Having Hard Time Getting Bookings Need Help

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Discussion Overview

The thread centers around the challenges faced by participants in securing bookings for Pampered Chef shows. One participant expresses frustration over a lack of leads and bookings despite reaching out to contacts and sending postcards. Others contribute a comprehensive list of strategies for generating bookings, sharing various personal experiences and methods they have found effective.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shares their struggle with limited contacts and unsuccessful outreach efforts for bookings.
  • Another participant provides an extensive list of 118 methods to secure bookings, including sending catalogs, hosting events, and leveraging personal networks.
  • Several users mention the importance of follow-ups and maintaining enthusiasm when reaching out to potential hosts.
  • Some participants highlight the value of community events and local advertising as effective ways to gain visibility and leads.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

No clear consensus emerges regarding the most effective strategies for securing bookings, as participants share a variety of personal experiences and suggestions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects the diverse approaches consultants take to build their businesses and the varying levels of success they experience in securing bookings.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for ideas and inspiration on how to increase their bookings may find the shared experiences and strategies beneficial.

milkangel
Messages
713
i have gone through all of my contacts that i have( but do not have much )and called all the ones that i thought would work and eather said no or booked already. i am runing out of bookings and leads. Have a show on friday but no one is comeing yet. i have a few at the end of this month and a craft fair so getting more names. but I want some now. i have called all of the people that i have sent out a post card to and no one booked. and from the other shows not one booked. so now what do i do? I am Really in need of help. :cry: i am going camping nest week and hop to get some then or some sales. HELP ME!!!!
 
