Vent About Crowd Control at Shows: How to Improve Sales?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the challenges of managing crowd control during cooking shows and how it may impact sales. Participants share their personal experiences and strategies for engaging guests while maintaining a fun atmosphere.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal, Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration with crowd control, noting that higher attendance can lead to more distractions and lower sales.
  • Another participant discusses the importance of understanding the guests' preferences and suggests providing food to help manage chatter during the show.
  • Several users mention techniques such as speaking quietly or directly addressing chatty guests to regain attention.
  • One participant shares a strategy of involving guests in the cooking process to reduce distractions and increase engagement.
  • Another participant describes using a humorous prop, like a dancing chicken, to capture attention when the crowd becomes too noisy.
  • One participant enjoys the lively atmosphere and finds that allowing guests to socialize can lead to successful shows.
  • Another participant notes that giving guests permission to chat can actually make them more attentive during the presentation.
  • Several users share experiences of dealing with noisy environments and express curiosity about how future shows will unfold.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on whether crowd noise is a problem or a positive aspect of the show experience, with some participants advocating for more control while others embrace the social atmosphere.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a variety of personal experiences from their shows, highlighting different approaches to managing guest interactions and maintaining focus during presentations.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on handling crowd dynamics during cooking shows may find these shared experiences helpful.

S
SusanBP0129
Messages
1,699
I know this has probably been discussed a million times, but I just need to vent!
My shows are decent...of course I would like higher sales...
BUT - my main issue is crowd control!!
I had a show last night with 16 people. It was INSANE. A few people listened from time to time, but basically, I was doing my thing whie there were about 5 different conversations going on. This drives the "catholic scholl girl" in me CRAZY, but I don't want to be snippy and "teacher like".
Sales are only $500 and I KNOW they'd be higher if people would listen!!
Ironically, my show sales are higher with 8 people than with 15!
Anyone else have this problem?:confused: :mad: :(
 
This is why I always talk to my host after she knows who is coming. Are your guests going to enjoy a cooking show or are they just going to need to be able to chat after a long day at work? I want to do the show that fits them. If I'm just talking about newer stuff and such, I may keep them focused for a few minutes and then release them.ALSO, with chatters, giving them food slows down the talking. They can hear and eat at the same time, but it's hard to flip through the catalog and chat while eating. I definitely have them eat right away with an express show, but also encourage them to snack even if I'm preparing something.
 
I know how frustrating it is and you sure don't want to stand up there and "be the teacher" (no offense to those teachers on here)

A couple things that have worked:

talk really quietly

start out with "I know you all are excited to visit with each other but please pay attention so that no one misses a tip they want. You will have plenty of time to catch up with each other after the demo"

stop talking and wait for them to notice then say "I didn't want anyone to miss out on this tip (or how to use this product...)"

The main thing is always be nice.
 
Get the guests involved...whomever is talking, say to her "Jane, can you come up here and stir / chop / slice this for me" - she will come up & help out, thus ending her chattersession, and her friends who were feeling chatty will suddenly realize "if I dont shut up - she's gonna call me up to assist, too!" and tey'll all shut up. My mom tends to be a real problem at shows - she's a chatterbug. But, I love to have her with me when she can come and she loves to watch me perform (or have an opportunity to meet new friends to chatter with - LOL)...so, when she starts being disruptive, I simply say, "Mom, come on up & chop this..."
Also, when u get them up using the tools, they'll buy them. Once they get their hands on a tool, they want it....i.e. my experience sunday with the salad chopper/salsa at the fundraiser.
 
My Director bought a "dancing chicken" (you all know the chicken dance, don't you?). She is taking it to her shows and will bring it out when things start getting out of hand. It's a thought!!!:)
 
Personally, I love it when it's this way! They are having FUN and that's my goal.

When I have these types of shows, I tell them I'm going to go ahead and prepare the recipe..."but can I have your attend just for 10 minutes." Then I talk a bit about each collection PC offers. I tell them "I'm going to do the 3 pile system, stack up your orders here and I'll call your name when it's your turn."

These are the FUN shows and end up being BIG $$ ones too!

Ginny
 
I used to get all bent out of shape (Inside) w/ people who weren't attentive.....but now, I just don't let it bother me. I tell them at the beginning of the show (I got this from my director - who got it from Julie Weitz) to sit back, relax, enjoy their time with friends and get ready for a fun evening. I also let them know that it's okay to talk and socialize with their friends - I know that is part of why they came - but that I hope that I am captivating enough to hold their attention (said tongue in cheek) and that if they do happen to listen, they will pick up some great tips and learn some really cool things that they will be able to go home and recreate in their own kitchens with no problem!

I actually think they are more attentive when I start my show this way - by giving them permission to chat......
 
Agree with Becky --- usually after I say that they are all attentative -- it's weird :P They sometimes are soooo quiet when I am doing something and not speaking that I say "You are all so quiet and this is a party! I must be terribly fascinating or horribly intimidating... please don't be afraid to chat or comment!" They giggle and then ask a question or comment.
 
That's a great line Jenn. It's weird when you can hear crickets in the backround!

I had a party like the noisy ones described too. I feel like a t.v. that was left on in the backround. Oh well. Tonight there are 20 people coming to the show I'll be doing...guess I'll find out what type of night it will be when I get there!
 
I just had a show like that last Friday:mad: It was in the garage which is also
known as "the man cave" at their house.

The best guest was their big ol' dog Farley. He was so good around the pork tenderloin:rolleyes:

I like the ideas & will try them. Thanks!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective strategies for managing crowd control at Pampered Chef shows?

To effectively manage crowd control at Pampered Chef shows, consider setting up designated areas for product demonstrations, cooking stations, and seating. Use clear signage to guide guests and create a flow that prevents bottlenecks. Additionally, having a co-host or team members to assist with crowd management can help keep guests engaged and organized.

How can I engage guests while managing a large crowd?

Engaging guests in a large crowd can be achieved by using interactive demonstrations and asking questions that encourage participation. Utilize small group activities or hands-on experiences where guests can try products themselves. This not only keeps them engaged but also allows for personal interaction, which can lead to increased sales.

What role does product placement play in crowd control and sales?

Product placement is crucial for both crowd control and sales. By strategically placing best-selling or new items at the front of the display, you can draw attention and encourage guests to gather around those products. Ensure that high-traffic areas are well-organized and that products are easily accessible to minimize crowd congestion.

How can I use technology to improve crowd control at my shows?

Utilizing technology such as mobile apps for ordering or scheduling can streamline the purchasing process and reduce crowding at checkout. Consider using tablets or smartphones to take orders on the spot, allowing guests to browse while minimizing lines. Additionally, social media can be used to promote pre-orders or special offers, which can help manage the crowd during the event.

What should I do if the crowd becomes overwhelming during a show?

If the crowd becomes overwhelming, take a moment to pause the demonstration and address the guests. Acknowledge the situation and suggest a short break or a fun activity to keep them engaged. You can also consider implementing a ticket system for product demos, allowing smaller groups to participate at a time, which can help manage the flow and reduce chaos.

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