Help...having Trouble Getting Bookings!!

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers around the challenges faced by Pampered Chef consultants in securing bookings for shows. Participants share their personal experiences, frustrations, and various strategies they have attempted to increase their bookings.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a new consultant, expresses frustration over difficulties in getting bookings despite various outreach efforts, including postcards and local events.
  • Another participant shares a similar experience of dried-up leads after 90 days and suggests exploring fair booths and utilizing phone calls for better engagement.
  • One user mentions the importance of advertising through various channels and emphasizes the need for follow-ups to secure bookings.
  • A participant notes feeling phone phobic and worries about being perceived as pushy when reaching out to potential hosts.
  • Another consultant discusses the challenges of balancing a full-time job with the demands of the business and suggests discreet marketing strategies at work.
  • One participant mentions the option of catalog shows as an alternative for those hesitant to host cooking shows.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the effectiveness of various strategies for securing bookings, with no clear consensus on the best approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants share experiences as consultants balancing their Pampered Chef business with full-time jobs, which may impact their ability to secure bookings.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for new and experienced consultants seeking to understand common challenges in obtaining bookings and exploring different strategies shared by peers.

E
emo812
Messages
191
Hi,
I'm a new consultant, this is my 3rd month and I'm having a hard time getting bookings. I've tried contacting a lot of people that I know and have sent out postcards but nothing is working.

I'm getting frustrated because people tell me they don't know enough people to have a show or wouldn't mind going to one but don't want to have one. I've also been doing a tent at the local Farmer's Market and people look but don't want to book shows.

I know the Sept special is awesome but I can't get anyone to confirm a date for a show. Suggestions would be welcome. Just a note I do have a full-time job and am doing PC part-time. That might be part of the reason I'm having a hard time too.

Erin
 
I know how you feel. My leads have dried up and I just celebrated my 90th day this week. Could you do a fair booth somewhere? Lots of people say this helps to get new leads. Maybe look into doing a "pamper your business"? There are numerous threads on this and lots of different ways to do it. But really, as much as we wish sending newsletters and mailing out postcards would work, they can't replace the good ol' telephone. :)

So I'm going to add my own little mini-vent and share in your frustration....sorry for the hijack...

Why is it that everyone I talk to says "oh I LOVE pampered Chef" "I love the products" but then say they don't want to host. No one wants to commit to being a host, yet they say that maybe they'll place an order in the future or possibly book in the future. I keep thinking...."What future!! I may have to go inactive since I'm not getting any shows!" AAAHHH!

Okay, I'm done venting...now I'm going to work on planning my fall open house. I've decided to do it the 27th. I'm making a flyer to hand out to my neighbors as I go for walks, and I'm mailing out to my friends, family, and previous hosts and guests. I plan to follow up with phone calls, because I know no one will RSVP. :) I'm hoping this event will be a success. But at least it gives me an excuse to call my previous people and maybe if they can't come they'll be interested in our amazing host specials coming up.
 
Wear PC Logo-Wear, from Merrill everywhere!
Advertise -newspaper, flyers, friends, leave catty's where you can!
Ask for Referrals!

I always mention the Host Program at my shows, I average about 2 bookings per show. I'm getting better about remembering to mention the Recruiting.

I send out e-mails from my website just about every 2 weeks. But I vary it for 'Visit My Website', 'Host A Show', 'Start Your Own Biz', etc. I get quite a few bites that way!

I admit my downfall is the follow-up! I need to get better w/that!

Ask everyone, if they can't -get a referal! If space is the problem ask them to co-host or offer to hold it at your home.

I hope these help!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Thanks for the tips. I guess in a way I'm a little phone phobic. I just don't want to be too pushy so that people see my number and go "oh no it's that annoying pampered chef girl". I've tried a couple of PAB letters to some hair salons and haven't gotten anything from it. I think the problem might be because my mom decided to be a consultant after me so now I don't have any of her friends or leads. Plus it doesn't help that we live in the same town either. I think that I'm just getting a little frustrated because I do work full-time and don't feel I'm spending enough time on PC to get going and get bookings.
 
I work full time too and that can be challenging. Not sure what your work environment is like, but I know I have to be careful with marketing my business at work. So, I have one of those stands you use to hold paper when you type and have catalogs on it. When people ask at work, then I can give them the info.

Few suggestions....
- Have you followed up with everyone you sent postcards to with a phone call?
- Have you looked over your "list of 100"?
- Have you been asking for referrals?
- Have you tried pampering a business?

Don't give up! We all have dry spells! Keep working away at it and you'll get to where you wanna go!! :) Keep us posted!
 
For anyone that doesn't want to do a cooking show, always ask if they will do a catalog show and then explain the catalog show concept to them - sometimes that works!! :)
 

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To increase your bookings, consider leveraging social media to showcase your products and share your passion for cooking. Host a virtual or in-person cooking demonstration to attract interest. Offer incentives, such as discounts or free products, for hosts who book parties. Networking with friends, family, and colleagues can also help spread the word about your business.

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 reassurance about the ease of hosting and the fun involved. Share success stories from previous hosts to illustrate the benefits. Additionally, offer flexible options, such as virtual parties, to accommodate different preferences and schedules.

What should I do if I feel like I’ve exhausted my personal network for bookings?

If you feel you've tapped out your personal network, consider expanding your reach by attending local events, fairs, or community gatherings. Join local groups or clubs related to cooking or home goods, and engage with new people. Collaborating with other direct sellers can also introduce you to new potential hosts and customers.

How can I use social media to generate more bookings?

Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest to showcase your products and share engaging content. Create posts that highlight cooking tips, recipes, and customer testimonials. Use Facebook events to invite people to your parties and encourage them to share the event with their friends. Regularly interact with your audience to build relationships and encourage bookings.

What are some creative themes for Pampered Chef parties that can attract more hosts?

Creative themes can make your parties more appealing. Consider hosting a "Healthy Cooking Night," "Quick Weeknight Meals," or "Baking Extravaganza." Seasonal themes, like "Holiday Entertaining" or "Summer BBQ," can also draw interest. Encourage hosts to personalize their parties with their favorite recipes or cooking styles to make it more engaging for their guests.

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