Mailing Catalogs: What to Include?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various approaches to mailing catalogs and the inclusion of order forms, as well as strategies for engaging potential customers and hosts. Participants share their personal experiences and preferences regarding follow-up communication and sales tactics.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions mailing catalogs to specific individuals and questions whether to include an order form or follow up with a call.
  • Another participant suggests sending an order form along with the catalog and indicates that orders can be placed directly through a website if available.
  • One participant shares their experience of not including an order form, instead opting to send a thank-you letter and host program information, followed by a follow-up call.
  • Another participant expresses hope to have a website by fall to facilitate easier ordering.
  • One participant advocates for starting conversations with the big question about becoming a consultant, then transitioning to hosting shows and placing orders, claiming this method works well for them.
  • Another participant disagrees with the approach of starting with recruitment questions, sharing that they feel it can be off-putting based on their own experiences with sales tactics.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of securing customers first before discussing hosting or consulting opportunities.
  • Another participant notes that follow-up calls after mailing catalogs often lead to phone orders, especially from individuals without internet access.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to mailing catalogs and engaging potential customers. Some participants support including order forms and starting with recruitment questions, while others prefer a more customer-focused approach without immediate sales pressure.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and strategies that have worked for them in their own businesses, reflecting a variety of perspectives on customer engagement.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on mailing catalogs and customer engagement strategies may find the shared experiences relevant.

T
Terrygyrl
Messages
26
There are a few people that I would like to mail catalogs to: a lady I used to buy Avon from, the couple I bought my house from, a guy I used to date (he actually requested one because he is an awesome cook). My question is when you mail these do you include an order form or do you just follow up with a call and offer to bring them or send them an order form then?
 
I would probably send along an order form and/or let them know they can order directly from my website, that is if you have one.
 
Melinda--Usually, I do not send an order form. I send a letter thanking them for their interest (If they requested a catalog) and explaining the host program. I also include the current host/guest flyers and the following month's host flyer. Then I follow up about 5 days after I mailed out the package. When I see that their order has shipped I mail out their receipt with a brief thank you letter.

Hope this helps!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Thanks guys!Thanks for the tips. I don't have a website yet but I hope to by fall if my business does well. I think once I get started and get a website up, it will be easier.
 
Start off big!Start off with the big question!!
"What do you think about becoming a consultant?
Then ask the next question if you get a no.
"How about hosting a show, it's a great way to earn FREE products as well as other wonderful benefits?"
Then ask the next question if you get another no.
"Would you like to place an order?"
It's a little known fact that people can't give you too many no's. It works everytime for me. This way you recruit, try to book and if all else fails you get an order and hopefully a faithful customer who might host later.
Hold off on the order form until you know what she wants to do.

Debbie
 
I respecfully disagree...I have heard before to start with the big question.."have you ever thought about being a consultant?" then working down to "how about an order?" It just doesn't sit right with me. While you may finally get a yes...to an order, I really think that those people would be a little put off. Let me clarify...when I have had other sales people use that tactic on me...I've been very put off. People know when you are "working" them a little too hard. I do agree that people can only say no so many times, hence the need for customer care and follow ups.
 
How are thye ordering
Chef Kearns said:
Melinda--Usually, I do not send an order form. I send a letter thanking them for their interest (If they requested a catalog) and explaining the host program. I also include the current host/guest flyers and the following month's host flyer. Then I follow up about 5 days after I mailed out the package. When I see that their order has shipped I mail out their receipt with a brief thank you letter.

Hope this helps!
Click to expand...


Chef kerns - How are these people ordering from you - Are you talking to them? Thru your website - you said ''after their order ships". Not sure I follow.
 
Get the customer first!!I disagree as well. Belinda Elsworth is where I stole the line "get the customer first." You always want to get the customer first...then move to hosting a show...then move to being a consultant. If you start right off with asking them if they are interrested in what you do, you might turn them off from even being a customer. However, if they are a customer or a host first, then you ask them..no matter what their answer they will most likely always be a customer of yours. :D

Just my 2 cents! :cool:
 
Teri--When I make that follow-up call 5 days after I mail out the catalog they place their orders. If I'm mailing them a catalog they usually do not have internet access. So, they usually place the order over the phone.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I include in my mailing catalogs for Pampered Chef?

When mailing catalogs for Pampered Chef, include a personalized cover letter, a list of your upcoming events, a special offer or promotion, your contact information, and a call to action encouraging recipients to reach out or place an order.

How can I make my mailing catalogs more appealing?

To make your mailing catalogs more appealing, use colorful and high-quality images, highlight best-selling products, include testimonials or reviews, and ensure that the layout is clean and easy to navigate.

Should I include pricing in my mailing catalogs?

Yes, including pricing in your mailing catalogs is important as it helps potential customers make informed decisions. Ensure that prices are clearly listed next to each product to avoid confusion.

How often should I send out mailing catalogs?

It’s recommended to send out mailing catalogs at least quarterly to keep your customers updated on new products and promotions. However, you can also send them more frequently if you have special events or seasonal promotions.

Can I personalize my mailing catalogs for individual customers?

Absolutely! Personalizing your mailing catalogs can enhance customer engagement. You can include handwritten notes, tailored product recommendations based on past purchases, or special offers for loyal customers to make them feel valued.

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