Is There a Better Way to Calculate Outside Orders?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses various experiences and methods related to calculating outside orders for Pampered Chef shows. Participants share their challenges and solutions regarding helping hosts and guests understand the order total process.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions spending a lot of time on the phone explaining how to calculate order totals and seeks feedback on a custom order form they created.
  • Another participant notes that they do not discuss order calculations with hosts, believing the order form is self-explanatory.
  • One participant identifies a specific challenge in Pennsylvania regarding tax calculations and shares their approach to using a generic order form.
  • Another participant shares their experience of having hosts or guests email item numbers for easier order processing.
  • One participant suggests promoting a website that calculates orders automatically for hosts.
  • Several participants express surprise at the number of hosts needing assistance with calculations, particularly for catalog shows.
  • Some participants humorously comment on the perceived math skills of hosts, suggesting a light-hearted take on the situation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of order forms and the level of assistance hosts require, with no clear consensus emerging on the best approach to calculating outside orders.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and challenges faced by consultants in guiding hosts and guests through the order calculation process, particularly in the context of catalog shows.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who encounter difficulties with order calculations and are looking for different approaches or shared experiences from peers in similar situations.

kam
kam
Staff member
Messages
3,655
I seem to spend a lot of time on the phone going over with host's how to calculate order totals. Am I the only one?

I use a half-page generic order form that I "borrowed" from here, and I have attached it - I feel it does a sufficient job guiding someone through totaling an order. But, I send the official PC ones (provided for each month) with my catalag shows, and I know that one is even better at guiding someone through an order total. But I find no matter which outside order form I use, I still get questions.

So I have also attached what I created to guide a host through order totalling. I would like to use this in my host packs - for both cooking and catalog shows.

Can I get some feedback? Does it make sense? Any better suggestions on wording. Anything else I should include?

Any help/ideas would be appreciated. THANKS!
 

Attachments

I cannot look at them at work but I do send a flyer. Some hosts pretend that they don't get it and some guests don't pay attention no matter how many times you tell them something! I actually don't talk about it with my hosts. I figure that the order form is self explanitory if they just look at it. If they have questions, they will ask!
 
Kathleen - I think your explanation looks good. PA is a tough state (like a lot of others), because PA charges tax on S&H, but no tax on food. I just use the generic OOF for states that charge tax on S&H and find that it does the trick for me. I always calculate the outside orders at the show, so she knows if they're off and needs to collect more money. HTH!
 
I take all the hassel out of it and have the hostess or guest email me the item numbers. I input the orders in P3 and then print or email receipts
 
PCJenni said:
I take all the hassel out of it and have the hostess or guest email me the item numbers. I input the orders in P3 and then print or email receipts
Click to expand...

This definitely helps - even better, have the host promote your website for outside orders - it calculates it for you AND the host! EASY PEASY! :D
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
I felt that the OOF explained it pretty good too - that's why I am surprised at how many hosts need me to go over this on the phone with them.

This is mainly an issue with catalog shows. I ask them to call/email me along the way with the orders and I will total them - but the hosts want to do it.

So what is happening is that I am explaining how to calculate orders over the phone. Or the orders have the wrong amount written on the checks. I was planning on including the flyer in each host pack.

I don't mind calling the host, but for 2 of my recent hosts, we had spent quite a bit of time playing phone tag just so I could explain how to calculate an order.
 
Sounds like you need to get out of that circle - they're not the strongest with math skills, are they? ;)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
cathyskitchen said:
Sounds like you need to get out of that circle - they're not the strongest with math skills, are they? ;)
Click to expand...

heehee - I was thinking it was something in the air...
 
kam said:
heehee - I was thinking it was something in the air...
Click to expand...

You'd better not drink the water, either, just in case! ;)
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are outside orders in direct sales?

Outside orders refer to sales made by a consultant that are not directly linked to a party or event. These can include orders taken from friends, family, or customers who may not attend a specific party but still wish to purchase products.

Why is it important to calculate outside orders accurately?

Accurate calculation of outside orders is crucial for tracking sales performance, meeting sales goals, and ensuring proper commission and rewards are received. It helps consultants understand their customer base and adjust their sales strategies accordingly.

What methods can be used to calculate outside orders?

There are several methods to calculate outside orders, including using spreadsheets, sales tracking software, or even manual tallying. Each method has its benefits, and the choice depends on the consultant's preference and the volume of orders.

Can technology help in calculating outside orders more efficiently?

Yes, technology can significantly streamline the process of calculating outside orders. Utilizing apps or software designed for direct sales can automate calculations, track orders, and provide insights into sales trends, making the process more efficient.

What should I consider when choosing a method for calculating outside orders?

When choosing a method for calculating outside orders, consider factors such as ease of use, accuracy, the volume of orders, and whether you need to integrate it with other sales tracking systems. It's also important to think about your comfort level with technology and data management.

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