Waiting in the Holding Pattern: What Can I Do Now?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the experiences and suggestions of participants who are awaiting their first shows as Pampered Chef consultants. Participants share various activities they engaged in during this waiting period and offer ideas on how to prepare for upcoming shows.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses feelings of impatience while waiting for their first show and seeks ideas for productive activities during this time.
  • Another participant mentions a helpful attachment about what to do while waiting for a kit, suggesting it could still be useful even after receiving the kit.
  • One participant shares their experience of organizing paperwork and learning about products to feel prepared for their shows.
  • Another participant suggests trying out recipes at home as a way to practice and gain confidence, noting the added benefit of sampling the food.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of practicing recipes in front of an audience, even if it's just family, to become familiar with the products and presentation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the specific activities to engage in while waiting, with no clear consensus on a single approach. Participants share a variety of personal experiences and suggestions.

Contextual Notes

Participants are primarily discussing their personal experiences as new consultants and the activities they found helpful while waiting for their first shows.

Who May Find This Useful

New Pampered Chef consultants looking for ideas on how to prepare for their first shows may find the shared experiences and suggestions relevant.

DZmom
Messages
1,059
I feel as if I'm a plane in the holding pattern. Everyone's on board and I'm ready to go, but have to wait to take off. I received my kit, I've booked 7 shows and now I'm just waiting. And waiting, and waiting for that first show. I've got a catalog show that's probably going to close this week. Another catalog show that just started and my first Kitchen show isn't until the 12th of August. So, now I'm just twiddling my thumbs and waiting it seems.

Do any of you have any ideas as to what I should be doing now! :confused:
 
Have you ever seen that attachment that someone posted here about what to do until your kit arrives? Even though you already have your kit, that list might still be helpful. It really helps organize things! As you'll soon find out, you can order Doris Christopher's new book at a discount. I think we'll get that information on how to do that on Monday. I would definitely get a copy or two of that (to have on hand to have potential recruits read it!) and read it yourself. I should be getting mine in the mail by tomorrow and I'm very excited! That's a great way for you to get even more familiar with the business, but to also be able to use the book as a recruiting tool. Believe me, when you get your paperwork changeover package, you'll have LOTS Of exciting stuff to go through. There will be all kinds of stuff to get famliar with. Of course, the new catalogs and paperwork don't go into effect until Sept 1st, but it'll give you something to do and something to promote at your August shows. The new products and the new catalog will be a great tool to get bookings in September!
 
I know while I waited for my first show I did alot of organizing through all my paperwork and my kit.

I also read about the products alot so I could learn as much as I could so I could sound like I knew what I was talking about. :p I also wrote down all kinds of different uses for products to share with guests at my show. Then I wrote down a whole script to use at my show so I could practice what to say.

Also watch the videos from your kit. They were very helpful.

Take some teleclasses. You'll learn even more and they will get you really excited about your shows as well as give you even MORE ideas.
 
You should also try out some of the recipes. Do a demo in your kitchen. My husband loved that, he got to sample the food and it is a business expense. It also gives you some things about what to do ahead of time and what wouldn't work. With everyones suggestions, your sure to keep busy. I've got the book and am ready to read.

Good Luck :)
 
Have you decided what recipes you are going to do at your first 7 shows? Whatever they are, practice them, and if possible, do this infront of an audience - even if it's only the kids. Think about which products you are going to use while preparing those recipes, and decide what you are going to say about each piece as you use it. I never did a script as such, but I did go through in my mind what I was going to say about each product. If you have time to go over this thoroughly, you won't be worried about what to say it will just come naturally. Really familiarise yourself with the products, their uses - think too about the products you will NOT be using in the recipe and see if you can fit in talking about them even if you don't use them e.g. if the recipe calls for fresh herbs, I would say "you can use your kitchen shears, or your crinkle cutter to prepare fresh herbs quickly and easily, but I am going to show you how wonderful our food chopper is tonight".
One thing I did find early on was that I had a "gap" to fill once the recipe had gone into the oven. What I did in the early days was a "Lemon Demo" - sheet attached if you are interested.
 

Attachments

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be in a holding pattern in direct sales?

A holding pattern in direct sales refers to a period where a consultant may be waiting for new leads, sales, or team growth opportunities. During this time, it’s essential to stay proactive and engaged with your business activities to maintain momentum and prepare for future success.

What are some productive activities I can do while in a holding pattern?

While waiting, you can focus on several productive activities such as enhancing your product knowledge, organizing your customer database, reaching out to past customers for feedback, planning future events, or improving your social media presence to attract new clients.

How can I maintain motivation during a holding pattern?

To maintain motivation, set small, achievable goals for yourself, celebrate any progress, and connect with other consultants for support and inspiration. Engaging in personal development activities, such as reading books or attending webinars, can also help keep your spirits high.

Should I reach out to my team or upline during this time?

Yes, reaching out to your team or upline can be very beneficial. They can provide support, share strategies that have worked for them, and offer encouragement. Collaborating with others can also spark new ideas and help you feel more connected to your business.

What are some ways to prepare for future sales opportunities?

To prepare for future sales opportunities, consider creating a marketing plan, developing new promotional materials, or planning upcoming events. Additionally, you can work on building relationships with potential customers through networking and social media engagement to ensure you are ready when opportunities arise.

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