How to Handle a Situation: Dealing with a Competing Gal in Your Local Business

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses experiences and feelings related to competition among Pampered Chef consultants, particularly focusing on a situation where one consultant feels another is encroaching on her established customer base. Participants share their thoughts on handling competition, customer loyalty, and the absence of territorial restrictions within the business.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration over a new consultant trying to sell to customers who have been loyal for six years.
  • Several participants note that Pampered Chef does not have territories, meaning customers can choose whom to order from.
  • Another participant shares that while they understand the frustration, they believe customers should decide who to buy from, regardless of previous relationships.
  • One participant mentions that they have had customers inform them about attending parties hosted by other consultants but still remain loyal to them.
  • Another participant suggests that the original poster could host a holiday open house to strengthen customer relationships.
  • Some participants discuss the ethics of continuing to approach customers who have indicated they are already working with another consultant.
  • One participant emphasizes that while they are not against the new consultant starting their business, they feel there should be respect for existing customer relationships.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the appropriateness of the new consultant's actions and the expectations of customer loyalty. No clear consensus emerges on how to handle the situation.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and feelings about competition within the Pampered Chef community, highlighting the challenges of maintaining customer loyalty in a non-territorial business environment.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants navigating competitive situations and seeking insights on customer loyalty and relationship management may find this discussion relevant.

pcgogetter
pcgogetter
Gold Member
Messages
232
a situation. Locally a gal was recruit from someone an hour from here just over the phone. The gal has done very very well. BUT I do customers from a large place of business that this gal has come into contact with some gals and is trying to get business. I have had these ladies business for 6 years. I feel this lady in trying to step on me. How do I approach this with the recruit or the gal herself. She has been told they all buy from me. Thanks
 
The one thing about PC we do not have territories. therefore, the customers will have to decide who to order from
 
Teresa Lynn said:
The one thing about PC we do not have territories. therefore, the customers will have to decide who to order from
Click to expand...

Ditto, there is nothing you can do about it.
 
Hmm... Shame on her for continuing contact if she was clearly told they were your customers. Here is hoping that your customers will be loyal to you! However if she is in contact with other people in the buisness who are not your customers and then her new customers try to get orders from ppl. at work I'm not sure you really can be upset?Then again I'm new so....
 
Sounds like time for a big holiday open house with all of your customer base, perhaps offer free shipping!
 
pamperedpnina said:
Hmm... Shame on her for continuing contact if she was clearly told they were your customers. Here is hoping that your customers will be loyal to you! However if she is in contact with other people in the buisness who are not your customers and then her new customers try to get orders from ppl. at work I'm not sure you really can be upset?

Then again I'm new so....
Click to expand...

No, it's not shame on the other consultant. She's working her business and we have no territories. I have my good customers and hosts tell me all the time that they got invited to another PC party and what they bought. But they usually tell me they only bought little things from the other consultant. It's up to the customers to decide who they want to buy from. Maybe they personally know this other consultant or just want to help her start her business.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
I agree we don't have territories thats not my complaints really I am complaining that they informed her who they order from and she continued try and sell to the facilty I am referring to. I know that is against company policy to continue to try and step on others customers like she is doing.
I just did a hugh vendor over the weekend and did awesome and I hav esold for ove r6 yrs here and people know me. I am NOT against her starting the business but back off my customers when they tell youthey are mine. KWIM?
 
pcgogetter said:
I am NOT against her starting the business but back off my customers when they tell youthey are mine. KWIM?
Click to expand...

Just for the record thats what I was saying shame on her for. Its one thing to make a contact but if they turn you away saying they are working with another consultant....
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
Thanks Nina
 
You didn't specify who told her. You made it sound like you told the new consultant that they were your customer. Personally, I would stay out of it. Your customers are big girls/guys, they can continue to tell her that they order from you.
 
I can understand your frustration but I do not think there is anything you can do. If your customes want to remain loyal to you, then when she ask for orders they need to nicely tell her they already have a consultant and they would appreciate her not contacting them again.
 
gailz2 said:
Sounds like time for a big holiday open house with all of your customer base, perhaps offer free shipping!
Click to expand...

treat them like gold! they will not stray :D
 
pcgogetter said:
I know that is against company policy to continue to try and step on others customers like she is doing.
Click to expand...

No, I don't think you'll find this written down anywhere. As someone mentioned, there are no territories.

As Linda suggested, treat them like gold. That's all any of us can do and that will not always keep them from working with other consultants.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #14
Thank you all for your words & advice Michelle
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I approach a competing consultant in my area?

It's best to approach the situation with professionalism and kindness. Consider reaching out to the competing consultant to introduce yourself and express your interest in collaborating rather than competing. Building a friendly relationship can lead to mutual support and shared success.

What if the competing consultant is undercutting my prices?

Focus on the value you provide rather than just the price. Highlight your unique selling points, such as exceptional customer service, personalized experiences, or exclusive offers. Consider discussing the situation with the consultant to see if you can come to a mutual understanding about pricing strategies.

How can I differentiate myself from the competition?

Identify your unique strengths and what makes your business special. This could be your personal story, your approach to customer service, or specific product knowledge. Use social media and marketing to showcase these strengths and connect with your target audience on a deeper level.

Should I avoid promoting my business because of the competition?

No, you should continue to promote your business confidently. Competition can be healthy and can motivate you to improve your offerings. Focus on your brand and what makes you unique, and don't shy away from marketing your services and products.

What if the competition is affecting my sales?

If you notice a decline in sales due to competition, take a step back to analyze your business strategies. Gather feedback from your customers to understand their needs better and adjust your offerings accordingly. Consider hosting events or promotions to re-engage your customer base and attract new clients.

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