Tried Something New and Got Bookings!

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread centers around participants sharing their experiences with a new booking strategy involving product displays at shows. Several users discuss the effectiveness of this approach in securing bookings and express enthusiasm for trying similar methods.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shared that they brought specific products to a show and encouraged guests to express interest by placing their names next to items they liked, resulting in multiple bookings.
  • Another participant expressed excitement about trying the same strategy at their upcoming show, noting that they had been looking for new ideas to increase bookings.
  • Several users mentioned that they found the idea innovative and planned to implement it in their own shows, with some reporting successful outcomes from similar approaches.
  • One participant noted that they had previously used a flyer for booking incentives and received positive results, indicating that various incentive methods can be effective.
  • Another participant shared their experience of using different products and achieving multiple bookings, highlighting the potential effectiveness of product selection in this strategy.
  • Some participants discussed the importance of host coaching and managing expectations regarding minimum sales for shows.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There appears to be general agreement on the effectiveness of using product displays to generate bookings, with many participants expressing interest in trying the method. However, there are differing opinions on the necessity of setting minimum sales requirements for hosts.

Contextual Notes

Participants are primarily consultants sharing personal experiences and strategies to enhance their booking rates during shows. The discussion reflects a community of individuals looking to support each other through shared ideas and experiences.

Who May Find This Useful

This thread may be useful for Pampered Chef consultants seeking new strategies to increase bookings and engage with their hosts and guests during shows.

C
ChefLisa
Messages
851
Hi all!

My March calendar was not where I wanted it, so I decided to try something new tonight. I brought the Trifle Bowl, Large Polka Dot Bowl and 8-inch Executive Saute Pan with me and placed them on my host's counter next to the name tags. I also had pieces of paper there and asked each person to put her name on a piece and drop it in the item she liked best.

When I came to the point in my show when I wanted to talk about bookings, I showed off each item and then told them they could get the item they liked for free by hosting a show on select dates in March (all before March 15). Additionally, the host can get one for free with three bookings scheduled. I got a booking for next Saturday and for March 12. Also, the host is going to work on getting another show for me. I will definitely need to do some major host coaching, but I should only be out about $24.00, taking into account the host discount and my commission. I also got a May booking, but that does not count for my special promotion. I think I am going to try the same thing at my show on Sunday, but I may select pieces that are a little lower priced.

Lisa
 
:-)
ChefLisa said:
Hi all!

My March calendar was not where I wanted it, so I decided to try something new tonight. I brought the Trifle Bowl, Large Polka Dot Bowl and 8-inch Executive Saute Pan with me and placed them on my host's counter next to the name tags. I also had pieces of paper there and asked each person to put her name on a piece and drop it in the item she liked best.

When I came to the point in my show when I wanted to talk about bookings, I showed off each item and then told them they could get the item they liked for free by hosting a show on select dates in March (all before March 15). Additionally, the host can get one for free with three bookings scheduled. I got a booking for next Saturday and for March 12. Also, the host is going to work on getting another show for me. I will definitely need to do some major host coaching, but I should only be out about $24.00, taking into account the host discount and my commission. I also got a May booking, but that does not count for my special promotion. I think I am going to try the same thing at my show on Sunday, but I may select pieces that are a little lower priced.

Lisa
Click to expand...

GOOD JOB LISA!!!!
 
Lisa, I've got to say that I've been with PC for a long time and thought I'd heard every "new idea" to get bookings but yours is fantastic! I LOVE it! Booking-wise, I've been slow and steady but I am really wanting to take it up a notch. (I've got my eye on London for my daughter's graduation present!)

I have a show this Tuesday and we are using the trifle bowl. I'm gonna do this!! Thanks!
 
Good job! There's always room for a new idea.
 
That's a great idea! Thanks for sharing.....I could have used it last night:rolleyes:
 
Awesome idea! If toady's show was closer to home (it's over an hr away) I would do it! I'm prospecting today!!

Thanks!!!
 
JUST IN TIME! I have a show today that I might try that on!! Nice idea and thanks for sharing!!!
 
What a great idea!! At my show last night, I put a flyer in my folders for a booking incentive..thru the 15th get a FREE small round stone or bar pan, 16-31st get one of the new dish towels.......it worked, I got 2 bookings!!
 
I did this also using the 2 new green knives and the new kitchen shears. It has helped me get 3 bookings in 2 shows
 
Great idea. Get them already picking which item they want. I like that!
 
ChefLisa said:
Hi all!

My March calendar was not where I wanted it, so I decided to try something new tonight. I brought the Trifle Bowl, Large Polka Dot Bowl and 8-inch Executive Saute Pan with me and placed them on my host's counter next to the name tags. I also had pieces of paper there and asked each person to put her name on a piece and drop it in the item she liked best.

When I came to the point in my show when I wanted to talk about bookings, I showed off each item and then told them they could get the item they liked for free by hosting a show on select dates in March (all before March 15). Additionally, the host can get one for free with three bookings scheduled. I got a booking for next Saturday and for March 12. Also, the host is going to work on getting another show for me. I will definitely need to do some major host coaching, but I should only be out about $24.00, taking into account the host discount and my commission. I also got a May booking, but that does not count for my special promotion. I think I am going to try the same thing at my show on Sunday, but I may select pieces that are a little lower priced.

