My New Consultant's First Show...

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the challenges faced by a new Pampered Chef consultant as she navigates her first show hosted by her mother-in-law. Participants share their experiences and perspectives on host coaching, the effectiveness of different invitation methods, and the emotional support provided to the new consultant.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses concern for the new consultant, noting her struggles with a host who is not fully engaging in the invitation process.
  • Another participant shares their experience of encouraging the host to reach out to more people, emphasizing the importance of personal invitations over social media alone.
  • Several users mention the significance of maintaining a positive attitude and providing support to new consultants during challenging situations.
  • One participant highlights a specific coaching technique for new recruits to help them communicate their needs to family and friends effectively.
  • Another participant reflects on the common challenges of dealing with hosts who resist traditional invitation methods, suggesting that this can impact attendance.
  • Some participants note that despite the host's lack of effort, a small turnout could still be considered a success for the new consultant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the effectiveness of various invitation methods, with some participants advocating for traditional invitations while others support the use of social media. No clear consensus emerges on the best approach to host coaching.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects the personal experiences of participants in the context of hosting Pampered Chef shows, particularly focusing on the dynamics between new consultants and their hosts.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who are new to hosting shows or those looking for insights on managing challenging host relationships may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant.

AJPratt
AJPratt
Silver Member
Messages
6,674
I feel so bad for my new consultant. Her MIL is hosting her 1st show. My new consultant has done her best to coach what I would call the un-coachable. She wouldn't give her addys to send out the invites, and then decided she wouldn't send out invites at all, that she would just do a FB invite. IMHO, I can certainly see FB as a good reminder, but that's it. I believe that FB is good for announcing but you need to INVITE people whether it be via a post card or phone call, or maybe even e-invitation. Well, my new consultant is so upset, feeling like she is failing because the host told her she only had two people coming. She is trying really hard to qualify in the first 30 days, and she wants her MIL to get lots of products. So, you know me: I won't stand for this. Can't keep my mouth shut. And, when her MIL friended me on FB, I jumped at the opportunity. I just hope I didn't over-step or piss her off.

ME: (Post on her wall for a number of reasons) Hi, Lisa! How are your plans coming along for your Pampered Chef show? I bet you're going to have a great turn out!

HOST: Don't know about that, seem to only have about 4 people confirmed :(...people are just too busy I guess and with the economy...who knows...

HOST: Two teachers from school said they were ordering from the catalogs but won't have order in to me until Monday.

HOST: Well, looks like I have about 5 people coming so far, sending out reminders and making some calls tonight...we'll see, I hope for XXX that it turns out okay...sent out like 25 invites for cryin' out loud (I'm thinking, only 25?!)

ME: 5 is a good start! And, outside orders are great! Be sure to call as many people as you can, even if you didn't mail them the post card invites. For anyone you didn't *officially* invite, you can always say its an impromptu get together to help out your DIL. And, fwiw, based on my experience, for sending out 25 invitations 5-8 in attendance is the norm. Plus, some people won't RSVP. And, I know Lauren wants this to be a great show so *you* gets lots of free products!

ME: I forgot to add: I know things are tight financially for most, but with the economy, people are cooking at home more, and realize that they need to invest in quality tools. I just had a show where the host had $1000 in sales with 10 guests. Actually, I have had my biggest, personal best shows since the issues with the economy. Go figure! I guess what I am trying to say is not to stress out about the attendance. You will have a great show!

So, what do you think?
 
I think you kept it very upbeat and helpful...not overstepping or being rude at all! It was very encouraging, and may help her to think about inviting more people. She sounds like someone who needs 10 times more positive thinking in her life to balance out the negative!
 
Anne,

I think what you posted sounds great.

And for those who may be reading this and have never heard, when new recruits are host coaching family and friends (especially during those first few months), they should say "I have a certain coaching routine and process that I'm trying to learn. Can you play along so that I can be sure to do a good job with all of my hosts." This covers wanting to send the invites and just getting people to listen to what they can do to have a better show.
 
Anne, I think you did great! :DI love the "that's a great START" comment. I picked that one up recently off one of the training CD's and LOVED it! :D
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
chefjeanine said:
Anne,

I think what you posted sounds great.

And for those who may be reading this and have never heard, when new recruits are host coaching family and friends (especially during those first few months), they should say "I have a certain coaching routine and process that I'm trying to learn. Can you play along so that I can be sure to do a good job with all of my hosts." This covers wanting to send the invites and just getting people to listen to what they can do to have a better show.
Click to expand...

That's basically what I told her to say, but the lady said, "That's fine, but no one does invites any more." Oh, ok. Well, now you knw why you have 5 people coming to your show.
 
LOL Don't you just LOVE those people who know how to do our business better than our proven methods??? ;)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Sheila said:
LOL Don't you just LOVE those people who know how to do our business better than our proven methods??? ;)
Click to expand...

Oh, I know... You know if invites didn't work, we wouldn't have them! I told my husband last night that I wasn't going to let this lady off the hook and that in a way, I feel she did more harm than good. My consultant was actually thinking of quitting because she felt she couldn't coach someone to have a good show. Thankfully, my consultant has booked 2 shows; one in Nov and one in Jan, so she is feeling much better. Now, if this host pulls it off, that will be great.
 
I think you may have helped rather than harmed. :) Just tell your new team member, that after this show is under her belt, she'll know she can handle the difficult hosts who occassionally pop up! And if 5 people do show up, despite the host's lack of effort, then she can count it as a success.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do to prepare for my new consultant's first show?

To prepare for your new consultant's first show, help them create a guest list and send out invitations. Discuss the menu and recipes to be demonstrated, ensuring they have all the necessary products and tools. Encourage them to practice their presentation and familiarize themselves with the Pampered Chef catalog and product features.

How can I support my new consultant during their first show?

You can support your new consultant by being present at the show, either in person or virtually. Offer guidance on how to engage guests, demonstrate products, and handle questions. Additionally, assist with setup and teardown, and help manage any technical aspects if the show is online.

What products should be featured at the first show?

It's best to feature a mix of popular and versatile products that showcase the brand's strengths. Consider including a signature recipe that highlights key tools, such as a cooking tool set or a stoneware item. This allows guests to see the products in action and understand their benefits.

How can my new consultant follow up with guests after the show?

Your new consultant should follow up with guests by sending thank-you messages and sharing any special offers or promotions. They can also provide additional information about the products demonstrated and invite guests to place orders or host their own shows. Personalizing the follow-up can help build relationships and encourage future sales.

What are some common challenges my new consultant might face during their first show?

Common challenges include nervousness, managing time effectively, and handling unexpected questions or technical issues. Encourage your new consultant to practice their presentation beforehand, stay organized, and remain flexible. Remind them that it's okay to not have all the answers and that engaging with guests is key to a successful show.

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