Does any have this problem: I did a show on Sunday and a guest booked a show for May because she liked the May guest/host special. Now I know this is good that I got a booking but I am concerned it could leave my March & April a little thin if people book to far in advance. How do others handle this?
Managing Future Bookings: Balancing Short-Term Results with Long-Term Success
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Discussion Overview
The thread discusses various strategies and personal experiences related to managing future bookings for shows, balancing immediate bookings with long-term scheduling. Participants share their thoughts on the timing of bookings, the impact of monthly specials, and the importance of maintaining communication with hosts.
Discussion Character
- Anecdotal
- Opinion-based
- Exploratory
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses concern about securing a booking far in advance, fearing it may leave their calendar thin for the immediate months.
- Another participant shares their experience of booking shows for future months while emphasizing the need for immediate commitments to avoid cancellations.
- Several users mention that guests often prefer to space out their shows to avoid inviting the same people too frequently.
- One participant notes the importance of sending newsletters to keep future shows fresh in hosts' minds.
- Another participant discusses the strategy of emphasizing host benefits rather than monthly specials to encourage bookings.
- One participant mentions offering incentives for bookings to fill specific months more effectively.
- Another user shares their practice of limiting bookings to a three-month window to maintain focus on immediate goals.
- Several participants highlight the importance of communication and host coaching to reduce cancellations.
- One participant reflects on their initial experiences with bookings and the benefits of allowing guests to choose their preferred month based on specials.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ on the best approach to managing bookings, with some participants advocating for immediate bookings while others prefer to allow for longer-term scheduling. No clear consensus emerges on the optimal strategy.
Contextual Notes
Participants share personal experiences and strategies based on their individual circumstances and the dynamics of their bookings. The discussion reflects a range of approaches to balancing short-term and long-term scheduling in the context of their business practices.
Who May Find This Useful
Consultants looking for insights into managing their booking strategies and those interested in learning from the experiences of others in similar situations may find this discussion relevant.
I was calling people back for future shows instead of booking dates right there and then if they weren't in the next two months. Truth is though, if they don't commit to a date then and there (no matter how far in advance it is) then they have an easier time getting out of it. You can't force someone to book in a month they don't want, you can entice, but at the end of the day if they want May they want May.
I'm booking for May now, as I've struggled these last few months to fill my calendar. If I start on booking a few months down the road right now (as well as giving incentives to fill the next few months) then I should always have a strong calendar, because come April I won't be worried about booking for May, if you see what I mean.
I've found most people don't want a quick turn around on shows, so if they attended one in January I didn't have any takers for February...a few said "end of March, beginning of spring". I guess they think they'll have a few of the same guests and don't want the parties too close together. It does actually make sense to me....that's why, as a newbie (just finished my first three months) I realise it will take about 6 months to get my bookings to the number I want.
I'm booking for May now, as I've struggled these last few months to fill my calendar. If I start on booking a few months down the road right now (as well as giving incentives to fill the next few months) then I should always have a strong calendar, because come April I won't be worried about booking for May, if you see what I mean.
I've found most people don't want a quick turn around on shows, so if they attended one in January I didn't have any takers for February...a few said "end of March, beginning of spring". I guess they think they'll have a few of the same guests and don't want the parties too close together. It does actually make sense to me....that's why, as a newbie (just finished my first three months) I realise it will take about 6 months to get my bookings to the number I want.
ErinPC
- 22
I'm still at that point where a booking is a booking no matter what month it's for. I booked a show this weekend for June because she plans on inviting several of the same people to her show, and she wants to give them plenty of time in between. For the next two months, I'm going to email her my monthly newsletter just to keep in touch, and then in May (about 6 weeks before her show), I'll call to confirm the date and time and let her know to be watching for a host packet coming her way in the mail. Hopefully the newsletters and other contacts will keep our show "fresh" in her mind until summer. The way I see it, one less show I have to worry about booking in June! -- Erin
M
MicheleC
Show current specialsIf I'm looking to book for a specific month (closer or further out) that is the month I emphasize the hostess benefits. If people ask I share the benefits for shows further out but it sure is nice to have them filled sooner when you're building your business.
