leave that message and then she WILL call you back.
 
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  • #11
I am not that gutsy
 
I Will Go With You!!!! What Time!!!>>>????
 
vwpamperedchef said:
I am not that gutsy
Click to expand...
Aw, comeon! Do it! Doooooo it!!

peer pressure!!

<giggle>
 
MORFIA said:
I Will Go With You!!!!

What Time!!!>>>????
Click to expand...
You are too funny Morfia! Are you turning into the Pampered Chef Mafia?!?! LMAO

"We're having a Pampered Chef Party tonight or I'll have to hurt you with this Mix N Chop!" :chef:
 
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  • #15
too funny.
 
wadesgirl said:
I tried telling all my hosts last summer that I rely on their booking as I rely on my regular job. That I needed at least 3 weeks notice if they wanted to cancel their party. That didn't work either, they just don't get it sometimes. My favorite is the MIA host. Why else do they think we spend time and money trying to help them if they just cannot say no. I thank people who come out and tell me no. I had one potential host who kept apologizing that she couldn't have a party. I think I shocked her when I said "Thank you, I appreciate you being honest with me!" I'd rather have someone just say no or cancel their party than to ignore me.
Click to expand...

Yes! Honestly is great. I wish more people would just say "no" rather than string me along.
 
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  • #17
ok, so for everyone that knows me (Morfia, Heatherkiss) you know that I am not really a phone person. Well I called the host for tonite and I am shaking from the message I left I said

"Hi Patty, this is Vanessa with TPC, I am looking forward (yeah right) to your show this evening. I am sorry I havent been able to reach you in regards to the ingredients, but not to worry, I will supply them, I will just need a microwave for the demonstration. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at xxx. See you tonight at 7".

Phew. I dont even want to go at this point, but I guess at least I left a message in regarding it, and its in her court now. And if I do go, Morfia you're coming!

I know she works at a school so I knew I'd have the chance to speak to her machine. ;)
 
Way to go Vanessa! Wish I lived closer, I'd go with you too!! I'm sure you at least felt a little better after leaving the message, right??!!
 
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  • #19
no im a wreck! i dont like confrontation! lol
 
You'll be fine! It's your business, you have to be in control. Hopefully she'll call you and let you know! If not, just make sure you get your host packet back before you leave.
 
Vanessa, I also HATE confrontation. But I have found that when I was in the same situation, that's the best message to leave. Betcha you get a call back! The only time that didn't work for me, the host had an out-of-town family emergency, and of course the PC Lady was the last person she'd think of to call.http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/chefann1138/smilies/oregonian_congratulations.gif Go have a glass of wine or a little treat to reward yourself for making the call. {{{hugs}}} http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb315/chefann1138/smilies/slider_winesmiley.gif
 
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  • #22
Thanks all!! love you all!
 
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  • #23
She just called and said she is not having the party because we never confirmed it and that she was SHOCKED when she heard my message. I said I had contacted her four times, and even once spoke to her husband. I flat out asked was there a reason she had not returned my calls and she said she forgot. I asked if she wanted to reschedule and she said not at this time. I thanked her for her honesty. She thanked me for being understanding (IF SHE ONLY KNEW).

Anyway, thanks for the input from everyone. xoxo
 
Did she ever get a host packet or invitations? Sounds like she didn't want to have the party to begin with and couldn't figure out how to tell you except to let the day come and go and never think about it.
 
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  • #25
i agree! yes she rec'd a pkt
 
How is that not confirming anything?? Crazy people, bless and release.
 
For the lady that has the SIL that will be going out of town during the weekend that she booked and needs the sales to stay active, how about hosting a show (for her relatives too!) and giving away the Hostess Benefits. She might hear thru the grapevine that the benefits are worth hosting a show and might be a possible booking in the future. Have it at your house and don't sweat it! Make something easy and have lots of fun with your guests. Maybe even try the new recipes for spring/summer and let everyone enjoy!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some signs that a host might be a "deadbeat"?

Signs of a "deadbeat" host can include lack of communication, failure to promote the party, not inviting guests, or not following through with commitments like collecting orders or hosting the event. If a host seems disengaged or unenthusiastic, it may indicate they are not fully invested in the process.

How can I motivate a host who seems unresponsive?

To motivate an unresponsive host, try reaching out with friendly reminders and encouragement. Offer tips on how to promote the party, such as sharing on social media or sending personal messages to friends. Providing incentives, like a small gift or discount for their efforts, can also help spark their interest.

What should I do if a host cancels the party last minute?

If a host cancels last minute, remain understanding but firm. Express your disappointment and ask if they would like to reschedule. If they are unwilling to continue, consider reaching out to their guests directly to see if they are still interested in placing orders or hosting their own parties.

How can I handle a host who doesn't collect orders?

If a host is not collecting orders, have a candid conversation with them about the importance of their role. Offer assistance in setting up a system for collecting orders, such as using an online platform or providing them with order forms. Reinforce the benefits they will receive from hosting, which may encourage them to take action.

What are some strategies to prevent deadbeat hosts in the future?

To prevent deadbeat hosts, set clear expectations from the beginning about their responsibilities. Provide them with resources and tools to succeed, such as promotional materials and hosting tips. Building a strong relationship with potential hosts and ensuring they understand the benefits of hosting can also help keep them engaged and motivated.

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