Horrible Luck- Nasty Reply Email (Kinda Long)

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses a participant's experience with a negative response received after reaching out to a local organization for hosting a fundraising event. Participants share their reactions to the situation and express their feelings about handling rejection and solicitation in business contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, describes feeling discouraged after receiving a rude reply to their event proposal, expressing sensitivity to rejection.
  • Another participant shares their view that the responder seemed unhappy and suggests a "bless and release" approach to move on from negativity.
  • Several users mention that the initial participant handled the situation well and did not deserve the rudeness they encountered.
  • One participant reflects on their own experiences with solicitations, noting that while they understand the frustration, they always listen before declining.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect, regardless of solicitation fatigue.
  • One user suggests a method for coping with frustration by writing a negative email but not sending it, as a way to release pent-up feelings.
  • Several participants express solidarity and encouragement, reinforcing the idea of not letting negativity affect one's passion for a cause.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the response was rude and that the initial participant's approach was appropriate. There is no clear consensus on how to best handle such situations, as opinions vary on the nature of solicitation and the responses it elicits.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences with rejection and solicitation in business, particularly in the context of fundraising and community outreach efforts.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who encounter similar challenges in outreach and solicitation may find the shared experiences and coping strategies helpful.

Yakmama
Messages
199
I called our local nurse's registry to ask about hosting this event- and the lady was very short with me on the phone and seemed very uninterested. She wouldn't even let me explain what it was. So she said, "send me an email and I will send it on to the right people" (she is the CEO's secretary). So this is what I sent (mind you- in the call I was crystal clear that I was from Pampered Chef):Thank you for speaking to me on the phone today. I just wanted to clear up some confusion on what I am trying to do! I am new to the area- so I'm sorry if I was confusing over the phone. You sounded a little flustered- and it was definitely not my intention to put pressure on you- I really apologize. Here is a flyer for the event I am trying to hold:https://www.pamperedchef.com/images/cc/us/pdf/msabc_fundraiser_flyer.pdfBasically, your organization would open it's doors and invite clients and staff members to this event. I would cook a meal or dessert for your guests as part of a cooking show. I would give time saving tips, show new kitchen products, and give some great recipes. Then your guests would enjoy the food and browse through the catalogs while they socialize. They can then purchase the products they have seen if they would like- and up to 25% of the proceeds would go to the American Cancer Society's division for Early Detection programs in Breast Cancer. These events are very fun and help a great cause. I have several women in my family who have suffered and passed from breast cancer. An aunt that I am very close to is currently suffering with breast cancer right now. This is a cause very near and dear to my heart and I am proud to be part of a business that gives so much to this organization.This event can take place at someone's home, a church, or a business. I would provide all of the food and utensils. The only thing you would have to do is open your doors and invite your friends, coworkers, clients, family, and neighbors. This can be done on any night (or even day) that is convenient to the host or hostess.Please feel free to browse the Pampered Chef products or learn more about this event if you would like at (inserted my website here).I look forward to hearing from you! If the Nurse's registry is unable to hold this event, please let me know if you are aware of any other organization that might want to open it's doors for a good cause. There is absolutely no cost to the organization itself- I supply everything that is needed.Thank you again,
MY INFO HERESo then she replied with:
This is nothing more then a Pampered Chef party, with a side-note on Breast Cancer Awareness. Please don't solicit us in this fashion again.Then I replied with:
I'm so sorry to have offended you. Just so you know I would not have made a commission- I would have donated it to the same cause.This truly is an event I was trying to do because I really believe in the cause.Again- I'm sorry. UGH- I am sooooo bad at this cold calling cold contacting stuff... I feel soooo discouraged rightnow. :cry: I do NOT take rejection well at all.
 
I'd say that she is not a happy person. Bless and release.
 
Sorry this happeded to you. I think you did everything right. She sounds nasty. I think you should just bless and release.
 
Rennea - are we long lost sisters? :)
 
I think so!!
 
