Direct Sales Industry News

Bonus

2009-09-04T10:26:00.003-05:00

Direct Sales Kit Only $20
Plus Bonus Ebook!

You read that right! For Five Days ONLY the highly sought after Direct Sales Success Kit is only $20! Plus we're throwing in a free - not yet released to the public - ebook!

How's that for a deal? We somehow managed to miss our Annual Back to School Sale soooo we thought we'd make it up to you by holding an awesome Labor Day Sale and throw in a nice bonus!

You probably already know all about our Direct Sales Success Kit and I know you're busy so I won't hold you up with all those details ...

... but just in case you don't, feel free to click here to read all about it!

Remember though - do NOT purchase it there!

So what's the bonus all about? I thought you'd never ask!

This bonus ebook has not yet been seen by public eyes!
You are the first!

Introducing for the first time ever ...

Online Advertising Secrets Exposed

Tired of wasting your advertising bucks? Yeah, so is every single other person who sells online! This ebook goes into detail on how to make the most of your advertising budget! (How about keeping it almost ALL to yourself!?!)

Here's a quick little (teeny tiny) peek ...

Online advertising can be a very cost-effective solution to promote your business or product. There are many different types and although many can give you good exposure for your money, some can lose you money very quickly if you do not know how to do it properly. Online advertising is not the same as offline advertising. It is in many ways a much more direct medium than TV or magazines.

Online advertising is really like any other type of advertising in that you have to know your market and what they want. You also need to know the right way to reach them.

Online advertising can help give you exposure to your business if it’s done properly. It can be very lucrative or you can lose some money. Do your research, advertise properly and you’ll be on the lucrative side with no problem at all.

But more importantly ... let's first learn how to KEEP that advertising budget all to yourself! Grab your copy of Online Advertising Secrets Exposed to learn how to do just that with some of the very most effective free advertising techniques even the greatest of great gurus use!

So don't delay! Grab your copy of the
Direct Sales Success Kit
... AND ...
Online Advertising Secrets Exposed
for Only $20 right now! Five days only!

This offer Ends on Tuesday, September 8th @ 11:59 PM EST

To your success,
Anita & Kara

P.S. Just a little heads up here ...
The Direct Sales Success Kit itself sells for $29.95. So there's a $9.95 discount right there. And the Online Advertising Secrets? Heck, it's not even priced yet it's so new! But I can tell you this ... it alone is worth well over $20! Trust us when we say You Won't Be Disappointed. Your business will thank you!

P.P.S. Be sure to click Return to Merchant after your purchase to immediately download the Direct Sales Success Kit. Online Advertising Secrets Exposed will be emailed to you privately.

P.P.P.S Yeah, just one more. For one of the first times we're opening this bonus deal up to the public. So, if you want to get on the good side of a fellow consultant - or even better - you want to help your downline team members succeed in their direct sales business ... feel free to share the following link with them.

Share the wealth!
http://direct-sales-news.blogspot.com/2009/09/bonus.html

.

How's Your Approach?

2008-08-04T19:39:00.001-05:00

We all know that you're supposed to tell everyone you know what you do for a living. We all know that we're supposed to promote, promote, promote ... but what about the initial approach?

Take this real life scenerio for example ...

It's a beautiful Saturday afternoon so you head to your local playground with your favorite little girl and a good book in tow ... ready for a relaxing afternoon of reading albeit the overly packed playground with giggling children in the background.

First of all you have to take care of more important business and head to the restrooms so your daughter can use the facilities. While you're waiting for her, you overhear a conversation of one woman and another mother chatting about a particular direct sales company. You see the mom flipping through a catalog and mentioning how much this company has changed over the years. She hands the catalog back to the women and thanks her for allowing her to take a look.

Next your child is happily settled in the sandbox building her dream castle so you head to the closest picinic tables so you're just within earshot and still have her in plain sight.

As you're sitting down, the women you seen earlier says hello with which you reply hello as well. You sit down and barely get your eyes on your page where you last left off when you're daughter is already calling for you to see how well she's done so far so you head on back to the sandbox and of course praise her on the beautiful pile of sand she has.

As you head back to the picinic table and before you even get to sit down, the woman begins to stand up, handing her catalog in your direction and begins to say:

Hello again, my name is {Insert Name} and I'm a representative with XYZ. Would you like to ...

Hold up and hit the pause button ...

Was this woman a little quick to the punch?
Did she excute this approach perfectly?

What are your thoughts on this approach? Please click Comments below and share your thoughts. As the representative ... how would you have handled this approach?

Explode Your Christmas Sales

2007-08-29T20:17:00.000-05:00

As a reader of Direct Sales Industry News, we know your business is important to you. This is why we must tell you about this brand new guide.

Christmas is right around the corner, and your promotion should be too. Haven't even started yet? Don't know what specials to run?

This is where the Holiday Promotion Guide comes in handy!

With this guide you'll be able to increase your Christmas sales, and keep moving clear into next year. This ebook doesn't just focus on Christmas, but EVERY holiday!

Christmas isn't far away.......grab the details of this guide at:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/holiday-guide.html

----------------------------------------
Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank, owners of DirectSalesHelpers.com strive
to help women succeed in direct sales. For additional help with your direct sales business, visit http://www.directsaleshelpers.com
----------------------------------------

Lessons In Paid Advertising

2007-05-02T19:06:00.000-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers News
Tips you can use! May 2nd, 2007
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-------------------------------------------------
Editor's Notes
-------------------------------------------------

After searching for paid adversing the last few weeks, we've come up with some pretty interesting resources. This week's article will talk about how to get the most out of your advertising dollars using paid advertising outside of pay-per-click (PPC).

To your success!

~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lessons In Paid Advertising - A Must Read
by Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank

Paid advertising is getting a bad name online. The problem isn't with the advertisers though, it's with the target and tracking.

If it's not requests for free advertising, it's a request for low cost. No one wants to pay more than a few bucks to advertise their business these days. Mostly because of past experiences and advice from others have said "bad idea".

If you aren't marketing your business, you aren't going to get far. Many know one of our favorite forms of marketing is SEO, but that's still not enough. At some point you are going to need to step out of your box and put a little more money into your business.

We're not going to even touch on PPC ads, because it's been done to death. Although do keep in mind this is one way to get some very targeted visitors to your website. What the focus of this article is about though is website advertising.

When you see ads that cost $5 or less, it might be tempting to jump on them. Why not? It's so little to invest, right? Wrong. It's easy to get carried away with the cheap ads, thus pouring in hundreds of dollars without even realizing it.

Before you pay for another "cheap ad", take a step back and use this checklist first:

1. Is the site targeted?
If you are trying to sell candles on a recipe site, you aren't going to have much luck. You know your customers, so go to where they hang out. If you are selling make-up, search for beauty sites. Selling natural products? Check out natural living sites.

Also, it's rarely a good idea to attempt to sell consumer products on wahm sites. Instead you want to promote business related products, or your business opportunity.
Bottom line - make sure the site is TARGETED.

2. How much traffic?
If they don't know how many unique visitors and page views a day the site receives, then don't even think of handing them money. Tracking your stats is a basic in business, and they shouldn't be selling advertising if they don't know.

Even if you can't afford the ads on bigger sites, do a comparison check to see how much sites as a whole are selling based on their visitors. (Hint: Divide the cost by visitors per month to get a general idea of "cost per visitor" - this will make it easier to compare side by side).

3. Hits are not Visitors!
This is one of the biggest red flags out there. If the site is going on about how many "hits" they get in a day, RUN. Hits are NOT visitors...they aren't even page views!

A "hit" is calculated whenever a file or a graphic loads on a page. If the webmaster has 5 graphics per page and looks around at 10 different pages on their site, they just added 50 "hits" to their site. To turn around and brag they have 500 "hits" a day is VERY misleading for the advertiser. It's unlikely your ad will even be seen by 10-20 visitors a day, which is barely worth your money.

*Some Extra Math*

Some think PPCs cost to much, and it's just not worth 10 cents or more per click. You think flat rate ads on websites are more cost effective, but the truth is you may be paying more.

For example, let's say you are advertising on a site that gets only 500 unique visitors a month. You will most likely not see more than 25 visitors from this ad. If you paid $5 for the ad, that just cost you 20 cents per click.

Still think PPCs are expensive?

The good news is you CAN get cheaper ads from websites. It just takes a bit of math to figure what's worth it and what's not. Following the basic guidelines above, you can easily get more out of flat rate ads than PPCs.

If you need some help finding flat rate ads that are worth it, be sure to check out Adbrite. They give you the stats from these sites from their own server, so you know exactly how many visitor a day each site gets. No "hits" reports either - just page views and visitors. Join AdBrite for free.

LinkWorth is another option to find places to advertise. It gives the stats of the advertisers, along with other interesting information and background. Join LinkWorth here.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Success Kit
Complete success kit showing you step by step how to make your
business a success!

Direct Sales Products & Services
Our goal is to help you succeed!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Was this newsletter passed on to you?
Subscribe at:
Direct Sales Helpers News

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Published By:
Direct Sales Helpers
Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank
PO Box 104
Prairie City, IA 50228
515-994-9143

$7 Ad for Free

2007-04-20T09:03:00.000-05:00

This week is not like our normal articles. However, it's information that's going to shake up the direct sales world for some time. This marketing idea is brand new, but something that could boost your business to a whole new level.

To your success!
~Kara & Anita~

Lately there's been a lot of buzz about $7 Dollar Secrets. You may hear the gurus hyping it up, and going absolutely crazy over it. We aren't in the "guru" class, but this has got our attention as well.

If you haven't heard of this "system" yet, it wouldn't surprise us. It has to be something pretty worthy to hit the wahm world, and even then it takes a few months. Which is a good thing - you want only the BEST ways to make money online, right? Not the "latest and greatest" thing that's going to make you broke in a few months.

Now you are probably sitting there wondering what this $7 "thing" is all about. The basic idea behind it is to write a report and sell it for $7. You give 100% of the profits to those that sell it for you, in exchange for building your list and promoting links within the report. Those promoting get the money, but you don't haveto pay a dime. Seems simple right?

I know a lot of this "guru junk" only works for those selling business products. The great thing about this particular idea is this will work for ANY business. Let me give you an example of how this will work for a direct sales rep . . .

Let's say you are selling make up or beauty products. You have a serious passion for educating others on anti-aging products, and know you could easily write a whole report about it. This is a PERFECT example of a report to sell for $7, and a perfect place to plug your highly-targeted link.

Now think for a moment . . . if others are selling this report for the $7, how many new customers will you gain from the links within it? You've just educated these customers about all the types of products, and pointed them directly to what YOU sell.

Here's another example how this can apply to any market, and how ANYONE can do it . . .

While this is more "business related", it's still a niche those gurus don't even look twice at. Do you know what it is? The SINGLE work at home mom market. A small piece of the wahm world, but one that rarely gets any attention. And a $7 report was written about it from an expert (a single work at home mom, of course): http://www.single-wahm.com/

So do you have something in mind that relates to your product? You use your product on a daily basis, so I'm sure there is SOMETHING you could write about it. Now how do you go about writing it?

That's easy . . . the person that came up with this idea, also came up with "Write that Report!". We read over both this one, and the original $7 Secrets....we're impressed to say the least. This guy has some AWESOME ideas on how to make some good money. Plus he's actually tested these theories personally. The guy is still making money off his releases even several weeks later.

Pick up this highly recommended report at: http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/write-report.html

Be sure to let us know when your report is finished, because we'll be the first to showcase it on Direct Sales Helpers! You can also brainstorm your ideas at: http://mommyshelpercommunity.com/phpBB2/about6120.html

Sales Horror Stories - March's Magnificent Mistakes

2007-03-08T18:44:00.000-05:00

Using a Kid to Close
Kevin’s Magic Trick – The Vanishing Prospects

I’d been struggling to sell as much as my colleagues and someone in the office suggested that I attend the Million Dollar Round Table Conference.

There I would absorb techniques from the best insurance salespeople of all time. these men and women had been through the fire and knew every nuance of dealing with prospects. They knew every objection and could - with creativity and wit - disarm trouble as it ticked away. They would show me the path to selling success.

So I scrounged up $1,000 (I couldn’t afford) to pay for a flight, hotel and conference that I couldn’t afford to miss.

The speakers were brilliant and often quite funny. And I heard some great ideas that appeared to work magically with poor prospects. I just had to adapt them immediately, to improve my performance. You can imagine how powerful it would be to apply responses to tough objections - objections that had completely baffled me as the new guy on the job.

One of these was so outrageous, it just had to work.

An old-timer in the business said that when he was pitching at someone’s home and they just stone-walled him on buying insurance, the rep would walk over to the baby, lift it out of its seat and hold it in front of the couple.

“If you don’t buy insurance,” he began, shaking his head sadly, “you’re not refusing me. You’re refusing him, and his future.”

Wow! That was bold, but bold is just what I needed to try - after being jerked around badly by prospects for six months.

So first time I’m presenting a young couple with their kid in his chair, I get a no or a stall or something that meant no sale.

I pause dramatically, raise my hand and stride over to the child.

Up I scoop him into my arms, place his little cheek next to mine and fire off my line. “You might think you don’t need insurance. But I want to tell you that you are not refusing me, but refusing him, and his future.”

The husband turned purple with rage.

“How dare you!” screams the wife. And the little guy starts wailing.

She snatches him from me and dad barks, “Get out of our house.”

And then I do something really dumb. Baby screaming, wife sobbing, husband angry, I try to recover a lost sale that is truly and absolutely gone. I stutter an apology and begin to explain that this is so important, and begin to defend my company or product or me... I just don’t remember exactly what I said, because all I do remember is the man reaching atop the refrigerator and suddenly there’s a handgun in his hand.

I left fairly fast and though it was a warm summer’s evening, I didn’t stop shaking for about an hour.

Now I sell by using my personality, rather than someone else’s. My responses are laid back and calm, rather than dramatic and attacking.

POSTMORTEM: Kevin realized, and I trust you now do as well, that great sales pros don’t have to change personalities to sell well. You can be yourself, responding to objections as you would in conversation with friends and family. Go to conferences, learn more, but adapt knew knowledge to yourself, rather than mimicking others.

Does Your Downline Need Help?

2007-03-06T10:38:00.000-05:00

Your downline can be your biggest asset ...

It can also be your biggest headache.

So maybe it's not so nice to say, but let's think about it.
You spend months building your team.
You get a hoard of people to join.
Some take off and start making sales by themselves.
Some ask you a million questions and drive you absolutely crazy.
Then there's those that just sit there, doing absolutely nothing.

You want a motivated, well trained team ... without spending all your precious time. You want to spend less time answering questions and attempting to get them to do what they are there to do.

The answer?

Articles from Direct Sales Helpers!

By using articles straight from the experts, your will be more successful with less involvement from you. Who doesn't need more time to spend on making those personal sales?

For details, visit:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/team-articles.html

To your success!

