Struggling with Full-Time Work & Direct Selling: Seeking Advice

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the experiences of participants balancing full-time work with their direct selling efforts in the Pampered Chef business. Many share their struggles with time management and the impact of their work commitments on their direct selling activities.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses feeling overwhelmed by their full-time job and questions the viability of continuing with only 1-2 cooking shows a month.
  • Another participant shares their experience of prioritizing family time and reducing their Pampered Chef commitments during the week and weekends.
  • One consultant mentions that their business provides extra income, which they find valuable, even if it doesn't replace their full-time job.
  • Several users note that catalog shows can be easier to manage and provide a steady income, but some struggle with obtaining bookings from these shows.
  • One participant reflects on the difficulty of saying no to additional commitments and emphasizes the importance of managing their schedule to avoid burnout.
  • Another participant shares that they enjoy their Pampered Chef business despite the challenges, indicating that it brings them joy and fun.
  • One consultant mentions using a visual system with sticky notes to manage their availability and bookings effectively.
  • Several participants agree that while cooking shows may yield higher sales, catalog shows require less effort and can be a suitable alternative for those with limited time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness and desirability of focusing on catalog shows versus cooking shows, with some participants finding value in both approaches while others express challenges with bookings and time management.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and insights based on their individual circumstances, emphasizing the importance of finding a balance that works for them in their direct selling endeavors.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be relevant for consultants who are managing full-time jobs alongside their Pampered Chef business and are seeking insights from others in similar situations.

K
krhodes74
Messages
65
I just wanted to see if any of you do this and if you have any success with it. I work a very stressful FULL time job. It seems like every day I have more and more to do. However this makes me very tired. I am just wondering if I go to Catalog Shows only and I do maybe 1-2 Cooking Shows a month, if it will be worth it to stay in the business?
I know that you all are the place to look for help. I know we are all busy and have schedules and things do to. I just feel like everything else i getting let go of including my sanity. And tips will be so greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Kelli :(
 
Well, as someone who takes on too much, this is my advice:
Prioritize what's important to you and your family.

For me, I was working OT after work and on the weekends which left very little time for PC and for my sweet hubby. I decided to cut way back on it during the week and cut it out completely during the weekend unless we really needed the money that week/month.

It's hard to say no for a lot of people, but you need to learn how if you're going to stay sane!

Is your job throwing stuff on you that really isn't your job?
When you leave work, have you left work or do you bring it home with you?

For some people, PC is the stress releiver they need from their weekly job. For some (myself included) it's a potential way to stop working their FT job.

So in closing - LOL
I think you need to figure out what you want your PC business to be, what can you say no to, can you leave work at the front door and what's important to you?
 
I teach full time, and what you have described is pretty much how I've run my business from the start. (a little over a year and a half now). Of course my income isn't sky-high but it provides a little mad money for me and I still get lots of cool toys to play with!!! I have never had any intention of this taking over as my "full time job" so I guess it really depends on what your expectations are. As for "Is it worth it?" for the me the answer is definitely YES!
 
I work full time and some months only do 1-2 shows a month (some months more). I basically let my calendar fill however full it can get. Catalog shows are like free money or insurance shows. I found that offering an incentive will help your host get to a great start. I offer a free gift (usually a mini serving spatula) if they give me 5 orders within a week of starting their show.
 
I find that by just doing catalog shows, I struggle for bookings. It is easier to work more then it is to work less!
 
Oh, I can SO relate to your post.But "only" 1 or 2 live shows and the rest catalog? I count myself fortunate if I can get 1 or 2 live shows in a month, catty shows aside!The vast majority of my shows have been catalog. They've also had better average sales, ranging from $300 to $450.But I only got one booking from all of them, and I've been struggling to reach the alleged hostess in question.For me, the time crunch comes in making calls. By the time I get home from work and do something about dinner, it is often too late to call.
 
Only you can decide if it is "worth it". At first I was doing 4-5 shows a month and a few cattys. I have since cut back to about 2 shows a month and as many cattys as I can find. I don't make a ton of money but my commission from last month is buying us an upright freezer that we want and couldn't purchase otherwise. PLUS I get to earn prods for free:sing: . So for me at this point - yes it is worth it. My baby is due the end of April... will it be worth it to me after that??...only time will tell.

