How to Take Orders at Craft Shows

We've discussed how important it is to have stock on hand, and how
you want to sell off the table rather than take orders. However, if
you are just getting started and your stock is low, there's several
ways you can increase the number of orders you take in at an offline
show.

1. Display Order Forms
If you have products which must be custom ordered, display those
next to your order forms. It's an extra visual for the customer and
understanding of how your ordering process works. They also know
they can quickly put in their order if the forms are already on the
table. Remember your customers don't have a lot of time!

2. Display All Products
While you may not have a large stock, you'll want to put out as many
products as possible. Let the customers see and touch all products.
Use those products if possible - such as placing food in a dish
which holds food. I once saw a Pampered Chef rep use cookie cutters
on meat and cheese samples which were placed on a serving dish. They
displayed what could be done with the cookie cutters, as well as the
use for the dish.

3. Don't Hide Catalogs
Catalogs can be expensive, but don't hide them. If you don't want
just anyone walking away with them, place pages in a binder which
can be set out on the table. Shoppers at craft shows want to see
prices. Don't hide it from them or they may loose interest! You
shouldn't be ashamed of your prices if the product is of high
quality.

4. Talk to Customers
This is important no matter how your are selling. Get to know your
customers and their needs. Don't assume your display will sell your
products alone. Even the worst display will sell hundreds of
products if the person behind it is talking. With so much to look
at, it's easy for your customer to miss an item they may be truly
interested in. Also it's possible you don't have a certain item on
your table they would like, and they may not take the time to flip
through your catalog.

These are the basic ways to make sure you sell the most products if
you are taking orders. Mostly it takes a lot of trial and error, so
don't give up after only a few shows.

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Anita DeFrank & Kara Kelso, authors of Direct Sales Success,
specialize in coaching direct sales representatives to reach their
goal of becoming successful in their field. Visit
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com for free weekly tips.