Can I Ask for Host Materials Back When They Cancel the Show?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the experiences and opinions of participants regarding the practice of requesting host materials back when a show is canceled. Participants share their personal approaches and the outcomes they have encountered in similar situations.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions asking for materials back but rarely receiving them.
  • Another participant shares their experience of using recyclable host packs and indicates that asking for materials back could be seen as petty if not communicated beforehand.
  • Several users note that they use nicer folders and ask for unused materials to be returned, emphasizing the investment in the materials.
  • One participant states they ask hosts to return materials to give to the next person taking the date, aiming to avoid sounding petty.
  • Another participant mentions that hosts who have previously hosted often return leftover materials, but some do not return packets even after requests.
  • One participant expresses a strong stance against asking for materials back, suggesting that maintaining a positive relationship with hosts is more valuable than the cost of materials.
  • Another participant shares that they do not ask for materials back and instead encourage hosts to keep them as a reminder to reschedule their show.
  • One participant describes a shift in their approach, stating they stopped asking for materials back due to low return rates and the realization that hosts often do not engage with the materials.
  • Another participant mentions recycling folders and the importance of ensuring hosts look through the packet contents.
  • One participant reflects on the need for improved host coaching to ensure hosts engage with the materials provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ significantly among participants regarding whether to ask for materials back, with some advocating for the practice and others opposing it. No clear consensus emerges on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a range of experiences, highlighting the varying levels of investment in host materials and the impact of host engagement on their practices.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights into handling host materials and managing relationships with hosts may find the shared experiences relevant.

Y
Yakmama
Messages
199
When someone backs out of a show, do you ask them to send you back the materials you mailed them?

I have a host that I called to confirm her show date. I then sent her a packet of materials- it was $4 shipping and about $4 worth of materials. She canceled her show a couple of days later with no explanation. Should I nicely ask her for the materials back?
 
I do but rarely receive it back. Good luck. Maybe if she lives close enough you can pick it up? I also have quite an investment in my host packets. My shipping is usually $4.95 Priority Mail plus the contents.
 
My former Director used to ask for them back. She used to use recyclable host packs, binders with page protectors. It was a little more obvious that there was some money in the pack (for the binder, etc.) than host packs that are in paper envelopes or folders. She also indicated in her "thanks for hosting" letter that the host would be responsible for returning it if they cancelled. If you hadn't indicated in previously that the host would have to return your materials, then asking for them now could be interpreted by some as a petty retaliation.
 
I also use the nicer plastic folders with page protectors. In addition, I put a sticker on the inside left flap that they are welcome to remove any materials they wish but I recycle my folders for future hosts and ask for the unused materials to be returned to me. Some hosts just don't get it or they could care less. I figure I have close to $5 in folder and supplied materials plus the $4.95 shipping.
 
If a host cancels I usually just ask them if they would mind sending it back so I can give it to the person that takes their date. That way I don't sound petty and if they send it back - great! I don't get them back though!
 
Hosts who have hosted shows give me back the leftovers. I had a host cancel for the second time and she kept each host packet even after I asked for it back! Ugh!
 
I would NEVER ask for the material back in the hope of having it around the host's home and remind her to rebook. When my hosts cancel, I always tell them to let me know when they are ready for a party and keep sending the monthly host special electronically. What are a few bucks of shipping and material compared to the possibility of a show? You got to spend money to make money!!!!! That's my practice anyway!
 
I don't ask for them back... I have them keep them as a reminder for them to reschedule their show (most of my hosts who have cancelled do reschedule) and I just send them updated host/guest specials and OOF's. The rest of the packet they keep. I use the cheap colored folders you buy at back to school time for $0.05/piece and everything else is just printed on regular paper, so no great expense to me. The only true investment is the shipping and the recruiting info I put in there, but even that is not very expensive.
 
I always had problems getting my host stuff back so I stopped doing it. I simply send 5 catalogs, I put one each of the upcoming host benefits flyer and one guest special flyer in each catalog and 10 order forms and invites. All disposible. Why throw out money when you only have a 50/50 chance of gettingit back? Besides, I also found out that my hosts were not going through them. It was easy to figure this out as I had tucked in a special blurb abotu a small incentive gift near the back of the binder. No one, and I mean no one in three years ever claimed the bonus product!
 
I have done this on occasion, and I usually send 4 or 5 catalogs 1 time I got 2 catalogs back and no folder. I do recycle my folders and I like the idea of putting that in the host letter. I have also found out that some hosts don't even open it up as well. When I call I mention for them to look inside the packet for all the info!
 
I know for me I need to get better at host coaching. One of the things Belinda Elsworth says to do is say to the host, "Now grab your host packet and we'll go through this together." I think we just assume because we mail it the will read it. I'm very guilty of this - because I would read it if it was sent to me:)! I've done shows before and I go through all of the info.

I need to get much better at host coaching! My goal for this fall!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ask for host materials back when they cancel the show?

Yes, you can ask for host materials back when a show is canceled. It is important to communicate with your host and explain that you need the materials for future shows or events.

What types of host materials should I ask for?

You should ask for any physical items you provided to the host, such as catalogs, order forms, and any promotional materials. If you provided any products for demonstration, you should also request those back.

How should I approach the host about returning materials?

Approach the host politely and express your understanding of their situation. Let them know that you appreciate their efforts and would like to retrieve the materials to prepare for future shows.

What if the host is reluctant to return the materials?

If the host is hesitant, remind them that these materials are essential for your business and that you would be happy to assist them in rescheduling their show in the future.

Are there any policies regarding host materials in Pampered Chef?

While specific policies may vary, it is generally understood within Pampered Chef that host materials are the property of the consultant. Always refer to your consultant agreement or reach out to your upline for guidance on handling such situations.

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