Lisa
Click to expand...
did you make a minimum requirement of what the show sales would have to be? That's what I'd do to make it worthwhile to you.:)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
In the past I have tried to mention minimums, but I have found that my hosts just get so overwhelmed by all of the stipulations.

I started my host coaching at the show and will be spending a lot of time talking with each of these host to make sure they get very excited and collect a lot of outside orders.

My past few months of business have been great, but since my March calendar was a little empty, I need to jumpstart my business again.

For anyone who is reading this, I do not recommend doing this type of incentive unless you are trying to get out of a dry spell. Our host benefits are so great, we usually do not need this. However, if your March is not where you want it to be, go for it! Remember that what you do now will impact your business in 90 days. A great March can ensure you have a strong summer!
 
Very smart! I have a show today and I'm thinkin' I could use that! I won't need the bookings only for March (I have a couple of April holes), but one or two more March dates won't kill me!!
 
That's a good idea!! Think I'll try it at my next show.
 
I dig it...good idea!
 
That is AWESOME....I'm helping my Dir. today at her show, I'm gonna have her try it out.....that is SUPER....way to go and thanks for sharing.....I will try it too at my next show....:D :D
 
Did you let them take the item with them just for booking, or do they actually get it AT their show??
 
Great idea! I'm always looking for ways to get more bookings! Thanks
 
chefdoodle said:
Did you let them take the item with them just for booking, or do they actually get it AT their show??
Click to expand...


She will probably wait till the show closes then add it to the hostess order
 
That is a really great idea Lisa, AWSOME JOB~!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #21
Yes, I add it to the new host's show. That way I am ensured the show is held before putting out the money for the gift.

Lisa
 
What a great idea! I need stuff like this to keep going! I'm hitting a rut.
 
WHOO HOO! I tried this at my show last night and out of 10 guests......I got FIVE bookings!! Seriously excited, seriously (for those Grey's fans).

Thanks so much!
Rachel
:D
 
  • Thread starter
  • #24
Congratulations Rachel!

Which items did you offer?

Lisa
 
I offered the Trifle Bowl, Rectangular Baker, or 8" Saute pan. Of which I already have an extra new unused Rec Baker and 8" Saute pan.
 
I'm a bit confused...why do you have them put their names in them? Just to build excitement and getting them thinking about which one they want?

I'd need to pick smaller items, as the 8" saute pan is $62 in Canada. Even with the host discount and commission, that's not really worth it, I don't think.
 
ChefLisa,
I'm curious, which item was the most popular of the three??Thanks,
Catherine
 
Or, for April you could set out the Trifle Bowl and Carafe and mention they can get that item they liked 60% off in April (if you are booking April). You could also set out the 2 March specials (Mandolin and Cutting Board) and put a "vote" in a prep bowl next to it.

I think that just gets them "attached" to the product and wanting it.
 
that is a great idea! I only have one show scheduled this month (after the 15th of course) but do have a boutique on the 13th. I may send out an email like this and see what happens! Thanks for sharing such a great idea!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #30
At this point I am not 100% sure which had the most names in it. I have done this same 'game' at my last two shows and got two solid bookings at each one. However, at the one last night, the items offered were the small polka dot bowl and the tool-turn-about. They cost a lot less, but they are still exciting.

With all of this, I do not think the prizes were really the reason most scheduled a show. Well, last night's show was the exception. She booked at a show on the last Friday night of February for last night because she wanted the large polka dot bowl. With that written, most scheduled a show because we were all having so much fun. That is always the reason someone schedules a show with you. They just make that connection with you. Your excitement and your host's excitement just transfer to them.

Having fun for me is making one recipe so I do not stress over the food. The only exception to this has been when I made the 30 minute chicken at a few shows last month. I always brought the chicken with me; cleaned, seasoned and ready to put in the microwave as soon as I arrived.

I hope those of you who need bookings give this a try and have great success with it!

Lisa
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Tried Something New and Got Bookings!" mean in the context of direct sales?

"Tried Something New and Got Bookings!" refers to the practice of experimenting with different strategies or approaches in direct sales, particularly with Pampered Chef, to generate interest and secure bookings for parties or events. This could involve new marketing techniques, product demonstrations, or engagement methods to attract potential hosts and customers.

How can I effectively try something new to get more bookings?

To effectively try something new, consider implementing fresh ideas such as themed cooking parties, virtual events, or social media challenges. Engage your audience by showcasing unique recipes or using new products in your demonstrations. Additionally, ask for feedback from your current customers to tailor your approach to their interests.

What are some examples of new strategies I can try?

Some examples of new strategies include hosting a live cooking demonstration on social media, offering exclusive promotions for first-time hosts, or collaborating with other direct sellers for joint events. You might also try creating a referral program where existing customers can earn rewards for bringing in new hosts.

How do I measure the success of trying something new?

To measure the success of your new strategies, track key performance indicators such as the number of bookings secured, the engagement levels during events, and feedback from participants. Additionally, monitor your sales figures and customer retention rates to assess the overall impact of your new approach.

What should I do if my new strategy doesn’t result in bookings?

If your new strategy doesn’t yield bookings, don’t be discouraged. Analyze what aspects may not have resonated with your audience and seek constructive feedback. Consider adjusting your approach based on this feedback, and don’t hesitate to try different strategies until you find what works best for you and your customers.

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