Need Advice About a Show...sort of Personal

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Discussion Overview

This thread revolves around a participant's experience with a fundraiser show that faced challenges, including low attendance and lack of orders. Participants share their thoughts on whether to proceed with the show despite these difficulties and reflect on their own experiences with similar situations.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shares their experience of a previous fundraiser that did not yield significant sales or bookings, leading to concerns about a new fundraiser with low interest.
  • Another participant expresses the view that attending the show could lead to unexpected opportunities, citing a personal experience where a low-confirmed guest list resulted in bookings and interest.
  • Several users mention the importance of host engagement and the impact it has on the success of a show, with one participant noting a lack of faith in the current host's commitment.
  • One participant updates that despite preparing for the show, no guests attended, leading to feelings of frustration but also a recognition of their efforts.
  • Another participant reassures the original poster that they did their best and emphasizes that the outcome was not solely their responsibility.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on whether to proceed with the show in challenging circumstances, with some participants advocating for attendance regardless of the situation, while others express skepticism about the host's ability to engage guests.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences with fundraising shows, highlighting the variability in host engagement and guest attendance, as well as the emotional responses of consultants facing similar challenges.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who encounter similar situations with fundraising shows or low-attendance events may find the shared experiences and perspectives relevant to their own practices.

M
missyciccolella
Messages
791
Let me give some background...a former fundraiser host emailed me and needed to schedule a fundraiser for her son's power lifting team. She needed to book in close (less the 2 weeks) so they money could be delivered before mid-May. Her previous fundraiser was a disaster...she had the PC fundraiser and then a jewelry show with a friend a few hours later (not to my knowledge). Bottom line, the sales were about $300 for the fundraiser, no bookings, no recruit leads and I felt like the only reason people purchases was to support the cause (a neighborhood girl's medical expenses) and could have cared less about being there...it was a very tough/rough crowd.
Fast Forward to today...in hindsight I know I should have not agreed to this...she needed to do it on a Sunday (don't do Sundays but decided to make an exception), she has no orders from online or from anyone passing the catalog, and has only 2 people semi-confirmed to come 1 hour late. I'm going back and forth on what to do...I've done the host coaching like I do with all my hosts (who seem to do just fine), and she doesn't seem to be getting any feedback from the other parents about interest in doing this type of fundraiser. (She won't pick up the phone to call anyone or to find out if they are coming).
I did tell her that I can't stay all day...my demos are about 50 minutes, so I would be wrapped up in 90 minutes and leaving.
Ok, my husband is deployed, since this popped up so soon, my babysitter can't make it, and I have to load up the kids and take them (she is ok with that & and my kids will behave), she also lives about 30-45 minutes away depending on traffic (we live south of DC), and I know I'll show up and be feeding the teenage boys and not making sales...
My question after this long rant is what would you do? Do you go, and hope for the best or do you call and cancel? I'm so on the fence...
 
I would go, you just never know what will come of it.

Case in point: I had a show yesterday, the Host had moved it 3 times, finally got me her guest list of 12 people last Thursday (I didn't send invites, but I did make calls) AND she only had one confirmed guest coming. I went anyway. We ended up with 7 guests, the sales were really small (she needs another $50 just so I can submit). BUT I booked 3 shows and her Mom wants to sign.
You just never know - go and do your best so you won't question your choice later.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
Crystal Patton said:
I would go, you just never know what will come of it.

Case in point: I had a show yesterday, the Host had moved it 3 times, finally got me her guest list of 12 people last Thursday (I didn't send invites, but I did make calls) AND she only had one confirmed guest coming. I went anyway. We ended up with 7 guests, the sales were really small (she needs another $50 just so I can submit). BUT I booked 3 shows and her Mom wants to sign.
You just never know - go and do your best so you won't question your choice later.
Click to expand...

I hear you on the guests showing up...I'm not having faith like you though. This is the repeat of last time, and I thought with better host coaching she might get the idea. I know she is not interested in signing...we've had that discussion already as I suggested this would be a great kick off show for her.

Thanks, and I'm slowly getting ready for this.
 
missyciccolella said:
I hear you on the guests showing up...I'm not having faith like you though. This is the repeat of last time, and I thought with better host coaching she might get the idea. I know she is not interested in signing...we've had that discussion already as I suggested this would be a great kick off show for her.

Thanks, and I'm slowly getting ready for this.
Click to expand...

Good Luck!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Ok, here is the update...got ready and psyched myself up. Said it was going to be great regardless of what happened.
No one showed, no orders. I'm frustrated/mad, but know I did everything I could on my end and I showed up. I didn't mean to sound flaky (b/c I'm not and have never thought of backing out on a show - EVER), but I've had a lot on me (no excuse) and wasn't feel the love of my job this morning. I just needed a kick pants to remind this isn't about me...THANK YOU Crystal!
 
You did what you could, don't beat yourself up over it. It was HER fundraiser and she either did not do her job as host, or it just wasn't meant to be.
 
missyciccolella said:
Ok, here is the update...got ready and psyched myself up. Said it was going to be great regardless of what happened.
No one showed, no orders. I'm frustrated/mad, but know I did everything I could on my end and I showed up. I didn't mean to sound flaky (b/c I'm not and have never thought of backing out on a show - EVER), but I've had a lot on me (no excuse) and wasn't feel the love of my job this morning. I just needed a kick pants to remind this isn't about me...THANK YOU Crystal!
Click to expand...

I'm soo glad you went, but I'm sorry it didn't work out. Bless and release!

Oh, and your welcome! Good job!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I consider when planning a personal show?

When planning a personal show, consider your audience, the timing, and the location. Think about who you want to invite and how they might respond to the products. Choose a date and time that works for most of your guests, and select a comfortable venue, whether it's your home or a virtual platform. Additionally, consider any themes or special promotions that could make your show more appealing.

How can I make my show feel more personal?

To make your show feel more personal, share your own experiences with Pampered Chef products. Use storytelling to connect with your guests, and consider incorporating personal touches, such as a favorite recipe or a demonstration that highlights your unique cooking style. Engaging with guests by asking about their preferences and encouraging them to share their own experiences can also create a more intimate atmosphere.

What if I'm nervous about hosting a show?

It's completely normal to feel nervous about hosting a show. To ease your nerves, prepare thoroughly by practicing your presentation and familiarizing yourself with the products. Invite a close friend or family member to be your support during the show. Remember, your guests are there to have fun and learn, so focus on enjoying the experience rather than striving for perfection.

How do I handle guests who may not be interested in buying?

It's important to remember that not every guest will be interested in making a purchase, and that's okay. Focus on providing value through your presentation and engaging with them about the products. Encourage questions and discussions, and offer recipes or tips that they can use even if they don't buy anything. Building relationships can lead to future sales or referrals.

What are some effective ways to follow up after the show?

Following up after the show is crucial for maintaining relationships and encouraging sales. Send personalized thank-you notes to attendees, expressing your appreciation for their participation. You can also share a recap of the show, including any special offers or products that were highlighted. Consider reaching out individually to those who showed interest in specific items, and invite them to ask any further questions they may have.

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