What Would You Do Re: Work Contacts

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores participants' thoughts on how to approach giving gifts and following up with work contacts in the context of their Pampered Chef businesses. Participants share personal experiences and opinions regarding gestures of goodwill and maintaining business relationships.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses uncertainty about giving a gift certificate to a customer from their regular job, seeking opinions on the appropriateness of the gesture.
  • Another participant shares that they believe a gift to boost spirits after a loss is a positive action, especially within the farming community.
  • One participant recounts their experience of giving a business card to a friendly farmer and considers whether to follow up, noting their uncertainty about how to approach farmers.
  • Several participants suggest that following up is appropriate since the farmer requested a catalog, emphasizing the importance of maintaining contact.
  • One participant suggests giving a physical gift rather than a gift certificate, sharing a personal anecdote about a past experience with a gift certificate that was never used.
  • Another participant mentions that sharing Pampered Chef products at work can be beneficial, provided there is no opposition from supervisors.
  • One participant suggests creating a gift basket to provide immediate enjoyment rather than a certificate, which they feel is more heartfelt.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of following up with contacts who have expressed interest in products. There is a consensus on the idea that giving a physical gift may be more impactful than a gift certificate, although there are differing opinions on the appropriateness of unsolicited gifts.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences of consultants navigating their dual roles in agriculture and Pampered Chef, highlighting the nuances of maintaining professional relationships while offering support.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on balancing personal gestures with business relationships may find this discussion relevant.

A
annepchef
Messages
10
I work fulltime in agriculture in addition to PC. I have 2 farmers that lost homes to fire last spring. One farmer only had partial damage and is almost done with all the restoartion work. I know that part of the loss was in the kitchen as we talked about the work he was having done last summer. I would like to maybe give him a gift certificate from me with a catalog and a magnetic calendar i had made up for giveaways. But, I am not sure about giving this unsolicited to a customer of my regular job. anybody have an opinion?
 
I think that it's a great gesture and I know as farmers we would have welcomed a guesture like that from someone. Anytime someone sufferes a loss... a gift to boost their spirits is a great thing. You aren't asking them to host... you are giving a gift! ....imho...
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
Thanks. I was thinking that, but wasn't sure. Now, another similiar question. The day I got my new business cards, another farmer was in. He is very friendly with all of us, emails jokes, etc. He and his wife came to the funeral home when my husband passed last january. Anyway, I gave him one of my cards to give to his wife. He joked about the pampered chef email with the naked guys. the next day he was in, he said that Joyce wanted a catalog. I brought him one right away with a letter thanking them and spelling out hosting, etc.
So now I am trying to decide if I should call or email to follow up. I know I would with a regular contact, but I am so unsure about farmers I work with.
 
Follow up, since they asked for the catalog! If it was totally unsolicited I might say wait.. but definitely follow up since they asked for more info.
 
I agree. If they asked for the catalog do a follow up call. Find out what they liked and then let them know you didn't want them to miss out on the great stoneware special coming up and wanted to touch base with them.
 
I agree... give them a call! :)
 
Follow up for sure. Also, I would give a gift - not a certificate. It's nice that people can shop but sometimes it's too overwhelming and they never do it. Choose something very generic - batter bowl, stone, SS bowls and give it to them. Just my opinion. (I had a discussion with a girl who got a gift certificate from a friend who sold Creative Memories and how she never used it. Years later, she is still thinking about that lost opportunity.)
 
Follow up for sure.

As for sharing PC at your workplace, as long as your boss/supervisor/whatever isn't opposed to it, do it! (You don't sound all that pushy, so I won't caution you about behaving appropriately. ;) )

I currently work in a very small office. The office supervisor LOVES PC. She has hosted a couple of shows. The other woman in the office (told you it was small) has purchased several things. They tell lots of people about my PC business. I'm a temp, so I can't say how long I'll be here, but I've made connections that should do my PC business well for years. I've done the same thing (with the blessing of the supervisor) at several of my temp assignments.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
thanks again guys!
 
I agree I would do a gift basket of things so they could enjoy it right away it seems more from the heart than a certificate.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
thank you for your help
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if a work contact expresses interest in Pampered Chef products?

If a work contact shows interest in Pampered Chef products, you can invite them to a virtual or in-person cooking show. This allows them to see the products in action and ask questions. Be sure to follow up with them after the event to see if they have any additional questions or if they would like to place an order.

Is it appropriate to discuss my Pampered Chef business with coworkers?

Yes, it is appropriate to discuss your Pampered Chef business with coworkers, as long as you are respectful of their interest and time. Make sure to gauge their interest before diving into details, and avoid being overly pushy. Sharing your passion for the products can be a great conversation starter.

How can I maintain professionalism while promoting my Pampered Chef business at work?

To maintain professionalism, keep your discussions about Pampered Chef products brief and relevant to the conversation. Avoid interrupting work tasks or meetings to promote your business. Instead, consider sharing information during lunch breaks or after hours, and always respect your coworkers' boundaries.

What if my manager or supervisor is not supportive of my Pampered Chef business?

If your manager or supervisor is not supportive, it’s important to respect their stance. Focus on promoting your business outside of work hours and avoid discussing it in the workplace. You can still succeed in your Pampered Chef business while maintaining a good relationship with your employer.

Can I use company resources to promote my Pampered Chef business?

Using company resources to promote your Pampered Chef business is generally not allowed. This includes using company email, printers, or bulletin boards. Always check your company’s policies regarding outside business activities to ensure you are in compliance.

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