118 WAYS TO GET BOOKINGS
1. Send a catalog to a co-worker or friend who has moved.
2. Send a catalog to reps from other party plans and ask to exchange shows.
3. Post a catalog in the teacher's lounge at your child's school.
4. Post a catalog in the employee's lunch room.
5. Hold an open house.
6. Have a booth at a church bazaar.
7. Advertise in your alumni newsletter and/or local newspaper.
8. Give a catalog to the receptionist in your doctor's or dentist's office.
9. Include a current catalog or flyer with your local bill payments.
10. Put a current catalog and sample in your neighbor's door.
11. Always carry business cards and catalogs with you to hand out.
12. Ask ALL your friends to have a show.
13. Advertise in the church bulletin.
14. Host an office party.
15. Host a Brunch.
16. Have your family wear Pampered Chef T-shirts.
17. Mail out catalogs with a wish list and order form.
18. Host your own show.
19. Host a fundraiser for your favorite charity.
20. Host a show before, during or after a PTA meeting.
21. Get a list from the Welcome Wagon to find newcomers in the area.
22. Set up a display at craft fairs.
23. Participate in a school fundraiser.
24. Have your husband or significant other promote products at work.
25. Wear a "Do You Pamper Yourself?" button.
26. Wear your charm holder and logo pins out in public.
27. Hold a Valentine's, Mother's Day, or Christmas Shopping Show for men.
28. Offer guests a Secret Santa Wish List.
29. Set up a temporary display in a mall.
30. Put a "FREE Products! Ask Me How!" button on your purse.
31. Ask past Hostesses to talk about their FREE products.
32. Hold an Opportunity Night nearby.
33. Mention Host Benefits at least 3 times per show.
34. Showcase higher priced items and remind guests they can get it half off.
35. Mention how much an "average" Host receives FREE!
36. At the beginning of the show, mention the Host goal.
37. Share upcoming specials at all shows with all guests.
38. Tell your Host how much she saved by having a show.
39. Encourage frequent customers to regularly plan shows.
40. Encourage Hosts to rebook themselves in the next 3 months.
41. Treat Hosts to a special "Hosts Appreciation Tea".
42. Encourage relatives to have a show.
43. Call your realtor with suggestions for "New Home Packages".
44. Offer to do a theme show demo/class for a local women's group.
45. Ask everyone for referrals.
46. Follow up on all referral leads on Door Prize Slips.
47. Offer a Birthday or Anniversary Club.
48. Offer a Bridal Registry.
49. Promote Pampered Chef Bridal Shower Parties.
50. Create a binder to showcase different theme show parties to choose from.
51. Create a visual for the Host Program by playing "Stack the Host".
52. Be friendly and enthusiastic.
53. Take the pieces that you LOVE to your shows!
54. Follow through on EVERY booking lead.
55. Ask, Ask, Ask.
56. Ask every guest at every show for 3 referrals.
57. Use open-ended questions to uncover objections.
58. Use products at home then share your ideas at shows.
59. Read sales, self-improvement and positive thinking books.
60. Call at least 2 potential Hosts EVERY night.
61. Dream and imagine the possibilities!
62. Set goals and review them constantly. Post where you can see them.
63. Ask friends to help you get started or to reach a certain goal.
64. Goal yourself for "x" number of shows each month.
65. Copy Host Specials and mail to past hostesses and interested clients.
66. Use postcards and newsletters to continue to spark interest.
67. Follow up phone calls to interested guests. Ask them to have a show.
68. Call all hostesses who postponed or never had their party as planned.
69. Have the Host tell why she decided to have a show.
70. Give products as gifts or donations.
71. Don't be shy talking about your products or your business.
72. Smile when talking on the telephone.
73. Make regular customer service calls to replenish products.
74. Review orders from past shows and call customers with large orders.
75. Be prepared to answer questions about your work.
76.Write down names of people who "owe you a favor", then follow up.
77. Call the most familiar people first.
78. Spend time every day working on some aspect of your business.
79. Be willing to share the Opportunity with everyone.
80. Call anyone who has said "maybe" or "sometime".
81. Contact schools, churches, and women's groups for fundraisers.
82. Advertise in football or musical programs.
83. Leave your business cards on bulletin boards or in local businesses.
84. Talk about upcoming specials with everyone.
85. Keep a list of special requests. Notify guests when that product is on sale.
86. Suggest a Christmas show so guests can shop without leaving home.
87. Offer bonuses for booking a show on certain dates.
88. Offer Book Show options to those who work in office environments.
89. Give extra service and time to good customers to make repeat customers.
90. Carry a notepad to jot down names as you think of them.
91. Let guests keep a catalog on hand to show friends or pass around at work.
92. Contact men's groups (Kiwanis, Lion's, Rotary) to host a show.
93. Offer complimentary gift-wrapping on orders over a certain amount.
94. Mail recipe postcards using monthly specials to keep in touch.
95. Have a Booking Basket for Hosts with gifts for pre-arranged bookings.
96. Strive to have 21 shows up on your calendar.
97. Offer businesses an employee gift/incentive program. Write up as a show.
98. Do a Product Lottery.
99. Get leads from participating in trade shows or business expos.
100. Take pre-wrapped gift sets to male oriented business and take orders.
101. Tell everyone to tell their friends to get their kitchen products from you.
102. Let everyone know that it's your job to give away FREE products!
103. Take several beautiful but versatile pieces to your show to demo.
104. Let customers FEEL the quality of products in their own hands.
105. Make your daily 2+2 calls. Chart your progress.
106. Participate in Bridal Trade Shows for leads.
107. Take a PC recipe in a PC dish to every function you attend that has food.
108. Pass out recipes to guests for dishes demonstrated at your show.
109. Offer a special incentive for booking a show within 2 weeks.
110. Get guest lists from Hosts so you can contact guests after the show.
111. Surprise Bookings. Call guests and ask for bookings as surprise to Host.
112. Use car magnets on car to advertise business.
113. Encourage Host to ask everyone to book a show.
114. Have Host show friends what FREE Host Bonuses she is trying to earn.
115. Ask Host to invite those who need or want a job.
116. Make a "Mix-in-a-Bag" gift for the Host. Make a recipe that focuses on Monthly Guest or Host special.
117. Make a "Host Necklace". Use one inexpensive tool for EACH booking she obtains BEFORE her show date. Tie together with curly ribbon.
118. Booking Necklaces - String inexpensive door prize items on curly ribbon. Hang 6 around Host's neck. As guests arrive, let her explain that she needs to give them all away so she can win a special gift. She can only give them to her friends who will book a show for her. Those who decide to book first get first choice of which necklace they want. They wear around their neck so you can see who already wants a show.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
i am a stay at home mom with one kid and another on the way so i am not out much and saving on gas.
 
