Navigating a Hiatus from Pampered Chef: How to Keep Your Business Active

[krzymomof4]

I have a dilemma. I need to step back from PC for a few months due to my health and my DH's upcoming surgery. I am putting my Feb newsletter together and thought I should mention it, but I don't know exactly what to say. I am going to still be available for catalog shows and orders, but kitchen shows are going to be a real stretch at least until April. Finding a sitter for the kids is hard enough without finding a sitter for DH. I can't seem to come up with good enough wording to let them know without sounding like I am quitting or not going to be available if they have PC needs. I will need them to stay active until I get back into the swing of things.
Any ideas on what to say?

 

[erinb]

Just be straight with them and explain that due to medical reasons you won't be able to do cooking shows until X but you are still leaving them with the opportunity to take advantage of the wonderful host specials through catalog/online shows. Maybe even offer the extra $15 FPV

 

[ChefMoore]

People always want to help. You could try wording it so that is comes across that you want to be able to stay active in order to be available to your customers and in order to do that, you will need to be modifiying your business to incorporate catalog shows rather than cooking shows. Let them know they can still get the same great benefits, that you will help coach them as to how to make catalog shows a huge success. Since they may miss out on tasting the new recipes you may want to include a new recipe card for everyone that orders, or a seasons best for the host of a catalog show. Just a few ideas!

 

[pamperedlinda]

Maybe have a contest for the highest catalog show. Do you have some samples that you could offer as a prize?

 

[wadesgirl]

I would just say "Due to... I wanted to let you know I have to take a break from cooking shows right now but I will still be available for catalog shows and individual orders. Please feel free to call or email me if you need anything, I'll be here for you!"

Then when things pick you, just let them know what your world is back in order and you are available to provide full services for them.

 

[cmdtrgd]

Love what wadesgirl put, but also add "or, you could do your own cooking show to start off your own business!"

 

[wadesgirl]

Love what wadesgirl put, but also add "or, you could do your own cooking show to start off your own business!"

Sure, just say it better than I did. Good point though! If someone really wants to do a kitchen show, encourage them to try it out for themselves.