~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~

How Cool is this?

2007-02-26T20:53:00.000-05:00

It's not every day you hear something like this so forgive us as we toot our horn a little here and share with you. Here's a note from one of our subscribers ...

A little bit of my Success ...

I read every newsletter and make changes to my business and I just had to write you and tell you what a terrific weekend we just had.

My oldest girls (Kambria and Faythe) are girlie girls to the bone as most of you know!!! They love anything pink and ask on a daily basis to go to Disney World. Well, since I have been doing so well with Do-Re-Me & You! We thought why not use the extra money and take them to do something REALLY nice this year!!! So I bought tickets to Disney on Ice; 100 Years of Magic.

We have NEVER done anything like this cause with me at home we just have never had the extra money laying around and with the tickets, drinks, parking, and a sitter for the younger ones we would have needed a loan to ever pull that off. But OH MY IT WAS AMAZING!!!! I am working on earning this cruise so I am making more money than ever. So not only was I able to get the tickets but I was able to get them custom made Disney Dresses, and barrettes, buy them new tights and shoes, and then the tickets, parking, popcorn, nachos, and pizza (yes I even let them eat in the dresses HEHEHE) then after an breathtaking performance James and I took the girls to Olive Garden for dinner.

The whole day was a surprise for them they were given clues every day for a week to keep them guessing (You will be going to Washington DC, You will be able to get dressed up, Take pictures, ect) and while we were having fun with the big girls the little ones were at home with a sitter (special treats for them also) and the whole day was paid for by my money from Do-Re-Me & You!

Don't get me wrong the Bonus checks are great to get, but seeing my little princesses sitting on the edge of their chairs the whole time watching all their Favorite characters from the movies they have seen a thousand times was worth more than any award I could ever get.

Thank you all so much for making my girls dreams come true!!! What an unbelievable company I work for!!! Not only to we help children with the products but also able to help the mothers.

Thank you all so much for helping me grow my team and learn so much!!!

Michelle with Do-Re-Me & You!

---------------------

First of all, congratulations on making enough money to afford something like this. Secondly, thank so much for sharing your story with us. There's nothing more satisfying for us than to read a success story from one of our subscribers! Keep up the great work! Here's to many, many more family trips paid soley by your business.!

Sales Horror Stories - February's Failed Sales

2007-02-07T20:29:00.000-05:00

PUNCH DRUNK PROSPECT VS. RIPPED REP
Bar Code Labeling Pro Labels his Prospect

Bar codes have changed over the years and our company is one of the biggest players in the market. You might have noticed that most bar codes on mailing packages like UPS are now round rather than linear. If someone tears it or marks over the round code, enough information is embedded in this new shape that the scanner can still read it and help your package arrive on time.

Each year we run a big sales conference with our team as well as vendors and potential vendors attending. We use this big event to court new distributors who can sell our bar code imaging equipment for all kinds of customized uses.

The last night of the meeting we have a spectacular party: Funny speaker, wild games and LOTS of liquor. Did I mention there was plenty to drink?

I’m a big beer man (drinking volume, not size-wise), but my buddies convinced me to taste the hard stuff this evening. And if that decision wasn’t difficult enough, I had chosen to hit on this cute gal who was working at our company.

So I’m nuzzling up to her and chatting her up, but competing with another rep. Ah, competition – good salespeople thrive on it. However, this other rep is a potential vendor whose company needs a product just like ours, and this conference is our chance to close him.

Suddenly I’ve had enough – enough to drink, enough of the loud music and more than enough of the competition for my woman.

So I step up to this guy and tag him. Not with a bar-coding device, but with a right jab to the jaw.

Down goes the competition!

But I don’t win.

I don’t win the girl, who is not impressed by my slick conversation or quick hands.

And I don’t win the sale for my firm as my friends drag me out of the ballroom.

My ex-potential vendor woke up to a headache which he associated with my company. So simply avoiding a situation where he encounters us in the future (translate that “BUYS from us”) was a simple choice.

I learned that holding my prospects dearly was just as important as holding my liquor.

POSTMORTEM: Okay, I speak at 3 or 4 events like this a month, year round. Last weekend I took a rocket-speed Nerf football to the chest during an international sales conference party in Los Angeles and was grateful there weren’t baseballs being passed around instead. I recovered in time to close the event the next morning. These events (or any public events you attend – networking, fundraising, etc.) are really about Image Management. How well do you project the person you want others’ to believe in? Are you coming across as the classy sales pro or a
class-less dummy? Manage your image with your clothes, language and actions and you’ll portray the person that others will want to hang out with and buy from.

SALES HORROR STORIES
A Funny and Unique, Yet Useful Ezine
TO SUBSCRIBE just head over to the http://www.salesautopsy.com site for additional laughs - and signup there.

Free Mini Courses

2007-02-04T11:51:00.000-05:00

Money Saving Mini Series
Money Saving: Tips to Saving Money in Your Direct Sales Business - Two week mini course sent directly to your email inbox. Seven issues packed full of tips to help YOU save money in your direct sales business.
Click here to sign up

Reinvesting Into Your Business Mini Series
Reinvesting: Tips to what you should AND shouldn't be reinvesting into your direct sales business. - Two week mini course sent directly to your email inbox. Seven issues packed full of tips to help YOU decide what's best for you to reinvest into your direct sales business.
Click here to sign up

Is AdSense for you?

2007-02-02T07:56:00.000-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers News
Tips you can use!
January 31st, 2007
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-------------------------------------------------
Editor's Notes
-------------------------------------------------

If you missed the announcement yesterday, the Direct Sales Success Kit is being offered for an unbeatable price JUST for subscribers! This sale is set to only be available to the first 20 direct sales reps. The response has been so good that there are only 5 kits left at this price!

Be one of the last 5, and grab your kit at: http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/limited-subscriber-sale.html

To your success!

~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Is AdSense for you?
by Anita DeFrank & Kara Kelso

It sounds so easy to get paid by simply running a few ads. But could you be destroying your reputation and missing hundreds of sales just for a few pennies?

If you own a website (which you should, even if your company provides it!), AdSense can be a great source of revenue. You put up a few ads, and then you start seeing the clicks coming in. First a few pennies, then a few dimes.......before you know it, you are seeing several dollars a day. Awesome!

However, if you are trying to sell a product, you could be losing out on HUNDREDS of dollars. What's worse, you could be destroying your reputation in the process.

When a potential customer hits your site, they have a specific idea of what they want in mind. You only have a few seconds to sell them your spectacular product. What happens when the first thing they see is an ad for a similar product?

Those advertising on Google are smart cookies. They know how to write some killer headlines that really pull in results. Now think - even if your product is exactly what they want, if the other ad SOUNDS better, how fast do you think your visitor is going to go running off? You just got maybe 10 cents when you could have made several dollars. How many times a day could that be happening?

What's worse - what if someone in your company is advertising, and you just handed the sale to another rep? Direct sales is competitive enough, you don't need to be giving away sales!

Get out of the "side income" reasoning right now. It's absolutely NOT worth the lost "main income".

If you are looking for another way to pull in a "side income", consider affiliate programs. Not only will you get paid better, but you have full control over what you offer. It doesn't have to be competition, but rather something that compliments your main products.

Just remember - AdSense doesn't belong on websites selling products!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Success Kit
Complete success kit showing you step by step how to make your
business a success!
Details at:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/kit.html

Direct Sales Products & Services
Our goal is to help you succeed!
Details at:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/tools.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Was this newsletter passed on to you?
Subscribe at:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/newsletter.html

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers News Published By:
Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank
PO Box 104
Prairie City, IA 50228
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

We've Revamped Our Affiliate Program (And then some)

2007-01-24T10:32:00.000-05:00

Here's a little of what we've done so far ...

More products!
Now you have the opportunity to make even more money with Direct Sales Helpers! We've added 4 products to our affiliate program. You can view and sign up to each one at http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/affiliate.html

New Affiliate Center!
We've added an Affiliate Center so you can easily find everything you need to promote. You can view this at http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/affiliate-center.html

New Creatives!
We've added so many more ads (signatures, ezine solo ads, ezine sponsor ads etc. etc.). We've added more articles and more graphics.

Plus, you'll want to make sure you check out the brand new mini courses we've created. With these mini courses, all of your affiliate links will be promoted automatically over a two week period. Set it up once - and the rest is done automatically for you over and over again! The mini courses are located in the files section of our DSH-Affiliates Yahoo Group

There is one mini course in there right now and another will be added in just a couple of days. After that, we will try to add more on a regular basis. This really is a great way to promote your affiliate links!

But remember, all those links above don't do you any good if you don't grab yourself an affiliate link! So, be sure to stop by our Affiliate Page sign up and grab a link.

Look at it this way ... train your team AND earn money at the same time!

3 Ways to Automate Your Business Fast

2007-01-16T21:00:00.000-05:00

The use of autoresponders is a great way to automate your business fast, freeing up precious time you could be using to do other important aspects in your direct sales business. Set up properly, they’ll make your business more automated without losing that personal touch. The following are just a few ideas for you.

Business Opportunity Information
You could set up your autoresponder to send out information on your business opportunity. For example, you would take a list of frequently asked questions about your business and put them into your autoresponder. Put a form on your website for potential recruits to request more information and then it’s all done automatically for you. This also saves you from having to answer the same questions over and over again. Don’t forget to set up a follow up message to ask if they had any more questions or needed more information!

Catalog Requests
Set up an autoresponder for potential customers to request catalogs. An example on how to do this would be like this: Set up a form on your website for customers to enter their mailing and email address. Set up your autoresponder to send them a message letting them know that you’ve received their request and you’ll be sending out the catalog. Then have it set to send out another message in about a week – just to confirm that they’ve received your catalog and making sure they didn’t have any questions. Next you might want to set it to send out another message in 3 – 4 days maybe offering a special discount “just for them”. Then for your final message, you could let them know about a newsletter you offer with instructions on how to join.

New Recruit Training
Autoresponders are a great way to train your new team members! Here you could take a list of important information about the company, product etc and put them into the autoresponder to be automatically delivered over time. Another idea is to set it up to send out business tips about online parties, home parties, or just running their business in general. With this, the possibilities are endless.

The above is just a touch of what you can do because, as mentioned, there are so many things you can do with an autoresponder. With a little bit of creativity, you’re sure to come up with something that will help your business stand above the rest and with a little research you’re sure to find a program that will work for you. For a jumpstart on your research, feel free to take a look at the autoresponder we recommend at http://www.mommyshelperonline.com/autoresponder.html

Direct sales move from a moonlighting gig to main income

2007-01-05T20:10:00.000-05:00

Direct sales move from a moonlighting gig to main income for many El Pasoans
By Dan Huff

"Direct sales” – the person-to-person approach to selling outside the confines of a store is currently generating more than $30.4 billion and involves an estimated 14 million Americans – many of them women – according to the national Direct Sales Association.

Here in El Paso, the business of direct selling accommodates many different styles and approaches.

Lee Ann Peacock, for example, takes a laid-back approach to selling Mary Kay Cosmetics. Her Mary Kay work doesn’t interfere with her full-time job, which is selling the services of PDX Printing of El Paso.

Peacock sees her sales for Mary Kay not so much as a business, but as a way to stay in touch with friends and acquaintances.

“I’ve made friends through Mary Kay that I would have otherwise never crossed paths with in life,” she says. “One of my very best friends that I’ve ever had in my entire life was somebody I met at a Mary Kay training event.”

A natural saleswoman, Peacock says she love to make people happy. “And that’s why I really enjoy sales – it doesn’t matter what the sale is.”

Occasionally, she adds, her full-time sales job co-mingles with her Mary Kay sales.

“I have a couple of customers here at work,” Peacock says. “They can say they need this and this, and I can drag it in the next morning, I pretty much have it all, because I keep a good inventory.”

While she once sold the cosmetics full-time and made a good living at it, Peacock adds that even though her professional life has moved in another direction Mary Kay customers have come to count on her, and she doesn’t like to let them down.

In order to do direct sales as a full-time job, she observes, “You really have to be focused, and organization helps – and organized is something people can learn to be. They can also learn to be focused.”

One El Pasoan in direct sales who seems highly focused is Carol Stripling, well known as a private piano instructor and as a music teacher for babies to kindergartners for 19 years at First Presbyterian Christian Preschool. She had been working with Kindermusik International, a music publisher, since 1989, and when the company branched into direct sales two and a half years ago. Stripling followed along.

Because she had always admired the quality of the products, she said she found herself calling all of her Kindermusik friends to “get them going” in the new direct-sales business.

“I never realized what direct sales was about,” she said. “I just assumed it was ‘pushy’ time,” just pushing products. But that’s not what it is at all – it’s really a service industry. It’s people helping people.”

Today, as one of the company’s “advanced unit leaders,” Stripling oversees a nationwide cadre of 170 to 180 women selling more than 100 different products, a job she says would be impossible without today’s Internet connections.

She’s also a vendor of Kindermusik products for five school districts in the El Paso region.

All of her direct sales duties take 15-20 hours a week, Stripling estimates, including the time it takes to arrange for product shows in her “consultant’s” homes. Consultants average $100 a night, and the commission for the 1,000 managers at Stripling’s level is 25 percent on all sales, she noted, adding direct sales offers a deeper satisfaction than the money.

“Sales is communicating,” Stripling says. ”Sales is one on one. As a soloist, when I sing for my churches, I’m really selling the message of hope and joy. So really everybody does sales. We’re all born into this world crying, we’re asking for help right away. People always have needs, people always have wants, and what I love about this direct sales industry is that you can sit down with people and you can have time, you can hear what their goals are, what their visions are. And what I love about the industry is the sky is the limit. I had no idea. If you had asked me four years ago if I was ever going to be doing parties, I would have laughed in your face.”

Another Lee Ann – Lee Ann Gevertz, who oversees a Pampered Chef sales force of about 60 in the El Paso region – says there’s often an additional incentive in direct sales.

“Usually every month there’s some type of incentive behind the scenes for us,” Gevertz said. “It could be free products, or extra trip points. And we always have a big incentive trip over a year-long earning period, and those trips are fabulous. For example, we went on a seven-day Caribbean cruise, and all we paid for was our parking at the airport and anything that we bought on the island. We had a $500 shipboard credit. You can’t beat that.”

Nor, she added, can you beat the fact that direct sales is great for women. Gevertz has been doing it for a dozen years now.

“One of the things that appealed to me was that I was able to schedule the shows when I could do them and still be able to go to the kids’ events and time off and vacations,” she said, adding it’s a line of work that allows her to be a lot more flexible in the use of her time than her previous job as a computer analyst for the gas company.

She left the gas company in 1992 and never looked back.

“I’ve learned that we are the cause for our success and our failure,” Gevertz says. “Direct sales is not something that I dreamed of doing when I was a little girl, or even a big girl in college. I think most people think they should work for other people and have a “real job.” But, you know, my house is pretty real, my car is pretty real and my business is pretty nice.”

