Mastering Booking Calls: Tips for Reaching Out to Unknown Contacts

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores the experiences and strategies of participants regarding making booking calls to unfamiliar contacts. Participants share their feelings about stepping out of their comfort zones and discuss various approaches to initiating these calls.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses hesitation about calling people they don't know well, feeling embarrassed after such calls.
  • Another participant notes that making these calls can be challenging but emphasizes that it helps to step out of comfort zones.
  • One participant shares their experience of becoming comfortable with phone calls over time and suggests writing a script to help organize thoughts.
  • Another participant mentions the importance of confidence and excitement when discussing their business with potential hosts.
  • A participant reports success with out-of-the-box calls, having secured bookings and positive responses, despite encountering rudeness from one individual.
  • One participant clarifies that out-of-the-box calls can be made to past customers who have purchased products at previous shows.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the comfort level and effectiveness of making booking calls to unfamiliar contacts, with some participants feeling more confident and successful than others.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and strategies related to booking calls, reflecting a range of comfort levels and outcomes.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights into making booking calls and those seeking encouragement in reaching out to potential hosts or customers.

C
Chef Laurie
Messages
59
I'm wondering what all of you say to people you don't know very well when you're making booking calls. I'm not one to just call people I don't know at all (you know, like just going thru the phone book), but there are people I would like to ask who I don't know very well or knew years ago and haven't kept contact with. I've done plenty of these kinds of calls, but I need a little encouragement and advice. Sometimes I just feel embarrassed after I hang up because...well, because it's just so "out of the box!"
 
It is out of our comfort zone!!People who own their own business are not like regular 9-5, swipe in and out type of people. In my opinion they are the go-getters, those who love excitement and being spontaneous.
It can be hard to talk to people we don't know very well, or people we haven't spoken to in years.
But yes you are right, it gets us out of our comfort zone. It's not something we are use to and so it's not familiar at first. I felt the same way. But now I am very comfortable on the phone. Here are some tips:
Write down a script, that is so important. If you are nervous the first few times you will need this to keep your thoughts together and to get to the point without rambling.
Next practice all by yourself or on a family member. Try to fix up your script the way you want it to sound, without sounding like a telemarketer.
Have confidence with it. It's your business!!
Be sure to know that you are offering wonderful products, great host benefits, and take pride in your new business. That way if you get people who are not interested or don't care to host shows you won't take it personally.
Sound excited and let them know you have started your own business. Tell them you would appreciate any help they could give by either hosting a show, placing an order or giving you referrals to their friends and family who might be interested.
Have fun with it. The more calls you make, the more possibilities you will have to increase your business sales either through orders or through shows!! Good luck and I hope it works out for you!!
Debbie
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
Thanks, Debbie. I moved 3 months into this business, so I had to start over again with my bookings. I'm doing great, but I just want to grow. That means I have to stay on the phone and keep thinking outside the box. I've found that the very best way to be successful is to stay on the phone. Thanks for the encouragement.
 
I recently started making out of the box callsAnd they have worked great! I've got 2 bookings from them (catalog) and a couple of people who told me - follow-up with me on XX date.

The only negative was that last night at 7:30 pm, someone's husband was EXTREMELY rude to me, yelled at me for it being 7:30 pm on a Sunday, and I simply said - "have a wonderful day" and hung up the phone. Unfortunately, some people are just rude. I will not call her again for any reason at all.

I will continue to do them.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Are these people you know, or just plain cold calls?
 
Out of the box callsAre made to those customers who have purchased products at a past show. I think PP automatically defaults to a set date after the show for you to follow-up with the customers. I've been saying "Hi, this is Liz with the pampered chef, are you enjoying your products that you purchased and Susies show? Do you have any questions? In case you did not know, we have a new catalog as of March 1st with 40 new products that are just fabolous for the spring/summer season. Would you be interested in hosting a cooking or catalog show? Would you be interested in receiving one of our mini catalogs highlighting our new products?"
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are booking calls in the context of direct sales?

Booking calls are conversations initiated by a sales representative to schedule parties, demonstrations, or consultations with potential customers. In direct sales, these calls are crucial for expanding your network and increasing sales opportunities.

How can I effectively reach out to unknown contacts for booking calls?

To effectively reach out to unknown contacts, start by crafting a friendly and engaging introduction. Use social media, networking events, or referrals to identify potential leads. Personalize your message, express genuine interest in their needs, and clearly explain the benefits of your offer.

What should I say during a booking call to keep the conversation engaging?

During a booking call, begin with a warm greeting and introduce yourself. Ask open-ended questions to learn about the contact's interests and needs. Share a brief overview of what you offer and how it can benefit them. Maintain a conversational tone and listen actively to their responses.

How can I handle objections during booking calls?

When faced with objections, listen carefully and acknowledge the contact's concerns. Respond with empathy and provide clear, concise information that addresses their objections. Offer solutions or alternatives that may alleviate their concerns, and reinforce the value of your offer.

What follow-up strategies should I use after a booking call?

After a booking call, send a thank-you message to express appreciation for their time. If they showed interest but didn't commit, follow up with additional information or resources that may help them make a decision. Set a reminder to check in after a few days to see if they have any further questions.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

Mastering Booking Calls: Tips for Overcoming Awkwardness with Friends
  • Chef Bobby
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
2
Views
2K
Nanisu
Master the Art of Phone Calls: Tips for Filling Your Calendar with Ease
  • Bren706
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
5
Views
5K
Bren706
Mastering Phone Calls: Tips for Overcoming Phone Anxiety and Booking Success
  • CAPCnewbie
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
2K
Wildfire
Need Bookings - Need Encouragement to Get on the Phone
  • Bren706
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
11
Views
3K
Bren706
Overcoming Fear of Customer Care Calls: Tips for New PC Consultants
  • Raenstorm
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
2K
Raenstorm
Boost Your Bookings: Tips for Reconnecting with Old Contacts
  • pampered2007
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
2
Views
2K
lesliec
Booking During Customer Care Calls
  • chefHLM
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
5
Views
1K
chefHLM
Maximizing Hostess Bookings: Strategies for Effective Out of the Box Calls
  • pampermejolene
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
2
Views
1K
Admin Greg
What to Say on a Booking Call???
  • pampered2007
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
2
Views
1K
Admin Greg
How can I overcome my phone phobia and make successful CC calls for booking?
  • heat123
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
6
Views
2K
AJPratt
Back
Top