Do You Get Anxiety Before a Show?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the feelings of anxiety and nervousness that participants experience before hosting cooking shows. Many share their personal experiences and coping mechanisms related to pre-show jitters, as well as concerns about attendance and sales.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses significant anxiety before a show, worrying about attendance and sales, particularly with a small guest list.
  • Another participant shares that they feel nervous, especially after a long break between shows, noting that their first show after a hiatus is particularly anxiety-inducing.
  • Several users mention that they often feel more relaxed and perform better when they enjoy the process rather than focusing solely on sales.
  • One participant notes that they have learned to view their nervousness as excitement, likening their role to that of a performer.
  • Another participant shares that despite feeling nervous, they find comfort in the support from the community and the enjoyment of cooking.
  • Some participants mention that they still experience anxiety even after years of hosting shows, indicating that it is a common feeling among consultants.
  • One participant reflects on the unpredictability of sales, sharing experiences of both successful and less successful shows regardless of the number of attendees.
  • Another participant discusses the internal struggle with self-esteem and the impact it has on their confidence before shows.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the extent of anxiety experienced, with some participants feeling it strongly while others have found ways to manage or reduce their nervousness. No clear consensus emerges regarding the best approach to handling pre-show anxiety.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a range of experiences, from being new consultants to those with more experience, highlighting the varied nature of anxiety in relation to hosting cooking shows.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to Pampered Chef consultants who experience anxiety before shows and are looking for relatable experiences and insights from their peers.

babywings76
Gold Member
Messages
7,266
I tell ya, I sure do! I have a show tonight and I've been worrying about it for 2 days. I'm so nervous. I feel like I want it to be fun and informative, but I want good sales so I'm afraid I'll end up coming off desperate! I NEED bookings! But my host only has 5 people coming and only 1 outside order. I told her I'd mail her invites and she only gave me 2 names!!! She insisting on inviting her friends as she saw them. She's in mom's groups, Bunco, book club, etc. Man-the possibilities were so there! Now I'm afraid with the small turnout, she'll hardly qualify as a show! I need to have good sales at this show. I'm so worried....

And, do I mention the recruiting incentive during closing? Or just a general recruiting message, and follow up at check out? I mean, really, the promo ends Sunday, that would be pretty pressured.

And this is the last show on my calendar until NOVEMBER!! Aahh! My leads are drying up!
 
I get nervous... especially when it's been a while since I've done a cooking show...
I haven't had a cooking show since May and my first one is Sept 11... close to 4 months ni the middle!!!!!
 
I get nervous...especially if it's been a while, or I feel it "needs" to go well!

But...the shows where I am relaxed and enjoy myself usually go WAY better!

Now my first show was almost comical...I was so nervous that my VOICE SHOOK!
 
I don't get as nervous as I did at first, but I still get a little flutter. I prefer to think of it as excitement.People who perform for a living or for a hobby know that most performers get nervous before a performance. It's part of what helps them to do a good job, to keep sharp. What we're doing is basically performing, so it makes sense that we'd get a little flutter, even if it's been a while.
 
babywings76 said:
I tell ya, I sure do! I have a show tonight and I've been worrying about it for 2 days. I'm so nervous. I feel like I want it to be fun and informative, but I want good sales so I'm afraid I'll end up coming off desperate! I NEED bookings! But my host only has 5 people coming and only 1 outside order. I told her I'd mail her invites and she only gave me 2 names!!! She insisting on inviting her friends as she saw them. She's in mom's groups, Bunco, book club, etc. Man-the possibilities were so there! Now I'm afraid with the small turnout, she'll hardly qualify as a show! I need to have good sales at this show. I'm so worried....

And, do I mention the recruiting incentive during closing? Or just a general recruiting message, and follow up at check out? I mean, really, the promo ends Sunday, that would be pretty pressured.

And this is the last show on my calendar until NOVEMBER!! Aahh! My leads are drying up!
why does your host only have 5 people coming? was it a bad time or was that all she planned on inviting. honestly, don't think I would have taken on the show for that few people.

but, let's get to the nervousness. I've been doing this for almost a year and I still get nervous. Can't help it. Want everything to go well. But remember that there are only 6 people who you are talking to. I had only one show in June and things were very slow. Felt out of touch with PC so I watched the cooking show dvd and did a few of the online courses again to refresh my memory. Then I went in to the show thinking, whatever happens, happens.:)

I think the best thing you can do is to tell them that you are still new to this and nervous. People will empathize with you. Tell them about the fabulous support pc and its consultants have given you and how you got started, ...

With that few people you can really get them involved even more in the cooking process. Food Network at your door as some say. Recruiting for the special might be tough but you can still mention it. Good luck!!
 
I get anxiety for a day or so leading up to it and then the day of...youd think after 2 yrs id be ok,,, but nope! I get the same!
 
I don't get nervous anymore. I keep things simple and streamlined by doing the same recipe whenever possible, so I have that part down. :) Then like Kelly said, I just have fun and relax.
 
I still do too. Funny thing is, I work so hard for the booking, and as I'm getting ready I'm thinking "I don't wanna go!" But when I get there, I feel better. I think it's because I'm always apprehensive about the number of guests and the type of people there.
 
doughmama said:
why does your host only have 5 people coming? was it a bad time or was that all she planned on inviting. honestly, don't think I would have taken on the show for that few people.

You never know! I've had 4 people present with great sales and 10 people present with crappy sales.
 
linojackie said:
I still do too. Funny thing is, I work so hard for the booking, and as I'm getting ready I'm thinking "I don't wanna go!" But when I get there, I feel better. I think it's because I'm always apprehensive about the number of guests and the type of people there.

I do the SAME THING!! Drives me NUTS about myself! I think part of my problem is still self esteem and feeling like I don't "deserve" to do well at this. Just my little gremlin on my shoulder talking me down!
 
I am a newbie too...after my first 2 shows where I must have sounded like a nut case I put this new concept into my mind.

I LOVE to entertain and I LOVE to cook. I love to show off my cookie too (I LOVE the flattery!!!) So, as I am preparing the recipe either alone or with the help of the group I just imagine that I am with a group of friends and we are chit chatting it up.

I had a show last week with 6 people.... 800+ in sales and 3 bookings...I think it is because we were JUST COOKN'!

Hope this helps just a little
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you get anxiety before a Pampered Chef show?

Yes, it's common to feel some anxiety before a show. Many consultants experience this, especially if they are new to direct sales or public speaking. However, with practice and preparation, this anxiety can be managed effectively.

What are some tips to reduce anxiety before a show?

To reduce anxiety, try practicing your presentation multiple times, visualizing a successful show, and breathing exercises to calm your nerves. Additionally, arriving early to set up and familiarize yourself with the space can help you feel more comfortable.

Is it normal to feel nervous even after several shows?

Absolutely! Even experienced consultants can feel nervous before a show. It's a natural response to wanting to perform well and connect with your audience. Embracing these feelings can help you channel that energy into a positive experience.

How can I build confidence for my shows?

Building confidence comes with experience. Start by knowing your products well, practicing your presentation, and engaging with your audience. Joining a supportive community of other Pampered Chef consultants can also provide encouragement and tips to boost your confidence.

What should I do if my anxiety becomes overwhelming?

If your anxiety feels overwhelming, consider talking to someone about it, whether it's a mentor, friend, or a mental health professional. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or even professional coaching can help you develop strategies to manage anxiety effectively.

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