Media Source

Christmas Is Over - Did You Profit? (Part 1)

2006-12-20T09:17:00.000-05:00

If you are looking at the calendar making sure you really didn't miss the biggest holiday of the year, don't worry you aren't going crazy. Christmas is still a few days away, but the biggest shopping rush has been over for a few weeks now.

As the last few orders roll in (and don't expect TOO many, the last few weeks are usually only deliveries and a few last minute purchases from what's left over), it's time to sit back and look at the sales you've done over the past few months. The new year is approaching, so it's best to figure out what can be changed right now instead of only half way planning when the new year hits.

Ask yourself some of the following questions:

Take a look at your sales vs costs. Did you make a profit? If not, it's alright if you are just starting out. If you've been in business awhile, it's not so good to be showing a loss at your best time of year. If you sent out promotional materials to current customers, how many responded and was it worth the cost?

How many events did you attend? Were they worth the cost? Pay close attention to your profit (the amount you made from the sale), time spent at the event, travel cost, reorder rate, and cost of the table. Will you be doing each event again next year, or passing on a few?

When did you see the biggest increase in sales? Was it December, November, or maybe even October? The earlier your rush started, the earlier you'll need to get your promotion out to customers.

Next week we'll talk more about what you can do with the results you picked up, and how you can make 2007 even better!

Direct Sales Company Directory - Grand Re-Opening

2006-12-06T07:07:00.000-05:00

I'm very happy to say after many different versions and a whole lot of time, our New Direct Sales Company Directory is up and running! We're hoping that this will give a lot more to our advertisers. As a matter of fact, during our testing and uploading we accidently put up a brand new advertiser's listing and she recieved a lead the very next day! If that was only a glimpse in the future, we're in for a fantastic ride!

Update: The new directory was only uploaded late last evening and we've already had another lead form filled out!

The new directory features a lead generating form on each page. Each listing has their very own full page (better for the search engines). These listings are exclusive (meaning, one rep per company).

We have special pricing at a very low price available for our Grand Re-Opening (with the option to be able to get 2 months free). But hurry, I don't know how long this price will last AND the introductory pricing will be good for as long as you keep your spot.

Click here to visit our Brand New Directory

3 Steps To Planning Your Own Event

2006-12-05T18:52:00.000-05:00

If you have a hard time locating events in your area which are reasonably priced, it may be time for you to start planning your own event.

Planning your own event isn't as hard as you may think. While it is time consuming and requires a lot of organization skills, it could bring you a whole lot of local business.

Step 1 - Finding Vendors

The first thing you need to do is make sure you know enough vendors to host your event. If you know other local home business owners, get in contact with them and see if they can give you names. We've been contacted several times because our name was passed on by someone else who we met at a craft show.

Step 2 - Plan Your Costs

You'll need to rent a local community center or other space for your event. Many are low cost, while others may cost you several hundred. Go by your list above to figure out how much space you may need. Remember not all those you have contact information for may contact you, so it's best to over book than under book.

Be sure you also keep the cost of advertising in mind. Call your local radio stations and newspapers to find out how much it will be to run ads. You may want to kindly ask your vendors to let their customers know they'll be attending your show. Don't make it a requirement, but do ask. Many will do so automatically just because it's easier for their customers to meet them at an event.

Step 3 - Set Your Date

Check for events around the area in the larger cities as well as smaller towns to make sure you aren't holding your event on the same day as another. We've had to turn down many offers because we were attending another show. Not only will you be missing many vendors, but attendance will be lower as well. NEVER book your event on the same day as another craft show or similar event. Booking around other events in town which compliment your event is fine though.

Once the date is set, you can now start collecting money from your vendors and booking spaces. Keep your cost as low as possible, but do as much advertising as you can as well. Low cost options such as signs in town work wonders and help you stretch your advertising budget. Depending on the size of the town, you won't want to charge more than $10-20 per space. The more you do your event though, the more you will be able to charge since locals will begin to expect the show every year.

While organizing shows can be a lot of work, it can be a wonderful way for you to build a bigger customer base within your own town.

Have fun!

Websites & Domain Names For Sale - CHEAP

2006-11-30T09:25:00.000-05:00

Kara and I are cleaning house a bit around here and we've decided to let some websites and domain names go. Since there are a couple of domain names in there for direct sales reps, we figured we'd post them here too ;-)

You can see them at Websites & Domain Names For Sale - CHEAP

Enjoy!

Next Wave Charts Course for Smooth Selling

2006-11-16T19:34:00.000-05:00

BY SANDRA GUY Sun-Times Columnist

Sales parties in women's homes are no longer old-fashioned social teas or trunk shows. The saleswomen, who wield samples from jewelry to cookware, advertise on their own Web sites and use sophisticated software and automated e-mail to stay organized. A Naperville company, Next Wave Logistics, is playing a key role in equipping these direct sales forces with the latest technology.

The strategy takes advantage of today's booming direct sales industry, which has shaken its image as a cult or a pyramid scheme.

Parties in a hostess' home provide a more personal experience than shopping in a store and offer an atmosphere where people enjoy each other's company and get a great deal of attention, said Amy Robinson, spokeswoman for the Direct Selling Association, based in Washington, D.C. The direct-selling model also provides entrepreneurs and small companies with consumer recognition for their merchandise more quickly than trying to sell it to a big retailer.

Next Wave Logistics got its start when co-founders David Proctor and Harold Zimmerman worked together at a consulting firm in Oak Brook and realized that the fast-growing direct-sales industry needed tools to increase its business efficiency and professional image.

Zimmerman, 36, the CEO, left a six-figure-salaried job seven years ago -- two days after his daughter was born -- to start the business.

Each man invested $10,000 to buy a computer server, which they put in Zimmerman's basement. They decided to take no bank loans or venture-capital money.

Proctor, 41, the executive vice president, stayed at the consulting firm, and paid Zimmerman's bills -- mortgage, groceries, car payment, utilities and other living expenses -- until they were able to support themselves through the business.

Next Wave Logistics won its first client in the first few weeks of its existence, and Proctor joined full-time in the summer of 2000. The 52-employee company posted fiscal 2006 sales of $10 million.

Next Wave supports its services with its own data center serving more than 300,000 users a day. It prides itself on providing white-glove service that focuses on customizing software to a company's needs. It sends in SWAT teams of three or four developers to set up the service in two to four months at a typical cost of $200,000 to $300,000. Next Wave also charges a subscription fee per user per month to cover intellectual property licensing, hardware and support.

Next Wave creates Web sites and sales tools that adhere to a company's strict logo rules and marketing standards, but part-time salespeople might personalize the sites to gain attention.

"If I'm in business part-time, whether it's selling for PartyLite or Pampered Chef, I want people to visit my Web site. I don't want to pay a developer $3,000 to create it. Yet the parent company wants a consistent brand message," Proctor said, explaining the business case for the service.

Next Wave Logistics also provides software that preps the salespeople in developing their sales pitches, helps them organize party dates, gather guest lists, and send out invitations and thank-you notes online.

The software gives the salesperson a calendar that automatically gets filled in with the dates of parties and steps to take beforehand, such as reminding participants of the date, getting RSVPs via e-mail, and following up on sales leads.

"We are getting much more response on the Web than we ever did when we sent catalogs to people who could not attend the party," Proctor said. "And it saves mailing and printing costs."

Among Next Wave Logistics' clients are Creative Memories, a St. Cloud, Minn.-based scrapbooking company, and Lia Sophia, a Bensenville-based jewelry seller.

Rick Schwartz, executive vice president at Lia Sophia, said Next Wave Logistics' software has enabled Lia Sophia's 15,000 independent salespeople nationwide to book orders and shows, and recruit other salespeople online.

"It has taken away the admin- istrative paperwork in a big way," Schwartz said. "Next Wave is constantly working to stay ahead of the curve."

The next wave?

In about a year, Lia Sophia salespeople might be carrying Blackberries.

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Media Source

Following the Rules?

2006-11-15T06:32:00.000-05:00

A good friend of ours coordinates offline events on a regular basis. As a matter of fact, I have personally been to one of her events and she does a tremendous job. She really does go above and beyond the call of duty - now if all the vendors would just appreciate that.

Anyway ... this post isn't necessarily about her. This is more about vendors who participate in such events such as hers. I just finished reading a blog post entitled Attack of the Satin Hands and I was literally appalled at the actions of a mother - daughter team vendor.

Make sure you ALWAYS follow the rules of the coordinator and remember the golden rule ... treat your customers as you'd want to be treated yourself!

Being Your Own Boss Drives Many to Direct Sales

2006-11-13T06:13:00.000-05:00

The mall and the web are still the way most people do their holiday shopping. But the hottest new place to buy clothing, jewelry, make-up and food is at home.

The direct sales industry raked in a whopping $30 billion in sales last year! So it's no surprise that more people are leaving the office behind to earn money by throwing home parties.

More than a dozen of Megan Rego's family and friends have gathered on a recent Wednesday night to eat, drink and be merry.

"It's good to get out of the house and enjoy the company of friends, in someone's home. You just have a great time," Megan explains.

Laurie Muniak is the Market Day Gourmet representative serving up delicious food in the comfort of Megan's own home.

Muniak started selling market day gourmet about a year ago. Her kids were in school and she wanted to make some money but on her own terms.

"You are in control of what you want to make, your own hours, you are your own boss," she explains. "If you want to take two weeks off, if you have a family vacation, no one is going to tell you no. I like that."

While Muniak uses direct selling to earn some extra money, the Gmitter's of Austintown are using it to help build their new 22,000 square foot house.

"When I started in Avon, I was only trying to earn a little extra money," explains Lisa Gmitter.

She didn't want to juggle work with family. So she started selling Avon, when her two older children headed to school.

As she climbed the ranks within the company, husband Mike started working with Lisa in the business.

"We believe that we are building a company that we can pass on to our children, something they could have truly to themselves," Mike says.

The Direct Selling Trade Association claims that there are now more direct sales representatives in America than traditional retail employees. There are an estimated 14 million sales consultants across the country employed by more than 1,500 U.S.-based direct selling companies.

It's an appealing idea to many, but certainly not for everyone.

"You have to have a positive attitude, you have to believe in what you are selling. You have to be secure in who you are," says Cheryll Rose, a Lia Sophia jewelry representative.

Rose uses direct selling as a way to bring in money when she isn't working at her seasonal job in Port Clinton.

For Rose, the key to success isn't how you sell, but what you sell.

"If you believe in the product, it will sell itself," she says.

Media Source - WKYC-TV

Reinvesting into Your Business - Leads

2006-10-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

True story:
We were once mailed an entire package stuffed full with candle scent samples, a business opportunity CD, plus many other reading materials about the products and the business opportunity. Now, where our address was picked up for something like this was beyond us. But, the worst part of it was the fact that Kara makes and sells her own candles and of course I am one of her customers. That was quite a pricey mistake to make.

That example is the perfect reason why you should not hand out these types of materials to just anyone. Make sure you research your leads.

Reinvesting into Your Business Mini Series
Tips to what you should AND shouldn't be reinvesting into your business.

Reinvesting into Your Business - Education

2006-10-17T05:30:00.000-05:00

Education - With the risk of sounding like an old cliche' ... You CAN teach an old dog new tricks.

You're never too old to learn. Be sure to read magazines, books, CDs and other resources on a regular basis. Keep up to date with new selling tips, recruiting tips, online and home party game ideas. Attend online classes, teleseminars, conventions and workshops. More importantly, don't just listen an read ... APPLY what you learn.

DO invest in your education.

Reinvesting into Your Business Mini Series
Tips to what you should AND shouldn't be reinvesting into your business.

Joining a Direct Sales Company - What Should You Be Looking Into?

2006-10-10T18:49:00.000-05:00

Due to the recent misfortune of literally thousands of consultants affected by the demise of a yet to be determined scam, we decided to interrupt this week’s issue of our mini series. We will return with our ongoing mini series next week. In the meantime, our thoughts go out to consultants who were affected by this unfortunate event.

Joining a Direct Sales Company - What should you be looking into?

First of all, it can’t go unsaid that we’re recommending that you never join a new company. If that happened then there would never be any new companies started. There’s always room for more. Don’t forget - even the most established company can go under for whatever reason. What we are saying is if the company is brand new - proceed with extreme precaution.

Free is NOT always good! One of the main reasons companies charge a start up fee or more commonly require new consultants to purchase a start up kit is to make you actually put some thought into what you’re about to do. These companies want consultants who are truly interested in selling - not just looking for another freebie. Remember, quality wins over quantity ALWAYS.

The common statement I love is the ... "But it’s free, what do I have to loose?" This statement is only semi-good if you have absolutely no intentions of doing any recruiting until you’ve fully tested the product, pricing and shipping yourself. How would you feel if you’ve recruited a bunch of prospects into a company only for it to turn out to be no good? Your reputation is one of the most expensive things to loose - that no amount of money is going to buy back. Your reputation - that’s what you have to loose.

A growing company is wonderful! To watch a company grow day after day is a beautiful thing. But, growing too fast is a horrible thing. No matter whom the owner of this company is ... this person is still human. To grow by the thousands in a few weeks is next to impossible to keep up with.

There are a few points to look for when considering joining a new direct sales company.

1. Has the company been around before the consultant program?
If it's brand new and opening with the consultant plan in place, beware! While this isn't always the case, do think twice about a company that hasn't been able to sell the product on their own.

2. How well was the business planned out?
Don't be afraid to ask personal questions! You have a right to know if they have planned their costs out for several years. Regardless of the business, a business owner must understand there is a slim chance of any profit being made in the first year. If they haven't planned to be in debt for at least a year or more, then chances are they will cut their losses before the year is even up. Should they not reveal their business plan, you might want to just move on.

3. What type of shopping cart do they use?
While there's nothing wrong with PayPal, if this is the only type of payment offered by the company you may want to think twice. A professional shopping cart set up doesn't cost that much, and if that cost has been skipped they may not be planning well.

4. Are catalogs and samples available?
If you get a "coming soon" when requesting a catalog, think twice about joining. Catalogs are a very basic part of business, and to not have those ready shows the owner "rushed" to get the business open.

5. How is customer service?
Put in a test order and see how fast things work in the business. If you can't order products yet, but reps are being signed up already, you'll want to wait until they are fully open before actually signing up yourself. Not being able to test out products ahead of time isn't a good sign.

No matter what business you choose, you will always be taking a risk. However, following the basic guidelines above you should be able to minimize your risk and join a company which will be around for a long time. ;-)

What do you look for?

2006-10-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

A member on our message boards is conducting a bit of research on the Direct Sales Industry ... we'd love to hear more feedback on this one.

What do you look for when you consider a business opportunity?

We Tried Something New

2006-10-06T05:39:00.000-05:00

While some may call us crazy and possibly "bad marketers", Anita and I decided to do something different.

