How Can I Boost My Bookings in a Slow Month?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread discusses challenges faced by participants in securing bookings during a slow month, with many expressing feelings of being stuck or experiencing a lack of shows. Participants share personal experiences, strategies, and observations regarding their current situations and the impact of external factors such as the economy and weather.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses frustration over having no bookings for January and only one potential booking for February, noting a previous successful year.
  • Another participant shares their experience of being in a similar situation, mentioning efforts to reach out for referrals and planning an open house.
  • Several users mention the difficulty of booking shows due to economic concerns, with one participant highlighting the impact of job losses in their community.
  • One participant discusses their strategy of calling customers and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude despite challenges.
  • Another participant shares their experience of hosting an open house, noting a good turnout but no bookings resulting from the event.
  • Some participants reflect on the influence of weather on attendance and bookings, suggesting that harsh conditions may deter potential hosts and guests.
  • One participant mentions the need for a script to communicate effectively with potential hosts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the effectiveness of various strategies for boosting bookings, with no clear consensus on the best approach to overcome the current challenges.

Contextual Notes

Participants' experiences are shaped by their individual circumstances, including geographic location and recent economic conditions, which they believe may affect their ability to secure bookings.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants facing similar challenges in booking shows during slow months may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant to their situations.

S
stefani2
Messages
1,681
Is there anyone else out there that is stuck in a rut??? I have NO bookings for January, MAYBE ONE in February. I haven't had this happen to me since I started 2 years ago. I had a great year in 08 - earn top SAT, earning the Trip for One - and now I have NOTHING

???

Maybe someone who is having a good month can inspire me.
 
Get on the phone and call everyone. Print out your entire customer list and start at A and don't stop until you get to Z - if they aren't interested, ask for referrals.
 
I'm stuck too...asked and asked...I'm on the referral step and also planning an "early" spring open house!
 
I am too!!!! I don't have one show open this month. My girlfriend took a catty to work and I'm hoping she will bring me some orders to make into a show. With everyone crying about the economy it has been hard.
 
You are not alone in the rut. I closed one show last week and have nothing on my books... NOTHING. I plan to get on the phone again tonight. Hopefully with this horrible weather, people will stay home and want to talk. Best of luck trying to stir up some business.
I am using this time to organize my desk, there are scary piles everywhere....
 
Well my show sales have not been high, but I have 11 shows for Feb. Only 1 for this month, but that was ok w/me. Too busy w/the holidays!
 
We ALL know this is where attitude is huge! Start calling and just KNOWING that you will book shows. I have 7 shows on my calendar, my first one isn't until the 17th, which is already this Saturday! I know that the calling is hard but you have to get the no's before you get the YES! Think...:Double Points: :Commission Check: :Fun Shows: :Power Cooking: :People LOVE PC:

:)

By the way, my February is BLANK right now so I too am getting on the phone! :)
 
Hi Jenna:

Sounds like this is the exception not the rule for you. Most of my January shows cancelled or rescheduled, and so far I have a few shows for February. Try thinking out of the box - unless someone has physically said no, they are fair game for you. You never know who might be interested in having a party!

If all else fails, bless and release yourself, and look forward to the future!
 
rennea said:
With everyone crying about the economy it has been hard.
Click to expand...
Yup you got that right, with Ont. having huge cuts in the auto sector, tons, of people buying only basics.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
I think my problem is coming up with a script of what to say to people.
 
Remember ladies, when they say the economy is hard you tell them that is why we are here! Make sure they know to let their guest know that they don't HAVE to buy. They can just come to get out of house, visit with friends, learn some money $aving tips and eat a great meal. We all know that once we have them in front of us PC sells itself.
I have 8 shows this month, 3 next month and 2 in March using this method. My sales might not be huge, but I'm still out there and making contacts.
Good luck
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
Crystal Patton said:
Remember ladies, when they say the economy is hard you tell them that is why we are here! Make sure they know to let their guest know that they don't HAVE to buy. They can just come to get out of house, visit with friends, learn some money $aving tips and eat a great meal. We all know that once we have them in front of us PC sells itself.
I have 8 shows this month, 3 next month and 2 in March using this method. My sales might not be huge, but I'm still out there and making contacts.
Good luck
Click to expand...

