Lap Boards: The Pros, Cons & Alternatives
- Thread starter hoosierchef
- Start date
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The thread discusses various opinions and experiences related to the use of lap boards among Pampered Chef consultants. Participants share their preferences for homemade versus purchased lap boards, as well as the practicality and aesthetics of each option.
Discussion Character
- Anecdotal
- Opinion-based
- Exploratory
Main Points Raised
- One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses a strong preference for purchased lap boards, noting their professional appearance and convenience.
- Another participant shares their experience using homemade lap boards, highlighting their effectiveness and cost savings.
- Several users mention that lap boards provide a better writing surface for guests compared to folders or clipboards.
- One participant discusses the weight of purchased lap boards when combined with other materials, suggesting a desire to minimize what they carry.
- Another participant notes that they have received positive feedback from customers regarding the appearance of their lap boards.
- Some participants express differing opinions on the cost of lap boards, with some finding them reasonably priced while others believe homemade options are more economical.
- One participant mentions using cut-up binders as a DIY solution, indicating satisfaction with this approach.
- Several participants inquire about additional features for lap boards, such as clips or pockets for organization.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ regarding the cost-effectiveness of homemade versus purchased lap boards, with no clear consensus emerging on which option is superior.
Contextual Notes
Participants share personal experiences and preferences, reflecting a variety of approaches to using lap boards in their consulting practices.
Who May Find This Useful
Consultants exploring options for lap boards may find the shared experiences and preferences helpful in deciding which type to use for their shows.
- 2,942
- 1,507
- 37
- 1,507
- 37
- 1,048
When i first started, I used folders...people would keep them!!
Then I went to a S.L. show and she had clipboards, i liked that a lot ..as a customer...so I went to Walmart and got a dozen..for $1 each... BUT I hated those! They were heavy and took up a lot of room in my bag...!!
So the lapboards are wonderful!!
I got these free, but if I hadn't I would give the homemade ones a try...
maybe you could even use the three ring part instead of throwing them away... just to hold things like customer care call log... Consultant News , etc...
- 2,084
- 372
Joanne
- 1,507
- 372
I sort of disagree with the pricing....I considered buying them, but then I got my binders for $0.79 at Walmart, the stickers off ebay (part of a consultant kit - got a roll for less than $1) and it didn't take very long. So, they are about $0.50 each instead of $2.50 - or factor in time to be $0.75 each. I actually have 24 white ones made up - with a clear back to put the Host specials or anything else I want in them. The only thing I want to buy now is the pocket on the front to stick my business card in. I searched around and can't find them. Does anyone have a website they recommend?
Thanks!
Joanne
- 3,695
- 1,507
- 1,507
- 2,759
I think they are worth the cost. I purchased 12 since most shows I don't have more then that at. If I ever do, the last people to arrive will just get a catalog and order form
!
- 926
- 1,225
I NOW have the Merrill ones (which I adore!!) - BUT I started out with binders..... they worked for me for a while. I like that Merrills are narrow and fit in my bag better than the binder ones. I still keep them out in my car just in case we have a large guest turn-out....
Go to WalMart and look/buy one 1" white binder (I think white looks the most professional). Make sure you get the one with the clear plastic insert sleeve on both the front and back panels.
Carefully cut it apart at the seams - voile' - two lapboards.
They have a pocket to slip your catalog & order form in - PLUS - the clear plastic sleeve gives you a place to put monthly flyers. I somtimes put several different ones in the sleeves and guests start noticing that the other guests are differentr and want to read yours as well !!! MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!
OR - I put the flyer behind the catty and put only ONE flyer of the guest special in one lapboard and ONE flyer of the monthly host special in another.
At just he right time I ask everyone to check their boards - I ask the person with the monthly guest special to tell us what it is - they get FREE shipping on their order if they qualify for the guest special (which they usually do - $4.00 off!!) I have had a few people who were to shy to talk and passed it off to someone else ot read and then was sorry they missed out on FREE shipping - give it to them if they turn in a qualifying order....
Then I ask the next person to tell us about the NEXT month's HOST special - for their efforts - if they book a show that night for the next month - I give them an estra gift of some sort for booking on site...
Just some ideas...
- 2,978
MicheleC said:
They can get bulky/heavy. They may not fit in your briefcase with everything else but I LOVE having them. At most of my shows, guests are sitting where this is no hard surface for them to complete their order forms and the lapboards solve this problem.
After each show I refill whatver is missing (I include a survey/prize slip, catalog and order form. In the clear pocket on the other side I usually have the guest special or whatever I want to highlight.
I've made my own from binders but would like to upgrade. I would like to have the spot for my business card and a pen loop.
Be sure when you are making your own that the ring of the binder sits in the middle not on the edge of one of the pages. This is the latest design for binders and will mean that you can only get one lapboard from each binder.
- 2,942
mommyhugz1978 said:
I am now using these Customer Care Information Cards that I made up for myself. So far, I have had great response to them. Maybe they can help you too. After the party, I put them in my Customer Contact holder behind the month that marks two weeks after the party so that I remember to do my Out of the Box calls. If I don't call them & take the slips out of my holder, it gets really big.
- 10,156
- 492
- 1,682
Frequently Asked Questions
What are lap boards and how are they used in direct sales?
Lap boards are portable, flat surfaces designed for use on laps, typically used for writing, crafting, or serving food. In direct sales, particularly with companies like Pampered Chef, they can be showcased as versatile tools for cooking demonstrations, parties, or as gifts, highlighting their practicality and convenience.
What are the pros of using lap boards?
The pros of using lap boards include their portability, ease of cleaning, and versatility. They provide a stable surface for various activities, from meal prep to crafting, and can be easily transported to parties or gatherings. Additionally, many lap boards are designed with features like built-in handles or compartments for added convenience.
What are the cons of lap boards?
Some cons of lap boards include their potential lack of stability on uneven surfaces and limited size, which may not accommodate larger projects or meals. Additionally, if made from lower-quality materials, they may not be as durable over time. Users may also find that they require additional accessories, like cushions or trays, for optimal comfort and functionality.
What are some alternatives to lap boards?
Alternatives to lap boards include traditional serving trays, portable tables, or lap desks that offer additional features like storage or adjustable heights. Some people may also opt for large cutting boards or even foldable picnic tables, depending on their specific needs and the activities they plan to engage in.
How can I choose the right lap board for my needs?
To choose the right lap board, consider factors such as size, material, and intended use. Look for boards that are lightweight yet sturdy, easy to clean, and have features that suit your activities, such as handles or non-slip surfaces. Reading reviews and comparing different brands can also help you make an informed decision.
Similar Pampered Chef Threads
- stfenyo Buy Pampered Chef Items
- bunksc Buy Pampered Chef Items
- VictoriaH Buy Pampered Chef Items
- kchaudoin Sell Pampered Chef Items
- Toni Monsen Business, Marketing and Customer Service
- winnee Buy and Sell Items
- husbandwifepcteam Sell Pampered Chef Items
- pamperedbynikki Buy Pampered Chef Items
- cookingwithlove Business, Marketing and Customer Service
- cookingwithlove Recruiting and Team Leaders