Convincing Hosts: Selling Isn't Required, Let's Talk!

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores the experiences of participants who have transitioned from Mary Kay (MK) to Pampered Chef (PC) and discusses the perceptions of selling within both companies. Participants share their views on the differences between the two business models and the appeal of PC for potential consultants.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions that they believe PC products sell themselves and that selling is not a requirement.
  • Another participant shares their experience contrasting MK and PC, noting that MK requires inventory purchases and has a different commission structure.
  • Several users mention that PC allows for a more casual environment compared to MK, where there are expectations for attire and attendance fees.
  • One participant highlights that the nature of PC parties, centered around food, attracts a broader audience compared to MK parties focused on makeup and skincare.
  • Another participant expresses satisfaction with the lack of inventory requirements in PC, emphasizing that it reduces financial risk.
  • One participant notes that their experience with MK was less successful, while they have found greater success with PC, suggesting that the latter is a better fit for them.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the differences between MK and PC, particularly regarding inventory and the selling process. However, individual experiences vary, and no clear consensus emerges on whether one model is definitively better than the other.

Contextual Notes

Many participants draw from personal experiences in both MK and PC, providing insights into their motivations and the environments of each company.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants considering transitioning from MK to PC or those interested in understanding the differences between the two business models may find this discussion relevant.

winklermom
Messages
512
I've got a host that I think would make a wonderful consultant but when I mentioned it to her, she replied that she tried MK once and didn't do any good because she can't "sell." Now, I don't feel like I have to "sell" anything...our products absolutely sells themselves.

For those who have experience in both, what would you say to this host?
 
winklermom said:
I've got a host that I think would make a wonderful consultant but when I mentioned it to her, she replied that she tried MK once and didn't do any good because she can't "sell." Now, I don't feel like I have to "sell" anything...our products absolutely sells themselves.

For those who have experience in both, what would you say to this host?

The one thing I say to combat that is, "Now, I am not familiar with how Mary Kay is run but I do know my experience with PC is a very positive one. I find it's very easy to share (key word here) the products with any person, of any age and gender, because everyone eats and every home has a kitchen."

Then...wait for their response and go from there.
 
First, you need to point out that the companies are VASTLY different.

Visit the links that show up under the relevent threads list below to read other threads about this subject.
 
Do a search for Mk and you'll find lots of responses. I'm a former Mk consultant who lost her shirt in the biz b/c my recruiter had me buy a BIG inventory that I just couldn't get sold. You're always having to buy the newest products and in my experience the recruiter didn't care if I ever sold something b/c she got "paid" when I purchased inventory. I "sold" for 2 years and had 4 parties! I've been with PC 4 years and have done 360+ shows (catalog included).

Our companies and commission plans are completely different. I'm very successful with my PC biz and have to say that in the beginning everyone in my circle didn't know if this would work since the other failed but it did!

She has nothing to lose if she tries this out. No inventory, no one asking to purchase more "things" for her biz. All she needs is the kit! No deliveries. No host/guest specials to figure or come out of her pocket.

Best of luck!
 
About the "selling" part, something to keep in mind is that when people get invited to a MK party, it's a very specific thing. Makeup and skin care. Some people just won't go because they already are loyal to a MK rep or another skin care line or they don't wear makeup. With PC, everyone can come. Some people won't because they don't like to go to DS parties or they'd rather shop at Walmart, but you find more people willing to host and go because it's about food, saving time in the kitchen, and learning a recipe and having fun eating and visiting w/ friends. The recipe and you using the tools, them seeing them in action and sharing experiences w/ them, plus the catalog is what sells PC.
 
Biggest draw..no inventory and you do not go out of pocket in order to make money...
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Great responses! Thanks, everyone!
 