Since the Direct Sales Success Kit was released in March of 2005, we've had it set at one price. We've done some special sales here and there, but it's been selling well at regular price.

A few weeks ago though, we got the idea to actually lower the price....for good. We took out the "extras" which went along with the kit, including the private membership and any current or future ebooks. We did leave the website guide ebook as a bonus though. By doing so, we took off $20 of the original price.

Are we crazy? Probably - sales were just fine with the original price. We had no good reason to lower it, other than we wanted to make it more affordable to others. Well ok, and maybe sell more individual ebooks as they are released. But at least there is now the option to buy or not buy the other "side" ebooks, since it's not included with the kit anymore.

Besides, being in Direct Sales, we know ... when it comes to choosing something to help your business grow or buying catalogs, chances are the catalogs are going to win over. We don't want to make you choose anymore ;-) Have your cake and eat it too!

Feedback will be appreciated, as I'm sure we are about to hear it from both sides, both good and bad!

Reinvesting into Your Business - Catalogs

2006-10-03T19:00:00.000-05:00

Catalogs – Catalogs are another absolute must! Your customers want and need to SEE what you’re selling. Most direct sales companies pay big bucks to have the product descriptions just right and this is a great selling tool. Catalogs are also easily handed out to potential customers to look at later or even better, pass around to friends! You’ll want to be smart (money-wise) when passing out your catalogs … but just make sure you’re handing them out.

Even catalogs can get a little pricey to hand out so, an even better idea is most direct sales companies offer smaller brochures or fliers highlighting their more popular products. If you do send out a lot of materials, this might be a better option for you.

Another idea is to print brochures or fliers yourself. More and more companies are starting to offer the option of downloading and printing your own selling materials. Be sure to take advantage of this. If your company doesn't, maybe you should suggest it OR request permission to make your own.

Use those Outdated Catalogs - Have an overstock of outdated catalogs, brochures, fliers etc? Don't toss them away. Leave them at beauty salons, laundromats, doctor's offices etc. with a note that says "Contact me for a current catalog."

Reinvesting into Your Business Mini Series
Tips to what you should AND shouldn't be reinvesting into your business.

Reinvesting into Your Business - Seminars and Conventions

2006-09-26T19:16:00.000-05:00

If your company hosts seminars or conventions - go! Just be sure that you make the most of it and bring something back with you. Depending on the company, this could very well be a large investment - but if you choose to USE what you pick up, you'll get your investment back ten fold. Take a pen and notebook and take LOTS of notes.

At conventions you'll meet lots of other people who are doing the same thing you are. You'll be able to share ideas, tips, tricks etc. Most companies will hire a guest speaker to help motivate you or teach a new skill. You'll come back more refreshed and motivated to jump in head first. I can't stress enough how important it is for you to try to make it to your conventions. Besides, keep up the good work and you'll have to be there to accept your award!

Reinvesting into Your Business Mini Series
Tips to what you should AND shouldn't be reinvesting into your business.

Direct Sales Success Kit Announcement

2006-09-26T09:21:00.000-05:00

Greetings Direct Sales Industry News subscriber!

The Direct Sales Helpers have some very exciting news for you.

On October 2nd, the price of the Direct Sales Success Kit is going to change. Instead of rasing price like many of our fellow marketers, we are actually going to LOWER the price.

After much discussion, we've decided maybe you don't want all those "extras" which come with the Direct Sales Success Kit. Maybe you don't want the following ebooks which are F*REE with your kit purchase:

- Online Party Success
- Number Crunching Made Easy
- Offline Event Kit
- Starting Your First Website

You may not even care to have a private membership to our private boards when you purchase the Direct Sales Success Kit. And hey, that's alright with us! We'll lower the price just for you, so you can enjoy JUST the Direct Sales Success Kit without any freebies.

Although before we do, we are letting you know the kit is available WITH all current and future ebooks we release for just a few more days. So purchasing now not only gets you the kit, ebooks listed above, and private membership, but future ebooks as well.

Here is what we plan to release within the next few months:

- Holiday Marketing Guide
- 200 Home Party Games
- Plus others in 2007!

The current price of freebies with the Direct Sales Success Kit totals nearly $60, not including unlimited one on one help at our private membership. This price also doesn't include the price of the ebooks we plan to release in the future!

The choice is yours - wait until Monday when the price drops, or buy your kit now and get all our current and future freebies!

For details on the Direct Sales Success Kit, visit:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/kit.html

To your success!

~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~
DirectSalesHelpers.com

P.S. Don't forget, you only have until October 2nd to purchase the
Direct Sales Kit with all our ebooks free!

In-Home Product Parties Generating More Sales Than Ever

2006-09-22T05:16:00.000-05:00

L.A. LorekExpress-News Business Writer

Mary Kay, Avon and Tupperware still do big business, but the in-home parties they helped pioneer have evolved to target professional women as well as stay-at-home moms.

A lot more products are also available, but one thing hasn't changed through the years: Primarily women still host today's parties in their living rooms while serving cocktails and snacks as their friends socialize and shop from catalogs or displays artfully arranged on dining-room tables.

In-home parties are generating more sales than ever. They also provide extra cash and offer flexible schedules for women like Lynn Riddick, who runs her own marketing and public relations firm out of her Alamo Heights house. She works part time for Silpada Designs, a Lenexa, Kan.-based jewelry company with 16,000 representatives nationwide.

"I never would have imagined myself doing this kind of thing," Riddick said. "I really have found it to be very fun."

Riddick makes up to $1,500 a month, from three to four parties, selling such jewelry as rose quartz sterling silver necklaces, turquoise stone bracelets and black onyx earrings. In 18 months, Riddick and her team sold $45,000 worth of jewelry — enough to win an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Aruba.

Selling Tupperware, Rachel Hernandez often makes more than $100,000 a year and has won more than 20 trips, including a 10-day safari to Africa. She quit her job at the Bexar County tax assessor's office 26 years ago after her fourth child was born. Now she's a top executive in Tupperware's San Antonio region, with 250 sales associates working under her direction.

"It's incredible what I've gotten out of this business," Hernandez said. "I've been able to see my children grow and I haven't missed a thing."

Riddick and Hernandez are part of a growing work force. An estimated 13.6 million people nationwide — 71.9 percent women — sell products directly to consumers, including cookware, cosmetics, toys and even pet accessories. They racked up $29.7 billion in revenue in 2004, the latest figure available from the Direct Selling Association.

"One of the trends we've noticed over the past five years is an expansion in the number of products available," said Amy Robinson with the Washington, D.C., trade group.

Even many traditional retailers have launched direct-sales lines.

Binney & Smith Inc.'s Crayola brand sells "The Big Yellow Box" filled with craft projects. Body Shop International sells lotions and cosmetics though its Body Shop at Home. Jockey International Inc. offers in-home underwear parties.

"Because we are literally doing parties in the living room of our customers, we are really close to our customers," said Kim Gentile, sales vice president for Jockey Person to Person Inc., based in Kenosha, Wis. The 130-year-old privately held company launched Person to Person 16 months ago, and already it has 500 representatives in 35 states.

During a casual 90-minute party, the Jockey Person to Person representative displays a rack of products including bras, panties, sleepwear, active wear, scarves, blankets and pillows, ranging from $12 to $130.

Crayola rolled out its Big Yellow Box in a test market two years ago. Today it has more than 1,000 representatives nationwide selling products from $12.95 to $59.95.

"Why would a brand as powerful as Crayola want to explore this market?" said Sue Rusch, general manager of the Big Yellow Box by Crayola, based in Easton, Pa. "It's a powerful way for a brand to come alive in a home."

During an in-home party, Big Yellow Box representatives do a craft activity with the guests and talk about creating memories with family members through craft projects.

For part-time sales associates, direct-sales jobs afford the chance to work as much or as little as they desire. Many also make money through multilevel marketing by recruiting new sales representatives. Silpada's Riddick sponsors 11 women and gets a percentage of their sales.

Natalie Silva, a public relations manager at Tesoro Corp. and a mom with two young sons, is on Riddick's team. She began selling Silpada two months ago during her spare time at night and on weekends because she loves the product and it's a way to earn extra cash.

"It's perfect for me because I love jewelry," Silva said. Last month she earned $750.

Hostesses also earn products based on party sales.

Three weeks ago, Lamar Chicoine hosted a Silpada party and earned $350 worth of jewelry. A few of her friends signed up to host their own parties.

"The jewelry party kind of gives you a reason to get together," Chicoine said.

Silpada's co-founders, Bonnie Kelly and Teresa Walsh, are the equivalent of rock stars in the direct-sales industry. Ten years ago, the women invested $25 each to buy costume jewelry and created Silpada. Now, they're multimillionaires.

One big change Hernandez has seen during nearly three decades of selling Tupperware is the increase in competition from other home parties.

"Back then there were parties being held, but nothing like today's industry," she said. "Whatever you see, there is a home party for it."

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Media Resource
MySA.com

Reinvesting into Your Business - Business Cards

2006-09-19T19:05:00.000-05:00

Business Cards – Business cards are an absolute must! VistaPrint.com has very reasonable pricing and specials quite frequently. Do consider business card magnets. These are a little more expensive than regular business cards so be a little more "choosier" about who you hand these out to. However, they may be a little more expensive but the return on investment is a little higher too. Plus, magnets also last much longer. More often than not, business card magnets end up on the refrigerator of your reciever. Giving your customers a constant reminder.

Reinvesting into Your Business Mini Series
Tips to what you should AND shouldn't be reinvesting into your business.

Reinvesting into Your Business Mini Series

2006-09-19T19:00:00.000-05:00

Tips to what you should AND shouldn't be reinvesting into your business.

This week we're starting a brand new Mini Series - Reinvesting into Your Business - Tips to what you should AND shouldn't be reinvesting into your direct sales business. Each week we'll be sending out a new tip to help YOU decide what's best for you to reinvest into your direct sales business.

If you continue to spend every dime you make, never putting anything back into your business, you’re never going to expand. You NEED to reinvest. A good guideline to go by is to reinvest 25% of your profit.

What should you reinvest your money into?
Business Cards
Seminars and Conventions
Catalogs
Education
Leads

Direct Sales Expert or Fake?

2006-09-14T11:17:00.000-05:00

Direct sales help sites for moms are a dime a dozen. You don't get far in the work at home mom community without running into a business help site. Although how do you know they really are really qualified to help?

Before you take advice as fact, here are some points you should watch for.

1. Are they in direct sales?
A silly question to ask, but you'd be surprised. All site owners have one purpose - to make money. Of course there is not necessarily anything wrong with this because, we’re all in business to make money. However, many who run "help" sites have absolutely no experience in the industry.

2. Is there outside experts?
While it's great for experts to share their own tips, they should also be seeking advice from others in the industry. What works for some may not work for all. Remember, even the greatest of mentors need a mentor.

3. Is the information solid?
Always check out a newsletter before buying any products from the site. If the newsletter is fluff or filled with recycled information, beware. Double check articles - you never know when a ghostwriter with even less experience on the subject has done poor research while writing the article.

4. Is the information being shared ethical?
If you don’t believe in what you’re being told to do, you can’t possibly make it work for yourself. In other words, do they share the same goals as you?

There's a lot of good information all over the internet. Unfortunately, there's no real solid way of knowing if what you are getting is true or not. The best thing to do is if you are in doubt, ask others that you know are successful for advice of what they utilize.

~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~
Direct Sales Helpers
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

Anne Maybus - Beauty Banquet

2006-09-13T05:20:00.000-05:00

September Successful Consultant of the Month

Anne Maybus
Australia

Direct Sales Company:
Beauty Banquet

Website Address:
http://www.beautybanquet.com.au

Please tell us a little more about the products you offer:
We sell steling silver, gemset and fashion jewellery.
We also sell 'gourmet' bath and body products and essential oils.

How long have you been with this company?
A little over a year.

What is your favorite aspect of this business?
I don't have to report to anyone except myself,and whatever success of failure that I have is all because of something that I have done.

Why did you join your company?
I tried other companies but didn't like the pressure and requirements that they laid down so I started my own.

Approximately how much time do you work on your direct sales business?
At this stage it is full time and quite often I work on the weekend if there is nothing on. I enjoy it.

Anne's Direct Sales Tips...
Stay focused. Keep a reminder of your goals in front of you even if it is a collection of photos of things that you want or the family that you are supporting.

Hostess with the Mostest

2006-09-11T10:26:00.000-05:00

Direct sales and home parties a growing trend...
Dolly Penland
Correspondent

Move over, Mary Kay and Mr. Tupper, the direct-selling industry is growing and it's not limited to cosmetics and kitchenwares anymore.

According to an economic impact study conducted by Ernst & Young and released by the Direct Selling Association, the industry accounted for $72 billion of the U.S. economy in 2004.

That $72 billion includes direct, indirect and induced impacts, including $27.8 billion in money earned by more than 13.6 million people in the industry and $6.6 billion in federal, state and local taxes.

Direct selling is the sale of a product or service person-to-person or in a group setting away from a fixed, retail location, usually in a home. The DSA is a national trade association of more than 300 companies including Avon Products Inc., Mary Kay Inc., Tupperware, The Pampered Chef Ltd. and Herbalife International of America Inc., as well as hundreds of smaller businesses that sell items such as clothing, home décor, pet supplies and children's accessories.

According to the DSA, sales increased nearly 80 percent over the past 10 years, from $16.6 billion in 1994 to $29.7 billion in 2004.

St. Johns County resident Kristee Burgess is a senior team mentor and consultant for Minnesota-based Tastefully Simple Inc. The company sells easy-to-prepare gourmet foods, everything from appetizers to desserts, that are either ready to eat or require only one or two ingredients to make.

She became a consultant in 2000 after attending a party. "I went through the downsizing of corporate America, and was laid off twice," she said. Although she had never particularly enjoyed cooking, "I was invited to a party and so I just went; I had an 8-month-old at the time. I thought, 'Wow. I could cook!' "

At the parties, a hostess invites guests and prepares a couple of the meals, while a consultant brings another 10 or so items. The guests are encouraged to sample the food and are given entertaining tips and recipes.

Burgess hosted a party and immediately decided this was the business for her. She now has a team of 218 consultants whom she trains and supports in 15 states. Her team brings in more than $1 million in annual sales.

"I make more than I did in corporate America," Burgess said. "I am at the top level of the company and the range for my level is from $40,000 to $120,000 plus. That's exciting because I work about 15 to 20 hours a week," allowing her to spend more time with her 7- and 11-year-old daughters.

The DSA said more than 73 percent of direct sales are person-to-person, and the rest of the transactions involve a home party or group.

"The economic impact study confirms the ongoing growth of direct selling as a shopping option for millions of American consumers," DSA President and CEO Neil Offen said in a press release. "Consumers enjoy service, selection and social interaction that's hard to match with other shopping experiences."

In the old days of direct sales, people attended parties specifically to buy a product. However, the big trend in the industry now is to teach guests something new.

