Shows Too Hard --Help--Suggestions?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses challenges faced by Pampered Chef consultants in preparing for shows, including time management, recipe selection, and overall organization. Participants share their personal experiences and strategies for streamlining the process to make shows more enjoyable and efficient.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses difficulty in looking forward to shows due to the extensive preparation and setup time required.
  • Another participant suggests limiting the number of recipes to one per show to reduce preparation time and complexity.
  • Several users mention the benefits of using the same recipe for multiple shows to streamline preparation and setup.
  • One participant shares their experience of preparing host packets in bulk to save time before shows.
  • Another participant discusses the importance of keeping the demo simple and engaging to maintain guest interest.
  • One consultant notes the effectiveness of cleaning up during the show when possible to save time afterward.
  • Another participant emphasizes the value of having a consistent outline for shows to improve efficiency.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to managing show preparation, with some participants advocating for fewer recipes and others focusing on organization and efficiency. No clear consensus emerges on a single method that works for everyone.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a variety of personal experiences and strategies, reflecting the diverse challenges and solutions within the consultant community.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for ways to simplify their show preparation and improve their overall experience may find the shared insights beneficial.

Oh, yeah.. I also forgot to have copies made so I put a "Going, Going, Gone" Flyer & the 3 month host/guest special flyer in the same sheet protector. I had guests pass it around & probably got more response than I had by putting each of those in the lapboards.

Another step eliminated!!!:thumbup: :thumbup:
 
JAE said:
I provided the ingredients twice. It was too much work and the show sales were not worth it.
For me, I have always bought groceries. One more perk for the host! For me, it's easier because I know I have EVERYTHING, all of the right things, and then I can prep everything and put them in my prep bowls!! I tell my hosts that they get $1 credit for every buying guest they have, towards their groceries. I have been doing 1 recipe if they have 15 guests or less. More than that, I'll do 2, but the dessert is always mostly finished. Just garnishing is what I leave (EAD!)
I have duplicate tools in a TTA that I leave packed. I just make a list of items for each recipe that I use over and over for the month.
I refill my lapboards after the show and they go right back into my bag with host packets and such and then I know they are ready for the next one. The only thing I need to update at the end of the month are the specials in Host packets, and catalogs at the beginning of the season.:o
 
JAE said:
I provided the ingredients twice. It was too much work and the show sales were not worth it.
That is how I feel. I thought it would be easier to provide the ingredients...but it was more work and more stress for me. Now, I just work with my host on her grocery list. We go through it and I explain each ingredient. If there are ingredients that I think the host may not usually purchase, I will bring those. For instance, I usually bring the parmesan cheese with me. If they host will never use fresh garlic, I will bring the garlic with me.....those types of ingredients. Or if I need a prebaked crust for something.....
 
this is a great thread!Thanks for starting this thread. If it's any consolation, you've helped me out just by sharing your frustrations, and I appreciate it!

Really great ideas and suggestions here that I plan to implement right away!! Thanks, guys!!
 
I love the idea of $1 grocery credit for each buying guest in attendance! I do buy groceries for my hosts and if they have at least a $500 show, then they do not reimburse me. This would be a better way to get attendance. People like incentives (I know I do!). As for the stress and taking too long and just being horrible to have shows...been there! I used to get so stressed before each show. Running around like a crazy person. Then I stopped and realized that I was the problem. Just like everyone else has been saying, take a minute to label ALL of your catalogs at once. It's amazing how wonderful it is to just be done with that. Do NOT put a flyer in each folder. You mention the guest special naturally and the more you give them to look at, the less they see. Don't print the recipe. Sending them to your website, just adds more visitors there...good thing!We all definitely need to look at what NEEDS to be done and do that. Then add to that if we have time. I need to show up with products, catalogs, order forms and pens. What products? I bring what the recipe needs and some new stuff. I tell the host and guests to tell me if they want to see something specific. If they don't tell me, it's on them. I can't bring everything. I do lapboards b/c I like them when I go to a show. I just put the catalog & generic order form in it. I have my business card in a holder and sometimes through in a wedding registry flyer or something, but they aren't all the same. Sparks interest...what do you have? I don't have it! I do one recipe unless there are a lot of people (over 15) and then only a super simple one. I do a lot of no demo shows with the recipe done and brought with. Done...not just need to finish, but done! I pick EASY recipes. After all, that's what we want. Really good and easy recipes. I have one or two recipes per month. If they really don't want them, of course, I'll come up with something else. Just recently I had a host ask if I could do something specific (for a bridal shower) and I told her that Mini Pesto Pizzas was my recipe this month, but she could do that if she'd like. She said...oooh...those sound good! I used to cave and do what they wanted. Then I realized that everytime I did, I was stressed and everytime I stood up for myself and my business, I was HAPPY and they were too b/c really they didn't care!!Organizing is huge though. Get rid of everything unnecessary. From your office and from your show. Good luck!!
 
What is the generic order form?
 
Just an outside order form or an order form that you can order through PC that doesn't refer to a monthly special.
 
Great advice. I need to re-evaluate as well cause, per hour, sometimes it doesn't all add up. My husband reminds me of that. Advice I haven't seen:

*Use an outside order form from this site. It has the monthly guest special on it so no need to print out anything else. That's all I use and then I send the PP receipts at the end of the show.
*I keep my products for the next show in my car. I still have to add some items but it does help.
*I pack my bag with paper work when I come home from my last show. I am already pulling out orders and cleaning the folders, so I just put in the order forms. I also have my kids help with this. It also lets me know if I'm low on something in time to order more.
*I have a laptop and enter orders while watching tv with my husband. I'm being productive and he doesn't feel like he's competing with PC.
*I write everything down in order to have a good list of tax deductions so we're making more money in the end.
*I try to not chase hosts. It's hard when you first start but, really, it's worth it. Throw away that slip of paper from someone who won't return your calls or who says she's going to invite her Bible study and that's it. I need to do this more but having those thoughts of who to call hanging over my head is stressful.

Good luck and let us know what works.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I feel overwhelmed by planning a Pampered Chef show?

If you're feeling overwhelmed, start by breaking down the planning process into smaller, manageable tasks. Create a checklist of everything you need to do, such as selecting recipes, inviting guests, and preparing your presentation. Focus on one task at a time, and don't hesitate to reach out to your upline or fellow consultants for support and advice.

How can I make my shows more engaging and less stressful?

To make your shows more engaging, consider incorporating interactive elements like cooking demonstrations, games, or taste tests. Encourage guest participation by asking questions and allowing them to help with the cooking process. This not only makes the show more fun but also takes some pressure off you as the host.

What are some tips for managing time effectively during a show?

Time management is crucial for a successful show. Plan your recipes and demonstrations to fit within the allotted time. Practice your presentation beforehand to ensure you can cover everything without rushing. Use timers for different segments of your show to keep you on track, and be prepared to adjust if needed.

How can I handle technical difficulties during a virtual show?

Technical difficulties can happen, so it's important to have a backup plan. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection and test your equipment before the show. If something goes wrong, stay calm and try to troubleshoot the issue. You can also have a backup device ready or switch to a phone call if necessary to continue engaging with your guests.

What resources are available to help me improve my show skills?

There are many resources available to help you improve your show skills. Consider joining training sessions offered by Pampered Chef, participating in online forums, or watching recorded shows from experienced consultants. Additionally, reading books or articles on direct sales techniques can provide valuable insights and strategies to enhance your shows.

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