dannyzmom
Gold Member
- 9,271
Is it just me?? Are catalogs becoming a burden for other consultants as well?
- Context: Director
- Thread starter dannyzmom
- Start date
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The thread explores the experiences of Pampered Chef consultants regarding the use and management of catalogs. Participants share their personal challenges and strategies related to the frequency of catalog orders and the perceived burden of managing them during shows.
Discussion Character
- Anecdotal
- Opinion-based
Main Points Raised
- One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions ordering an excessive number of catalogs this season, totaling 300.
- Another participant shares their experience of ordering 500 catalogs, indicating a high usage rate.
- Several users note that they have also gone through many catalogs, attributing it to an increase in shows and the number of recipes included.
- One participant describes a method of communicating with guests about catalogs, which they believe has reduced their catalog loss at shows by 50%.
- Another participant discusses using binders and page protectors for catalogs, which they find time-consuming but beneficial for organization.
- One participant mentions that they have doubled their show schedule, contributing to their increased catalog usage.
- Another participant expresses concern about the weight of carrying catalogs and supplies to shows, noting the challenge of lugging them around.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ among participants regarding the management of catalogs, with some finding effective strategies to reduce waste while others continue to struggle with high usage rates. No clear consensus emerges on the best approach to handling catalogs.
Contextual Notes
Participants share personal experiences and strategies related to catalog management, reflecting a variety of approaches based on individual business practices and show schedules.
Who May Find This Useful
Consultants looking for insights into catalog management and those experiencing similar challenges may find the shared experiences relevant.
cmdtrgd
Gold Member
- 4,935
DebPC
Staff member
- 2,997
kcjodih
Gold Member
- 3,391
I am also very loose with my catalogs....I consider it my most effective advertising for MY name and also for outside orders later.
That said, after 4 years of buying tons of catalogs, I now say the following when going over my guest pack at shows...note that I use a lapboard w/biz card holder as the main folder.
"Everything in this pack is yours to keep...I just need the folder and the pen back for sure. IF however, you are just going to take the stuff home and throw it away, please do leave it behind, because I can reuse the supplies. But...if you are like me and you LOVE to have catalogs to refer to, please don't hesitate to take the catalog and any other items, such as the recipe card, home with you tonight".
It is a mouthful but what it does is give them permission to both leave OR take the stuff.
I've been using this type of spiel for about a year and I have found my SHOW "take" of catalogs to have reduced by about 50% from previous levels. And since I do about 85 cooking shows a year, that is a big improvement!
Before I was always the consultant begging, borrowing, or stealing to get catlogs..now, I have had enough to reply to other consultant's desperate requests. Yes, I plan better but honestly, I feel the bigger difference is that I have less loss of catalogs at each show.
That said, after 4 years of buying tons of catalogs, I now say the following when going over my guest pack at shows...note that I use a lapboard w/biz card holder as the main folder.
"Everything in this pack is yours to keep...I just need the folder and the pen back for sure. IF however, you are just going to take the stuff home and throw it away, please do leave it behind, because I can reuse the supplies. But...if you are like me and you LOVE to have catalogs to refer to, please don't hesitate to take the catalog and any other items, such as the recipe card, home with you tonight".
It is a mouthful but what it does is give them permission to both leave OR take the stuff.
I've been using this type of spiel for about a year and I have found my SHOW "take" of catalogs to have reduced by about 50% from previous levels. And since I do about 85 cooking shows a year, that is a big improvement!
Before I was always the consultant begging, borrowing, or stealing to get catlogs..now, I have had enough to reply to other consultant's desperate requests. Yes, I plan better but honestly, I feel the bigger difference is that I have less loss of catalogs at each show.
pamela
- 41
I invested in 12 1/2' binders and page protectors and inserted the catalogs into them...time consuming, but I use the excuse at my shows that everyone needs something to lean on when writing their order! I make sure everyone knows I have a few extra loose catalogs if someone wants to take it home. It has saved me $$$$$-if you guys that need catalogs want to get them from me, let me know!
amy07
- 2,785
I've gone thru alot of catalogs as well. Then when I got to thinking about it, I'm also doing ALOT more shows than in the past, so that also means alot more are out in host packs too. But I feel your pain, it seems like I'm always needing supplies here lately. Of course, if I cleaned up my "office" I might find some buried, but that's a whole 'nother topic!
dannyzmom
Gold Member
- 9,271
pamela
- 41
its_me_susan
- 2,049
happypcgal said:
Love it, thanks!
I really emphasize my business card, and the receipt - that they should save my website in case they foget how to use a product (and want to remember how to use an old one) b/c they can access the PIGS there. Lots of oohs & ahs - but I do encourage them to take the catalog and put a tell them to save because they'll want to refer back when i let them know about monthly specials.
its_me_susan
- 2,049
dannyzmom
Gold Member
- 9,271
Too darn heavy for me to lug to all my shows.
pamela
- 41
its_me_susan said:
I carry them in a large bag I bought from Merrill at Leadership 2 years ago and I made up 24...I only carry 15 to shows unless the host has more than that coming.....
I am considering not using these now that I have made them up and taken them to my Oct, Nov and Dec shows...they are HEAVY! And I am finding that people like taking that catalog with them. Just not sure what to do....
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it just me, or are catalogs becoming less effective for other Pampered Chef consultants?
You're not alone in feeling this way. Many consultants have noticed a shift in how customers engage with catalogs. With the rise of digital marketing and social media, some find that online platforms yield better results than traditional paper catalogs.
What are some challenges consultants face with using catalogs?
Consultants often find catalogs to be costly to print and distribute. Additionally, keeping them updated with new products can be a logistical challenge. Many also feel that customers prefer browsing online, making physical catalogs seem less relevant.
Are there alternatives to using catalogs that other consultants are finding effective?
Yes, many consultants are turning to digital catalogs, social media posts, and virtual parties to showcase products. These methods can be more interactive and engaging, allowing for real-time updates and customer interaction.
How can I gauge my customers' preferences regarding catalogs?
Consider conducting a survey or asking for feedback during parties or one-on-one interactions. Understanding your customers' preferences can help you decide whether to continue using catalogs or shift to more digital approaches.
What should I do if I feel overwhelmed by the catalog process?
If catalogs are becoming a burden, it might be time to reassess your strategy. Focus on what works best for you and your customers. Streamlining your catalog process or transitioning to digital options can reduce stress and improve your sales efforts.
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