I actually have some already wanting to do a date in the summer or next fall! I just keep them updated on specials through newsletters and figure I've got a jump start on those months. It is crucial to keep in touch though or it is too easy to forget.
Emphasizing to your host inviting people from several walks of life is where it helps you and the hostess have more bookings during a shorter time frame as they are not worried about inviting the same people that were already there.
Michele
I actually have some already wanting to do a date in the summer or next fall! I just keep them updated on specials through newsletters and figure I've got a jump start on those months. It is crucial to keep in touch though or it is too easy to forget.
Emphasizing to your host inviting people from several walks of life is where it helps you and the hostess have more bookings during a shorter time frame as they are not worried about inviting the same people that were already there.
Michele
janel kelly
- 937
If I'm trying to book a certain month I may try to offer a certain incentive like a free show or a drawing for a product if they book. I usually always push the month's host special especially the past couple of months. Right now I am booking for May and June because I'm due in 3 weeks and am going to take a month off after baby comes.
DebbieSAChef
- 2,144
Emphasize benefits not monthly special!I recently went to a meeting where one of the home office people came down to talk to us about shows, booking, recruiting, product tips, recipes, etc. It was great and one thing she really stressed was this:
Emphasize benefits, not monthly host specials. There will be months when the host monthly special is not that great, to some people, and they are turned off completely to the whole idea of having a kitchen show until maybe 3 or 6 months later. That usually is not a good idea. True a booking is a booking but with so much time to think about it and plan other more important events more than likely we get the cancellation. I'm not saying kitchen shows months in advance never happen, because they have for me but the sooner we can have the show the better. Especially with our monthly commission goals, and not knowing what our future may hold.
We kind of hurt ourselves when we reveal too much to our potential hosts. We should really tell about FREE products, half price items, discounts, FREE shipping, and 10% discount for a full year. Then when they book the monthly host special is a bonus for them. Not something to get the show. Although I have had some women who know more about PC than I do and ask me specifically for the host special, but these women love PC and will book with me because I have talked to them about the importance of keeping bookings.
Another good tip she gave was having them sign their name on that date in your calendar. For some reason if they sign it they will keep it. also if you ask to help with mailing out invites, you will not have a cancellation. Also host coaching is very important and when you start a friendly relationship with your hosts by meeting face to face to explain stuff, they are less likely to cancel. Thanks!
Debbie
Emphasize benefits, not monthly host specials. There will be months when the host monthly special is not that great, to some people, and they are turned off completely to the whole idea of having a kitchen show until maybe 3 or 6 months later. That usually is not a good idea. True a booking is a booking but with so much time to think about it and plan other more important events more than likely we get the cancellation. I'm not saying kitchen shows months in advance never happen, because they have for me but the sooner we can have the show the better. Especially with our monthly commission goals, and not knowing what our future may hold.
We kind of hurt ourselves when we reveal too much to our potential hosts. We should really tell about FREE products, half price items, discounts, FREE shipping, and 10% discount for a full year. Then when they book the monthly host special is a bonus for them. Not something to get the show. Although I have had some women who know more about PC than I do and ask me specifically for the host special, but these women love PC and will book with me because I have talked to them about the importance of keeping bookings.
Another good tip she gave was having them sign their name on that date in your calendar. For some reason if they sign it they will keep it. also if you ask to help with mailing out invites, you will not have a cancellation. Also host coaching is very important and when you start a friendly relationship with your hosts by meeting face to face to explain stuff, they are less likely to cancel. Thanks!
Debbie
tiffanypc05
- 600
....well for some reason this month i have had just about everyone wanting to do a show in june...and this sounds crazy but june's almost filled up....now i have enough shows for march but none at all for april and may....this really sucks but i guess june will be good....maybe i will get bookings from march's shows for april and may....like at my show last night i had one lady choose march to do a show and another lady chose june to have it spread out a little...so i guess you have to put that into consideration too...
rwesterpchef
- 503
I never offer beyond two months. One, I don't know what my schedule or my kid's would be as it quickly changes anyway. Two, I want as much as I can each month, not spread out.
My favorite store doesn't provide me with their sales flyers for upcoming weeks. Potential hosts do not need to know what the special is that far out unless you're specifically trying to book that month.