You just need to decide what you want out of your business and if it is more stressful to keep it going or if you enjoy what you get out of it.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
You are all thinking what I am thinking. It is worth it when I get the extra $200-400 checks in some months. But it isn't worth it when I don't know how to say NO. I have to work on that. I just have to say this is what I have open and that is it. I need to remind myself it is my business and I work it like I want to. If I only want to do one a week I only do one a week, instead of worrying about not complying to there needs. I have to quit, cause I am working myself to death and making my husband not like me very much.
thanks so much for the support.
 
krhodes74 said:
You are all thinking what I am thinking. It is worth it when I get the extra $200-400 checks in some months. But it isn't worth it when I don't know how to say NO. I have to work on that. I just have to say this is what I have open and that is it. I need to remind myself it is my business and I work it like I want to. If I only want to do one a week I only do one a week, instead of worrying about not complying to there needs. I have to quit, cause I am working myself to death and making my husband not like me very much.
thanks so much for the support.
Click to expand...
What I have done to help me control my calendar the way I want it is to mark my open days with a pink sticky note. Then as they fill up, I move days if I don't want to do back to back shows or another obligation came up. If you only want to do 1-2 shows per month start with maybe 4 dates that are marked. Let your guests know that you only have a limited amount of days available (you don't have to tell they WHY) and if they want a party, they better book soon. Then if you have filled a certain month you can offer a catalog show or offer the next month.
 
Your situation sounds just like mine. I am worn out at the end of my long day. BUT I would not give up my PC job. I love the products & I am having fun w/it. I work 6days a week so it is hard for me to do many cooking shows & I do alot of catalog shows. If you enjoy it the keep doing it.
 
Remember, this is "your business,your way." Generally speaking, cooking show sales will always be higher....but catalog shows are definitely less 'work.'

Do what works for you right now. The wonderful thing is that when you are ready to step up your cooking shows, you can. :)
 
This is what I've been doing for the last 6 months (except for November when I had *5* cooking shows - I just about died!) - it works if you're good at booking shows at your shows, and can hand the host a packet right then and there, set the date to close the catty show, and follow up, follow up, follow up!! GL!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I effectively manage my time between a full-time job and my direct selling business?

Time management is crucial when balancing a full-time job with direct selling. Consider creating a structured schedule that allocates specific time blocks for your direct selling activities, such as hosting parties, networking, and product training. Utilize tools like calendars or task management apps to keep track of your commitments and set reminders for important tasks. Prioritize your activities based on urgency and impact to ensure you’re making the most of your available time.

What strategies can I use to promote my direct selling business while working full-time?

Promoting your direct selling business while working full-time requires creativity and consistency. Leverage social media platforms to share product information, customer testimonials, and special promotions. Engage with your audience through live videos, stories, or posts during your breaks or after work. Additionally, consider hosting virtual parties or events that fit your schedule, allowing you to reach potential customers without needing to be physically present.

How do I stay motivated when juggling a full-time job and direct selling?

Staying motivated can be challenging, but setting clear goals for your direct selling business can help. Break your larger goals into smaller, achievable milestones and celebrate your successes along the way. Surround yourself with a supportive community, whether through online groups or local meet-ups, to share experiences and encouragement. Remind yourself of your 'why'—the reasons you started your direct selling journey—and visualize the benefits it can bring to your life.

What are some common challenges faced when balancing full-time work and direct selling?

Common challenges include time constraints, burnout, and difficulty in maintaining consistent sales. You may find it hard to dedicate enough time to your direct selling activities, leading to feelings of frustration. Additionally, the pressure to meet sales goals while managing a full-time job can lead to stress. It’s important to recognize these challenges and develop coping strategies, such as setting realistic expectations and seeking support from fellow direct sellers.

Is it possible to achieve significant income through direct selling while working full-time?

Yes, it is possible to achieve significant income through direct selling while working full-time, but it often requires dedication and strategic planning. Many successful direct sellers start part-time and gradually build their business over time. Focus on building strong customer relationships, providing excellent service, and leveraging your network. As you gain experience and confidence, you may find opportunities to increase your sales and income potential.

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