Denver-based Tomboy Tools Inc. does not have parties, although there is still a hostess. Tomboy Tools consultants conduct workshops that not only showcase the company's line of ergonomically designed tools sized for women, but also teach home improvement techniques and take clients through how-to projects. Some of the workshop topics include tool usage and safety, painting, plumbing repair, drywall repair, woodworking and basic tiling.

Jacksonville resident Kristin Suter became a Tomboy Tools consultant in April 2005. The single mother of a 4-year-old daughter was in the process of renovating her newly purchased home on weekends and at night after coming home from her business, Kristin's Natural Childcare.

"I bought my childhood home, and there was a lot of work to be done," said the self-proclaimed "do-it-herselfer." Suter's biggest project was ripping out the old flooring and laying new tile. "It is hard work" with standard tools. "We're about to tile my mom's house and I can't wait."

Suter said Tomboy is targeting a profitable niche: "The home improvement market where women do the work is about $2 billion in the U.S. alone each year."

Media Resource:
Success Profiles

Craft Show Sales Totals

2006-09-05T20:02:00.000-05:00

While I don't usually talk in public about our figures from craft shows, I've decided to make an exception.

The average cost of our tables at small events is around $10-$30. All of our shows pull in at least $100 if not more, even when the event isn't so great. Lately though, we've been seeing quite an increase.

About a month ago was my home town celebration. We pulled in well over $200 in sales. The last time we made that much was last fall at a larger event (the table was $100, and event was in a main city). While we were very happy with the amount, we figured it was because we were "home". More than half the customers we knew, or had bought the year before. Being a "local" helped too with those we didn't know.

Over this weekend we attended another small town show, where the table cost $25. We knew a few people, but not nearly as many as we did at "home". The sales though completely blew me away. Even offering "tax included" as we normally do at shows so we don't have to mess with change, our profits were over $350. I'm still amazed, but I do know WHY the sales were this much.

When we first started, our selection was small. 8oz Jars and 12oz Jars in about 15 different scents. Over a year later, we've stretched this to about 50 scents. Thing is, aside from a few "odd" candles my mother has picked up here and there, our line has pretty much stayed the same. Our unique and one of kinds sell well, but for the most part our jelly jars sell the best - more specifically, the 8oz jars.

At the last few shows we've watched people buy not just one candle, but several. Over the weekend someone even purchased 8 different candles! For our particular product, what worked best for us was not different types of products, but variations of the same types. Instead of having just a few scents with tons of different styles, we sell the same styles in several different scents.

Other factors have contributed to our increase as well. One of them being our set up. While I do not have any pictures, I can describe the way our stands are set up. We do not use any types of props, but rather just line our candles up and invite potential customers in. From our experience we've seen customers zero in on "types" of scents, so our table is separated and organized by scent type. Food scents on one side, florals and soft blends on the other. If we have room for our card table, our berry scents and strong scents go in the middle of the main. The card table then holds our "special" candles (the "odds and ends" we only have a few of) and baskets of melts. Since our votives do not sell as well at shows (they are packaged and can't be smelled), we put out one or two as display, then keep a list with the rest under the table for easy access. When we have no room for an extra table, the melts plus unique candles go in the middle as a divider. It's a bit more "scrunchy" this way, but we make it all fit.

Another factor in our increase is the number of times we've been to these particular towns. Not only do we have calls for orders after shows now, but many remember us from the year before or another local show. The more we attend in the same area, the more they remember us.

Of course it's not hard to forget us, since we talk to everyone who approaches our table. This has really made the difference in ALL shows, even the low attendance ones. A customer can glance and not really see what they want, but when you ask them, then point out their favorites to them, they are more likely to stick around for awhile. I can't tell you how many tables I've come up to and been completely ignored. They most certaintly did not get my money.

I hope you will learn from our experiences, and improve on your own craft show sales!

Buying in Bulk

2006-09-05T18:45:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you can save a lot of money by buying in bulk. Do you have team members that don’t live too far away? Buy in bulk and split your supplies! You can buy things such as ziplock baggies, samples, or even packaging materials which can be split up between several of you.

There are many different different ways to do this. I met one gal who got together with her team once a month to crush and swap candles for scent samples. This also is a great time to discuss team news, share ideas, tips etc.

Money Saving Mini Series
Tips to Saving Money in Your Business

Outsorucing

2006-08-29T19:29:00.000-05:00

Lately I’ve been hearing a lot of talk about outsourcing. Unfortunately, for a lot of direct sales reps, outsourcing is just not an option. Or is it?

Who says you have to hire an expensive “professional”? Do you have some small jobs that your children can help with? How about helping with the packaging of orders to ship, stamping envelopes, filing, etc. This of course is going to depend on the ages of your children of what they can and can’t do but, get creative. One of the most popular reasons for being at home is to spend more time with your kids. Involve your children and maybe teach them a thing or two about business in the meantime.

Try things like assigning a point value to each job and a reward. For example: Each order processed is worth 5 points. A visit to a favorite fast food restaurant is worth 100 points.

Another idea...
Share childcare with another work at home / stay at home mom or even a downline or upline team member. One day all children are at her home and another day all the children are at your home.

Money Saving Mini Series
Tips to Saving Money in Your Business

Heart Warmer Debby Bieber

2006-08-29T18:41:00.000-05:00

Selling Heart Warming Creations for a decade now, Debby Bieber, of Watsontown, PA is one success story we can all learn from. Debby has a heart of gold and does anything that's needed to help her downline become just as successful as her. My interview with Debby...

How long have you been with HWC?
I've been a heart warmer for 10 years and it's the only company I've sold for.

What is your favorite aspect about your business?
I love sharing quality USA made products and being able to help women furnish their homes with a wide variety of products, at all prices and for all seasons for FREE or 1/2 price. I also enjoy meeting all the women and developing friendships with them. It so neat to watch their children grow and become their own person.

What is your best selling tool / technique?
I think the best selling technique is to just show your enthusiasm and really show your love of the products and the business.

Do you have a team / downline?
I currently have a down line of 3 and am hopefully signing a few more in the near future.

How do you keep them motivated - keep in touch with them?
I keep in touch via the telephone and email. Hopefully, when the summer winds down we can get together and everyone can get to know each other. Perhaps once a month will help keep everyone going.

Please list the awards you won at the convention.
At convention I was #7 for the last half of 2005 and #3 for the first half of 2006. I had a show every month in 2005 and one each month so far this year. I had $1,000 shows and there is the $1000 club for that.

Anything else you'd like to add?
Heart Warming Creations is a wonderful company to be associated with. The home office is always available to answer and questions or be of assistance whenever you need. You never need to feel like you're in this alone.

Party Plan Gifts

2006-08-23T05:05:00.000-05:00

Of course you want to treat your hostesses extra special but don't over do it. Most party plans have been tested over many years and what your company offers has proven to work. Don't give away too much. Remember why you're in business in the first place ... Chances are what your company offers is more than enough to satisfy any hostess.

Instead, focus on training/helping your hostess succeed with her party. Training your hostess to have a successful party will give her and you both a better outcome.

If you do choose to give "extras", make sure it's within your means and you're still making a profit.

Money Saving Mini Series
Tips to Saving Money in Your Business

Heart Warmer Betty Figels

2006-08-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

I met Betty Figels (BJ) at The Heart Warming Creations Convention. BJ, a Turbotville, PAer native is a real fun-loving Heart Warmer - I can only imagine how much fun she has with her party guests! My interview with BJ...

How long have you been with Heart Warming Creation?
I started in February, l995 so that makes 11 years.

Is this the first company you've sold for?
No, I started in direct sales with a company, Cottage Collectibles, out of Houston, Texas.

Please share your website address with us
www.bjfigels.myheartwarmingcreations.com

Is this your own personal website or a company issued?
Started thru the company.

What is your favorite aspect about your business?
I have a lot of favorites with Heart Warming but if I have to narrow it down to one ... I think I'd have to say that it's the friendships that I have made with some of my hostesses and some of their guests. There are some that have been doing shows with me for almost as long as I've been selling with Heart Warming and they've become like family. Of course another favorite aspect is that with Heart Warming ... I get my paycheck as soon as I close up that show!

What is your best selling tool / technique?
I don't know that I have a technique but I do believe in being myself when I am in front of the hostess and guests. I try to make the time together as fun as possible and I really believe that Heart Warming Creations merchandise sells itself! We are definitely a 'satisfaction guarantee' company and therefore we carry some of the best quality of merchandise available.

What is your biggest challenge with your business?
At present time I'd have to say that my biggest challenge is getting shows booked.

Do you have a team / downline?
I have one recruit at present time.

How do you keep them motivated - keep in touch with them?
Debby and I are usually on the phone at least once a week and I think she honestly does more motivating for me than I do for her!

Please list the awards you won at the convention.
I brought home a trophy for holding at least one show per month something I've been able to do for the last couple years! I also -surprisingly- was awarded a 2d quarter (2006) award for being #18 in sales. I also received recognition for being #18 in the last half of 2005. The company is really great at recognizing even the smallest accomplishments of us consultants by giving us charms.

Anything else you'd like to add?
If anyone would have told me prior to Heart Warming Creations that I would be in the direct sales business for this many years I would have probably given them a 'yeah, right' but I honestly believe I am still in the direct sales business because of the support of our home office and fellow consultants and also the fact that I can make my own schedule. I was able to watch my son and daughter participate in sporting events, go on field trips throughout their school years and now that I'm thru that stage of life I can be as busy as I want and still have a 'life' with out being exhausted because of 'long hours' working for someone else!

Contact Betty Figels at:
bjmane@alltel.net

Or visit her website at:
www.bjfigels.myheartwarmingcreations.com

What is Direct Sales?

2006-08-21T14:55:00.000-05:00

Direct Sales - Not Just Mom's Tupperware Anymore

Direct sales is now a multi-million dollar industry that is growing larger and larger every day. Companies are quickly seeing the benefits of opening their businesses to folks to start their own home based business.

Direct sales home based businesses are primarily made up of mothers who have chosen to not only stay home and raise their own children but also bring in a supplemental income. (Work at home moms also known as WAHM)

The reasons for working at home varies from staying home with children, flexible work schedules and even some due to disabilities. No matter what the reason, the goal always seems to stay the same - freedom.

The human race thrives on freedom - freedom to work when you want to, freedom to choose what you want to do, freedom to take care of your own children and hopefully reach the ultimate freedom - financial freedom.

At times it seems as though over the years, direct sales has picked up a bad reputation. To many, a direct sales home business is nothing more than bothering friends and families to buy products, host parties or heaven forbid, buy into yet another home based business opportunity.

This misconception has come from poorly trained consultants and representatives who never stepped outside their own comfort zone - away from family and friends.

Remember, owning your own direct sales home business is certainly not for everyone. It's okay to start with family and friends to get your business off the ground, but eventually you must expand your target customers.

The benefits of a direct sales home based business are plenty for not only the representatives but also the consumer. You'll never find a better form of customer service like you would purchasing from a direct sales consultant.

For example: When was the last time a Wal-mart associate came to your home and gave you a complete makeover to find the perfect foundation to match your skin type?

When was the last time your local grocer came to your home and fixed you a dinner of his newest meal creation?

Did that Wal-mart associate call you a couple of months later to make sure you haven't run out? I'm going to guess not but, I bet your grocer called you a couple of weeks later to make sure that soup mix you bought was to your satisfaction, right?

From children's educational toys to Christian adult books. From hand creme to shower gels and adult merchandise to dietary supplements. You'll find a direct sales company that will have the perfect products for you.

Direct selling is even getting more fun and creative in their lines. There's even spray on tan companies and plant companies - certainly not your mother's Tupperware anymore, now is it?

Don't be fooled by some unconventional claims by some representatives. Can you make lots of money? Absolutely! Is it a lot of fun? Sure! Is it easy? Not on your life!

When I first "came home" from corporate America, I had already been taken in. I thought I was going to make thousands of dollars with very little work in no time flat. I can honestly say that I have never worked harder and more hours at any J.O.B. than I have in my direct sales business.

With that said ... I wouldn't give it up for the world. I love being able to decide how much money I do and don't make.

What it all boils down to is this ... I love being in charge of my future. Now, don't get me wrong ... I didn't say all this to scare you off - more like I said it to make you aware of what you may or may not be getting into. Owning your own direct sales home based business can be one the most fulfilling moves in your life.

Thinking about starting a home based direct sales business? Need help choosing the perfect company for you?

Click here to download your free copy of Choosing - How to Choose the Right Direct Sales Company for You!

Heart Warming Creations Convention

2006-08-21T11:16:00.000-05:00

If you ever have the opportunity to go to a convention with your direct sales company ... I HIGHLY recommend it! I was recently invited by Pat Noll to a convention for Heart Warming Creations. I had an absolutely wonderful time. It was so uplifting even though I’m not a “Heart Warmer”. I was still able to pick up many tips to utilize in my own business (which I’ll be sharing in future articles for DSH). I met some very inspiring women at this convention and I left with a whole new outlook for my business (and businesses to come).

I do want to take this time also to give a great big thanks to Angie and Sharon (founders of HWC) for putting on such a great event and to Pat for inviting me. I had a fabulous time it was absolutely my pleasure to be there. It was so nice to be welcomed by a large group of women who are so close you could call them family!

Angie and Sharon founded Heart Warming Creations in March of 1986. Their dream was to offer women across the USA the opportunity to be in business for themselves, earn an unlimited income and still put family first in their lives.

Pictures of Angie, Sharon and their famies...

Picture of Pat Noll...

One Thousand Subscribers and One Lucky Person

2006-08-09T05:25:00.000-05:00

We've been secretly holding a contest right under your nose. And this past week we've met (and exceeded) our goal line. Congratulations to Shelia for being our 1,000th subscriber. For this she won a free Direct Sales Success Kit

Shelia, enjoy your free kit ... everyone else, THANKS for all your support. Thanks for recommending us and passing on our newsletter!

Here's to the next thousand!!!

~ Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank

How to Take Orders at Craft Shows

2006-08-09T05:00:00.001-05:00

Last week we talked about 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.

Direct Sales Helpers on the Road

Outdated Catalogs

2006-08-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

Have an overstock of outdated catalogs, brochures, fliers etc? Don't toss them away. Leave them at beauty salons, laundromats, doctor's offices etc. with a note that says "Contact me for a current catalog."

Most companies carry the same products for many, many years. So, having the catalog from last month in circulation isn't going to make that much of a difference. This will also open you up to new good leads.

Money Saving Mini Series
Tips to Saving Money in Your Business

Pampered Chef's New CEO

2006-08-08T06:30:00.000-05:00

(Crain's) - At the risk of sounding like a marketing cliché, Marla Gottschalk is not only an officer of the company she’s also a customer.

