Social Graces! Some of our consultants have them, and some of them don't! This subject came up at the Upper Level Directors workshop at the Regional Meeting here in Southern California last weekend. I thought it would be fun to find out what YOU do in these situations, so let me know! I'll type up all of the answers you provide me, and send the whole kit-and-caboodle back to every one who contributes! If you're up to the challenge, copy the list below into a new e-mail, address it to ME cookwithme@cox.net, and then you can use the ideas I send back to you as mini-trainings at your meetings! With 12 different topics, we'll have mini trainings for an entire year! Gail Shendelman Social Graces Training How to handle children at your shows Guests who leave early or come in late Getting to know your host First impressions and appearance Thanking host Engaging the spouse, mother or other "special" guests Personal hygiene Chatty guests "Tipsy" guests Work area and the home set-up Pets Television and stereo interference --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Social Graces Training How to handle children at your shows I have had several guests bring their children that are about 12 or so. I grab my extra apron and get them to help me mix, pour, stir.. Its great because A) I have the time to talk about the product and booking shows, b) the guests see that its so easy even a kid can use it c) the parents are greatful that their children are usually excited to go into the kitchen the next time they cook! Guests who leave early or come in late I make sure to tell my hosts to remind their guests to be prompt by making a big deal out of the door prizes! Its a really great way to get everyone there on time, and get the show on track so that it doesnt go till all hours of the night! Getting to know your host I use the host info sheet that is in the binder. I also take my hosts out for StarBucks if I get the chance. The biggest question I ask is "What is the level of cooking for your guests?" That helps me to choose a recipe and start off on the right track! First impressions and appearance I wear a button up 3/4 sleeve shirt with a black just below the knee skirt. I have very long hair and make a point to put it into a bun for each show. I joke with the guests about having to excuse my lack of special hairdo, unless of course, they want to eat a piece of me with their food that night. Its a great ice breaker, and lets the guests know they are in for a fun night. Thanking host The very first thing I do after saying my name. Engaging the spouse, mother or other "special" guests I always invite them to sit right next to me and be the "Demonstration Helper" Personal hygiene THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU DO! Brush your teeth, hair, wash your face if you dont wear makeup and even if you do. Chatty guests Usually I ask what product they are talking about, if they are talking about a product, then I spend more time on it, and if they aren't then they stop talking. "Tipsy" guests I ask my hosts not to serve alchohol or to limit the intake to one or two glasses of wine. Work area and the home set-up I offer to bring a butler that fits into the backseat of my car and is the perfect size for my crate. Pets I tell the hostess that I am allergic to new animals, and ask if she could please set them in a different room alone. Television and stereo iterference I usually know if anyone is going to be home during the show, but those emergencies do pop up and then I draft the watchee/listenee to be my special assistant.