I have an ex-MK consultant thinking about joining. She was very surprised when I told her that we do not pay for the host's gifts, ie, free, 1/2-priced and discounted products, or the guest free gift. She did with MK. Also, some MK cluster meet once a week and are very pressured to attend every week.
 
cookingwithlove said:
I have an ex-MK consultant thinking about joining. She was very surprised when I told her that we do not pay for the host's gifts, ie, free, 1/2-priced and discounted products, or the guest free gift. She did with MK. Also, some MK cluster meet once a week and are very pressured to attend every week.[/QUOTE]

And we had to pay to attend weekly + dress in a suit and full makeup. I love being casual at my PC mtgs. + we don't charge you to attend!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
flemings99 said:
And we had to pay to attend weekly + dress in a suit and full makeup. I love being casual at my PC mtgs. + we don't charge you to attend!!

Oh, man! I'm so glad we aren't expected to dress like this or have to pay!!! I absolutely LOVE PC!!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
I just talked to her and two other potential recruits and they are all talking like they will attend our next cluster meeting this coming Monday! Wahoo!!!
 
Awesome!!!!
 
My recruiter sold MK before PC and likes PC so much better!

I sold jewelry before PC and I so agree!

And though the commission here is lower than both programs, both of us make a lot more money with PC because I always say, "10 percent of nothing is nothing." In other words, if I'm selling more I'm making more money. If she didn't do well with MK then it apparently was not the program for her!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #14
Intrepid_Chef said:
If she didn't do well with MK then it apparently was not the program for her!

Agreed! She's a stay-at-home mom so this would be a perfect fit for her. I'm just hoping she'll agree and want to sign.
 
flemings99 said:
And we had to pay to attend weekly + dress in a suit and full makeup. I love being casual at my PC mtgs. + we don't charge you to attend!!

When I found out about that, I never went to a local meeting (my director is in Washington)...
 
i have tryed mary kay before i found pampered chef. I did ok for the first few months but thatn it kida went down hill. For what i can say i am so glad i did join pc becuse of the great benifets thatthey have to offer and how simple the book work is for pc. If i could go back and start all over again i would now choose pc right fom the start.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean when you say "selling isn't required" for hosts?

When we say "selling isn't required," we mean that hosts can enjoy the benefits of hosting a Pampered Chef party without feeling pressured to sell products themselves. The focus is on sharing the experience with friends and family, enjoying cooking demonstrations, and earning rewards based on the sales generated by their guests, rather than having to sell items directly.

How can I convince potential hosts that they don't need to sell?

To convince potential hosts, emphasize the fun and social aspects of hosting a Pampered Chef party. Highlight that they can simply invite friends for a cooking demonstration and enjoy the experience without the pressure of selling. Share success stories of past hosts who had a great time and earned rewards without feeling like they had to push products.

What rewards can hosts earn if they don’t have to sell?

Hosts can earn various rewards such as discounts on products, free items based on the total sales from their party, and exclusive host-only products. The more guests that attend and purchase, the more rewards the host can earn, making it a win-win situation without the need for direct selling.

How do I address concerns about inviting friends to a party?

Address concerns by reassuring potential hosts that the party is meant to be a fun gathering rather than a sales pitch. Encourage them to focus on the social aspect and the opportunity to try new recipes together. Remind them that their friends will appreciate the chance to learn about new kitchen tools and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

What if a host feels uncomfortable with the idea of hosting?

If a host feels uncomfortable, it's important to listen to their concerns and provide support. Offer to help them plan the party, provide tips on how to make it enjoyable, and reassure them that they can set the tone for the event. Remind them that they can simply enjoy the time with friends and let you handle the product presentation.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

  • wadesgirl
  • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
6
Views
2K
The_Kitchen_Guy
  • wadesgirl
  • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
23
Views
3K
babywings76
Replies
10
Views
2K
kdangel518
  • PCJen
  • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
16
Views
2K
pcchefjane
  • winklermom
  • Recruiting and Team Leaders
Replies
17
Views
3K
Hunter Mom
  • TheFreddiesCook
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
8
Views
3K
gailz2
  • Chef Kearns
  • General Pampered Chef Chat
2 3 4 5
Replies
148
Views
12K
RitaKey
  • tiffanypc05
  • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
15
Views
2K
tiffanypc05
  • Tams
  • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
11
Views
2K
lesliec
Replies
7
Views
2K
jrstephens
Back
Top