Struggling with Rejection: Finding Balance in Networking and Accountability

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the challenges participants face with networking and dealing with rejection in their Pampered Chef businesses. Many share their personal experiences regarding accountability, the difficulty of making connections, and the emotional toll of repeated rejections.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration with their accountability numbers, feeling overwhelmed by the effort to connect with potential hosts.
  • Another participant shares a similar struggle, seeking advice and expressing a desire for motivation.
  • One participant mentions the "100 No's" concept as a way to reframe rejection positively, while another indicates they have exhausted this approach.
  • Several participants discuss the importance of communication style, with some wondering if they are coming across as pushy or desperate.
  • One participant recounts a successful experience making numerous calls, resulting in several bookings, emphasizing the importance of consistent effort.
  • Another participant reflects on the need for support from peers in approaching potential customers, suggesting a collaborative effort could be beneficial.
  • One participant acknowledges their professionalism in handling rejection but feels deflated by the lack of responses.
  • Another participant suggests reaching out to a company representative for additional support after experiencing a string of rejections.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of various approaches to networking and handling rejection, with no clear consensus emerging on the best strategies to adopt.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and feelings related to their efforts in building their businesses, highlighting the emotional aspects of networking and accountability.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who are experiencing similar challenges with networking and rejection may find the shared experiences and insights relevant to their own situations.

yummy4tummy
Messages
656
should one person take? Am I refusing to see the writing on the wall? My 3-2-1 accountability is at 22-0-0. People fill out interest forms at a function and I ask when the best time to reach them is....I don't know if they tell me a time so I can't reach them or not. I had people just see the slips and they fill them out voluntarily (not even offering a drawing). I am NOT pushy. I am not into PC to get rich (although it is a great thought) but I would like to have some shows without having to "pull teeth" to meet people and at least stay afloat. Right now my outflow far exceeds the inflow. Please don't tell me it is a tax write-off. I have more of those than I can use now. Thanks
 
Not sure what to tell you... I'm in a similar boat. Wonder what brilliant, insightful, "kick-me-in-the-butt" advice we'll get!
 
Have you looked at the list of 100 No's it's a better way to look at your contacting efforts from a neg to a pos perspective. Do a file search for 100 and it should come up! HTH!
 
Does 22-0-0 mean everyone is saying "no" to a show? Are some people saying "not right now"? I've been making at least 3 contacts a day since the day I came home from conference (that's Monday through Friday for the most part). I have added only one actual scheduled show to my calendar, but added many many people to my newsletter e-mail list and have at least four people to call in August for September shows. Off the top of my head I can think of two people very interested in having a show, but they haven't committed. Oh well. It's hard but hopeful. What you do today will pay off by 90 days from now (BeckyD and others). I really do believe that. Don't give up, and join the "discussion" in the 3-2-1 Accountability thread.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Have you looked at the list of 100 No's it's a better way to look at your contacting efforts from a neg to a pos perspective.
Repeatedly and yes I have done more than looked at it. I have exhausted it beyond revival. I'm not looking for any sympathy or miracle cures. I just want to know at what point do I dust myself off and move on? It only took me 1.5 yrs to reach my $15,000 career sales. That was my goal...now that I have reached it, I don't want to lose it but am not sure how long I can afford to hang on to it.
 
I've been wondering, myself, if I'm saying the wrong things or saying things the wrong way. There are probably better ways to put things so I don't overwhelm those I call and then they say "not right now".
Also, I just sent out my newsletter and asked people to give me three references. I offered a free cookbook if one of the referrals has a $400 show. I may start asking people when I call, too.
I truly want to go to the grocery store with another consultant and have a contest or something where we take turns going up to people and asking them if they have a PC consultant. Then I'll offer the mini catalog and get their info so I can send them a SB cookbook. It would be fun, and I think I need the push from someone going with me who will "take turns" with me.
 
It could be that you "need" it too much? Relax.

Read and listen to all the words that PC has provided for us - there are tons of scripts that they have put out there on CC, on training cd's, in our paperwork. They truely do make it as easy as they can for us.

