Learning the Hard Way: Host Packets, Show Guests, and Me

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the challenges faced by participants regarding host packets and communication with guests for direct sales shows. Participants share their personal experiences and thoughts on handling situations where host packets are delayed or missing.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses frustration over not receiving a host packet in time for an upcoming show, highlighting the importance of timely communication.
  • Another participant suggests that calling guests directly can serve as a reminder and may help ensure attendance, based on their personal experience.
  • Several users mention their own struggles with unresponsive hosts or unorganized communication, noting that they have faced similar situations in the past.
  • One participant shares their experience of hosting a show without receiving a host packet, which led to confusion and additional stress.
  • Another participant reflects on the importance of proper host coaching to prevent such issues from arising.
  • Some participants discuss the idea of proceeding with the show regardless of the packet situation, emphasizing a focus on personal invitations to guests.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on how to handle the situation with the missing host packet. While some participants suggest postponing the show for better preparation, others advocate for proceeding with the show and relying on personal invitations.

Contextual Notes

Participants share experiences from various direct sales companies, indicating a broader context of challenges in communication and organization within the industry.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to consultants navigating similar challenges with host packets and guest communication in their direct sales efforts.

PCSarahjm
PCSarahjm
Messages
701
I swapped shows with another DS company...I already did my PC show with her so now it is my turn to have her show. So what is the problem? Well the show is supposed to be Sunday at 2:00. I have not recieved a host packet or anything. She emailed last week and said it was in the mail. I hate to cancel on her (she had a $400 catalog show) but I know if I get the packet today I still won't have time to get the invites out so my guest will get them before the show ( I have a show tonight and work my 8-5 on wed.) So the earliest these invites would reach the mail would be Thursday. I emailed her this morning but no reply yet.

I am taking this as a learning experience. Mail host packets when you say you will! I am just wondering how she thinks the show will have any guests if the invites are not mailed in advance. Should I just forget about this or what?
 
I would call her to let her know that you have not gotten the packet and you need to post pone the show b/c you want to have enough time to have a lot of guest there. I am sure she will appreciate that you want to have a sucessful show for her. I know I would rather post pone a show than have it flop.
 
Do you have a chance today to phone or email your guests? If you call them now, you can use the invites as reminders.Based on my personal experience with reps from other companies, she's probably forgotten about your party. But other people have had other experiences. Give the consultant a call today and ask.
 
I'm in the same boat as you with the exception my friends are completely uninterested in the other DS company! I am not canceling as I don't want to reschedule it and stress again about not being able to get my friends here.

Go on with the show and put it behind you - start calling friends today!
 
missyciccolella said:
I'm in the same boat as you with the exception my friends are completely uninterested in the other DS company! I am not canceling as I don't want to reschedule it and stress again about not being able to get my friends here.

Go on with the show and put it behind you - start calling friends today!
Click to expand...

Ditto! I did a Premier party this spring and my friends were NOT interested! I still had the party with me and my SIL. Oh well!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
Ok I am going to plan of having it(arbonne) if no one shows b/c they didn't get an invite in a timely manner it isn't my fault. And it will be water under the bridge!!!
 
Why don't you just call everyone to invite them?

That's what I advise all my hosts to do first. Call everyone, then the paper invite serves as a reminder. A personal invitation is always best--people feel like you thought especially of them and are more likely to attend.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
I sent emails and plan to call a few more people. Hopefully I will have a few show up!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
I just recieved an email from the Arbonne Rep. I am so confused now when my show is suppose to be....this is her email!

I had down for Sunday the 21st. So not this Sunday but next. Hope that still works. I sent the packet and was actually planning to email you today to see if you had gotten it. I mailed it Friday so it should be there by today at the latest. Let me know if you do not get it today and I will overnight another packet with the invites in it for you. If you have guests planning on coming this Sunday I can probably do that also.
 
Could you have written it down incorrectly? This is exactly why I have started sending out confirmation postcards and emails.
 
Wait a sec...this Sunday IS the 21st!!!
 
Yeah! Someone's not reading her calendar correctly. :) (The Arbonne rep, not any of us fabulous PC people!)
 
She sounds a little unorganized to me. However, give your guests a personal invitation...call them on the phone & send invites as a reminder (or not at all) if you want. We suggest this to our hosts so I think we should do the same (not saying that I always call either though).
 
  • Thread starter
  • #14
Just got an email from her.....yes she had her weekends mixed up....thinking we had another week until the 21st. I hope I don't ever do this to one of my hostess. I think we will still shoot for this Sunday...I just have to have 4-6 confirmed guests so surely I can do that.
 
If you're doing proper host coaching with frequent contact of some kind (email, postcards, phone, etc.), this is much less likely to happen.
 
Be HonestI would tell her the truth. Let her know that because you have not received the packet and have no time in the near future to get the invitations out you will need to reschedule.
 
I hosted an Arbonne show earlier this year (first one besides PC for me to host) & I never received a host packet either. I had to ask her for a catalog b/c my MIL wanted to place an outside order. She did send the invites for me, but I had to contact her about when she was coming, if I should have food, etc. Made me feel much better about my host coaching!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a host packet and why is it important?

A host packet is a collection of materials provided to a host to help them understand their role in a direct sales party, such as a Pampered Chef show. It typically includes product catalogs, order forms, and information about hosting benefits. It's important because it equips the host with the tools and knowledge they need to effectively promote the party and encourage guest participation.

How can I effectively engage show guests during a Pampered Chef party?

Engaging show guests can be achieved by creating an interactive and fun atmosphere. Use cooking demonstrations, ask questions, and encourage guests to share their own experiences with the products. Incorporating games or incentives can also keep guests interested and involved throughout the show.

What common mistakes should I avoid when preparing host packets?

Common mistakes include providing outdated materials, not personalizing the packet for the host, or overwhelming them with too much information. It's important to ensure that the packet is current, tailored to the host's needs, and concise enough to be easily digestible.

How can I support my hosts in promoting their shows?

Support your hosts by providing them with clear guidance and encouragement. Offer to help them create a guest list, suggest ways to invite people, and provide tips on how to follow up with guests. Regular communication and motivation can significantly enhance their confidence and effectiveness in promoting the show.

What should I include in a follow-up after the show?

In your follow-up, include a thank you note to the host and guests, a summary of the show’s success, and any outstanding orders. Additionally, provide information about how they can continue to engage with the products or host future parties. This helps maintain relationships and encourages repeat business.

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