Carolyn, those are great and I have gotten some booking that way, not all 118 yet, but still hopeful :)

Milkangel, goodluck, I have been there, still am actually and others from this site have to. I have gotten wonderful support and advice from other cheffers here. Just keep plugging along nad ask everyone who talk to if they have heard of PC. I got a lead while I was in a beauty supply store on Sunday and the gilr's sorority is now going to have a party in the fall when college starts back up. You don't know unless you ask and I was having trouble with that, but am getting better. Even if you ask 5 and 1 says yes, that is 1 yes you didn't have originally :) Keep us posted :)
 
merego said:
Carolyn, those are great and I have gotten some booking that way, not all 118 yet, but still hopeful :)

Milkangel, goodluck, I have been there, still am actually and others from this site have to. I have gotten wonderful support and advice from other cheffers here. Just keep plugging along nad ask everyone who talk to if they have heard of PC. I got a lead while I was in a beauty supply store on Sunday and the gilr's sorority is now going to have a party in the fall when college starts back up. You don't know unless you ask and I was having trouble with that, but am getting better. Even if you ask 5 and 1 says yes, that is 1 yes you didn't have originally :) Keep us posted :)

Great advice Meredith! Basically, you have to keep asking and trying. Whether you say you can or you can't you are right either way! Say you can, believe it and get it done!

Good luck, girl!:)
 
