Some say the party plan business model is dying, that virtual businesses are the wave of the future. But I disagree, this business model is all about the experience!
Keep that in mind and you will realize that this type of business will go on forever.
Think About This Scenario.
Your friend invites you to a home shopping party. You don’t feel like going because you have so many things on your to-do list. But your friend was excited and said she really wanted you to be there, so you go.
You walk in the door, and you’re greeted by your friend and the consultant, although she doesn’t call herself that. Your friend introduces the consultant as her friend, Jenny. Jenny asks if she can take your coat and get you something to drink.
She comes back with your drink and says, “So how was your day?” You talk for a few minutes and then she asks, “How do you know Sue (the hostess)?” You talk a bit more and then some other guests arrive. You think to yourself, wow, she’s nice!
The atmosphere is fun and truthfully not what you expected. You see Mexican munchies, colorful decorations, and someone is even wearing a sombrero.
That’s right; the invitation did say Mexican Fiesta Party! This isn’t one of THOSE old-fashioned home shopping parties – this is a FUN night out. Everyone is laughing and chatting, and you are beginning to feel glad you came; this isn’t like the home parties you’ve attended in the past.
How to Create a Successful Home Party Show.
What can you offer to create this show experience and make your party a FUN event?
The fun, excitement, and entertainment value is the feeling you want to create!
With the number of consultants per party plan company, it’s easy for your customers to find someone else. You want them to choose you!
How are YOU going to set yourself apart?
Here are some tips on creating an experience, not just booking or showing:
Offer THEME Parties.
Give your hostess the option to choose fun theme parties to liven up the event – foods, drinks, décor, and fun prizes surrounded by the theme. Whatever the theme, you need to dress the part!
Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- A white party
- Champagne and desserts
- 80s themed party
- Hawaiian luau
- Wine and cheese tasting
- Breakfast at Tiffany’s
- Kentucky Derby party
- Holiday themed party
- A fashion show
- Cooking class party
Create the MOOD.
How do you want your hostess and guests to feel? Create a fun display by adding candles, lighting, and fun trinkets to go with the theme of your party.
Genuine Conversation.
Try to let go of the “sell, book, and recruit” talk and chat with your guests as real people. Be interested in THEM, not what they are going to do for you.
Feeling a little shy? Here are some conversation starters:
- Where did you grow up?
- Do you have kids?
- Do you have pets?
- What do you like to do in your spare time?
- Where did you go to school?
- What do you do for a living?
- Have you read any good books?
- Have you seen any good movies?
- What are your plans for the weekend?
Give Top Notch Customer Service.
This is really what the party plan model is all about the after the party experience! Make sure to follow up with your host and their guests to let them know return policies and to see if they’re happy with their purchases. Bonus if you send out handwritten thank you letters.
The Consultant Value.
Ultimately you, the consultant, needs to believe that you have something of value to share on every level – customer, hostess, and teammate. If you think that, and you offer a genuine experience that is fun, exciting, and valuable to your clients, you will create a sense of loyalty. Because you have set yourself apart from other consultants, who are not as service-oriented but rather too focused on booking, selling, and recruiting.
With technology and social media, it’s easy to find another consultant. Be sure to keep these questions in the front of your mind.
- Why will someone come back to you?
- Why will they refer you to others?
- What sets you apart from the rest?
Play your cards right, keep the focus on the FUN show experience and service and your party plan business will thrive! Fun and service guarantee that the experience of the home party will live on!
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