Feeling Overwhelmed? Tips for Hosting a Successful Show

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various experiences and strategies related to securing bookings at Pampered Chef shows. Participants share their personal insights on challenges faced and methods used to encourage guests to host their own shows.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, noted that despite a successful show with good sales, they struggled to secure bookings, prompting questions about follow-up strategies.
  • Another participant suggested the use of a booking game and providing incentives to the host to encourage bookings.
  • Several users mentioned the importance of directly asking guests about their interest in hosting shows and ensuring the host understands the benefits of hosting.
  • One participant shared their experience of having success by clarifying that bookings could be scheduled within six months, which helped them secure multiple bookings.
  • Another participant expressed that larger shows often result in fewer bookings due to distractions among guests.
  • One consultant discussed the effectiveness of follow-up calls and offering referral incentives to encourage bookings.
  • Another participant highlighted the importance of creating a fun atmosphere and providing reasons beyond free products to entice guests to book shows.
  • One user mentioned a specific strategy of holding a booking blitz during shows to incentivize immediate bookings.
  • A new participant inquired about the "Booking Game," indicating a desire to learn more about this strategy.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of various strategies for securing bookings, with no clear consensus on the best approach. Some participants emphasize the importance of follow-up and incentives, while others focus on the dynamics of larger shows affecting bookings.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences from their shows, reflecting a range of outcomes and strategies without implying any official guidance from Pampered Chef.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for Pampered Chef consultants seeking to enhance their booking strategies and learn from the experiences of others in the community.

C
cewcooks
Messages
552
At my last show the host had over $100 in outside orders and 12 guests at the show, I did the three pile method, and no one wants to do a show:mad: What should I do? the show will be open for a few more days so I have a chance, but do I contact guests or ask the host who she thinks might want to do a show, I was surprised being that the show was good in sales and everyone loved the power cooking, not sure where I went wrong:cry: :cry:
 
Did you play a booking game? Always do if you didn't. You could give the host an extra incentive to get bookings. When the products come in, do an out of the box call and see if anyone wants to do a show and ask for referrals.
 
Did you ask each person if they were interested? Also, making sure the host understands HER benefit can help too. Sometimes...crazy as it seems...bookings can be harder at larger shows b/c they are so distracted by each other. Do what the above says or if you didn't ask at the show, the do calls now to thanks them for coming and that you wanted to make sure the host receives all of the benefits she should and wanted to make sure you had all interested people on your calendar so she gets credit.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
I did not play a booking game, I played other games, but next time I will. I did ask each and every guest, but they all said no thank you, the host is already getting $115 in free products what other incentives should I offer?
 
I wouldn't offer anything other than what The Pampered Chef offers. I have found that the big shows get fewer bookings. As you do other shows and make customer service calls ask people again, but ask them if they know anyone who would be interested in having a show if they say "no". Ask the host w/o bookings the same thing.
 
When people say "no, thank you" I always ask "no, not now or no, not ever". Usually people think they have to book within 4 weeks or something. I have been having great success with bookings by saying "Just so you know, HOST will receive the booking benefit for any show booked within the next 6 months" Then I explain that we have to put in a date today but it can always be changed later. Now today it didn't work so well but I still got 1 booking at my show. Lately I've been getting up to 4 bookings at my shows.
 
I just did a bridal show that no one in the bridal party wanted to book at because of the chaos of upcoming wedding plans. So I talked about HWC and April shows....got them to book the later dates.
 
Ditto on the part about big shows can typically = no bookings. I've found that those that can spend the $$$ don't really have a reason to book if all I mention is free stuff, or 1/2 price stuff. So....I also mention deck parties, couples parties, etc. Give them a reason to get together with friends. It's not all about the free stuff to some people (to me, those are weird people because I'm ALLLLL about the free stuff!!! :D) But I digress...... doing the big mac's has worked for me too. I simply call them, tell them what I great time I had meeting them, let them know that the show will be closing out in "x" days and then ask them if they had any questions about the PC opportunity that they didn't have a chance to ask? Then after that, I always tell them that I would LOVE to have a show with them because they are so fun (insert whatever compliment here) and ask them if they had thought about getting some friends together for a blank show? Good luck!!
 
If they seem hestitant now, I always ask if I can follow up with them later. That way it's not always just "no". Also ask for referalls. Make little cards that entitle them to something (10% off their next order, $20 credit - I always give them the discount at the referall's show), and let them know if they know of someone who books a show with you, you'll give them X.
 
Try your own "booking blitz" - whomever books a show AT THE SHOW gets put into a draw - the winner get either the Salad or new Grilling cookbook, which, of course, gets put in their order at their show (so you can use their discount). 2-3 bookings this way more than pays for the cookbook!
 
Yes, I would definitely stress that they can be held within 6 months. I have at least one show booked for every month through June right now because of stressing that.
 
Ok..newbie here. What is the "Booking Game"?
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some tips for managing my time while preparing for a Pampered Chef show?

To manage your time effectively, create a checklist of tasks that need to be completed before the show, such as sending invitations, preparing recipes, and setting up the space. Break these tasks into smaller, manageable steps and allocate specific time slots for each. This will help you stay organized and reduce feelings of overwhelm.

How can I make my guests feel comfortable during the show?

To create a welcoming atmosphere, greet each guest personally as they arrive and encourage them to mingle. Set up a comfortable seating arrangement and provide refreshments. During the show, engage your guests by asking questions and inviting them to participate in the cooking process, making them feel included and valued.

What should I do if I feel nervous about hosting?

It's normal to feel nervous before hosting a show. To combat this, practice your presentation beforehand and familiarize yourself with the products you'll be showcasing. Remember that your guests are there to have fun and learn, not to judge you. Focus on enjoying the experience and connecting with your guests rather than striving for perfection.

How can I ensure that my show is engaging and interactive?

To keep your show engaging, incorporate interactive elements such as cooking demonstrations, taste tests, and games. Encourage guests to ask questions and share their own cooking tips. You can also offer small prizes for participation, which will motivate guests to get involved and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

What are some effective ways to follow up with guests after the show?

After the show, send a thank-you message to each guest, expressing your appreciation for their attendance. You can also provide them with a recap of the recipes demonstrated and a link to your online catalog. Consider offering a special promotion or discount for orders placed within a certain timeframe to encourage follow-up sales and maintain engagement.

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