Why Do They Say They Will, Then....

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the challenges faced by Pampered Chef consultants when trying to secure dates for hosting parties after initial expressions of interest. Participants share their frustrations with follow-ups and the difficulty in getting commitments from potential hosts.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration over potential hosts who say they want to book a show but do not follow through when contacted.
  • Another participant shares a similar experience, noting they have several people who have not committed despite expressing interest.
  • One consultant mentions using a booking binder and continuing to follow up until a clear "no" is received.
  • Several users discuss the idea of sending out newsletters to encourage potential hosts to set dates.
  • One participant shares a script from their director for following up, which emphasizes organization and persistence.
  • Another participant mentions success in booking shows after long follow-ups, indicating that persistence can pay off.
  • Some participants discuss using visual aids like a bookings board to help potential hosts see available dates.
  • There is a mention of confusion regarding terminology, such as the A4 paper size, indicating a mix of experiences and backgrounds among participants.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of various follow-up strategies, and no clear consensus emerges regarding the best approach to securing bookings.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and strategies related to booking shows, reflecting a range of methods and outcomes in their efforts to engage potential hosts.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights into the challenges of securing party bookings and exploring different follow-up strategies may find this discussion relevant.

P
pkd09
Silver Member
Messages
1,891
when you call to follow up and set a date they act like they don't know what you are talking about? I guess I would rather have someone tell me NO if they really don't want to have a show then for me to keep following up, leaving nice voice messages month after month after month. Sometimes it does get a little frustrating. I have a stack, over the past 2 years, of people who said they will and then .... Do they just get caught up in the moment at the show? Is there a way for me to pin them down at the show for a date? I really see this as a double edge sword because I feel if I pin them down on a date, regardless of how far ahead, then I will open myself up to a lot of cancellations. What to do...what to do...what to do?:cry:
 
I am so with you and feel your frustration, I wish I had an answer, other than people are rude and stupid, but that isn't very nice to say!!
Hopefully, someone else has a better answer. Just know that you are not alone, hang in there :)
 
I so feel your pain as well. I have about 5 people that I have not given up on getting them to host b/c they say they want to host, but then never can set the date at that moment. I call and call, it was weekly, but then became monthly. I am now leaving msgs and letting the people they booked from know that they still haven't set dates. But I only let them know b/c they ask me...it was weekly they asked me, now it is monthly. I think they want to host, but i can't get them to commit. SO Frustrating!!
 
I just keep a booking binder and call back every so many months by now! I have several from a booth last summer that I'm still working on. Until they say No, I will keep calling them.
 
Do you send out a monthly newsletter? I'm about to send out my first, for the month of June, and I'm hoping seeing all the cool specials coming up will prompt the "I want to book a show, but can't tell you when," types to take notice and actually set a date.

Just wondering if this works for any of you.

Sarah
 
This is what my director says...."Hi this is _____________ with the Pampered Chef. I have you on my rotating contact list as expressing interest in hosting a party, and I was following up with you to see if this month would be a good time. If you've changed your mind, that's ok, just give me a call back to let me know and I'll take you off my list. But until you let me know you're not interested, I'll keep checking back with you until we connect."

She says it makes you sound organized when you say you have a "rotating contact list" and that people appreciate you keeping in contact them. It's worked for her, so I'm giving it a shot myself.

HTH
 
linojackie said:
This is what my director says...."Hi this is _____________ with the Pampered Chef. I have you on my rotating contact list as expressing interest in hosting a party, and I was following up with you to see if this month would be a good time. If you've changed your mind, that's ok, just give me a call back to let me know and I'll take you off my list. But until you let me know you're not interested, I'll keep checking back with you until we connect."

She says it makes you sound organized when you say you have a "rotating contact list" and that people appreciate you keeping in contact them. It's worked for her, so I'm giving it a shot myself.

HTH
Click to expand...
That is a very clever idea! :)
 
Don't give up hope. I just booked a show for July from a lady I met at a booth in 10/2007. I would love tips on how to get a date at the show. I wouldn't mind cancellations because I think it would be better than calling back.
 
