The Personification of Knowledge
There's a saying... Pessimists see difficulty in every opportunity, and optimists see opportunity in every difficulty. Makes sense doesn't it?
This is your perfect opportunity to fine-tune your party plans and goals, and to go into acquisition mode to attract as much as you want of what it is you want to get. I mean, why not "make nice" with your party service provider? Why not build loyalty and trust (because if you think about it, that goes both ways), and court your caterer to get what you want?
I'm a caterer and event planner with a predominate focus on the psychology of people, and their parties and special events - which I call: party consumer advocacy. So it wasn't much of a stretch for me to consider how you might think, as a client. And you know that I have first-hand knowledge of how most party professionals perceive business relationships. So I'm going to give it to you, straight.
After giving it a little thought, I came up with three ways for you to get what you want with everybody in our industry - food caterers, wedding event planners, party planners (basically, the same thing), florists, rental company salespeople, Chefs and other food service workers, and event decorators and designers.
1.) Make it personable
Most business owners and managers are vulnerable in a down market, and party professionals are certainly no different. We're rethinking how we should do things and that could be to your advantage. For us, it's all about working to get that next sale, economizing, and like you - wondering if we're doing everything right. Loyalty means the world to most people anyway, and during times of stress and financial strain, it's appreciated more than ever (or it should be).
Let your caterer (event planner, florist... ) know that you understand. Make yourself a client to be remembered. Stand-out by sending a brief handwritten message of understanding. Really care about what they're thinking, and I bet you anything they'll reciprocate by remembering to go out of their way for you.
If you've hired them before, write something complimentary, reminiscing about the last party (or the largest party) that they helped you with. There's logic to this because it shows that you care and that you're thinking about them when maybe it seems like no one else is (but bill collectors). And let them know that when you need their help again, you'll call.
In a tough economy, it's not unusual for party business owners and managers to question if they're on track. So when you send a note (or make a quick phone call) , suddenly everything that seemed like a huge problem in their day will diffuse a bit. You might be surprised at how good giving makes you feel, too. Because when you give, you've added value not only to your business relationship, but you've given to yourself too. I bet they'll think twice about offering to help you. They'll help in any way that they can. Heck, I would.
2.) Give, give, give
Now is not the time to stop entertaining, especially if you're a business owner too. Stay in touch. If you don't stay in touch - you'll lessen your chances, and courting your caterer to get what you want might not work. We don't assume that you'll call and want to do business with us. So you shouldn't assume that if you do decide to book a party, that we'll give you a good deal - even when the economy is tanked. Show your loyalty to their brand. You'll get our loyalty in return.
The reality is, some party industry professionals have faced hardship and fallen off the radar. If you think what I'm telling you isn't true or that it won't work, always remember the old American proverb, "You can catch more flies with honey than you can with vinegar".
3.) Care, care, care
Empathy will take you a long way. Show that you're standing by them, and that you're "down with their struggle". The power of the human voice is mighty. Don't forget that (especially when you're later inquiring about getting a better deal). Just as you and your voice can do anything powerfully mighty, remember that the party pro that you care about will care about you, too. Call them when you know their offices are closed and leave a "I'm thinking of you", bright and cheery message. I guarantee that the effects of your empathy will garner you something good.
When you have a "I'll court my caterer" attitude - something good will definitely happen. Being personable, and giving and caring always pays off, no matter what the circumstances are. I've asked around, and party industry friends and acquaintances tell me that it's a far and few between; when their given a token of appreciation, or receive something as simple as a phone call, or a voice mail or email message, from a client for absolutely no reason.
When times are tough, we'll give you what we can. When times are easy, we'll give you what you want - and then some. Let me know how it goes.
Other Related Posts:
The Color Effect of Your Party
Who in the Hell Do Some Caterers and Event Planners Think They Are?
The Moroccan Theme Wedding Reception
The Price of Parties
Wedding and Party Professionals
Party Fashion: Style A to Cee
Wedding Time Line Basics
Preston Bailey: Design for Entertaining
Hiring an Event Planner 101
Tired of Caterers and Event Planners Budgeting Tips?
Get a Party Industry Professional to Cut You a Deal
Ask for a Better Deal
What To Discuss With Your Catering Service Provider
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