Do Mailings Really Help Get Bookings/ Orders

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the effectiveness of mailing catalogs to generate bookings and orders in the context of Pampered Chef businesses. Participants share their personal experiences and strategies regarding mailings and follow-ups.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, questions the success of mailing out catalogs to old customers for generating bookings or online purchases.
  • Another participant shares their experience of spending money on stamps for mailings but not seeing any results, suggesting that follow-up is crucial.
  • Several users mention that mailings are more effective when followed up with phone calls, indicating a preference for a more personal approach.
  • One participant notes that consistent communication with "preferred customers" through emails and seasonal catalogs has led to some orders and bookings.
  • Another participant expresses skepticism, stating that mass mailings generally do not yield positive results based on feedback from their cluster.
  • One user highlights that mass mailings typically have low response rates and emphasizes the importance of follow-up to improve effectiveness.
  • Another participant mentions that their mailing efforts to interested individuals are ongoing, indicating a commitment to follow-up.
  • Several participants reiterate the idea of mailing only a manageable number of catalogs at a time to facilitate follow-up.
  • One participant reminds others about the rising costs of postage, suggesting that frequent mailers should consider stocking up on stamps.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the effectiveness of mailings. While some find success with follow-up strategies, others believe that mass mailings do not work well.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a range of personal experiences and strategies related to mailing catalogs and following up with potential customers within the Pampered Chef community.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on mailing strategies and follow-up practices may find the shared experiences relevant to their own business efforts.

amand221
Messages
8
I started my Pampered Chef business back in the Fall and was wondering if mailing out the small New Products catalog to all my old customers would really result in bookings and/or online purchases. Have people had much success with these types of mailings? Just curious.

~Amanda
 
You have to follow up with every single mailing. I must have spent about $40 in stamps, I did some follow ups, but nothing ever became of it. HTH
 
Mail only those items you plan to follow-up with a phone call. . .or it's likely a waste of time, effort and postage. That's why some people just mail out a few at a time.

Mail 20 catalogs (or a number that is comfortable for you) in one week and call those people the next week when you are mailing out the next 20. If you do this, I think you'll find a great deal of success!
 
Mine do result in orders and occasionally a booking, but I think it's because I'm in front of my "preferred customers" all the time - I send a monthly email, I send my past hosts the new product mini catalog each season (every 6 months) and I keep in touch when big promotions come out. It's all about consistency and the follow-up, like Vanessa said. You may not see results immediately, but down the road, it could pay off big time.
 
Nope... I've heard (from folks in my cluster) that mass mailings of any kind just don't work.
 
The only time a mailing works is when it is followed up with a phone call.

Marketers who mass-mail know that there is a 2-3% response to a mass mailing - those aren't good percentages when what you are doing isn't really that mass to begin with!
 
chefjeanine said:
Mail only those items you plan to follow-up with a phone call. . .or it's likely a waste of time, effort and postage. That's why some people just mail out a few at a time.

Mail 20 catalogs (or a number that is comfortable for you) in one week and call those people the next week when you are mailing out the next 20. If you do this, I think you'll find a great deal of success!


That is a good system for following up.
 
They only work if you put the effort back into it. I mailed out mini catalogs to every on my "follow-up" list along with the March and April specials. I'm still working on following up with them. These were people who were interested in having party but wanted me to check back with them.
 
Just a reminder... Postage is going up! If you do these types of mailings frequently you'll want to stock up on the forever stamps!!
 
chefjeanine said:
Mail only those items you plan to follow-up with a phone call. . .or it's likely a waste of time, effort and postage. That's why some people just mail out a few at a time.

Mail 20 catalogs (or a number that is comfortable for you) in one week and call those people the next week when you are mailing out the next 20. If you do this, I think you'll find a great deal of success!

That's a great system!!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do mailings really help get bookings and orders?

Yes, mailings can be an effective way to generate bookings and orders. They allow you to reach potential customers directly and provide them with information about your products, promotions, and upcoming events.

What type of mailings are most effective for getting bookings?

Personalized invitations to cooking shows, product catalogs, and promotional flyers tend to be the most effective. Including a personal touch, such as a handwritten note, can also increase engagement and response rates.

How often should I send mailings to my customers?

It's best to send mailings regularly but not too frequently. A good rule of thumb is to send out mailings once a month, with special promotions or event invitations sent as needed. This keeps your business top-of-mind without overwhelming your customers.

Can digital mailings be as effective as physical mailings?

Yes, digital mailings, such as emails and social media messages, can be very effective. They are often more cost-efficient and can reach a larger audience quickly. However, combining both digital and physical mailings can maximize your outreach.

What should I include in my mailings to encourage bookings?

Include enticing offers, product highlights, and clear calls to action. You can also add testimonials, upcoming event details, and a personal note to make the mailing feel more engaging and inviting.

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