Maximizing Bookings: Tips for Getting Hosts to Commit to a Date

[PCSarahjm]

I have had a total of 8 shows(cooking/catalog). I get at least 2-3 bookings from each show so I think that is pretty good. I have August Booked and most of September and a few waiting for October. But my problem is I can't get anyone to commit a date...All they can say is I want to do it this month but I don't know when. I would rather get them on my calendar the night of the show but I just can't seem to do it. I try to give them a couple of dates to pick from but they always say I will let you know. How can I get these host to commit to a date before they leave the show? TIA

 

[cathyskitchen]

Those are always frustrating. I have started making "appointments" with those people. I circle the dates on my calendar that are open (the dates I want to work) and if they're interested in that month but "don't have their calendar with them", I write down those dates on a blank drawing slip or on the back of my business card, and ask them "when is a good time for me to call you to follow up?" I write it on my calendar when I'm going to call them (i.e., Tuesday at 7pm) and then I do it. Usually, they have looked at their calendar by then and book a date with me right away. It's important not to lose the momentum from the show, but it's also good to make sure they have checked their calendar and it's a good date for them, too. If they don't call you back or keep giving you the "brush off", then they just don't know how to tell you "no". Sometimes I give them an out by saying, "October seems like a busy month for you - do you want to try November instead?" and then they book that month instead. Just try to always remember to schedule follow up appointments instead of just saying "I'll call you" or worse, having them tell you they'll call you!!! (hardly EVER happens!!). GL and HTH!

 

[almondfarm]

I usually try to point out that "your host will only get the credit for your booking if we pencil in a date for your show tonight. If you get home and look at your calendar in the next few days and realize that date will not work, call me right away and we can change the date for your host to still get the booking benefit."

Most of the time we can pencil in a date and it holds!

 

[PCSarahjm]

I have been giving them a few days...then I call sometimes I get results and other times I don't. I think I will start doing the business card thing. That way they have a little reminder and they know I will be calling.

 

[pamperedpals]

I always have good luck with "pencil" in dates for shows. I then follow up with the next night to make sure that date is going to work on their calendar also.

 

[BethCooks4U]

I usually try to point out that "your host will only get the credit for your booking if we pencil in a date for your show tonight. If you get home and look at your calendar in the next few days and realize that date will not work, call me right away and we can change the date for your host to still get the booking benefit."

Most of the time we can pencil in a date and it holds!

That is exactly what I have always done and it works well.

 

[raebates]

I always tell them that my calendar fills up fast. If we pick a date and you get home and realize it won't work, we can always reschedule. Most of the time the date holds.