Think about what you are saying and how you are saying it. Could you seem desperate? Pushy? Needy? All about what you can get?

Make it about what THEY can get. PC is so generous that we don't have to add anything extra for people to be pampered very well so point all that out - but don't throw up all over them - give them little snippits of info to entice them.

The more you relax and have fun the more people will want to find out what you have and will start responding. HTH
 
I was in a REAL BAD slump last fall. I got my hiney on the phone and make about 60 calls over a two week period (5 calls a day M-F). I left messages for people if I got voicemail and kept calling no matter what. The 5 calls a day were manageable for me. It netted me 3 shows that were $900 each and I got bookings through spring from them. You've made 22 contacts, that's awesome! All you can control is your effort. Believe that people will book! You can do it!
 
JAE said:
I've been wondering, myself, if I'm saying the wrong things or saying things the wrong way. There are probably better ways to put things so I don't overwhelm those I call and then they say "not right now".
Also, I just sent out my newsletter and asked people to give me three references. I offered a free cookbook if one of the referrals has a $400 show. I may start asking people when I call, too.
I truly want to go to the grocery store with another consultant and have a contest or something where we take turns going up to people and asking them if they have a PC consultant. Then I'll offer the mini catalog and get their info so I can send them a SB cookbook. It would be fun, and I think I need the push from someone going with me who will "take turns" with me.

That is a great example of how I feel too! Someone else mentioned that they added people to their newsletter list, and to be honest, I think once I get a "no" I forget about the other options I have to stay in touch, like getting the email info for the newsletter. I know that it doesn't help, but know that you are not alone.......guess i'll go check out the 3-2-1 accountability thread now.....:o
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
It could be that you "need" it too much? Relax.Read and listen to all the words that PC has provided for us - there are tons of scripts that they have put out there on CC, on training cd's, in our paperwork. They truely do make it as easy as they can for us.Think about what you are saying and how you are saying it. Could you seem desperate? Pushy? Needy? All about what you can get?Make it about what THEY can get.
That is what I am saying. I am not needy, pushy nor desperate. Nor do I have an "I could care less" attitude. I believe that I am very professional in my approach. I take rejection well (hey I am use to it LOL) I do try to make it about what I can do for them. Why do they check off YES, I AM INTERESTED IN XYZ if they aren't? I value my time as much as they value theirs. I do appreciate your input. I am not defeated yet...just a little deflated. Thanks
 
Valky, if you truly got 22 no's in a row, you need to email Karin Logston at home office. She has a standing challenge to consultants to get more than 17 no's in a row. I'm sure she'll read your note and offer you some advice and training. And if nothing else, you;ll become part of her training speech. :)

She's at [email protected]
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
Thanks Ann..I will give that a shot. I MAY be HER challenge!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common feelings associated with rejection in direct sales?

Rejection in direct sales can lead to feelings of disappointment, frustration, and self-doubt. It's common to feel discouraged after a potential customer declines your offer or shows disinterest. Acknowledging these feelings is the first step towards overcoming them and maintaining a positive mindset.

How can I maintain balance in my networking efforts?

To maintain balance in networking, set realistic goals for your outreach efforts. Schedule specific times for networking activities and ensure you also allocate time for self-care and personal interests. This balance helps prevent burnout and keeps your enthusiasm for your business alive.

What strategies can I use to handle rejection more effectively?

To handle rejection effectively, try to reframe your perspective. View rejection as a learning opportunity rather than a personal failure. Additionally, practice resilience by reminding yourself of past successes and focusing on the positive feedback you receive from satisfied customers.

How can accountability partners help with rejection in direct sales?

Accountability partners can provide support and encouragement during challenging times. They can help you stay motivated, share their own experiences with rejection, and offer constructive feedback. Having someone to discuss your feelings with can make the process of dealing with rejection feel less isolating.

What are some tips for building a supportive network in direct sales?

To build a supportive network, actively seek out like-minded individuals through social media groups, local meetups, or direct sales events. Engage in open communication, share your experiences, and offer support to others. Building genuine relationships fosters a sense of community and can help everyone involved navigate the ups and downs of direct sales together.

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