Was I Wrong to Follow Up? Evaluating Pushy Behavior

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores the experiences of a participant regarding follow-up communication with potential customers after they expressed interest in ordering products. Participants share their thoughts on the appropriateness of follow-up and the challenges of communication in such situations.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their experience of following up with customers who initially expressed interest but did not respond to subsequent inquiries.
  • Another participant mentions that it's common for people to not check their email frequently and suggests calling if a phone number is available.
  • One participant agrees with the idea of following up but expresses hesitation about asking for a show from someone interested in a low-cost item.
  • Another participant encourages calling customers, noting that various factors could affect their response time.
  • One participant highlights the importance of keeping emails concise and separating questions for clarity.
  • Another participant provides context about the $5 product customer, noting her personal connection and current life circumstances that may affect her responsiveness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that following up is acceptable, though opinions vary on the best methods and approaches to take. Some express caution about the appropriateness of asking for a show from customers interested in low-cost products.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and varying comfort levels with follow-up communication in a sales context, particularly among newer consultants.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants navigating customer follow-up strategies and communication challenges may find the shared experiences and viewpoints relevant.

linojackie
linojackie
Messages
492
I got a couple responses to my newsletter and outlet email with people saying they wanted to order this or that. With one of them, she said she'd buy the $5 HWC thing because she always likes to support. So I replied and asked if she would like to do an online party/fundraiser. All she'd have to do is give me her friends' email addresses and I would do the rest. No response.

Another lady pasted a copy of the screen with all of the items she wanted from the outlet. (A $55 order) I told her I would need to get CC# shortly to place the order for her, but before I gave her her total, was she interested in any of the pink items. No response.

So about 4 days later I emailed them both and said "Hey, I never heard back from you, are you still interested in ordering". No response.

Was I wrong? Was that too pushy?
 
I wouldn't think you're wrong for asking if they are still interested in ordering. I've had to remind myself often though, other people do not check their email as often as I do. :D If you have a phone number, try giving them a call. I'd feel more comfortable providing a credit card number by phone anyway.
 
I agree with NooraK, although I would not have tried to get a show from someone who wanted only a $5 product. Then again, I'm still new and a little nervous about asking.
 
pick up the phone and call them.
 
Definitely try calling. They could be having a crazy week, on vacation, don't check email often or your email could even be in their junk folder!!! Don't assume that they aren't interested. They did respond in the first place. Also, I always mention shows, esp catalog shows since people don't always realize that IS a real show!! Keep the emails short and to the point asking a question that is separate from the paragraph b/c if they skim, they may miss it.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
Oh, I forgot to mention the $5 product lady is a long time friend of my husband's family. She also has held 3 shows with me and was interested in the biz. However, she is like 9 months pregnant right now and could very well be in the hospital having a baby as we speak.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Was I wrong to follow up with a potential customer?

No, following up is a crucial part of the sales process. It shows your interest in helping the customer and can provide them with the information they need to make a decision. However, it's important to balance persistence with respect for their space.

How can I tell if I'm being pushy when I follow up?

If your follow-up feels more like pressure than a friendly reminder, it may be perceived as pushy. Signs include frequent messages, lack of response from the customer, or if they express disinterest. Always prioritize the customer's comfort and preferences.

What are some best practices for following up without being pushy?

Best practices include setting a clear timeline for follow-ups, personalizing your messages, and providing value in each interaction. For example, share useful tips or recipes related to Pampered Chef products that might interest them.

How often should I follow up with a potential customer?

A general rule is to follow up once a week for the first month, then space it out to every two weeks or monthly thereafter. Always be attentive to the customer's cues and adjust your frequency based on their responses.

What should I do if a customer says they feel pressured by my follow-ups?

If a customer expresses feeling pressured, acknowledge their feelings and apologize. Ask for their preferred method and frequency of communication moving forward. This shows that you respect their boundaries and are committed to a positive relationship.

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