How Can I Revive My Business After Taking Time Off to Care for My Mother?

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers around a participant's struggle to revive their Pampered Chef business after taking time off to care for a sick family member. Various participants share their personal experiences and suggestions for re-engaging with clients and rebuilding their business.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses difficulty in restarting their business after a month off for family care and seeks encouragement.
  • Another participant shares their experience of having to take time off for similar reasons and emphasizes the importance of being present for family during tough times.
  • Several users mention the idea of reaching out to past customers for referrals and bookings as a way to regain momentum.
  • One participant suggests utilizing local events, such as bridal shows or church gatherings, to promote the business and connect with potential clients.
  • Another participant discusses the potential of hosting an open house to kick off a new season and offers ideas for incentives to encourage bookings.
  • Some participants highlight the importance of self-care amidst the stress of balancing family responsibilities and business demands.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best strategies for reviving a business after a hiatus, with no clear consensus on a single approach. Participants share a variety of personal experiences and suggestions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects the challenges faced by consultants balancing family obligations with their business commitments, highlighting the emotional and practical aspects of this experience.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who have taken time off for personal reasons and are looking for ways to re-engage with their business may find the shared experiences and suggestions relevant.

ragschef
ragschef
Messages
698
I'm having a very hard time trying to get my business to pick back up. I had to take a month off to take care of my mom who is not doing very well. But I also have to make some money as I am a stay at home mom who needs to contribute to the monthly income. I have "pampered cheffed-out" my clients and need a new avenue to take. I've called around to try to get a cheap booth at a church and then start a fundraiser for our volunteer fire dept, but neither one got off the ground. I'm so upset about everything going on, that I really just want to give up and go back to work, but i love being home with my little girl. I really need advice and encouragement. Anything will help. Thanks.
 
Amanda, first let me tell you that your Mom is one lucky lady to have such a devoted and loving daughter. I have tears in my eyes just reading your post.

How about asking the people you do know for some help...as far as referrals for bookings? I know that fairs, etc. are good places to get your name out, but if time out of the house is precious (which it sounds like it is) your time is best spent doing actual parties. (this is my experience only).

Wear a Pampered Chef article of clothing...you never know who may be looking for a consultant. When I brought my father to the ER once, a nurse tastefully waited for the right time to ask me about PC. I was wearing a jacket and carrying a purse that had PC logos. In this instance, I did not get her name to follow up, but I did leave her with a catalog.

You are trying to establish the same devoted and loving relationship with your daughter and what a perfect fit PC is for all that you have going on.

Be as persistant and patient with your PC business as you can, but also, realize that you are under tremendous stress and make sure you take time to take care of Amanda! Your mother and daughter need YOU to take care of yourself.

{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}} to you and your wonderful family. Just keep doing what you can and I bet it will all work out in the end. Don't be afraid to ask your upline for help and know that your CS friends are here for you.
 
What about pampering a business? Maybe bring in goodies with catalogs to your church, bank, hair stylist...

Or call around to local bridal shows and ask if you could set up a booth on a Saturday for a couple of hours. Wedding Registries are an awesome source of income with very little work.

Have you tried calling all past customers even outside orders and doing customer care calls? Just checking in to see if you love your products, do you need a recipe or instructions... that sort of thing.

With the new products, you should be able to peek some interest from previous customers.
 
Amanda....#1 hope your mom feels better. My mantra is that my family always comes first..I have 2 awesome kids, stay home, and love to be there for them...#2 I was in the same spot as you were-family health issues, personal health issues, etc. last year...when I was ready to get back on track with PC I felt like I was trying to bicycle up a steeeep hill after stopping half way up(hard, but not impossible)...#3what about having an open house to kick off the new season??? Offer guests a small ($10-12) something extra for booking, or you pay for the recipe requirements, etc. or ..I have a super inexpensive chocolate cake recipe if you have the fluted stone ( or maybe can borrow one)..let me know...hope this wasn't too long:blushing:
 
Amanda,

I know how hard that is. I took care of my mother for 2 months at the end of her life. She lived 1300 miles from here so I had to leave my business and family and pretty much give up my life. It's not easy and my prayers are with you.

