Navigating Bookings: Feeling the Pressure of Friends?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread explores the challenges and feelings of pressure that participants experience when reaching out to friends for bookings as Pampered Chef consultants. Participants share their personal experiences and strategies related to this aspect of their business.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about how friends might perceive their calls for bookings, feeling hesitant to reach out to those who are not close friends.
  • Another participant shares that their love for the products made it easier to approach friends, viewing it as a favor to share recipes and tips.
  • One participant mentions feeling pushy when contacting someone who had already RSVP'd to their party, suggesting that they might feel more comfortable reaching out to acquaintances instead.
  • A participant with extensive experience notes that they still find it challenging to make these calls, despite having had many shows, and recalls how they initially approached friends for help when starting out.
  • Another participant suggests not to contact those who have already been invited to the party and instead brainstorm a new list of potential contacts.
  • One participant describes a potential approach to asking a friend to host a show, emphasizing the benefits for the friend while addressing possible objections upfront.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to contacting friends for bookings, with some participants feeling comfortable reaching out while others express hesitation or concern about being perceived as pushy.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a range of experiences from their early days as consultants to their current practices, reflecting varied levels of comfort and strategies in approaching friends for bookings.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who are navigating the challenges of reaching out to friends for bookings may find these shared experiences and strategies relevant to their own situations.

D
diamond78
Messages
13
About what my friends will think when I call them for bookings! I have invited them all to my grand opening show, but then my director asked me to make 10 contacts in 2 days - well that means calling people I already asked to my party!

Did anyone struggle with that when they first started? I don't want some of my friends-but-not-close-friends to think I'm being pesky!
 
I didn't because I Love the products so much. I thought of it as doing them a favor by teaching them new recipes and tips as they shop from their seats. I also gave away the host benefits with a mystery host drawing as my thank you to them for coming. They earned tickets by coming, RSVPing, bringing friends and orders, booking shows and signing on. I'm sure there are tips for your grand opening show on this site
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
Oh yeah - I'm doing all that already - but the girl I called tonight has already RSVP'd that she would come to my party AND then I called her to ask about booking a party. I just feel like I am being too pushy....

Although - I don't think I will have this problem when I am calling people that I really don't know...
 
diamond78 said:
About what my friends will think when I call them for bookings! I have invited them all to my grand opening show, but then my director asked me to make 10 contacts in 2 days - well that means calling people I already asked to my party! Did anyone struggle with that when they first started? I don't want some of my friends-but-not-close-friends to think I'm being pesky!
Click to expand...
I've been with the company for 8 1/2 years and have had close to 500 show... and I still don't like to make those calls! I did find those first show alittle easier to book...because I was just starting out. I would ask them if they would help me get started...and then tell them EVERYTHING they could get!!! When I started we had to have our first 6 shows booked...names and dates...I contacted 6 friends and family that were all in different "circles" and asked for their help. I also had guests that couldn't make my grand opening show, book...so don't forget to ask for that when they rsvp or when you make those reminder calls.Share your excitement .... and they'll be excited too!!!:love:
 
I wouldn't call people who you've already spoken with about your party. At least not the ones who are planning to come. I'd try to brainstorm a new list of 100. Maybe you'll come up w/ names of people you forgot about or had assumed wouldn't be interested. Contact those people. Try to make contacts when you are out and about. The store, the post office, Dr.'s office, etc.
 
I might approach a friend who was coming to the party like this...."Suzy, I am so excited about starting with The Pampered Chef and am glad that you have been so supportive. I really need a friendly face in the audience since I don't know what I'm talking about. I also really need to be able to meet people outside of my circle of friends and hope that you'll be willing to host a show for me. All you have to do is invite everyone you know (hopefully a few I DON'T know) and then clean the house (isn't that the only way the house ever gets cleaned?). Then, you'll earn lots of free products that you can use for your own kitchen or as gifts. So, while your in the audience at my show, imagine me in front of your friends (list some specific people that you know of). Oh, if you want to skip my party or just come and not order, that's fine. You booking a party for me (or becoming a consultant WITH me) would be the biggest way to help me." Anticipate her resistance and say it straight up front. "I know George hates to put the kids to bed so if you want to slip away for a few minutes and do that at your show that's fine." or "Since you're saving for xxxxx, don't worry about ordering at my show. Just hold off and earn it free."Good luck.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I approach friends about hosting a Pampered Chef party without feeling awkward?

Start by expressing your excitement about the products and how they can benefit your friends. Share your personal experiences and invite them to join you for a fun gathering. Emphasize that it's a casual get-together rather than a sales pitch, which can help ease any pressure they might feel.

What if my friends are hesitant to host a party?

It's common for friends to feel hesitant. Offer to answer any questions they might have and reassure them that hosting can be a fun and low-pressure experience. You can also suggest alternative formats, like a virtual party, which may feel less intimidating.

How do I handle rejection from friends when asking them to host?

Rejection is a normal part of direct sales. If a friend declines, thank them for considering it and let them know you appreciate their honesty. Keep the door open for future conversations, as they may be interested later on, or they might refer you to someone else who would be interested.

What are some tips for making my friends feel comfortable during a party?

Create a relaxed atmosphere by keeping the focus on fun and connection rather than sales. Encourage interaction, provide snacks and drinks, and engage everyone in the activities. Make sure to highlight the benefits of the products naturally, without pressure.

How can I balance my sales goals with maintaining friendships?

Prioritize your friendships by ensuring that your sales efforts do not overshadow your personal relationships. Be respectful of their boundaries and interests. Focus on building genuine connections and offer value, which can lead to more organic sales opportunities without compromising your friendships.

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