Yakmama said:
.
So then she replied with:
This is nothing more then a Pampered Chef party, with a side-note on Breast Cancer Awareness. Please don't solicit us in this fashion again.

Then I replied with:
I'm so sorry to have offended you. Just so you know I would not have made a commission- I would have donated it to the same cause.


This truly is an event I was trying to do because I really believe in the cause.

Again- I'm sorry. And Thank you for being so RUDE!!!!


I think I would have added that. Well maybe not..ya maybe I would have!!
 
Don't let an obviously miserable person ruin your enthusiasm and passion for this cause! She's probably that Negative Nelly we have at all parties!
 
I think you have to look at it some from their point of view. I agree that she was rude but they probably get so much solicitation that they get sick of it.

I know where I work we get calls all the time asking for donations and we get tired of getting them.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
I always feel better speaking to everyone here! My husband and I used to operate a business (an ice cream shop actually)- and know very well how many solicitations people get. I will say, though, that I never ONCE shot anyone down without first hearing what they had to say. On top of that- if I COULD help, I would. Often I would at least donate a gift certificcate, or refer them to a business that may be able to help.

I'm weird, though. I also always hear out telemarketers and gently and nicely tell them that I am not able to purchase their product at this time.

We are all just brothers and sisters in this world trying to make a living. We should all treat each other with the same respect we expect to be treated with.

::steps off soapbox::

Again- thank you for the words of encouragement- I LOVE the phrase "bless and release," I'm going to try my best to incorporate it into my every day life. I am just so sensitive I'm afraid I won't do well at this business.
 
Yakmama said:
We are all just brothers and sisters in this world trying to make a living. We should all treat each other with the same respect we expect to be treated with.



Yes my dear you are so right!! My husband and I own a business and recieve so many requests for money and support etc. We are NEVER rude!
 
Oh my gosh - I don't understand some people's rudeness!!! I'm so sorry that happened to you. This person has some issues and decided you were a nice target to take them out on. Crazy! As much as this would have upset ME (and I've recently been similarly upset and I just hate that it takes up so much energy and thought), I would say to try to bless and release. I think it was a good idea, so don't let it discourage you from supporting a great cause.

I just got some really good advice.....write a not-so-nice email as if you're going to send it to her. Then don't. Print it up and rip it up to get it out of your system. :D
 
I'm sorry this happend to you. But like others have said you need to bless and release.

In this business you have to learn to not take things personally. That was the hardest thing for me to learn to deal with - sometimes I still have problems with it:)!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a nasty reply email from a customer?

First, take a moment to breathe and avoid responding immediately. Analyze the email to understand the customer's concerns and frustrations. Craft a professional and empathetic response that addresses their issues while maintaining a positive tone. If necessary, escalate the matter to a supervisor or manager for further assistance.

How can I prevent receiving negative emails in the future?

To minimize negative feedback, ensure clear communication with your customers. Set realistic expectations regarding products, delivery times, and services. Regularly follow up with customers to address any potential issues before they escalate. Additionally, consider soliciting feedback to improve your offerings and customer service.

Is it common to receive negative feedback in direct sales?

Yes, it is common to receive negative feedback in direct sales, as customer experiences can vary widely. Some customers may have unrealistic expectations or may be dissatisfied for reasons unrelated to your service. The key is to handle such feedback professionally and use it as an opportunity to improve your business practices.

How can I turn a negative email into a positive outcome?

Respond to the negative email with empathy and a willingness to resolve the issue. Acknowledge the customer's feelings and offer a solution that addresses their concerns. By showing that you care about their experience, you can often turn a dissatisfied customer into a loyal one, potentially leading to positive word-of-mouth referrals.

What are some tips for writing a professional response to a nasty email?

When writing a response, start by acknowledging the customer's feelings and frustrations. Use a calm and respectful tone, avoiding any defensive language. Clearly address their concerns and provide a solution or next steps. Finally, express appreciation for their feedback and assure them that you value their business.

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