My favorite store doesn't provide me with their sales flyers for upcoming weeks. Potential hosts do not need to know what the special is that far out unless you're specifically trying to book that month.
pamperedchefpowers
- 116
fruit76loop
Gold Member
- 1,156
Don't talk about ....monthly specials until you are ready to book that month! None of my customers or hosts know what the specials are for more than 1-2 months ahead. Right now, I am still filling April, so I do not tell anyone what May's specials are! Why would you want to share those specials when your March or April are not full? 
When someone specifically asks for a month farther ahead, I do pencil them in, but I don't give them the special information until they receive their packet 4 weeks prior to their show!
Just my 2 cents~!
When someone specifically asks for a month farther ahead, I do pencil them in, but I don't give them the special information until they receive their packet 4 weeks prior to their show!Just my 2 cents~!
A
AFwife
When I first started I had two shows in November and then not again till January.
I wasn't about to complain that it was too far ahead being it was only gonna be my 3rd show ya know.
I let my guest see the specials for each month and let them decide which month they'd like. I find that if I let them chose because they like June's special better then March they are more likely to not only keep the booking but do there best in getting loads of guest for the show.
I'm at the point now where I wish they'd hurry up and put July and August specials up cause I'm booked solid every weekend till June.
Oh and if there is a date I need filled, I offer an incentive for anyone who books that date before any other.
I wasn't about to complain that it was too far ahead being it was only gonna be my 3rd show ya know.
I let my guest see the specials for each month and let them decide which month they'd like. I find that if I let them chose because they like June's special better then March they are more likely to not only keep the booking but do there best in getting loads of guest for the show.
I'm at the point now where I wish they'd hurry up and put July and August specials up cause I'm booked solid every weekend till June.
Oh and if there is a date I need filled, I offer an incentive for anyone who books that date before any other.
Lorna
- 30
I soooo goofedAs soon as i opened my mouth i knew to shut up and didn't ...learn and use my experience. I noticed a group of ladies and one wore the badge "the power of pink" I stared and then finally asked okay what is the power of pink? Mary Kay! , I easily turned the subject to PC and booked a show but first I had her booking in late Feb (2 days left in the month) told her if she wanted a show in March she would introduce the new spring products (great pitch if you ask me!) her friend says too bad the spatulas aren't pink and I piped up with ...(yes, you guessed it!) wait till May and see the load of pink we got. Now my booking is on hold till May (i hate long distance bookings) s h a c k y ...
Remove one foot to make room for other
Lorna (know when to be quiet)
Remove one foot to make room for other
Lorna (know when to be quiet)
Frequently Asked Questions
What strategies can I use to manage future bookings effectively?
To manage future bookings effectively, consider using a calendar system to track all your events and appointments. Prioritize bookings based on potential sales and customer relationships. Regularly communicate with your customers to confirm their interest and remind them of upcoming events. Additionally, offer incentives for early bookings to encourage commitment.
How can I balance short-term sales goals with long-term customer relationships?
Balancing short-term sales goals with long-term relationships involves focusing on customer satisfaction and engagement. While it's important to meet immediate sales targets, ensure that your interactions are genuine and helpful. Follow up with customers after events to gather feedback and maintain communication, which can lead to repeat business and referrals in the future.
What role does follow-up play in managing future bookings?
Follow-up is crucial in managing future bookings as it helps reinforce relationships with customers and keeps your business top-of-mind. After an event, reach out to attendees to thank them and offer additional resources or information. This not only shows appreciation but also opens the door for future bookings and sales opportunities.
How can I use social media to enhance my future booking strategy?
Social media can be a powerful tool for enhancing your future booking strategy. Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to showcase your products, share customer testimonials, and promote upcoming events. Engage with your audience through polls, contests, and live demonstrations to create excitement and encourage bookings. Regularly update your followers on availability and special offers to drive interest.
What are some common pitfalls to avoid when managing future bookings?
Common pitfalls include overbooking events, which can lead to burnout and decreased quality of service. Failing to follow up with customers can also result in missed opportunities for future sales. Additionally, neglecting to maintain a balance between short-term and long-term goals can hinder overall business growth. It's essential to stay organized, communicate effectively, and prioritize customer relationships.
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