Director Should I ask for referrals when a show is cancelled?

[finley1991]

I have a HO lead that scheduled a show with me for 7/18. She immediately returned her guest list to me with 40 names on it!!! We've been communicating through e-mail and this morning she sent me her menu selections along with, "I'm so excited to meet you and having a great party! This is my first time being at and hosting a Pampered Chef party too!"

I e-mailed her back and assured her it would be extra special since she had never been to a show before and then I asked her how she heard of us... She responded that she had been invited to a show and was really excited to go but then the show was cancelled so she went online and got me!

This got me thinking... when someone cancels, I guess I should be asking for a referral or at least if someone they know would like to take over the show so the other guests don't miss out. Now some other consultant has lost out on a booking that could have been hers... (I'm not complaining there... just thinking...)

I know this isn't always possible to ask for a referral or another host as most cancellations (at least for me) the initial host is abducted by aliens and that's why they don't return my calls so asking if anyone else would want to take over the show might not work... but it could be worth a try for the ones that we actually do get to talk to!

 

[jwpamp]

GREAT idea, Colleen!! Thank you!

 

[Koolotus]

That's a great idea. Some cancel for legit reason's and an excited guest would be great to have
Good for you!!
Let us know how it goes and if she signs! (sounds like a recruit lead to me!)

 

[Mel5497]

I love your 'aliens' comment. They sure have been making the rounds lately.

 

[tpchefpattie]

Hi there!I completely understand where you're coming from. It can be frustrating when a show gets cancelled and you feel like you've lost out on potential bookings. However, I think it's a great idea to ask for referrals in these situations. You never know, the host may have friends or family who are interested in hosting a show and this could lead to more bookings for you.In my experience, I have found that it's always worth asking if anyone else would like to take over the show. Even if the initial host is unable to find someone else to host, you may still be able to get some bookings from the guest list they provided. And if not, at least you tried and showed the host that you are willing to go above and beyond for them.Overall, I think it's important to always be proactive and open to new opportunities, even in situations like this. You never know where it may lead and it's always better to try than to not try at all.Best of luck with your future shows!Sincerely,