"I have all our Pampered Chef products," said Ms. Gottschalk, the former Kraft Foods Inc. executive who became chief executive officer of the kitchen products empire on May 1. "I believe in our mission of bringing families around the table and bringing out the chef in [everyone]. You need the right tools and a little inspiration to bring families and friends around the table."

Ms. Gottschalk, 45, joined Pampered Chef in 2003 as president and chief operating officer. Doris Christopher, who founded the company in her basement in 1980, has stepped aside as CEO but remains the company's chairman. Both report to Warren Buffett, who's Berkshire Hathaway bought Pampered Chef in 2002.

While Ms. Christopher is no longer overseeing the daily operations, she's still very much involved with the company.

"Doris and I still collaborate on a lot of things," said Ms. Gottschalk, who has a bachelor's degree from Indiana University and master's from Northwestern University. "We talk about strategy."

For instance, a casual conversation about a lack of Pampered Chef items at bridal showers both women attended spawned an on-line wedding registry.

Ms. Gottschalk said she isn't intimidated by taking over the job of someone who built Pampered Chef from 71 products and nearly $7,000 in annual sales to its current catalog of more than 300 products and hundreds of millions of dollars in sales. A privately held company, Pampered Chef does not release annual sales figures, but said it reached $500 million in 1998.

"I'm really focused on enhancing many things that Doris put into place," she said. "And I continue to look for opportunities to grow our market."

That growth will come from a combination of launching 60 new products this fall, reaching out to the growing Hispanic market, a test kitchen that created 400 new recipes this year, and, of course, working closely with the more than 60,000 independent contractors who sell Pampered Chef products.

Those consultants are the bread and butter for Pampered Chef, and their sales events, dubbed cooking shows, generate the bulk of the company's sales.

That’s not surprising to those in the direct sales industry.

There are roughly 1,500 direct-selling companies in the U.S., and collectively they racked up $29.7 billion in sales in 2004, the most recent figures available, according to the Direct Selling Association in Washington, D.C.

While the Internet may have been expected to hamper the direct sales industry as increasingly time-pressed individuals turn to the always open online shop over a personal sales pitch, direct sales have grown each year for 20 consecutive years, said Amy Robinson, spokeswoman for the DSA.

"The Internet has enhanced companies doing direct selling," Ms. Robinson said. "It is giving sales people worldwide access, not just access to people in their community."

Consumer product manufacturers are launching direct sales units - last year underwear maker Jockey International Inc. created Jockey Person to Person Inc. and in 2003, Crayola maker Binney & Smith launched Big Yellow Box.

Ms. Gottschalk has never worked in direct sales, but she has experience in the food industry. She joined Pampered Chef from Kraft Foods Inc. where she joined as a senior financial analyst 14 years ago and left as executive vice president and general manager of its Post Cereals division. Ms. Gottschalk has also worked at KPMG as an auditor.

Crain's Chicago Business

Is Inventory Important?

2006-08-02T18:02:00.000-05:00

One of the hot questions when it comes to direct sales and offline shows is this:

"Do I need a large inventory, or can I just take orders?"

Honestly, this is no easy answer and it's going to mostly depend on what products you are selling. Some items (such as custom products) are near impossible to have on stock and must be ordered. Other items (such as candles), the shopper wants to have in hand before they leave. Candles are one of those items which are NOT unique (no matter if you have a great product), and a shopper knows they can easily pick it up at just about any store.

For the most part, you are going to want a large display of products to sell right off the table. When shoppers are roaming around craft shows, they are looking to shop. If they wanted to have items shipped to them, they would probably be shopping online. I'm sure they do, but only because they have no other option when shopping online or at a home party. People LOVE to walk out with something in hand.

I know one of the benefits of a direct sales company is not to have large amounts of stock on hand. However, if you plan to have tables at offline events, stock is a must. Even when taking orders, you must have some type of display. This way the customer can see and touch, knowing exactly what they will be getting should they order.

Be warned though, even with large amount of stock on the table, it's like pulling teeth to get orders. For example, occasionally we'll have a 12oz Jelly Jar in a scent they really like but no 8oz Jelly Jar. We'll suggest they put in an order and have it delivered (no shipping for local orders since we deliver). Almost always they'll go with a different candle or none at all.

In over a year, we've taken in a total of 3 orders. The reason for each order was as follows:

Order #1: Previous customer who had purchased a candle at another show. She smelled a candle she liked and bought it, but wanted 2 more in a larger size. So she not only already knew the candles, but wanted more than what we had on the table.

Order #2: A customer wanted 4 of the same candle while we only had 2 in stock. Because it was a gift for a special occasion, she decided to order.

Order #3: Another previous customer. This one had smelled each scent on the table and wanted different colored votives all in the same scent. Again, she knew what the product was like and wanted more than what was on the table.

In conclusion, while you can get away with taking orders only, it's better to sell outright. Shoppers are ready to impulse buy, and you don't want to miss out on it!

Direct Sales Helpers on the Road

Recycling Packaging

2006-08-02T18:00:00.000-05:00

Some consultants have no other choice but to ship out orders themselves. If you’re in this boat, be sure to save and recycle those packing peanuts, bubble wrap and boxes. Many grocery stores will give you their old boxes for free. Check with your local market.

If you must buy...
If you must buy your packaging materials, buying from the postal services can be relatively expensive. Buy your materials from a department store or office supply store.

Money Saving Mini Series
Tips to Saving Money in Your Business

Does Your Company Drop Ship?

2006-07-25T18:21:00.000-05:00

Instead of having an order sent to your and then you re-sending it to the customers, why not skip the middle man and have the order shipped directly to your customer? Many companies now offer dropshipping, so take advantage of it. For those of you that pass the added shipping costs onto your customer instead … be the hero and save your customer money too!

Money Saving Mini Series
Tips to Saving Money in Your Business

Money Saving Mini Series

2006-07-25T18:20:00.000-05:00

Tips to Saving Money in Your Business

For the next few weeks we're going to do a little something different for our Direct Sales Info newsletter. This week is the first segment of our Money Saving Mini Series - Tips to Saving Money in Your Business. Each week we'll be sending out a new tip to help YOU save money in your direct sales business.

Time is of the essence... This is one of the very first things to keep in mind. Too often we've seen consultants who threw in the towel way too early. Even banks and accountants will tell you that a new business typically takes 3 to 5 years to make those red numbers black. Give your business the time it needs to become profitable. In the meantime, there are many ways to save money and become successful without breaking the bank.

Does your company drop ship?
Recycling Packaging
Outdated Catalogs
Party Plan Gifts
Outsourcing
Buying in Bulk

Outdoor Shows & Rain

2006-07-25T18:07:00.000-05:00

Noone can predict the weather several weeks ahead of time. If you are planning to be at a craft show outside, you are taking a risk of it being rained out. While sometimes the whole show is a loss, there are things you can do to still gain sales.

1. Back Ups
Ask ahead of time if there's a place they'll let the crafters move should the entire day be completely rained out. Sometimes the event will be rescheduled if there is nothing but rain the whole day.

2. Tents
While a small tent isn't going to protect you from heavy rain or storms, it will protect you if it's just sprinkling. You can wait until the very last minute to pack up.

3. Check the Weather Ahead of Time
Know what the weather is that day, and let the organizer know. This way the organizer can plan early in the day for a back up if need be, and you know when to pack up. Also be sure to bring a towel.

3. Wait it Out
If you've had to pack up everything because of heavy rain, don't go very far. Keep up your tent, tables, and chair. Dump the rain off the top of your tent (yes, it WILL collect rain!), and dry off your tables with the towel you brought. If the rain has passed, set back up (at least half!)

Rain can be a major pain for outdoor shows, but they don't always lead to a loss. Our best outdoor show was actually rained out for 2-3 hours in the afternoon. We simply packed up and waited it out. Once the rain cleared in the evening, we made a whole lot more sales. I'm VERY glad we didn't leave like some of the other crafters! Stick it out and you'll always get the most out of your time and money paid for the table.

Direct Sales Helpers on the Road

Jenny Palasik - Tupperware

2006-07-18T18:03:00.000-05:00

July Successful Consultant of the Month

Jenny Palasik
Illinois

Direct Sales Company:
Tuppware

Website Address:
http://my.tupperware.com/jpalasik

Please tell us a little more about the products you offer:
As I am sure many of you know Tupperware is a company that offers storage and organization solutions for kitchens. We do also offer a wonderful line of professional grade cookware and bakeware.

How long have you been with this company?
Since October 2005

What is your favorite aspect of this business?
I love the flexibility.

Why did you join your company?
To earn some extra money because the full time job I have just barely pays all of the bills.

Approximately how much time do you work on your direct sales business?
10 hours a week

Taking the Right Products

2006-07-11T18:00:00.000-05:00

At offline events in local areas, you have the opportunity to show off your best products in front of huge crowds. However, don't pass up this opportunity by bringing the wrong type of products.

Since this is your local area, you should already have an idea of what type of people you are going to meet the day of your event. Also, knowing ahead of time what type of event it is can help you to better plan what to bring and how your table is set up.

Let me give you some examples to better understand this concept.

Example #1 - Colors

Take into account the area. Are they supportive of high school sports? If so, this would be a perfect time to pull out items which focus on the school.

Let's say the school colors are blue and white. If you sell candles, group together blue and white candles on your display. Selling scrapbooking supplies? Design a layout for the school with their colors and maybe mascot. Offer pictures or cards? Pull out the pictures of their mascots.

Even subconsciously, the colors of the school can stand out to potential buyers. If you have ever spent time in a small town, you know how big of a deal a high school football game or other sporting event is. Don't forget the local colleges either!

Colors also work for organizations such as Red Hat Society and others that use certain specific colors to tell them apart. Red and Purple items grouped together for an event where the Red Hat Ladies are roaming around will definitely catch their eye.

Example #2 - Specific Items

Be sure you know what's going on along side of the craft show. If there is a horse show going on, bring along anything with horses. Dog show in town? Bringing the pictures and items dog specific are a must. Is it a specific celebration? Display items that are specific to that event.

Sometimes you need to dig deep to come up with ideas which are specific to the event or area. If you find a connection, by all means use it Don't forget to take into account the upcoming holidays, since many go to events looking for gifts.

Most importantly, do the research on the area before you attend the event if it's not a town you are familiar with. Learn about the town and the community, as well as the towns close by.

Taking Products Outside

2006-07-05T19:25:00.000-05:00

An outdoor event can be extremely profitable, but if you take the wrong type of products you might end up losing quite a bit of your stock.

While most products will be fine, there are many types of items which absolutely can not sit out in the sun or heat. Here are some ideas you can use to protect your products:

1. Use a canopy or tent
If you have color items, a tent or canopy can provide the shade you need to keep them from fading. Believer or not, as long as candles are kept in the shade they are not damaged sitting outside all day.

Keep in mind though, as the sun moves you still may have a chance of products being damaged by sunlight. Pictures, color paper, candles with color, and other items may be exposed. The shade SHOULD be enough, but you never know.

2. Use coolers and ice
Other types of products can possibly keep cool by sitting in a cooler of ice. However, this may not always work. If you are at an all day event, ice will melt.
Also, having the item too cold might damage it as well. Items like lotion and body butter probably wouldn't do very well getting too hot or too cold. Items that need to be kept at room temperature probably should be kept at home.

3. Test at home
If you aren't sure if the products will be damaged or not, do a test at home. Take just one item you feel you can part with, and set it outside in the shade or in a cooler of ice. See what happens after it sits out for several hours. It's possible it may become damaged, so be sure it's not a high dollar item or something you planned to sell.

4. Take orders
If all else fails, set yourself up to take orders instead of directly selling items. This even works at indoor events, but must be set up the right way.

If you have a few items which you know won't be damaged by the sun, bring them along for display. Give yourself plenty of room on the table to take orders, and bring along as much information as possible since you won't have some of the actual products out. You must be able to show pictures and give even the smallest of details. Make it so the customer can visualize the item as if it was right in front of them.

There are occasions where outdoor events just aren't possible, but this is rare. Almost all products can be sold outside with a little creativity and thinking outside the box.

Good luck at your next outdoor event!

Planning for Outdoor Events

2006-06-28T06:54:00.000-05:00

In the summer, most events you find in your local area are usually outside. If yours is a product you know can go out, you'll need to plan ahead, and plan well.

Use the following as a checklist for your next outdoor event.

- Bring a tent or canopy
An absolute must for keeping your products out of the sun so they won't fade or be damaged by extreme heat. You'll also keep yourself more comfortable staying out of the sun.

- Bring weights for tent
A very minor detail, but if it's even slightly windy you could have problems. You don't have to invest a whole lot into your tent, especially if you can use weights with it. The easier it is to put up and take down, the better. Using weights give your cheap tent added sturdiness.

- Wear light clothing
If its summer, it's going to be hot. Be sure to wear light colored clothes and something that will keep you cool. Nice tank tops, short sleeves, etc are fine just as long as they look nice.

- Wear sun screen
Even if your products are in the shade, you might not be. At our last event, my main concern was keeping the candles out of the sun and adjusting our table as need be as the sun moved. Unfortunately, I paid no attention to my back faced to the sun and was burnt pretty badly. Remember to take care of yourself as well as your products!

- Bring water
You’ll want to make sure you have plenty of water or other liquids to keep yourself hydrated. Being in the heat for too long can easily dehydrate your body without you even noticing.

In addition to making sure you have the supplies above, you'll also need to be ready for any type of weather. It could be hot and sunny, or it could be cool and raining. If it's just sprinkling, the event could be going as normal. With a sturdy tent you should be alright, but make sure it will hold up in just about any condition that wouldn't cancel an event.

You should also plan to pack up quickly should the weather turn from bad to worse. Check your local weather the day of the event so you'll have an idea of what to expect. If storms are a possibility, have your boxes under the table and only pull out items which can be put away quickly. You don't want to miss the event completely, but you also don't want to put all your stock at risk.

While none of us can fully predict what the weather will be, we can at least plan for the worst and hope for the best. Outdoor events can be a pain sometimes and even a loss, but when the conditions are right they can be extremely profitable!

The Customer Is Always Right

2006-06-25T17:04:00.000-05:00

One of the most basic rules of business, but often times forgotten. No matter what goes on we must remember - the customer is always right!

This tried and true statement stretches back to the beginning of the small business revolution. When customer service was the most important aspect of business, which set them apart from the big corporations.

Offering the best customer service possible is just as important today as it was more than 100 years ago. In today's world there are just too many options. If you don't treat your customers right, they will have no problem doing business with someone else.

Not only does poor customer service lose a customer, but negativity travels far. Most know a happy customer might tell a few people (if any) about your business, but an unhappy person will tell everyone they know. As a small business owner, can you afford to lose hundreds of customers due to one unhappy customer?

In the work at home mom community, when business is done with other business owners, it can get tricky. We are suppose to understand the hardships of running a small business, as well as show compassion to family emergencies. However, business is business and customers are customers. No matter what the social status of your customer, they are still just that - a customer.