Thanks for the reminder Crystal! I am convinced that Jan/Feb are GREAT months to host a show - just can't seem to convince my hosts that. LIke, I get it - PC Shows are FABULOUS for a slow economy. People need a stress-reliever when times are tough, NEED to eat at home more, NEED to save money more (especially on groceries), and WANT to get together with friends after the crazy-busy holidays!!! Soooo, WTH is going on?
 
Crystal Patton said:
Remember ladies, when they say the economy is hard you tell them that is why we are here! Make sure they know to let their guest know that they don't HAVE to buy. They can just come to get out of house, visit with friends, learn some money $aving tips and eat a great meal. We all know that once we have them in front of us PC sells itself.
I have 8 shows this month, 3 next month and 2 in March using this method. My sales might not be huge, but I'm still out there and making contacts.
Good luck
Click to expand...

Though I agree with you, it's really hard to sell that to people that are losing there jobs left and right. I live in a small community and jobs are GONE. In 2 days last week I received 42 resumes!!! I usually receive that in a month. Our products ROCK but people have other important things to worried about like food, roof over their heads etc. I don't believe that the Canadian economy is as bad as the media has made it out to be but people are saving there money! Small businesses are laying people off here, I haven't yet but will see what happens in the next couple of months.
 
I held an Open House last night- because I needed my $200 in sales by the end of the month... and I sent out 120 invites to past customers, hosts, friends, neighbors. I left the RSVP open until 30 minutes before the show, and had 14 attend. Which is a good number for me usually. I only had 150 in sales!!!!!!!! I was trying out beef power cooking recipes, and offered any of the rubs or seasoning items at $1 off. I even offered 20 PC dollars for booking a show, and DCB for $45... out of all of that I have NO bookings. and didn't sell a single baker...
 
Bluiydangl said:
I held an Open House last night- because I needed my $200 in sales by the end of the month... and I sent out 120 invites to past customers, hosts, friends, neighbors. I left the RSVP open until 30 minutes before the show, and had 14 attend. Which is a good number for me usually. I only had 150 in sales!!!!!!!! I was trying out beef power cooking recipes, and offered any of the rubs or seasoning items at $1 off. I even offered 20 PC dollars for booking a show, and DCB for $45... out of all of that I have NO bookings. and didn't sell a single baker...
Click to expand...


Well at least you had $150.00 in sales:thumbup:
 
I agree- I am buying the last 50 in rubs and sprinkles since I have the 150... I think there should be a $200 every 6 months sales requirement...
 
I see a trend with most of you who are posting.....You are all in the northern part of the states or in Canada- you all keep getting the TERRIBLE WEATHER it seems the last several weeks. Could that be part of it?? People are just hunkering down and don't want to go out at night when you get a snowstorm every week. (My parents are in Ohio and my Inlaws in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.) Just a thought....But I did get some good words about answers to the economy from a few posts. Thanks. :)
 
esavvymom said:
I see a trend with most of you who are posting.....You are all in the northern part of the states or in Canada- you all keep getting the TERRIBLE WEATHER it seems the last several weeks. Could that be part of it?? People are just hunkering down and don't want to go out at night when you get a snowstorm every week. (My parents are in Ohio and my Inlaws in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.) Just a thought....

But I did get some good words about answers to the economy from a few posts. Thanks. :)
Click to expand...


The weather here isn't any different then any other winter weather we have. But that could be the case else where.
 
Bluiydangl said:
I agree- I am buying the last 50 in rubs and sprinkles since I have the 150... I think there should be a $200 every 6 months sales requirement...
Click to expand...



Oh my dear that is wishful thinking;)
 
How do I attach a file that I have on my computer in my documents??? It is really good training on parties etc. and I would like to share but do not know how.
 
I have two shows for January. And, just got one of those many "after the holidays" booked for February. I am hoping to be busy the next 3 months, and on, so we will see.
 
I am not sure this is going to work,,this file,, and it is geared for tupperware consultants but,, you can change it around and use it with PC... I hope nobody minds that I put this in.

Debbie
 

Attachments

  • Thread starter
  • #23
I got on the phone last night and today. One of the girls is leaving on holidays (I have a lot of customers who take a vacation Feb/Mar) - and she wants to schedule for the end of March, One girl is due in Mar (TONS of friends are due in Mar/Apr and have other priorities right now), and the other girl says she wants a show but always has an excuse at the time to NOT date her January Show.

I had over $10,000 in points at the end of last January - I am freakin' out right now!

Other people have said they (or their family) have been sick and it takes a while to get over it.....
 
