Is Offering Free Shows in Direct Sales Deceptive?
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Discussion Overview
This thread explores the practice of offering free cooking shows in direct sales, particularly among Pampered Chef consultants. Participants share their personal views and experiences regarding the ethics and implications of this practice, with some expressing strong opposition while others provide varying perspectives on its execution.
Discussion Character
- Opinion-based
- Anecdotal
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses shock at the idea of using "free shows" as prizes, labeling it deceptive and suggesting it could harm relationships with hosts.
- Another participant, identifying as a consultant, shares that they do not offer free shows but may provide them under specific circumstances, ensuring transparency about what that entails.
- One participant mentions a suggestion from a fellow consultant to use free shows as incentives, clarifying that they would communicate this upfront to avoid misunderstandings.
- A different participant shares that they have only covered ingredient costs for close friends as a personal gesture, not as a business practice.
- Another participant states they do not plan to offer free shows in the future but have previously bought ingredients as a thank-you to hosts.
- One participant mentions that they offer free shows but ensure hosts are informed about what is included, emphasizing the importance of upfront communication.
- Another participant discusses their preference for buying ingredients to maintain control over quality, viewing it as a small investment for a successful show.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ significantly among participants regarding the appropriateness of offering free shows. Some participants strongly oppose the practice, while others see it as acceptable if done transparently. No clear consensus emerges on the issue.
Contextual Notes
Participants share a range of personal experiences and ethical considerations related to offering free shows, reflecting their individual business practices and values within the context of direct sales.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be of interest to Pampered Chef consultants considering the implications of offering free shows and those seeking to understand different perspectives on business ethics in direct sales.
lockhartkitchen said:
I do this too. I even do reminder phone calls. I am very specific when explaining what the drawing is for. I tell them what it would "normally" cost(appr.) for them to provide all this and that I provide this for them and that they still get the $15. I don't think it is dishonest if you are upfront.
So while reading this and other posts, I called a few of my upcoming hosts who have "won a free cooking show". I asked them if they felt that I was dishonest in anyway when presenting them with their drawing slip. Not one of them said that they felt this way. Thanks for this post, I needed to do host coaching anyway.
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