dannyzmom said:
118 WAYS TO GET BOOKINGS
1. Send a catalog to a co-worker or friend who has moved.
2. Send a catalog to reps from other party plans and ask to exchange shows.
3. Post a catalog in the teacher's lounge at your child's school.
4. Post a catalog in the employee's lunch room.
5. Hold an open house.
6. Have a booth at a church bazaar.
7. Advertise in your alumni newsletter and/or local newspaper.
8. Give a catalog to the receptionist in your doctor's or dentist's office.
9. Include a current catalog or flyer with your local bill payments.
10. Put a current catalog and sample in your neighbor's door.
11. Always carry business cards and catalogs with you to hand out.
12. Ask ALL your friends to have a show.
13. Advertise in the church bulletin.
14. Host an office party.
15. Host a Brunch.
16. Have your family wear Pampered Chef T-shirts.
17. Mail out catalogs with a wish list and order form.
18. Host your own show.
19. Host a fundraiser for your favorite charity.
20. Host a show before, during or after a PTA meeting.
21. Get a list from the Welcome Wagon to find newcomers in the area.
22. Set up a display at craft fairs.
23. Participate in a school fundraiser.
24. Have your husband or significant other promote products at work.
25. Wear a "Do You Pamper Yourself?" button.
26. Wear your charm holder and logo pins out in public.
27. Hold a Valentine's, Mother's Day, or Christmas Shopping Show for men.
28. Offer guests a Secret Santa Wish List.
29. Set up a temporary display in a mall.
30. Put a "FREE Products! Ask Me How!" button on your purse.
31. Ask past Hostesses to talk about their FREE products.
32. Hold an Opportunity Night nearby.
33. Mention Host Benefits at least 3 times per show.
34. Showcase higher priced items and remind guests they can get it half off.
35. Mention how much an "average" Host receives FREE!
36. At the beginning of the show, mention the Host goal.
37. Share upcoming specials at all shows with all guests.
38. Tell your Host how much she saved by having a show.
39. Encourage frequent customers to regularly plan shows.
40. Encourage Hosts to rebook themselves in the next 3 months.
41. Treat Hosts to a special "Hosts Appreciation Tea".
42. Encourage relatives to have a show.
43. Call your realtor with suggestions for "New Home Packages".
44. Offer to do a theme show demo/class for a local women's group.
45. Ask everyone for referrals.
46. Follow up on all referral leads on Door Prize Slips.
47. Offer a Birthday or Anniversary Club.
48. Offer a Bridal Registry.
49. Promote Pampered Chef Bridal Shower Parties.
50. Create a binder to showcase different theme show parties to choose from.
51. Create a visual for the Host Program by playing "Stack the Host".
52. Be friendly and enthusiastic.
53. Take the pieces that you LOVE to your shows!
54. Follow through on EVERY booking lead.
55. Ask, Ask, Ask.
56. Ask every guest at every show for 3 referrals.
57. Use open-ended questions to uncover objections.
58. Use products at home then share your ideas at shows.
59. Read sales, self-improvement and positive thinking books.
60. Call at least 2 potential Hosts EVERY night.
61. Dream and imagine the possibilities!
62. Set goals and review them constantly. Post where you can see them.
63. Ask friends to help you get started or to reach a certain goal.
64. Goal yourself for "x" number of shows each month.
65. Copy Host Specials and mail to past hostesses and interested clients.
66. Use postcards and newsletters to continue to spark interest.
67. Follow up phone calls to interested guests. Ask them to have a show.
68. Call all hostesses who postponed or never had their party as planned.
69. Have the Host tell why she decided to have a show.
70. Give products as gifts or donations.
71. Don't be shy talking about your products or your business.
72. Smile when talking on the telephone.
73. Make regular customer service calls to replenish products.
74. Review orders from past shows and call customers with large orders.
75. Be prepared to answer questions about your work.
76.Write down names of people who "owe you a favor", then follow up.
77. Call the most familiar people first.
78. Spend time every day working on some aspect of your business.
79. Be willing to share the Opportunity with everyone.
80. Call anyone who has said "maybe" or "sometime".
81. Contact schools, churches, and women's groups for fundraisers.
82. Advertise in football or musical programs.
83. Leave your business cards on bulletin boards or in local businesses.
84. Talk about upcoming specials with everyone.
85. Keep a list of special requests. Notify guests when that product is on sale.
86. Suggest a Christmas show so guests can shop without leaving home.
87. Offer bonuses for booking a show on certain dates.
88. Offer Book Show options to those who work in office environments.
89. Give extra service and time to good customers to make repeat customers.
90. Carry a notepad to jot down names as you think of them.
91. Let guests keep a catalog on hand to show friends or pass around at work.
92. Contact men's groups (Kiwanis, Lion's, Rotary) to host a show.
93. Offer complimentary gift-wrapping on orders over a certain amount.
94. Mail recipe postcards using monthly specials to keep in touch.
95. Have a Booking Basket for Hosts with gifts for pre-arranged bookings.
96. Strive to have 21 shows up on your calendar.
97. Offer businesses an employee gift/incentive program. Write up as a show.
98. Do a Product Lottery.
99. Get leads from participating in trade shows or business expos.
100. Take pre-wrapped gift sets to male oriented business and take orders.
101. Tell everyone to tell their friends to get their kitchen products from you.
102. Let everyone know that it's your job to give away FREE products!
103. Take several beautiful but versatile pieces to your show to demo.
104. Let customers FEEL the quality of products in their own hands.
105. Make your daily 2+2 calls. Chart your progress.
106. Participate in Bridal Trade Shows for leads.
107. Take a PC recipe in a PC dish to every function you attend that has food.
108. Pass out recipes to guests for dishes demonstrated at your show.
109. Offer a special incentive for booking a show within 2 weeks.
110. Get guest lists from Hosts so you can contact guests after the show.
111. Surprise Bookings. Call guests and ask for bookings as surprise to Host.
112. Use car magnets on car to advertise business.
113. Encourage Host to ask everyone to book a show.
114. Have Host show friends what FREE Host Bonuses she is trying to earn.
115. Ask Host to invite those who need or want a job.
116. Make a "Mix-in-a-Bag" gift for the Host. Make a recipe that focuses on Monthly Guest or Host special.
117. Make a "Host Necklace". Use one inexpensive tool for EACH booking she obtains BEFORE her show date. Tie together with curly ribbon.
118. Booking Necklaces - String inexpensive door prize items on curly ribbon. Hang 6 around Host's neck. As guests arrive, let her explain that she needs to give them all away so she can win a special gift. She can only give them to her friends who will book a show for her. Those who decide to book first get first choice of which necklace they want. They wear around their neck so you can see who already wants a show.
Carolyn, you beat me to it! I always post this, when people are looking for ways to get bookings!;)
 