  • Thread starter
  • #24
debbieskitchenhelper said:
I am not sure this is going to work,,this file,, and it is geared for tupperware consultants but,, you can change it around and use it with PC... I hope nobody minds that I put this in.

Debbie
Click to expand...

Thanks Debbie - it worked! :)
 
I am stuck in a rut too, I only have 1 show for this month, and its Jan 31st! I have 2 maybe's for Feb so I keep asking everyone!
 
I am too new to be in a rut but want to wish you the best! It will get back on track.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #27
So here is what I have done so far:
- cleaned/organized the basement - because I think that was really weighing me down
- made a list of Past Hostess' and will get on the phone
- asked DH to take care of the kids tomorrow night for phone calls (wednesdays have always been a good night for me)

I need to be creative again:
- drop off cattys at Dr. office, Rec Ctr, etc.
- have my own clinic or spring kick off

I might also talk to my future hostesses about why NOW is the BEST TIME to host - and to get bookings for when the new catty comes out.

What do you think?
 
Sounds great Jenna - go kick some butt!
 
My January is booked better than any other January I have had. I have 4 cooking shows and no catalog shows. But Feb...OY!! Last year I had 13 cooking shows...this year...NOTHING!!!

I really need to get on the phone...BAD!!
 
I am in the same boat. I had 2 bookings for January, both cancelled. Tried to host coach them into rescheduling, that didn't work. I have been struggling with bookings since October. I had a great spring/summer of 2008.

I have tried having a fall preview show (sent over 80 invites, 3 people

showed!), a Christmas Cookie Swap show ($100 in sales, no bookings), handed out calendars, do a monthly newletter, carry my catalog tote, wear logo wear, etc.... Yes, I have been on the phones. Almost no one left to call!

I am stumped, but I am not quitting. I have a booth at a festival this weekend. Hopefully things will soon turn around.

Best of luck to all of you as well!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective strategies to increase my bookings during a slow month?

To boost your bookings, consider hosting themed cooking classes or virtual parties that appeal to your audience. Utilize social media to promote these events and engage with your followers. Additionally, reach out to past hosts and customers to offer exclusive deals or incentives for booking a party this month.

How can I leverage social media to drive more bookings?

Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to showcase your products and share cooking tips or recipes. Create engaging posts that encourage interaction, such as polls or contests. Live cooking demonstrations can also attract attention and encourage viewers to book their own parties.

Should I offer any promotions or incentives to encourage bookings?

Yes, offering promotions can be a great way to entice potential hosts. Consider providing discounts on products, free shipping, or exclusive items for those who book a party during the slow month. Highlight these incentives in your marketing materials to attract interest.

How can I reconnect with past hosts or customers to boost my bookings?

Reach out to past hosts and customers through personalized messages or emails. Thank them for their previous support and let them know about any new products or promotions. You can also ask if they would be interested in hosting another party or if they have friends who might be interested.

What role does networking play in increasing my bookings?

Networking is crucial in direct sales. Attend local events, join community groups, or participate in online forums to meet new people. Building relationships can lead to referrals and new bookings. Don’t hesitate to share your passion for Pampered Chef and the benefits of hosting a party with those you meet.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

New Training Course on Cc - Boost Your Bookings
  • esavvymom
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
7
Views
2K
esavvymom
Help Needed! Stuck in a Rut - No Bookings or Sales Despite Offers
  • rbvernon
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
12
Views
2K
sk8rgrrl99
How Can I Increase my Bookings as a Consultant?
  • ValM2010
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
2
Views
3K
Admin Greg
How Can I Boost Bookings at the Feb 2 Women's Show?
  • PamperedK
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
17
Views
3K
chefann
How Can I Boost My Home Business Party Bookings?
  • jterre
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
2K
Chef Bobby
Nervous & Hopeful: Overcoming a Slow Month & Preparing for a Street Fair
  • PamperMeDawn
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
20
Views
3K
nancycookspc
How Can I Get More Bookings and Orders?
  • RMR1984
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
11
Views
4K
Deb Bixler
How Can I Quickly Boost My Business?
  • pampered2007
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
8
Views
5K
katylunsford
How can 'baby purses' help increase bookings and sales at your shows?
  • leshelman
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
2
Views
3K
Admin Greg
Boost Your Bookings with These Fun Tips - Perfect for a 15+ Show Tonight!
  • Jessamary
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
2K
raebates
Back
Top