Frustrated Performer Seeks Bookings After Flop Show

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Discussion Overview

The thread centers around participants sharing their experiences and strategies for securing bookings after facing challenges with low attendance at shows. Many express frustration over limited opportunities and seek advice on expanding their customer base.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expressed frustration over a recent show with only two attendees and no bookings, leading to an empty calendar for February.
  • Another participant shares their experience of successfully booking four shows after offering additional free products to early bookers.
  • One participant notes the challenge of relying on family and friends for shows and emphasizes the need to reach new customers.
  • Another participant suggests creating a contest to encourage friends and family to refer new hosts, highlighting the importance of expanding beyond their current network.
  • One participant proposes a "show swap" with consultants from other direct sales companies to access new customer lists.
  • Several users mention the importance of getting out of their comfort zones and engaging with new groups, such as church members or local organizations, to find potential hosts.
  • One participant shares their strategy of leaving catalogs in various locations and setting up tables at gyms to meet new people and generate bookings.
  • Another participant discusses using fundraisers and community events as opportunities to book shows and reach new audiences.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best methods for securing bookings, with no clear consensus emerging on a single effective strategy.

Contextual Notes

Participants are primarily consultants in the early stages of their Pampered Chef business, sharing personal experiences and tactics for overcoming booking challenges.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for creative ideas and personal experiences related to booking shows and expanding their customer base may find this discussion beneficial.

P
PC_ChefCole
Messages
32
Well, I had my express show this past Friday and it was a flop (sort of) - The host only ended up having TWO PEOPLE, UGGGGHHHH. The good thing is that's she's only $15 away from it being a submittable show, the bad thing is that I didn't get ANY bookings, so now my calender is completely empty for February. Thanks to everyone for the games for booking ideas, but does any one know how I can get some bookings without any shows??? I have already gone through my 100 list and I am coming up with nothing. I am so frustrated...... :(
 
Try and find local craft fairs and offer a drawing for a Free Kitchen show. Do your customer care calls and tell your customers about the New cookware line available to hosts/hostesses for 60% off...and remember...when you call...show the excitement in your voice...it takes 10 calls to get 1 booking..but its well worth it!
Hope that helps!
Cheers,
Angela
 
Last Monday, I had NOTHING on my datebook. I sent out a mass email and mailing offering $10 in additional free product to the first 15 people that booked a show with me between now and March 31st. I've now got 4 shows booked! I knew I wouldn't get 15, but I was afraid if I made the number lower, some people would think they didn't have a chance of getting in on the deal and not even bother to try.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
That's great advice, but my biggest problem is all of the shows that I have done have been mostly family and friends....So all of the customers that I have had, I have already tried to get them to book shows. I am only in my 3rd month of PC. My one friend that had a show, has already booked another one...which I am grateful for but her shows seem to have the same people. I'm in the slump where I really need new people to book a show to branch out my business. All my shows have been pretty much the same guests... :(
 
Maybe tell your friends and family that have already had shows for you that you're having a contest. Tell them that you're trying to get outside the circle of friends and family to broaden your business. Maybe do something like for the first five people that get one of their friends to host a show for you, you'll enter them into a drawing to win something. Or maybe EVERYONE who gets one of their friends to have a show can get a little something. Be up front and explain to your friends and family that you've loved and appreciated their support, but you need to move beyond that circle of people. Have them ask their friends, coworkers, inlaws, parents of their kids' friends, etc if they'd be willing to do a show. Obviously have them highlight the awesome host benefits. although you'll want to book your February first, maybe if they aren't getting much interest, have them pass along that brand new products debut in March.

Just some ideas I had!
 
Hmm..got ya..here is an idea...why don't you try calling a consultant from another "direct sales" company, and invite her to do a show "swap"...i.e., you host a show for her, and she hosts a show for you....that way you get into her customer list and outside your family...or if you live in a neighborhood...have your own "open house" invite everyone in your neighborhood.
Just a few ideas...also look at the files section...there should be a document with a list of 180 ways to get bookings...
Good luck!
Cheers,
Angela
 
New Leads!You might want to try to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people. I know when I first started I exhausted the budgets of family and close friends. I eventually got church members to do shows and then booked from their friends and families. In order to really expand my horizons I started to go to Women's gyms, doctor's offices, daycares, schools and offices where I knew there were women. I would leave catalogs and at the gym I set up a table and raffled a stone for names and numbers. I got a couple of bookings and have really gotten to meet new people. It is very important to get out of the same circle of friends and with a little work you can. Maybe even an ad in the local thrifty nickel or classified section is a good move. It works! When you are desperate for shows remember to offer a nice incentive for the hostess. Buy extra during our kit enhancement month. Hope this helps.
Debbie
 
get the ball rollingso why don't you book a show, pass invites to neighbors, bus friends or car pools. the kids sports parents. I am in retail and serve a lot of the customers, I am comfortable with passing on invites, put an ad in the paper. I no longer do open houses but prefer the theme shows and invite accordingly. There are so many great ideas on this site for booking, go to any not for profit group and offer to do a fund raiser. Invite the girl guides or go to them to earn their cooking badge. I donated a stoneware piece to a local daycare fundraiser auction and got loads of bookings. I have recently begged family members that have previously never booked. I will beg, bribe and find every reason to celebrate for a show. Build it they will come!
Lorna
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my last Pampered Chef show didn't go well?

If your last show didn't go as planned, take a moment to reflect on what might have gone wrong. Consider factors like the timing, location, or even the theme of the show. Reach out to your guests for feedback and use that information to improve future shows. Remember, every experience is a learning opportunity.

How can I generate more bookings after a disappointing show?

To generate more bookings, consider offering special promotions or incentives for hosting a show. You can also reach out to guests individually to invite them to host their own show, highlighting the benefits they would receive, such as free products or discounts. Networking with friends and family can also help you find new leads.

What are some effective ways to promote my upcoming shows?

Utilize social media platforms to promote your upcoming shows. Create engaging posts that showcase the products and the fun of hosting a Pampered Chef party. You can also send out personal invitations via email or text to make your guests feel special. Consider hosting virtual shows to reach a wider audience.

How can I improve my presentation skills for future shows?

Improving your presentation skills can significantly impact your shows. Practice your cooking demonstrations and product presentations in front of friends or family to gain confidence. Watch recordings of successful shows or attend workshops to learn new techniques. Engaging storytelling and enthusiasm can also captivate your audience.

What mindset should I adopt after a flop show?

After a flop show, it's essential to maintain a positive mindset. Remind yourself that setbacks are a natural part of any sales career. Focus on the lessons learned and set realistic goals for your next show. Surround yourself with supportive peers who can motivate you and share their own experiences to help you bounce back.

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