My Host- Help!! (Venting a Little Too!)

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread discusses the challenges faced by participants when managing expectations and demands from hosts, particularly when personal relationships are involved. Participants share their experiences and strategies for handling difficult situations with hosts who have specific requests or expectations.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses frustration with a friend who is demanding more than usual for an upcoming show, including wanting the consultant to purchase all ingredients for multiple recipes.
  • Another participant suggests that the consultant should communicate that all hosts are treated equally and that the demands are not feasible for their business model.
  • Several users mention that if hosts want additional recipes, they should prepare them ahead of time, sharing personal experiences where this approach has worked well.
  • One participant shares their experience with a past consultant host who made multiple requests, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and communicating clearly about what is manageable.
  • Another participant provides various suggested responses to handle host requests, highlighting the need to maintain budget constraints and manage expectations regarding guest appetite.
  • One participant notes that they ultimately decided to give the host packet to their friend but emphasized their policy of requiring a guest list before doing so in the future.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on how to handle demanding hosts, with some participants advocating for strict boundaries while others suggest flexibility in certain situations. No clear consensus emerges on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences that reflect the complexities of balancing professional responsibilities with personal relationships in a home-based business environment.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants navigating similar challenges with hosts, particularly those who have personal relationships with them, may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant.

heather223
heather223
Gold Member
Messages
1,564
I need some advice here- One of my Feb. hosts is my children's babysitter and my friend. I did a show for her back in May when I started and she asked me to have another show next month. Problem~ She expects me to bend over backwards for her. For example- She wants me to buy all the ingredients. Now normally I don't have an issue with this, my policy is that if they completely fill out their guest list I will purchase the ingredients, but we went from making 2 recipes to 3!!!!! (Hello, I usually do only one!) Everything I do gets questioned. Such as she wants to know where her host packet is, and I kindly explained to her that as stated in my first letter the host packet will be sent when I get her guest list. She said to me this morning that she is special and should get it now! How do I politely tell her that I will do 2 recipes and that she gets the same treatment as my other hosts? (I would like to think I treat my hosts well!) :mad: :mad: :rolleyes:
 
Let her know that you know that she is special, but so are all your hosts. You have a business to run and this is the way that works best for you and YOUR FAMILY. If she doesn't want to do it that way, ask if she would like to do it herself and get the commission as well as the knives!
 
If she wants extra recipes ask her to prepare them ahead of time. One of my host wanted to do 4 recipes(she had a hard time chosing) So I just told her that for my demo I only do 1 1/2(one main dish completely demoed and a dessert I just put the final touches on) If she wants more that is ok but she is responsible for making them ahead of time!! So far that has worked out well.
 
Seems like she's difficult. Tell her you'll hold her babysitting money until she cooperates. Just kidding, but really why is she being so demanding? Lay down the law!

And I agree if she wants more recipes, tell her to make them ahead of time!

For three recipes I hope she has a great turnout. Could be worth the headache!
 
I'm having problems with a host who is a past consultant. She keeps asking me if we can make this, this, and this. Today, she asked me to bring an item I'm not using and I'm already bringing too much stuff because I'm packing for two out of town shows. I ignored the latest request and responded to the one sent minutes before or after it by e-mail. I told her "I don't have time to make ..... before or during the show. If you would like to mix it up ahead of time I will add..... right before we put it in the oven." It was easier on the e-mail than on the phone or in person, but you could practice your response by knowing for sure what you will and won't do and WHY. The why is very important for you to know so you stick to your guns. It may be necessary to share the why, but you aren't obligated. She may accept your boundaries easier if you share the why's. Hope it works out.
 
Here are some different responses you could try:

"Oh you think your guests will be that hungry? At this time of the show, usually they only want a sample."

"January guests are all on a diet so let's not let them blow it."

"Whew, you're breaking my budget. The $15 host bonus is all I really want to spend on groceries."

"After I've gotten forty names PLUS ten more, I'll add another recipe."

"Let's plan on doing two recipes right now. If you have more than 15 people coming to the party, we can discuss doing more."

As far as the host packet goes, I'd give it to her now. Does it really matter?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
beepampered said:
Here are some different responses you could try:

"Oh you think your guests will be that hungry? At this time of the show, usually they only want a sample."

"January guests are all on a diet so let's not let them blow it."

"Whew, you're breaking my budget. The $15 host bonus is all I really want to spend on groceries."

"After I've gotten forty names PLUS ten more, I'll add another recipe."

"Let's plan on doing two recipes right now. If you have more than 15 people coming to the party, we can discuss doing more."

As far as the host packet goes, I'd give it to her now. Does it really matter?
Click to expand...


Thanks for the responses everyone. I nicely told her yesterday that she is special as all my hosts are, but that this is how I run my business. I did concede and decide to give her the host packet. I decided that this year I wasn't giving host packets until I get a guest list. :chef:
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my host is unresponsive?

If your host is unresponsive, try reaching out through different communication methods, such as text, email, or phone calls. Sometimes a change in medium can prompt a response. If they still don’t reply, consider sending a friendly reminder about the upcoming event and the importance of their role in making it successful.

How can I motivate a host who seems disinterested?

To motivate a disinterested host, remind them of the benefits they can gain from hosting, such as free products or discounts. Share success stories from previous hosts to inspire them. Additionally, offer to help them with planning and provide engaging materials that can make the process easier and more fun.

What if my host is not promoting the party?

If your host is not promoting the party, gently encourage them by providing tips and resources for sharing the event with friends and family. Offer to create a social media post or provide them with a template they can use. Sometimes hosts need a little guidance to feel confident in promoting their event.

How do I handle a host who is overly demanding?

When dealing with a demanding host, it’s important to set clear boundaries while remaining professional and polite. Communicate what you can realistically provide and be transparent about your availability. If necessary, have a candid conversation about their expectations and how you can work together effectively.

What steps can I take if my host is not following through with their commitments?

If your host is not following through, have a direct but friendly conversation to understand their situation. They may be overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next. Offer your assistance and clarify any commitments they made. If they continue to struggle, consider discussing the possibility of finding a new host or adjusting the party plans.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

Mystery Host Came Out a Little Low
  • cheflorraine
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
6
Views
2K
cheflorraine
Inconsiderate Hosts....venting :(
  • pkd09
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
29
Views
3K
pampered1224
Applying the $25 Host Special for My Host this Month
  • Diamond
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
6
Views
5K
bellakieu
What should I do if I can't reach my party host?
  • chefjessicah
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
2
Views
2K
mountainmama74
Prospective Host Wants to Host in April 2013
  • Suzyengl
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
8
Views
3K
esavvymom
Venting About Host Taking Advantage: A Challenge!
  • ChefPaulaB
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
10
Views
2K
mrssyvo
Helping Your Host Choose a Recipe for Your Upcoming Party
  • lt1jane
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
19
Views
4K
sassypip
Calculating Host Specials and Earnings - $500 & DCB ($34)
  • SherryLynn
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
2
Views
2K
SherryLynn
Host Hasn't Gotten Me Her Guest List
  • babywings76
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
2
Views
2K
Admin Greg
Host Calls After 1AM: Booked for Over a Month and Guest List Drama Ensues
  • byrd1956
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
11
Views
3K
byrd1956
Back
Top