The lesson here is to always treat everyone like a customer. No matter how mad you are about what they've said, keep your cool and make it right. Don't argue with them, because they WILL spread the word on how hard you are to work with. If you lose money because of the situation, live and learn. There are situations where the customer will be in the wrong and just trying to scam you, but don't ever assume they are. Learn from the mistake and put your own rules in place so it won't happen
again.

It's inevitable, if you're in business, at some point, you're going to have to deal with a disgruntled customer. The protocol should be to apologize and get the issue resolved as quickly and painless for the customer as possible (within reason of course).

The bottom line which I feel needs to be said just one more time - the customer is always right! Remember it, and you will go far in business!

Tracy Murray, Shop for a Cure Vendor

2006-06-20T17:16:00.000-05:00

Mia Bella Candles Rep, Tracy Murray of Wilkes-Barre, PA attend the Shop For a Cure Events.

After doing fundraisers for about a year and half Murray decided to start selling in Decemeber of 2005. She joined Mia Bella because she loves the products and meeting new people is her favorite aspect of her business. Currently, Tracy doesn't spend too much time on her business because she only works during her free time.

This was Ms. Murray's first event that she found out about through the coordinator. When asked what she would bring if she were only allowed to bring one item, she promptly replied with "The products ... they speak for themselves."

For more information...

Tracy Murray
http://www.candles4sky.scent-team.com
ses6300@aol.com

Sell, Don't Recruit

2006-06-15T09:41:00.000-05:00

There's been recent talk about the new FTC guidelines possibly going
into effect soon. This week we've writen an article that will help you
prepare for whatever is finalized.

Sell, Don't Recruit
by Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

The FTC may be making some changes soon on how Direct Sales Reps conduct business. Make the right changes now to your business!

Recently the FTC announced they may be enforcing guidelines for Direct Sales consultants on the way they recruit. Many are upset about these possible changes, afraid it may slow their business down.

While there are certain steps you can take to attempt to prevent some of these guidelines from going into effect, at this point it appears at least SOME changes will be made.

Our advice is to make the necessary changes to the way you do business BEFORE these guidelines go into effect.

The basics of the new guidelines state certain "regulations" for signing up new team members. New team members will need more information about the company than before, mostly documents which prove the company is legit. Other regulations still being talked about focus on income claims and waiting periods on signing up new reps.

While we can't say exactly what will be passed and what won't, we do know one thing for sure. Those who have focused more on recruiting instead of selling are going to be in trouble, because there WILL be guidelines which WILL go into effect. It will most definitely be more difficult to recruit once these laws are passed.

If your business is focused on recruiting, stop! For a business to be successful and not considered a pyramid, there must be a product sold. Focusing on the sale of products instead of building a team is what makes successful consultants in the first place. Recruiting should be your second priority, and what is done AFTER you have gained a solid customer who loves the products.

Click here to see the proposed guidelines by the FTC

To your success!

Penny Cluxton, Shop for a Cure, Vendor

2006-06-13T18:22:00.000-05:00

Penny Cluxton of Shohola, Pennsylvania represents Usborne Books at Home.

"I fell in love with the books when I used to purchase them from a vendor at work and then when I was able to stay at home with my children, I searched wahm sites and found Usborne. I instantly knew I found what I wanted. My reasons for joining was to earn some extra income, work around my families schedule and have a business of my own." Says Penny.

Being with Usborne for only a little over 5 months, Cluxton has two members in her downline and keeps them motivated by holding monthly meetings and keeping up on scheduled events. She also sets goals and shares them with each other so everyone is held accountable.

Penny works anywhere from 3 - 20 hours a week and really does enjoy all aspects of her business but, promoting literacy and bonding time with your children is her absolute favorite aspects.

Cluxton found this particular event and one other through EventLister.com. When asked if there was only one type of an item that she could bring to an event like this ... she quickly replied that just the books would be enough.

A few words of wisdom from Penny Cluxton...

"Make sure you like the products you sell. Then it's not such a point to sell the products but rather explain why you fell in love with them."

For more information...

Penny Cluxton
www.ubah.com/d2670
pcbooks@myubah.com

FTC Proposes New Business Opportunity Rule

2006-06-09T05:48:00.000-05:00

Will the FTC's New Business Opportunity Rule change the way we do business as a Direct Sales person?

The FTC is proposing a New Business Opportunity Rule that some say will bring on some potentially damaging requirements. For example:

From Direct Selling Women's Alliance...

#1: What is the Business Opportunity Rule?
Following are just some of the potentially damaging requirements:

- > Create new definitions of “business opportunity,” “business assistance” and “earnings claim,” creating broad language to encompass many common business practices;

- > Require that a detailed “disclosure statement” be given at least seven days before any prospective purchaser signs a contract or makes payment to the business assistance provider;

- > Require that the business opportunity “disclosure statement” include information such as previous lawsuits, the number of previous purchasers who have canceled within two years and a list of “references” i.e., purchasers of the opportunity in the previous three years;

- > Require business opportunity sellers who make earnings claims to provide an additional “Earnings Claim Statement” to prospective purchasers, which would include extensive earnings disclosures that would need to be frequently updated.

- > To view the complete ruling (approximately 117 pages) of the Business Opportunity Rule, click here to visit the related page on the web site of the Federal Trade Commission.

#2: What does this proposed rule mean for distributors?

- > The required disclosure and earnings statements and the required list of all distributors who have cancelled their distributorship in the previous last two years may cause the sponsoring process to become cumbersome and difficult.

- > These requirements may create unnecessary alarm and concern about the legitimacy of the profession and your business opportunity to prospective distributors.

- > The proposed seven day waiting period between receiving the disclosures and enrollment would likely cause a potential distributor to lose their enthusiasm for joining your company.

- > The costs of complying with the requirements would increase expenses to the company which may be passed on through the selling price of goods or services we offer.

In fact, the very nature of this ruling is evidence that the FTC does not truly understand that the vast majority of distributors conduct business ethically and honestly every day and that such a ruling threatens the livelihood of these individuals.

Is it right that the more than 13 million independent distributors be wrongfully penalized because a very few people have caused the FTC to look negatively at our profession? No!

#3: Why should we speak out now?
We only have until July 17th to let the Federal Trade Commission hear the voice of the millions of direct sellers who have a stake in the future of this profession.
It is the voice of the distributors that will have the greatest impact as they learn how women and men with families are counting on the additional income their part or full-time businesses provide. The FTC must hear from you - the individuals putting their children through college, saving for retirement, reducing their consumer debt and providing a better quality of life for their families. They especially need to hear from those of you who are full-time direct sellers so they understand that this as the viable profession we all know it to be.

#4: How can I have my voice be heard?
Don't wait and hope that someone else will speak out for you!

This is your opportunity to show the strength and unity of direct selling professionals by sharing this information with everyone you know whose life will be affected. Next…write a personal letter to the FTC.

Two ways to submit your comments and let your voice be heard:

1. Mail a compelling and heartfelt letter to the FTC today! TWO copies must be sent when submitting you comments by mail. (Click here to Download sample letter from MyDSWA.org.)

Send your letter to:
Federal Trade Commission/Office of the Secretary, Room H-135 (Annex W)
Re: Business Opportunity Rule, R511993
600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20580
RE: Business Opportunity Rule, R511993

Because all mail to this Washington based office is subject to delay due to heightened security precautions we encourage you to overnight your letter if you are sending it close to the July 17th deadline.

2. You may also submit your letter electronically directly to the Federal Trade Commission web site. Here is the link: https://secure.commentworks.com/ftc-bizopNPR/

While you can block and copy your letter of 4000 characters or less into their submission form, we strongly urge you to create your letter in a separate document and then submit it as an attachment using the browse button at the bottom of the form.

Note: Be sure that your direct selling company receives a copy of the letter that you submit so they are aware of your initiative and dedication to the profession.

All comments should refer to "Business Opportunity Rule, Matter No. R511993" to facilitate the organization of comments. A comment filed in paper form should include this reference both in the text and on the envelope.

Let your voice be heard here too!
Please feel free to post your comments!

Renee Conway, Shop for a Cure, Vendor

2006-06-06T19:00:00.000-05:00

10 year Veteran, Renee Conway of Lake Ariel, PA attends the Shop for a Cure event as a representative of BeautiControl.

Having experience in cosmetics and after investigating several other direct sales cosmetic companies, Renee chose BeautiControl for her home business. "I felt BeautiControl offered the best opportunity for advancement. Initially it was for the career possibility only." Says Conway.

If she had to narrow it down to her favorite aspect, Renee chooses FREEDOM, in all aspects of life. "Working for someone else is often drugery, when I work my BeautiControl business the freedom I feel engergizes me!" Says Conway.

Renee Conway works less than 5 hours a week with now 3 active downline members but has had as many as 20 plus. She says she loves to read and give motivation tapes, cds etc to her downline members to keep both herself and them motivated.

Conway found out about this particular event through networking with a mutual client. This is usually the way she learns about them but also finds events in the newspaper.

When I asked Ms. Conway if she could only bring one thing to her events, what would it be? She responded with "again, hard to narrow down but, I'd say our 'u/v' card. This informational sheet shows damage under the surface of the skin and how our products block damaging sun rays."

A little words of wisdom from Reneee Conway...

- > Have an attractive display

- > Be well-prepared yourself, not only with items for your business but personal items for you such as water, tissues, and I always bring a sweater. These events usually start out very cold.

- > And last, but certainly not last ... Don't forget your best smile!

For more information...

Renee' B. Conway
BeautiControl
www.beautipage.com/fitimage
rbconway@echoes.net

Susan Gabrielson, Shop for a Cure, Vendor

2006-05-30T20:24:00.000-05:00

Susan Gabrielson, Tastefully Simple consultant of Hawley, PA makes this event Mmmm, Mmmm Good!

Starting out as a customer first, Gabrielson decided to become a consultant herself when her own consultant decided to quit. At the time customers could not place orders online and her friend convinced her to give it a try so they could continue to buy the food they could not live without. "My kids were in college and I thought it would be nice to earn some extra money with hours I could control", says Susan. She's been with this company 2 1/2 years since.

With four members in her first downline and one in her second, Susan keeps them motivated with meetings and emails. During her slow months she spends typically 10 to 20 hours a week and on busy months she can work 35 - 40 hours a week. When asked what her favorite aspect of her business, Gabrielson answers with an enthusiastic "The Products!" She also enjoys meeting new people.

Having done two prior events with Shannon Nelson, the event coordinator, she's asked to be contacted whenever Shannon holds her events. Usually she finds out about other events such as this one by word of mouth and is on the Crafters Newsletter mailing list. Susan very wisely answered that she would bring her products to taste if she were only allowed to bring one item.

A littler words of wisdom from Gabrielson...
"Enjoy the event and think of it as a way to meet new people and maybe make some new contacts. If your sales are great, that is a plus but, since the attendance is always so iffy, you have to go into it without thinking only of sales."

For more information...

Susan Gabrielson
Tastefully Simple Consultant
suspickle@hotmail.com

Shannon Nelson, Shop For A Cure, Vendor

2006-05-23T20:00:00.000-05:00

Shannon Nelson of Lake Ariel, PA mans her own table at the very event she coordinated.

Representing Country Bunnny Bath & Body for 1 1/2 years, Nelson is no novice when it comes to both attending and coordinating events such as the Shop For A Cure Event. She often finds local events to attend at the ever-popular CraftLister.com.

"I have an addiction to bath and body products." Says Mrs. Nelson with a million dollar smile when I asked her why she chose County Bunny Bath & Body for her business. Watching others fall in love with the products too is her favorite aspect.

Spending approximately 20 hours a week on her business, Shannon has 12 members in her downline that she keeps motivated with emails, phone calls, monthly newsletters with a team challenge and constant encouragement.

Without any hesitation at all Shannon shared that a pampering station would be her first choice had she only been able to bring one item to an event such as this one. (You can view Shannon giving a hand treatment to fellow vendor, Barbara Munley below.)

Nelson shares a few words of wisdom about direct sales...
"Direct sales is hard work, just like any other sales job. You need to be willing to stick with it through the ups and downs. In the end, it is the most rewarding job out there!"

Click Pictures for Larger View

For More Information...

Shannon Nelson
Country Bunny Bath and Body
http://www.cbunnyrep.com/7227

Shannon Nelson, Shop For A Cure, Coordinator

2006-05-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

Lake Ariel, PA resident and Country Bunny Bath & Body Rep #7227, Shannon Nelson coordinates Shop For A Cure event to benefit The American Cancer Society in Northeast Pennsylvania.

Having organized two previous expos, Nelson had a working list of vendors to contact for this event. First she invited past vendors and then went to the DSA website to look up companies with reps local to her. Next she listed the event on CraftLister.com, Wahm.com and MommysHelperOnline.com. "Some of the vendor's participating referred other vendors to me as well." Says Nelson.

To find an outlet for her event, Shannon asked other promoters about where there were halls within her budget and she paid attention to where other craft fairs were being held.

Knowing what to charge for her event was simply figured by looking at how much it would cost her to rent the hall, advertising costs and other operating costs such as, having signs made, copying flyers (paper/ink or cost to copy at Staples) and so on. "I also charge a refundable clean up fee." Says Nelson.

Shannon recalls, [To advertise I used] "Online message boards, local blogs, local newspapers, local TV stations online community calendars, press release services, PSA's, word of mouth, flyers, radio, local tourist magazines and signs."

Shannon was filled with comments and thoughts when I asked if there was anything she would do differently next time...

"I would create an advertisement card for the vendors to give to their customers/family/friends/business contacts to bring with them to the event. Vendors would have their company name on the card so that I can keep track of which vendors are really helping to promote the event. I'll offer an incentive to the vendors to do so, by offering a prize for the vendor with the most advertisement cards returned.

I may also only choose companies who allow their rep's to sell 'cash and carry' and make this a mandatory cash and carry event. Many guests complained that half the vendors had nothing to sell 'cash and carry'. They [guests] did not want to place orders.

This was the first time that I did not allow non-direct sales companies to take part in the Expo. I am going to re-evaluate that decision and possibly allow crafters back in for future Expos."

As a continuation of Shannon's Shop for a Cure event, anyone who books a show with her in the month of May, be it an online show, catalog show or in home spa show, Shannon will donate $10 per booking to the American Cancer Society for breast and ovarian cancer. Your show does not have to take place in May, but has to be booked with her before the end of this month. This is a great way to earn some products for free, while helping contribute to a worthy charity.

For more information:

Shannon Nelson
Country Bunny Bath and Body
http://www.cbunnyrep.com/7227

Shop For A Cure, Mt. Cobb, PA

2006-05-10T05:00:00.000-05:00

An introduction to Anita's visit to Shannon Nelson's Shop For A Cure Expo held in Mt. Cobb, Pennsylvania to benefit The American Cancer Society in Northeast Pennsylvania.