I'm a brand new consultant here and I have to say THANK YOU for that wonderful list! I can't wait to try it out. I'm starting out with a flyer to everyone in my apartment complex that's titled "Did you know you have a Pampered Chef Consultant in your Neighborhood?"
 
Last edited:
I'm a brand new consultant here and I have to say THANK YOU for that wonderful list! I can't wait to try it out. I'm starting out with a flyer to everyone in my apartment complex that's titled "Did you know you have a Pampered Chef Consultant in your Neighborhood?"
 
Hi Milkangel,

I'm a consultant....joined last October and I'm in the same boat that you are. I've actually gone "inactive" as a result and its really bothering me. I love doing shows.....my director is always telling me that she thinks this is a great business for me....but I'm still struggling.

I don't have any relatives around who could do a show for me. I feel like I've exhausted my resources but I'll keep plugging along.

Cheers!
Amanda
 
Sign up to do a fair or two and find some new people to do shows with.
 
AJ-1 said:
I don't have any relatives around who could do a show for me. I feel like I've exhausted my resources but I'll keep plugging along.

You don't need relatives nearby! You can stay active with catalog shows for long-distance friends and family. I live in TX. My sisters have hosted catalog shows for me in CA, FL, and CO and I did a live show at my sister's when I went to visit CA. Don't limit yourself by geography!

The 118 ways has some great ideas (who can top that!). I can testify that I've done a show for ladies I met in the grocery store and in the flower shop. I also had a lady call me because a co-worker had my catalog. A director I know meets new hosts by taking paperwork to work on while her child plays at Chick-fil-a (fast food restaurant). She said people always approach her when she's there!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective strategies to increase bookings for my Pampered Chef parties?

To increase bookings, consider hosting a themed party or offering special promotions, such as discounts or giveaways. Utilize social media to showcase your products and past parties, and encourage your satisfied customers to share their experiences. Networking with friends and family and asking for referrals can also help you reach new potential hosts.

How can I overcome objections from potential hosts?

When faced with objections, listen carefully to the concerns of potential hosts and address them directly. Provide clear information about the benefits of hosting, such as free products, exclusive discounts, and the fun of gathering friends. Share success stories from previous hosts to build confidence and excitement about the opportunity.

What role does social media play in getting bookings?

Social media is a powerful tool for generating interest and bookings. Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to showcase your products, share recipes, and highlight successful parties. Engage with your audience by hosting live demonstrations, creating event pages, and encouraging followers to share your posts. Consistent and authentic interaction can lead to more bookings.

How can I leverage my existing customer base for more bookings?

Your existing customers are a valuable resource for bookings. Reach out to them with personalized messages, thanking them for their support and inviting them to host a party. Offer incentives for hosting, such as exclusive products or discounts. Additionally, ask satisfied customers for referrals to their friends and family who might be interested in hosting.

What should I do if I feel discouraged about my booking efforts?

Feeling discouraged is normal in direct sales. Take a step back and reassess your strategies. Set small, achievable goals to regain motivation, and celebrate each success, no matter how minor. Seek support from fellow consultants or join online communities where you can share experiences and gain new ideas. Remember, persistence is key in building your business.

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