Boost Bookings: Turning a Bounced Check into a Booked Show

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various personal experiences and strategies related to handling a bounced check from a guest and the potential for booking a show. Participants share their thoughts on how to approach the situation with empathy while also considering the possibility of turning the incident into a booking opportunity.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their experience of a guest who bounced a check and expresses a desire to turn the situation into a booking opportunity while being light-hearted in their approach.
  • Another participant suggests using humor and empathy, emphasizing the ease of forgetting about spending at a party and highlighting potential savings from hosting a show.
  • One user expresses caution, stating they would avoid embarrassing the guest and treat them like any other interested party, focusing on the positive aspects of hosting a show.
  • A participant recounts a similar situation where the issue was due to the bank's error, advocating for empathy and understanding rather than assumptions about the guest's financial situation.
  • Another participant mentions their practice of passing the fee onto the customer, noting that other businesses typically charge higher fees for bounced checks.
  • One user agrees that it’s best to avoid making the guest feel worse and suggests politely asking for the fee before later discussing hosting a show.
  • A participant emphasizes the importance of expressing appreciation for the guest's honesty and allowing them the space to decide on booking a show.
  • One user shares their email communication with the guest, indicating a desire to maintain a positive relationship while addressing the bounced check issue.
  • Another participant praises the approach of maintaining a positive spirit without blame, suggesting it would encourage them to book a show.
  • A participant reflects on the challenges of redepositing the check and the potential embarrassment for the guest if it bounces again, highlighting the personal connection made with the guest.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on how to approach the situation, with some participants advocating for a light-hearted and empathetic approach, while others emphasize the importance of not embarrassing the guest or making assumptions about their financial situation. No clear consensus emerges on the best method to handle the situation.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal anecdotes and experiences related to bounced checks and booking shows, reflecting a range of feelings about how to navigate such situations delicately.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on handling sensitive financial situations with guests and exploring ways to encourage bookings in a respectful manner may find this discussion relevant.

beepampered
beepampered
Messages
1,143
I have a guest who bounced a check. She called immediately when she found out (before I knew) with deep apologies and saying to redeposit it. Thankfully, my credit union is only charging $5 for a fee. She would probably pay if I asked her. However, I really want her to book a show. She was hesitant to book a show but partially willing so there is a chance. I don't have a phone number.

Can someone think of a light-hearted way to say...."you caused me pay and suffering and a $5 fee so can I guilt you into booking a show?" I'm emailing her anyway to verify that the money is there since it's been a few weeks.

Thanks for helping me be cleverly persuasive.....
 
I would laugh it off for her- "I know I have "forgotten" that I wrote a check to someone and nearly bounced it... I know how easy it is to forget that you spent/ overspent at a PC party, don't we ALL love the items?? I'm just thankful my bank only chagred a $5 fee, I can't imagine what yours might have been!! How would you feel about hosting a show with a simple recipe with a few ingredients where you could even buy Christmas/Holiday gifts for your friends with your discount and save some money..." you know try to be nice, obviously she cared enough to call you first, but emphasize the saving money-- because it was obviously tight for her this time around...
 
Hmmm. Not sure what I'd say. That's a tough one for me. I'd be afraid of embarrassing her further by mentioning her spending habits or budget. I think I'd just treat her the same as anyone expressing possible interest in booking a show. Maybe I'd say something like "Thank you so much for letting me know right away about the check. My bank thankfully only charged a $5 fee, did your bank charge you anything? So glad it got resolved. I just wanted to thank you for your order. I know you'll just love your (product name). Would you like me to send you some recipes that will utilize it? You know, I'd love to pamper you and your friends sometime and give you the opportunity to get free products. How would you like to book a September show and get stoneware and bakeware on sale?!"Maybe? :)
 
I'd go more with Amanda's approach.

I had a similar situation. She had already booked. She called me before I knew her check had bounced. I would not assume the person is tight on funds. In my host's case, money that was supposed to be transferred into her account on a regular basis was not and it caused all sorts of problems for her. It was her bank's fault (maybe the funds had been transferred but they did not make them available? can't remember exactly) and they offered to pay any fees she incurred. That's why I agree with Amanda's approach of empathizing and going from there.

Becca
 
I always pass along the fee to the customer. Any other store would charge $20-30. My bank charges me $10 and I charge the customer that when I pick up a new check from them. If you want her to book, call her and ask her. It has nothing to do with her check.
 
Deb is right. There is no point in rubbing salt in the wound.
In fact, since she pointed it out to you, she at this point will deal with you. Ask her politly to pay the fee. And be done with it. Wait a bit then contact her about hosting. If you go at her in any of the above manners, I would not blame her for never dealing with you again. I would be too mortified.
 
I'd just be ok with it, and thank her for being so concientious to call you first. Tell her "I so appreciate that". And let it go. If she wants to book, she will. If you give her permission NOT to be embarassed you will be fine
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
Below is the email I sent last night. She hasn't responded. I don't have a phone call and won't pursue the $5. I now understand why companies charge an additional fee for bounced checks. It's a pain and if I don't get the $5 from her my profit margin is WAY down on her order. Even if I DO get the money, I have to worry about my account being correct and redeposit the check. The email I sent is loaded with info so it probably isn't the best way to go about it but I wanted to get it all at once.....".....I hope you are enjoying your Pampered Chef products you got at Kathy’s show. I’m attaching some baking uses for your new batter bowl. Thank you so much for letting me know right away about the check. I just got the letter from my bank and will be depositing later this week if all is clear with your account??? (we stopped using debit cards cause it was too hard for us to keep up with.) Thankfully my credit union only charged a $5 fee which I would gladly waive if you host a show!I also am sending the specials for Sept and Oct to hopefully entice you to host a show. It’s really fun and quite simple.Enjoy!"
 
Absolutey perfect. No blame, no shame. And a good spirit to it.
Heck, I would book with you!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
I redeposited the check today with great fuss at the bank. Kinda weird since I would think a bounced check isn't that uncommon. Hope it doesn't bounce a second time or she will be too embarassed to see me. Thanks Jon for your comments. She was so nice - we had kids the same age so I really bonded with her.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the concept of "Boost Bookings: Turning a Bounced Check into a Booked Show"?

The concept revolves around using the situation of a bounced check as an opportunity to engage with your customers and turn a negative experience into a positive one. By addressing the issue directly and offering solutions, you can encourage the customer to book a show, thereby increasing your sales and bookings.

How should I approach a customer whose check has bounced?

Approach the customer with empathy and understanding. Contact them privately and express that you noticed the check didn’t clear. Offer to discuss the situation and suggest alternatives, such as accepting a different payment method or scheduling a show to help them earn free products, which can turn the situation into a win-win.

What are some effective ways to encourage bookings after a bounced check?

After addressing the bounced check, you can encourage bookings by highlighting the benefits of hosting a show, such as earning free products, exclusive discounts, and having fun with friends. Share success stories from other hosts and offer incentives, like a special gift for booking a show within a certain timeframe.

How can I prevent bounced checks in the future?

To prevent bounced checks, consider implementing a few strategies: always confirm the customer's payment method before the transaction, offer multiple payment options (like credit cards or digital payments), and communicate your payment policies clearly. Additionally, you can set a limit on the amount you accept via check from new customers until you build trust.

What should I do if a customer is upset about the bounced check?

If a customer is upset, it's crucial to listen to their concerns and validate their feelings. Apologize for any inconvenience caused and reassure them that you are there to help. Offer solutions and emphasize the positive aspects of hosting a show, making sure they feel valued and appreciated throughout the process.

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