Navigating Booking Dilemmas at Shows: Expert Tips

[ChefJoeCool]

a guest at a show wants to book. You call (maybe even a couple of times...) and she says, "I'll call you". Do you not ever call her back? Leave the proverbial "ball" in her court? I just am so confused by their actions.

 

[heat123]

Usually I will call back if they do not call back a week or so later just to touch base with them but if she keeps brushing you off then I just let it go, as I don't wat to be a Pest.

 

[chefjeanine]

When someone says "I'll call you back", I say " great. If I haven't heard from you by __________ (fill in the time), I'll try you again. I know how busy we all get."

 

[DebbieJ]

I never leave it in their court. When they try that line with me, I say "It's my job to stay in touch with people. Would you mind if I called you back in 2 weeks (or whatever time frame)." Usually everyone says it's fine and then I make a point of calling back like I promised.

 

[ChefJoeCool]

Dang! You guys are GOOD!!! Thank you so much for the words...I am off to the printer with those ideas!

 

[MicheleC]

I vary my response based on their tone. There are some people who do get caught up in the excitement at the show or think that they will help their friend if they mark maybe or yes on hosting a show. If I get the cool tone then I'll write them off. I don't want to waste energy on someone who isn't excited.

One thing I do is I tell my hosts who is planning on booking parties from their shows. I then update them after three months with any bookings that didn't come through by calling and saying "Mary, I just wanted to keep you updated on your bookings from your party. As you know, Nancy already had her show and Karen is having one next month...don't forget you'll get that great ____ at 60% off at her show! I've had some trouble connecting with Jane. The specials for the next couple of months are ________ and _________. Which month sounds better to you? Great! I'll try to reach Jane and see if something that month might work out for her. In the meantime, if you see her soon maybe you could check in with her as well."

This way I have the past hostess' desires in mind and can mention that when I call Jane and hopefully she has mentioned it as well. I usually wait a few days before calling Jane because I want to give the past hostess time to talk to her.

Yes, I would like to get the booking to fill my calendar but I really feel I'm not doing the best job I can for my past hostess if I don't get those filled and get her all of the discounts she could get.

 

[kearstin]

Excellent advice. I have been running into the same problem and I will definitely use your wording the next time.

Thanks!