Definitely don't give up hope - I just had a show last week with a host that I met 2 years ago! She loved that I was consistent in following up with her (primarily through email) - and she was a great host - almost at $700 in sales! I've had many people thank me for not giving up on them (although sometimes you really want to) - if people want to have a show - they probably will eventually.
 
linojackie said:
This is what my director says...."Hi this is _____________ with the Pampered Chef. I have you on my rotating contact list as expressing interest in hosting a party, and I was following up with you to see if this month would be a good time. If you've changed your mind, that's ok, just give me a call back to let me know and I'll take you off my list. But until you let me know you're not interested, I'll keep checking back with you until we connect."

She says it makes you sound organized when you say you have a "rotating contact list" and that people appreciate you keeping in contact them. It's worked for her, so I'm giving it a shot myself.

Any luck with any call backs from the people?
Click to expand...
 
To be honest, no...but I'm still trying. I mean, I figure, what do I have to lose?
 
We use a bookings board. It's a sheet of A4 with the next months calendar on and we put the dates in green that we are wanting shows for. We tend to only put a few extra dates available than what we want so people know we only have a few dates left. It helps them visualise and get their diaries out. Have you tried this?
 
If I get an answering machine I will say, "I'm sorry I missed you. I was calling b/c... I will try calling you back at another time or if you'd like to call me or would like me to remove you from my list you can reach me at..."

Well, it goes something like that!
 
Does that strategy work for you?
 
pamperedthorpe said:
We use a bookings board. It's a sheet of A4 with the next months calendar on and we put the dates in green that we are wanting shows for. We tend to only put a few extra dates available than what we want so people know we only have a few dates left. It helps them visualise and get their diaries out. Have you tried this?
Click to expand...

What is A4?
 
A4 is the closest European equivalent to letter-size paper. It's slightly taller and a teeny bit narrower. That cheffer is in the UK, so that's why the A4.
 
dannyzmom said:
What is A4?
Click to expand...

Ooops sorry!! Why is life so confusing!! A piece of appropriately sized paper!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do they say they will support me, then seem unavailable?

In direct sales, support can sometimes feel inconsistent due to the busy schedules of team leaders and other consultants. It's important to communicate your needs and schedule regular check-ins to ensure you receive the guidance you require. Remember, many leaders are also managing their own businesses and may not always be immediately available.

Why do they promise training but offer very little?

While many companies, including Pampered Chef, promote training opportunities, the actual availability can vary. Some training may be self-directed or require initiative on your part to seek out resources. It's beneficial to take advantage of online training modules and community groups to supplement what is offered.

Why do they say they will help me with my first party, then don’t show up?

Sometimes, unforeseen circumstances can prevent a leader from attending your first party. It’s essential to have a backup plan in place, such as preparing materials in advance or seeking support from fellow consultants. Open communication with your leader about your expectations can also help clarify their level of involvement.

Why do they say they will promote my business, then not share my posts?

Promotion can often depend on the leader's own priorities and time constraints. While they may intend to support your business, they might not always have the bandwidth to share every post. To increase visibility, consider collaborating with other consultants or utilizing social media strategies to promote your own content.

Why do they say they will help me reach my goals, then seem indifferent?

Leaders may genuinely want to help, but they might not fully understand your goals or how to assist you effectively. It’s crucial to articulate your goals clearly and regularly check in with your leader to keep the lines of communication open. If you feel neglected, consider seeking additional mentorship from other successful consultants within the organization.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

Why Won't They Pin Down a Date for Shows?
  • Yakmama
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
7
Views
2K
chefann
Nail Down Your Party Date Fast: Tips for Hosting a Successful Event
  • amandaC
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
2K
Wildfire
What to Say to Someone When They Say
  • Kimberlymmj
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
6
Views
2K
pampchefsarah
Why won't this host return my calls or emails for her upcoming show?
  • BeckyC5830
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
2K
Chefgirl2
Booking Phone Messages to Leave for Potential Hosts
  • Suzy Englert
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
2K
pamperedpals
Question About Booking a Show.. Please Help!
  • melissasutkus
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
4
Views
1K
Wildfire
Giving Reusable Shopping Bags as Incentive?
  • babywings76
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
7
Views
3K
KrisGio
Booking Dilemma: Bridal Shower Date Conflict - What to Do?
  • chefcharity
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
8
Views
2K
chefcharity
What to Say on a Booking Call???
  • pampered2007
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
2
Views
1K
Admin Greg
Help! Host Book Chaos - What Do I Do?
  • lraspante
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
9
Views
2K
Lorna May
Back
Top