I can tell you that you will never regret being there with her during this time - when she's better she'll share how great it made her feel to have you there. That month was a priceless time in your relationship with her. I was fortunate that it was the very beginning of a month through the very end of another so I happened to have shows go in at both ends of the time (I was a new director so staying active was imperative for me). I missed out on the fast track for new directors and a promotion (trip to Chicago for the 25th Anniversary in October - I was SO on track for that) but I wouldn't have done anything different.

I know you are working on promoting too and have several recruits so that $200 every 2 months is vital to you too. You can do it.

Ideas: Send out an email to your entire customer base and tell them that you have had to take some time away from your business and need their help to get back on track. Ask for referrals - who do THEY know. Remind them we now have a new catalog and tell them you're putting a show in. Offer incentives like a drawing for the host benefits or 10% off their orders or a free gift with each bookign referral (I know you need the income but right now you need the contacts and sales to stay active and refill your calendar).

When shopping make a point of talking with the people there - owner, workers, other customers. Carry a catalog or cookbook...

Be yourself and it will happen. Allow yourself the time to deal with everything now. Do what you have to but take care of yourself first and formost.
 
Last edited:
Amanda,

I know how hard that is. I took care of my mother for 2 months at the end of her life. She lived 1300 miles from here so I had to leave my business and family and pretty much give up my life. It's not easy and my prayers are with you.

I can tell you that you will never regret being there with her during this time. That month was worth anything. I was fortunate that it was the very beginning of a month through the very end of another so I happened to have shows go in at both ends of the time (I was a new director so staying active was imperative for me). I missed out on the fast track for new directors and a promotion (trip to Chicago for the 25th Anniversary in October - I was SO on track for that) but I wouldn't have done anything different.

I know you are working on promoting too and have several recruits so that $200 every 2 months is vital to you too. You can do it.

Ideas: Send out an email to your entire customer base and tell them that you have had to take some time away from your business and need their help to get back on track. Ask for referrals - who do THEY know. Remind them we now have a new catalog and tell them you're putting a show in. Offer incentives like a drawing for the host benefits or 10% off their orders or a free gift with each bookign referral (I know you need the income but right now you need the contacts and sales to stay active and refill your calendar).

When shopping make a point of talking with the people there - owner, workers, other customers. Carry a catalog or cookbook...

Be yourself and it will happen. Allow yourself the time to deal with everything now. Do what you have to but take care of yourself first and formost.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reconnect with my existing customers after a long break?

Start by reaching out to your previous customers through personalized messages or emails. Share your journey and let them know you’re back in business. Consider offering a special promotion or discount to encourage them to shop again. Engaging with them on social media can also help rekindle those relationships.

What strategies can I use to promote my business again?

Utilize social media platforms to showcase new products, share recipes, and post engaging content related to Pampered Chef. Host virtual cooking demonstrations or in-person parties to attract both old and new customers. Collaborating with other consultants or local businesses can also expand your reach.

How can I manage my time effectively while balancing my business and caregiving responsibilities?

Set a schedule that allocates specific times for your business activities and caregiving duties. Prioritize tasks and focus on high-impact activities that can drive sales, such as hosting events or following up with customers. Consider using tools like calendars or task management apps to stay organized.

What should I do if I feel overwhelmed getting back into the business?

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed after a break. Start small by setting achievable goals and gradually increasing your efforts. Seek support from fellow consultants or join online communities for motivation and advice. Remember to take breaks and practice self-care to avoid burnout.

Are there any resources available to help me revive my Pampered Chef business?

Yes, Pampered Chef offers various resources, including training materials, webinars, and support from your team leader. Take advantage of these tools to refresh your knowledge and skills. Additionally, consider attending local or national conferences for networking and inspiration.

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