How Should I Handle a Large Catalog Order from a Socially Distant Acquaintance?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores how a Pampered Chef consultant should approach a large catalog order from an acquaintance with whom she has limited personal interaction. Participants share their thoughts on communication strategies and the implications of handling the order.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses excitement about receiving a large order but feels hesitant to communicate directly with the acquaintance due to their limited interactions.
  • Another participant suggests that direct communication is essential for building relationships and encourages the consultant to talk to the acquaintance about the order.
  • Several users mention that the acquaintance might be shy and that initiating conversation could help break the ice.
  • One participant shares their experience of calling to thank the customer and explaining the benefits of hosting a show, which could lead to a better relationship.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of transferring the show to the acquaintance to allow her to benefit from the host rewards.
  • Some participants note that discussing the host program and potential benefits could enhance the acquaintance's interest in future orders.
  • One participant mentions the possibility of offering small gifts or incentives to make the acquaintance feel valued and appreciated.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of direct communication with the acquaintance, though specific approaches and suggestions vary. There is no clear consensus on the best method to handle the situation.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects the experiences of consultants navigating interpersonal dynamics in their business, particularly when dealing with customers they do not know well.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on managing customer relationships and handling large orders from acquaintances may find this discussion relevant.

H
Humble Beginnings
Messages
667
Not sure where to post this so thought this was the best place. Ok as some of you know I'm a newbie just had 30 days July 7th. So here's my problem I guess if you want to call it that. I've been really trying to work my business, I try to give catelogs to everyone and have decided to do another catelog show for myself. I gave a catelog to my daughters friends mom and she's had it about 3 weeks well yesterday my daughter was there and called screaming "Mommy, you are going to get 800.00 in orders from S mom":sing: I was in awe and couldn't stop smiling. 800.00 from one person! Now I didn't have the order in hand so I was hesitate about doing the "happy banana dance". Well today the friend hands me the order (now I'm doing the "happy dance" in my head) I come home to put the order on right away and add the other orders and close the show. I go to do this and realize that she ordered from the host special page 1/2 items for the forge cultery and cookware. :mad: Now I know some may think wow offer her a show but for some reason I can't warm up to her. She picks up her daughter and never talks to me. One time I went to drop off my girls and she didn't even get off the couch she just waved from there. Then even before this order we were invited by her daughter to come watch fireworks at her home and I thought great I'll get to know her. No luck she didnt' even come out of her room to say "hi" it was awkward . Basically all our communicating has been through our kids.

Sorry now back to my problem. I did some playing around with numbers and since this is my own show and I really do not have the money to buy anything I was thinking, if she chose the 7 piece set I could get her the cultery set half off and it looks like it will only cost her 38.00 more. If she does want 12 pieces it would be 300.00 more (ouch) My dilema is that I really don't want this relayed by the daughter but again not too comfortable talking with her. Plus can I do that? Can I add the host special under me and pay for it with her credit card as part of my payment?

In addition, since I'm hosting the catelog I'm kinda wondering should I offer her the host $ to buy more stuff since I really didn't do anything and still making commissions off of it or should I use the host $, just started my business so this would be great.

I guess I just would like to know what others would do in this situation.
 
You can't get by this one. You have to just talk to her. It's a great way to make yourself stronger. You aren't doing anything wrong. She made a mistake, though a bit of a ditsy one, but I suppose anyone could do that. She may not know how to relate to you or anyone. Try to figure out how to say what you need to say. Make sure you are convinced in your own head that you are not doing anything wrong, and it will be easier to have the conversation.
 
I'm with Jae, you really need to talk to her yourself. She maybe just very shy and waiting for you to extend the branch first.

Ask if she has ever purchased PC before this will be a good icebreaker. Explain the host benefits and explain that the half-price combinations are for hosts. Tell her you'll put her order into a catalog show for her so she can enjoy the benefits.
 
I would give her a call, Hi this is Carol xxxx's Mom. I jsut wanted to call you and personally thank you for your generous order. I can still get you those great deals, however, the way PC works is............

I hope it works out!! Sounds like she's spending the $$ anyway what's another $38. You can also offer her FREE SHIPPING which might help compensate.
 
Yes talk to her yourself. Being it is a business that you hope to build you would definitely want too. Who knows it may get you an actual show besides just her order.
 
Unless you just wanted to submit the show as your own can't you just shift it to her? Call her and explain like they have stated above. Let her know that you were doing the catalog show but since she has such a large order that you want to thank her by transferring the show to her so she can get the benifits! Surely, she will appreciate this when you explain everything that she will get. Especially if you let her know about the great deal with more free this month! She may just want to pass the catty around a bit more when she hears that!
 
I agree, no ? it should be her show let her reap the benefits etc.
Step out of your comfort zone (we have all been there) and call her, explain the host program. Is she in an abusive relationship? I would let her know how appreciative, grateful you are and might even approach her with a small product (tools for the cookware, honing tool, cookbook, a stone or something). Also share with her how rewarding PC has been so far and what you have earned just in 30 days she may be looking for something to pull her out of a "funk" or out of her shell.IF you make her feel valued and appreciated you might have an awesome customer for a LONG time and she will refer you to her friends
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first when I receive a large catalog order from an acquaintance?

Start by confirming the order details with your acquaintance to ensure accuracy. Make sure to clarify which items they want, the quantities, and any specific preferences they may have. This will help prevent any misunderstandings later on.

How can I ensure a smooth transaction while maintaining social distance?

Utilize digital tools for communication and payment. You can send them a digital invoice or use a payment app to collect payment. Arrange for contactless delivery or pick-up options, such as leaving the order at their doorstep or using a designated drop-off location.

What if my acquaintance has questions about the products in the catalog?

Encourage them to reach out to you with any questions they may have. You can also provide them with additional resources, such as product videos or links to the Pampered Chef website, to help them make informed decisions without needing to meet in person.

How should I handle shipping costs for a large order?

Clearly communicate shipping costs upfront. If the order is large enough, you might consider offering to cover part of the shipping as a courtesy. Make sure to discuss this with your acquaintance so they understand any additional fees involved.

What if my acquaintance wants to return an item after the order is delivered?

Explain the return policy for Pampered Chef products to your acquaintance before finalizing the order. If they want to return an item, guide them through the return process and ensure they understand any timelines or conditions that apply to returns.

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