The Party Plan program is a staple in the direct sales and network marketing industry. You may be one of the thousands of black women in direct sales that decided to build your business and your fortune by representing one of the many awesome party plan companies out there. If you are, I don't have to tell you how important it is to keep booked shows or parties on your calendar. Holding regular and consistent shows can be the difference between a successful business and a "dead one".
You may be great about getting bookings and coaching your hostess, but how are you when it comes to taking care of your guests during and after the show? Here's a few tips that will help you build a strong rapport with your party or show guests...before, during and after the show!
-Introduce yourself and make a connection with the guests...before the show!
Make it a point to ask your hostess for the guest list names, phone numbers or even email addresses several days before the show. Plan to make phone or email contact with ALL your guests 24-48 hours before the party. Call or email each one and let them know you are looking forward to meeting them at the party. The guest will feel more connected to you and be more likely to show up instead of cancel at the last minute.
-Make sure you set up an area (away from the crowd) to have some one-on-one time with your guests.
When your guests are ready to "check out" by placing her order with you, she may have some questions or concerns about costs, products, etc. By pre-arranging a space away from the group you will be able to answer her questions privately and even talk about hosting a show of her own. This also allows you to compliment her on her choices and build rapport further. This is a very valuable 2 or 3 minutes together...use it wisely.
-Be sure to call each guest the next day and thank them personally.
This is such an important step, it you do this consistently...it will separate you from all the rest! I promise, if you incorporate this step into your regular "after party" care, your customers will be so impressed! It should only take about 1 minute per call, it's completely worth your time. Your customers will appreciate your thoughtfullness and not feel "funny" about your call because you are not asking for anything. You are simply calling to say thank you!
-Communicate with your customers at least once a month
Market research suggests that if you do not communicate with your customers at least every 4 weeks, they are very likely to move on to the competition. Many women in direct sales send monthly newsletters with tips, ideas and product introductions. By emailing or sending a monthly communication, you assure your customer does not forget about you and your product or service.
I encourage you to put some of these ideas in place, it's all about planning to party right...before, during and after your show!!
See you at the TOP!
British