Frustrated With Catalog Host...what to Do?

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses participants' experiences and frustrations with catalog hosts who are unresponsive or difficult to reach. Various strategies for managing these situations are shared, along with personal anecdotes about the outcomes of such interactions.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their experience of a catalog host who has been unresponsive despite multiple attempts to contact her.
  • Another participant mentions a similar situation where persistence led to a successful catalog show, emphasizing the importance of direct communication.
  • Several users suggest leaving a message that gives the host an option to cancel, which can relieve the pressure on both parties.
  • One participant notes their personal rule of making four attempts to contact a host before assuming cancellation, while remaining polite and understanding.
  • Another participant expresses frustration over a host who canceled due to feeling pressured, highlighting the delicate balance in communication.
  • Some participants mention the importance of closing catalog shows promptly to avoid complications and ensure better outcomes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to handling unresponsive catalog hosts, with some participants advocating for persistence and others suggesting a more relaxed approach. No clear consensus emerges on a single effective strategy.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences that reflect the challenges of managing catalog shows, particularly regarding communication and timing. The nature of these interactions varies widely based on individual circumstances.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who are navigating similar challenges with catalog hosts may find the shared experiences and strategies helpful in managing their own situations.

P
pamperedmomto3
Messages
211
My sister held a show in January. A woman couldn't attend but went out of her way to let me know that she was in sales at one time and would like to help by hosting a catalog show. Fine! Great! I gave her everything she should need and discussed when she would start Feb 1st and close on Feb. 14th. Here I am March 1st with nothing. I've called and emailed at least a dozen times. I either get no response, she's not available or she makes a promise to call at another time. Just this week she told me she had orders that she would contact me by Friday. It's now Saturday and again, I have nothing. Should I just drop it or continue trying to get her to do what she set out to do. My sister is also entitled to get two items at 60% off but can't until I get the orders. AAAGGGHHH!!! What to do:cry: :grumpy:
 
I had a similar problem with a catalog host. I kept calling, even letting her know that she was welcome to cancel, but I needed to hear that from her. She finally closed with a $400 catalog show. My rule of thumb is to keep calling until I hear from the person directly.
 
Keep calling and when you feel like you are just "done" with it, leave a message and say something like "I understand you are busy, so I will assume that you are no longer interested in submitting a show. If you want to host at a future time, please feel free to contact me". That way the ball is in her court, you did your best and you let it go.
 
Well said Jenni.... I do the same thing. It gives them an out as well... and you don't waste your time tying to connect with them...
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
I received an email from her a little while ago. She said she'd try calling tonight. We'll see...
 
I haven't been doing this very long, but already I've found that I've had a few hosts I've been frustrated with for this very reason. My new rule is that I call four times...period. I'm always very nice, but if I haven't heard back after call three, I politely leave a message explaining that since I haven't heard otherwise I'm going to assume the show had to be cancelled and that I hope everything with he/she is all right, call me anytime if you need anything, etc. etc. I always try to remember that I never know what's going on in someone's life so never sound frustrated (although I have to really try hard on that one sometimes). Sigh...I'd much rather have a STRONG NO than an INSINCERE MAYBE!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
She never called. Imagine that! I think I'm done. I feel bad that my sister won't get her two items at 60% off and the people that did place orders won't get their order.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
She called! Barely $130 in guest sales. Oh well. I'll take whatever.
 
I have 2-3 of these hosts for February! I sent their hostess kits and have not been able to reach them since!
 
pamperedmomto3 said:
She called! Barely $130 in guest sales. Oh well. I'll take whatever.
Click to expand...
Was that before or after your sister's order? If not, then your sister's order will add onto qualify it just not on your commission.
 
I just had this happen to me. I had a host's friend do a catalog show and she was quick to give me $200 in orders. She wanted to pay with her cc for the entire show. I had the orders in my computer just waiting on her info nothing for a week. I called/emailed nothing then she said she would call over the weekend heard nothing so mon left email about wanting to close in timely manner well I got a return email that she wanted to cancel the show b/c i was being too pushy and when she was ready she would find someone else to fill her orders. now i have a host who will not return calls/emails and I am afraid to leave anymore messages b/c i need shows to keep
 
Unfortunately that is the hard part of catalog orders. I've learned with catalog shows you can't let them go to long. I usually close my catalog shows within a week and a half. I just got one today (tuesday) I'll send her stuff off tomorrow, she'll receive it thursday and I am closing it saturday the 15th. I found if you let it go to long, it ends up in a bust, but if I make is fairly short, the catalog shows are much better. I do a lot of catalog shows.
 
Rebeccascabinet said:
Unfortunately that is the hard part of catalog orders. I've learned with catalog shows you can't let them go to long. I usually close my catalog shows within a week and a half. I just got one today (tuesday) I'll send her stuff off tomorrow, she'll receive it thursday and I am closing it saturday the 15th. I found if you let it go to long, it ends up in a bust, but if I make is fairly short, the catalog shows are much better. I do a lot of catalog shows.
Click to expand...

This is great advice. Don't let Catalog Shows drag out too long. Book and close them within a week - the host is still pumped from the show (or from talking to you) and will remember to get the orders.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my catalog host is unresponsive?

If your catalog host is unresponsive, try reaching out to them through multiple communication channels, such as email, phone, or text. Be polite and express your eagerness to collaborate. If they still do not respond, consider discussing the situation with your upline or team leader for advice on how to proceed.

How can I motivate a catalog host who seems disinterested?

To motivate a disinterested catalog host, share the benefits of hosting a party, such as earning free products or discounts. Offer to assist them in promoting the catalog and provide them with engaging materials or tips. Personalizing your approach and showing enthusiasm can help rekindle their interest.

What if my catalog host is not promoting the catalog effectively?

If your catalog host is not promoting the catalog effectively, schedule a one-on-one meeting to discuss strategies and offer support. Provide them with promotional materials, social media posts, or sample messages they can use to engage their network. Encourage them to reach out to friends and family for help in spreading the word.

How do I handle a catalog host who is not meeting deadlines?

Address the issue of missed deadlines by having a candid conversation with your catalog host. Ask if there are any challenges they are facing and offer assistance. Set clear expectations and deadlines moving forward, and consider providing reminders or check-ins to help them stay on track.

What steps can I take if my catalog host is not generating sales?

If your catalog host is not generating sales, analyze the situation together. Discuss their promotional efforts and identify any barriers they may be facing. Offer suggestions for reaching out to potential customers, such as hosting a virtual event or utilizing social media. Providing additional support and resources can help boost their sales efforts.

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