Carrying My Catalog Tote: Advice & Success Stories

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various personal experiences and suggestions regarding the use of catalog totes by Pampered Chef consultants. Participants share what they carry in their totes, how they engage with others about the totes, and the perceived success of this practice in generating business connections.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shares that they carry mini-catalogs, recipe cards, and business cards in their tote, using it as a purse while also engaging potential customers in conversation.
  • Another participant mentions using their tote primarily for personal items but acknowledges that it has been useful for carrying reusable grocery bags.
  • One participant notes that they have had success in generating customer interest through their tote, including meeting potential customers in stores.
  • Another participant describes using their tote as a mobile office, carrying host packets and planners, although they have not yet seen significant results.
  • One participant mentions a creative idea from a workshop about using door prize slips to collect contact information from people they meet, which they plan to implement.
  • Several users express varying levels of success with their totes, with some noting that while they have not received comments from others, they still find the tote practical for their needs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of using catalog totes for generating business connections, with some participants reporting success while others have not experienced similar outcomes.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and strategies related to the use of catalog totes, reflecting a range of approaches and outcomes in their interactions with potential customers.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for ideas on how to utilize catalog totes in their daily activities and engage with potential customers may find this discussion relevant.

R
rebajoe
Silver Member
Messages
25
Hello!!

I am going to start carrying my catalog tote everywhere I go and would like some advise/suggestions first.

Questions:

1. What do you put in it?

2. What do you say to someone notices your tote bag?

3. Has it been successful for you?

4. Do you give anything to the person you talk to?

Thanks
Rebajoe
 
I've put my answers below:
rebajoe said:
Hello!!I am going to start carrying my catalog tote everywhere I go and would like some advise/suggestions first.Questions:1. What do you put in it?
I use mine as my purse, so it has as little as I can get away with as far as my personal items. But I have recipe cards, mini-catalogs, business cards, and another business-like card I made for folks to write THEIR contact info on (name/phone/email, and if they'd like to get my newsletter Y/N). I used to carry full size catalogs- but just like handing out full-size at a fair, it wasn't paying off- plus made my bag too heavy. Now I carry Mini-catalogs and recipe cards.2. What do you say to someone notices your tote bag?
Usually they ask if you sell. I smile and say yes I do! Depending on how the conversation proceeds- like "I LOVE pampered chef"...I'll ask the "What's your favorite product?" or "when was the last time you were at a show?" and then take it from there. If they ask for a catalog, I give them a mini- but I also get their info and ask if they'd like to be added to my monthly email-newsletter.3. Has it been successful for you?
Yes- I'd say it has. I've gotten several customers from it. I met a lady in Walmart just yesterday who's looking to place an order.
And now that PC has come out with the new "Billboards" for the totes with 8 different images we can use, plus the catalog, it's great! I can change it up- or make my own flyer. 4. Do you give anything to the person you talk to?
Mini-catalog, recipe card, business card- depends on what they asked for or what I've got on hand. If they ask for a catalog or card- I hand a mini to them. I've been handing recipe cards to clerks and customer service folks at various places I frequent- like my bank or Post Office, as 'thank you'. Great conversation starters.Thanks
Rebajoe
Click to expand...
 
These are great ideas! I have the tote but i dont carry anything in it besides my business card. THANKS!
 
I use mine to carry my reusable grocery bags, so I carry it into the store and set it in the cart where the baby seat is and it has all of my PC bags in it, I usually have a catalog in the frame thing. I have cards and such in it to hand out, but no one has ever commented on it. So, for me, no luck, but it is a good size for the bags and makes it more convenient to grab and take into the store, rather than carrying a bunch of wadded up bags in... So it wasn't a total waste. I also, used to use it to carry all of my Weight Watchers things when I went to Weight Watchers meetings, that got me a few orders, so, I guess I lied! I forgot about that! But that's about it. Like the idea of carrying Mini's rather than full size catalogs... and the recipe card are a great idea...
 
Mine is loaded to the brim with personal items, unfortunately! I USED to carry business cards but they got buried at the bottom of the bag.I have a mini-purse within the bag which I use for the bulk of my personal items. Also, I keep a catalog, consultant news (which I use as a "billboard" when the catalog is gone) and Seasons Best (for handy reference at the grocery store!)I'd have to say overall it's a success, but don't expect immediate results! This spring, I have remained active solely due to the catalog tote! The shows I turned in March and This week came out of those contacts!ALWAYS ask for a name and phone number in exchange for a catalog so you can follow up!
 
One of the workshops I attended at NC discussed this! Her suggestion was to make it your mobile office, have your calendar/planner, host packets, mini catalogs, recipe cards. That way you can pretty much take care of anything, anywhere. I've been doing this now, has paid off just yet, but I'm sure it will soon :)!
 
A neat idea I heard at conference from one of the presenters (can't remember which one off hand)was that she carries around a pad of door prize slips in her bag. She uses this to get the individual's information and tells them she does an 'out and about' door prize drawing every month from the people she meets out and about and would you like to be entered into the drawing. I think this is a great idea and plan on implementing it.

I've also heard of people purchasing a wire bound index card book to keep contact info in for the people she met out and about.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Catalog Tote and how can it help my Pampered Chef business?

A Catalog Tote is a specially designed bag that allows you to carry your Pampered Chef catalogs, products, and marketing materials in an organized manner. It helps you present your business professionally, making it easier to showcase products during parties or events. Having a dedicated tote can enhance your confidence and ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips, leading to more successful interactions with potential customers.

What should I include in my Catalog Tote for maximum effectiveness?

To maximize the effectiveness of your Catalog Tote, include a variety of items such as current catalogs, order forms, product samples, business cards, and promotional materials. Additionally, consider adding a notepad and pen for taking notes or jotting down customer preferences. Having a small selection of popular products can also help you demonstrate items directly, making it easier to engage with potential customers.

How can I use my Catalog Tote at events to increase sales?

At events, use your Catalog Tote to create an inviting display. Set up your tote in a visible area and encourage attendees to browse through the catalogs and samples. Engage with people by asking questions about their cooking habits and preferences, and use your tote to provide tailored recommendations. Offering exclusive event discounts or promotions can also incentivize purchases on the spot.

Can you share a success story related to using a Catalog Tote?

One Pampered Chef consultant shared that after investing in a well-organized Catalog Tote, she attended a local craft fair. She was able to easily access her catalogs and product samples, which allowed her to engage with potential customers more effectively. By showcasing her products and sharing recipes, she not only collected numerous orders but also booked several cooking parties, significantly boosting her sales for the month.

What tips do you have for maintaining my Catalog Tote?

To maintain your Catalog Tote, regularly check its contents to ensure you have up-to-date catalogs and materials. Clean out any outdated information and replace worn-out samples. Keep your tote organized by using dividers or small pouches for different types of materials. Additionally, consider personalizing your tote with your name or business logo to create a professional appearance and make it easily identifiable.

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