Is It Worth Dealing with Obnoxious Hosts in Direct Sales?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the challenges faced by Pampered Chef consultants when dealing with difficult hosts during direct sales shows. Participants share personal experiences and strategies for managing host interactions and closing shows effectively.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant recounts a frustrating experience with a host who delayed closing the show, resulting in low commissions and uncertainty about future shows.
  • Another participant shares their approach of setting a firm closing date and communicating it clearly to hosts and guests to avoid delays.
  • Several users mention the importance of establishing a closing timeline with hosts to prevent prolonged shows and ensure timely orders.
  • One participant reflects on their early experiences with shows, noting that initial low sales were a learning opportunity.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need to partner with hosts and encourage them to communicate deadlines to their guests.
  • A few posts shift focus to a light-hearted discussion about an avatar, showcasing a lighter side of the community interaction.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of setting clear closing dates with hosts to avoid complications, though specific methods and experiences vary. No clear consensus emerges on how to handle particularly difficult hosts.

Contextual Notes

Participants share their personal experiences and strategies in the context of direct sales, highlighting the variability in host behavior and the impact on sales outcomes.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants facing challenges with host management or looking for different strategies to close shows may find the shared experiences and insights relevant.

katie0128
katie0128
Silver Member
Messages
3,484
Had a show for a host I met at a multivendor fair in April. Did her show May 17th... I am just closing it TODAY!:mad: :eek: Every time I called her to close it either she wanted to keep it open "because I haven't heard back from everyone" or she just wouldn't answer/return my calls.

I finally got her earlier tonight as she was leaving to take her son somewhere and said she would be gone for "just a bit" and then would call me right back. That was at 6p. At 8:45p I still hadn't heard from her and got completely fed up with the situation, so I called her cell (which of course she didn't answer) and finally said that I was closing the show tomorrow night regardless of whether I got her order or not - said it a bit nicer, but general idea.

Amazingly, she called back in about 15 minutes! And she sounded pissed. Got two additional outside orders (she made it sound like she had a BUNCH - after all that is why she didn't want to close the show) and her order, but still it only has commis. sales of $321!!!!!! I know she wanted to order a bunch of stuff, but I think she was mad at me and decided not to order it. She wouldn't even tell me what was on her wish list!

I am soooo mad that I have spent this much time on this stupid show to have so little in commissions from it. She did have three people book, so it will be interesting how those turn out... they are all really good friends of hers and I wish I could know what she says to them about all of this.

Quick, someone remind me why I shouldn't just strangle her?????:mad: :mad: :mad:
 
I hope the other shows turn out better. Just be sure to remind them of the closing date. I don't ask my hosts when they want to close. I tell them when we need to close and tell them to make sure they let all outside order people know the money is due before that day. Also, I tell them I need their money for the entire order by the closing date. I don't ask, and I make it sound like they have no other choice. I'm nice about it, and I explain that the orders will be delivered by such and such a date when I turn the order in by the close date. I tell the guests at the show when I'm closing and why we do it so quickly...to get the order quickly. The host hears it then too. You will do great on the next shows and count this as a lesson learned. When I first started the first time around, almost all my shows were in the $300 range. It didn't even bother me because I didn't know any better. It's good that you aren't happy with that amount. It's very motivating. Run with it!
 
Katie, that is so frustrating. I agree with setting a date prior to doing or even leaving the show for closing. I tend to tell my hosts that I close their shows 5-7 days afterwards. Granted sometimes it does go a little longer,but atleast they know that it can't drag on forever! Of course I learned that bit of info while trying to close all my shows in my first 30 days and everyone was dragging their feet. I was literally closing multiple shows on the last day I could submit for the extra 30 day bonus.
Relax and breathe about the other shows. I know you think that she is telling them bad things, but if they see how long she took and how long it is taking them to get their stuff I'm sure they will understand your point of view!
 
What I do is tell them when we need to close their shows (usually 3-4 days after the show). Then I work with them and bring them in as a partner. I ask them to tell their friends that we are closing a day before. For example, if I want to close on June 10, I have them tell their guests June 9. Then I explain that it gives your friends time to make their order with a sense of urgency because we are holding the show open for them.
 
HIJACK -

Kate, I've been looking at your avatar all this time and I finally have to ask -

WHAT IS IT?? It's driving me nuts not knowing :D
 
What can I say...I'm drawn to the weird....maybe that's why I spend so much time here...:D
 
Thank you, Kate! At least now I can get some sleep ;)

It was just one of those things that kept bugging me. Too much free time I guess ... It looked like a cat, but then I'd think maybe it was a person in costume. Nah. Must be a cat. Nah - what self respecting cat would wear that outfit?

Yep. Too much free time :rolleyes:
 
Sandy - check out the website - it is hilarious!!!
 
katie0128 said:
Quick, someone remind me why I shouldn't just strangle her?????:mad: :mad: :mad:
Click to expand...


Because life in prison is a huge price to pay for a few moments' pleasure.
 
The good ole CS saying......Bless and Release!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it common to encounter difficult hosts in direct sales?

Yes, encountering difficult or obnoxious hosts is not uncommon in direct sales. Each host has their own personality and expectations, which can sometimes lead to challenging interactions. However, it's essential to develop strategies to manage these situations effectively.

How can I handle an obnoxious host without damaging the relationship?

To handle an obnoxious host, maintain professionalism and patience. Listen to their concerns, set clear boundaries, and communicate openly about expectations. Focus on finding common ground and solutions that work for both parties, which can help preserve the relationship.

Are there any benefits to working with difficult hosts?

Yes, working with difficult hosts can sometimes lead to unexpected benefits. They may push you to refine your communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, overcoming challenges with a difficult host can result in a stronger bond and potentially lead to better referrals or future business opportunities.

When should I consider letting go of a difficult host?

If a host consistently disrupts the process, is disrespectful, or refuses to cooperate despite your best efforts, it may be time to reconsider the partnership. Trust your instincts; if the relationship is causing more stress than value, it might be healthier to step away.

What strategies can I use to prevent issues with hosts in the future?

To prevent issues with hosts, set clear expectations from the beginning. Provide detailed information about the process, roles, and responsibilities. Establish open lines of communication and encourage hosts to ask questions. This proactive approach can help minimize misunderstandings and conflicts later on.

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