Dear Colette,
My friend recently joined a direct selling company and keeps bugging me to host an in-home demonstration party, and I keep saying it’s not a good time. When she’s not pushing me to coordinate this event, she’s always showing me her new catalog and saying how great the products are and encouraging me to buy. I purchased one item the first time she asked but I don’t want any more stuff, nor do I want to ever have a party in my home. I’m not wishing her ill will, as I’d like her to succeed. What do I say when she keeps approaching me to get more involved?
Not Interested
Dear Not Interested,
How kind of you to make a single purchase to show your encouragement of your friend’s new venture. Unfortunately, it may have encouraged her to keep asking. At this point I believe you need to be more direct in your communication. Rather than saying it’s not a good time to host a party, you need to speak your truth. “I’m truly happy you are excited about this opportunity. I also need to let you know that I’d prefer not hosting a party, yet would love to hear about your success with building this business, so keep me in the loop. If she says, “Why not?” simply say, “It’s not something I enjoy doing.” Next time she pulls out a new catalog of items, if you choose to ooh and ah go ahead. Then hand it back and say, “Thanks for sharing” and go about your day. If she presses you to purchase simply smile and say, “No thank you.”