On April 29th 2006 I had the absolute pleasure of driving about three hours away to meet one of my good friends and very active message board members, Shannon Nelson. I don't normally travel this far for an event but, having the chance to meet Shannon was the icing on the cake.

I talked with many talented women in the direct sales industry who were more than willing to share a little about themselves to help us in our mission of helping others in the same industry achieve the success within in themselves.

The companies represented at this expo were Country Bunny Bath & Body, Discovery Toys, Avon, Tastefully Simple, Princess House, The Pampered Chef, Lia Sophia, Arbonne, Creative Memories, Mary Kay, Cookie Lee, BeautiControl, Tupperware, Premier Designs Jewelry, Stuff a Friend, Usborne Books, Mia Bella Candles, Stampin Up and Home Interiors.

Shoppers were charged a small fee of $3 each which was donated to The American Cancer Society. Each shopper was issued a card listing each of the companies represented there. The shoppers would then take their cards with them as they visited each vendor. The vendors would then stamp or sign each card acknowledging their visit. Before the shoppers left they would drop their cards into a drawing box for a chance to win over $500 worth of prizes. The door prizes were donated by a majority of the vendors.

This is the second event that Shannon has coordinated to benefit The American Cancer Society and plans to hold the next this fall to benefit childhood cancer. You can find out more about this event, future events and information on breast and ovarian cancer at Shannon's blog Shop For A Cure

Looking from the point of view of a shopper, this event was very well planned out and well executed. Each vendor had a beautiful display and did a very good job representing their respective companies.

I personally think charging shoppers a small fee and holding a door prize contest to benefit the ACS was a brilliant idea and very unique. As we've said time and time again ... creativity can be your very best friend.

Having so much to choose from reminded me quickly of how important it is to make sure you (as a vendor) have a plan in place for you to be able to reach the customer and in turn to have the customer be able to easily contact you. As we've mentioned before, holding your own contest to collect warm leads and having a newsletter are two of the more popular and more effective ways of doing this. Having business cards, flyers, brochures and other materials of this nature is also a great way for your customer's to keep your information. I know I couldn't have possibly purchased everything I wanted to right then and there so, I had to make the decision of picking a few items now and collect information from the rest for future purchases. (Point taken?)

As a continuation of Shannon's Shop for a Cure event, anyone who books a show with her in the month of May, be it an online show, catalog show or in home spa show, Shannon will donate $10 per booking to the American Cancer Society for breast and ovarian cancer. Your show does not have to take place in May, but has to be booked with her before the end of this month. This is a great way to earn some products for free, while helping contribute to a worthy charity.

For more information:

Shannon Nelson
Country Bunny Bath and Body
http://www.cbunnyrep.com/7227 OR
http://gottaspa.blogspot.com

Follow along for the next couple of weeks as we share the interviews from this event.

Need New Local Customers?

2006-05-09T17:01:00.000-05:00

Summer is a time for celebration, fun, and outdoor activities. Your customers are out on the town with money in hand. Ready to buy YOUR products.

*They won't find you if your sitting here at your computer!*

Instead of waisting the summer waiting for online customers to return back to their computers, get out where the action is. Offline events are being booked as we speak - will you make money at the shows?

DirectSalesHelpers.com is now offering you a way to make the most possible sales and gain the most local customer this summer. The newest class "Offline Events" will get you ready to profit from your local shows.

You'll learn how to:

- Find as many possible events in your area
- Track your profits and losses from shows
- Gather the most leads for future purchases & shows
- Track your best selling products

Lessons are taught to you in easy to follow steps over a 4 week period via email. This means you can follow lessons at an easy pace, reading lessons and asking questions when it's convient for YOU. Questions are encouraged in this interactive group! Printable forms are also included for you to print as you need them.

To register for the "Offline Events" class, visit:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/event-class.html

To your success!

~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

P.S. There's only 50 spots available, grab your's today!

Vendors are Customers Too

2006-05-02T19:26:00.000-05:00

One of my problems with being a vendor at craft shows is making too many purchases. Since there are always two of us at the table, we often walk around and talk to other vendors. Which of course, leads to buying stuff. Many vendors do this, often times before the show or when they can "sneak away" for a few minutes.

A few weeks ago at a large craft show I was making my normal rounds before the show actually started. I came across a very large, nicely set up display of homemade gourmet mixes. You know the kind - dip mixes, teas, breads, etc. The table was set up for the most part, with samples already set out. There were cute signs and information carefully layed out on the table for customers to read, and at least 2 vendors working this table. The name itself caught my eye, since it's one I had thought I'd seen online, so I wanted to ask them a few questions.

I stood there for a few seconds, waiting for one of the vendors to finish her conversation with a personal friend. After a minute or so, they began to talk about a mutual friend of their's and his medical conditions, which happen to be something most wouldn't want to hear when looking at food. I couldn't get away from their table fast enough, I was disgusted! Not only did the vendor not acknowledge me in any way, but proceeded to talk to a friend about matters you do NOT want to hear when around food. Several hours later, I purchased a beer bread mix from their competition just a few tables down.

Some might say, "What's the big deal? The show hadn't started yet and you were a vendor!". While it's true the doors hadn't been officially opened yet, there were still other people around. Don't forget that vendors are customers too. There hasn't been one single show that I've been to where I didn't buy something from another vendors, or a vendor didn't buy from us. We treat EVERYONE like a customer, and because of that sell to several of the other vendors every time.

Basically what can be learned from this is don't ever write off a person as not being a customer. It doesn't matter how nice of a set up you have, if you aren't giving your full attention to every single person that walks by regardless of who they are, you are going to loose out!

Direct Sales Helpers On the Road

[DirectSalesInfo] Directory Listings & Direct Sales

2006-04-27T13:28:00.000-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers NewsTips you can use!
April 26th, 2006
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-------------------------------------------------
News From Direct Sales Helpers
-------------------------------------------------

Online Classes Now Available!
See details at:http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/classes.html

New Ebook: Successful Online PartiesLearn how to make your online party a success!http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/online-parties.html

Number Crunching Made EasyYour guide to keeping costs under control.http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/calculating-costs.html

-------------------------------------------------
Editor's Notes
-------------------------------------------------

The offline event class is now available! For details, visit: http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/event-class.html

This week we'll be talking about advertising with rep sites. What works and what doesn't. Anita has another event planned where she'll be reporting back to us, and Kara has several new "On the Road" articles to share in the month of May.

To your success!

~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

-------------------------------------------------
Direct Sales Helpers on the Road
-------------------------------------------------
This week we'll be covering a rather hot topic when it comes to event planning - how to set up your table. Read this article at: http://direct-sales-news.blogspot.com/2006/04/setting-up-tables-for-success-at-craft.html

-------------------------------------------------
This Week's Article
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Directory Listings & Direct Sales

Directory listings and other forms of advertising can be great exposure for anyone in business. However, if you are in direct sales and using a rep site you could be leaving lots of money on the table.

Even in direct sales, advertising online can be a huge benefit. One of the largest mistakes we see though, is the use of rep sites alone. Believe it or not, when advertising online your main objective is not to get customers to buy immediately. A very small percent will bookmark your site, so if your focus is just getting visitors that's all you'll have. And if you are lucky to get bookmarked … when is the last time you looked in your favorites list?

Instead of focusing on just getting people to your site to buy, focus on getting them to sign up to your list. This way you haven't lost them, they are just waiting to buy at a later time. To do this, of course, you will need your own website.

A rep site does have its purpose, and that's to complete the online buying process. It should be used as the end, not the start. Leads should come from your personal website or from you personally (offline or by email, stating to go to your rep site to order). Warm leads only should be sent to your rep site, while those just surfing should be sent to your personal website.

Contrary to popular belief, websites can be built fairly easily and inexpensively. So, do yourself and your pocketbook a favor and at least think about building your own personal website.

~Anita DeFrank & Kara Kelso~
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Success KitComplete success kit showing you step by step how to make your business a success!Details at:http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/kit.html

Direct Sales Products & ServicesOur goal is to help you succeed!Details at:http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/tools.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Was this newsletter passed on to you?Subscribe at:http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/newsletter.html

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers News
Published By:Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank
PO Box 104Prairie City, IA 50228
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/

Setting Up Tables for Success at Craft Shows

2006-04-25T17:24:00.000-05:00

One of the major questions after buying a vendor spot at a craft show is this: "How do I set up my table?". While it's important you have a nice looking table, the actual set up makes little or no difference. You don't have to be a professional designer to have a nice looking table.

When I walk around at craft shows I see many who use shelves, boxes, and other items to "lift" their items up. I also see banners, signs, and other "props" to make their items stand out. While these stands look extremely nice, it's not all the "extras" that pull in the sales.

Instead of focusing on how "pretty" your table looks (as important as that is), focus on how many items your visitors can pick up and hold. If you have candles, encourage them to pick up and smell everything. If you sell food, make absolutely sure you have samples. Scrapbooking supplies? Paper to touch, stamps to use, and other items to feel. Toys? Have lots to play with. It's been our experience the products the customer can actually pick up are the ones that sell the most.

Now don't get me wrong - you need a certain level of organization to your table. This doesn't have to be difficult though. Place like items together in groups, and the most eye catching items at the ends of the table (this catches the attention of people scanning, and if the eye catching item is at the end, they will stop for another look before moving on). Some candle reps I see lumping same scents together, while we prefer to lump types of candles together (all 8oz in ones area, 12oz behind them, 9oz teddy bears in front, melts all in one basket). This has always worked extremely well for us, and gives us a chance to spread out the scents over the entire table.

While tips are good, don't forget the best way to find what works for you is to just do it. Attend a craft show or two to see what others are doing, and talk to other vendors if you need more ideas. Good luck!

Direct Sale Helpers On the Road

Craft Show Tables - Is Expensive Better?

2006-04-19T04:00:00.000-05:00

"More expensive doesn't always mean better. "

I think we all know this statement because it applies to just about any business expense, but over the weekend it was confirmed for us.

We attended a very established craft show featuring around 100 different vendors. This location has 4 craft shows a year, every year, and has been going on for over a decade. However, this was the first year we had attended this particular event as a vendor.

The layout was pretty simple, and they had two main sections. The front area by the door which lead into the main room (it's actually a theater at an amusement park, the main room was where the chairs would have been and crafters were even up on the stage). The other main area was the hallway that wrapped around the main section. It was easily accessible from all areas, and not hard to see. Even still, this narrow hallway section was about half the cost of the main. Since it was our first time at this event, we opted for the hallway because of the price and to see how it went.

I was amazed at how well we did considering we were "stuck out in the hallway". I really don't think there was many guests that didn't make it back in that hallway, and the table was large enough for us to make $200 in sales (the table cost $35). That was slightly above average for us to make that much for a table so cheap. The last event we attended was only about $150 in sales for the same size table. What really blew us away was talking with another vendor who stated this was the "slow show". *GASP!* If this was slow, I want to see the busy one for sure. *grin*

The main difference between costs was not so much the location, but the size of the space. Could we have made more with a fancy, large display instead of a table? Possibly, it's hard to say because of all the variables involved. We wouldn't know for sure unless we attended the same event at the same time of year. However, it's been our experience that the size of the area and massive set up makes little difference. Our table doesn't get much more basic, and our sales really come from talking with the customers. Just last fall at a different show someone with an elaborate display a few tables from us didn't even sell half as much as we did. We talked to our customers - he didn't as much. By the way, he had soy candles like us. ;)

The lesson from this experience was this: spending more on a table at a craft show doesn't always mean more sales. We took the smaller area in the out of the way place for less cost, and still made a nice profit. The guests were there to see all the tables, not just those in the main section, so we were found either way by most. Being in the main section could have gotten us lost in the crowd, because it even took us a few times walking around to find every table.

While taking a look at some of these shows before buying a table is a good idea, it's not always an option. Testing on your own is going to give you the best understanding of what's worth it and what's not. Don't be afraid to take a loss, and chalk it up to experience!

Direct Sales Helpers - On the Road

Holding Successful Drawings & Contests

2006-04-13T06:38:00.000-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers News
Tips you can use!April 12th, 2006
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-------------------------------------------------
News From Direct Sales Helpers
-------------------------------------------------

Online Classes Now Available!See details at
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/classes.html

New Ebook: Successful Online PartiesLearn how to make your online party a success!http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/online-parties.html

Free Class: Choosing Your BusinessStart out on the right foot by choosing the right business first!This class and ebook free. Details at: http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/free-class.html

Number Crunching Made EasyYour guide to keeping costs under control. http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/calculating-costs.html

Mom Chats Reopens!Details at:
http://direct-sales-news.blogspot.com/2006/03/momchatscom-grand-re-opening.html

-------------------------------------------------
Editor's Notes
-------------------------------------------------

Have you registered for the online party class yet? If you have been wanting to hold your own online party, this class is something you may be interested in. An ebook is also available for purchase, which is offered for free to those that have purchased the Direct Sales Success Kit. Detail for each are listed below.

Online Classes: http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/classes.html
Online Party Class: http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/online-party-class.html
Successful Online Parties Ebook: http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/online-parties.html
Direct Sales Success Kit: http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/kit.html

To your success!
~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

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Direct Sales Helpers on the Road
-------------------------------------------------

The chapter of Anita's day out at the Home Business Job Fair has come to an end, although there's still plenty of offline even tips to come. Kara is on the road with Prairie Soy Candles and will have lots of information to share after each craft show and event.This week's topic is all about gathering leads at craft shows.
Read more here:http://direct-sales-news.blogspot.com/2006/04/capturing-leads.html

-------------------------------------------------
This Week's Article
-------------------------------------------------

Holding Successful Drawings & Contests

Contests and drawings can be a great way to pull in business. However, if not done correctly you can end up with nothing but a whole lot of freebie seekers. The rule of quality over quantity applies here!

Just a few weeks ago I held a drawing for a $25 gift certificate. I learned quite a bit from this drawing, and will be able to fine tune this type of promotion in the future. One of the main points I learned was the key to a successful drawing is when you get the absolute most exposure and leads as a result. There are several main points you'll want to focus on with your drawing.

With your drawing, you should:

- Gather information from potential customers
In the last drawing I did, I asked those entering a few simple questions aside from basic information of name and address that had to do with the site. They actually had to look around before filling in an answer. Forms that weren't complete were tossed, since the rules were clearly posted and said "please fill out form completely". I was able to weed out those that were trying to grab a freebie from those that were truly interested enough to follow rules.

I also was able to gather some interesting information about my customers, like how much they spend a month on my type of product, and how often they use it. Valuable information since it comes straight from the customer!

- Schedule catalog shows and online parties
With any drawing online or offline, you'll want to ask those entering about being a hostess. It's a way of using the freebie seekers to your advantage. You know they won't buy, but they can find people that will and still get their free products.

- Sign up newsletter subscribers
If you want a responsive list, don't force them to sign up to enter your drawing. Making them do nothing but enter an email address to enter isn't going to do you any good, and they'll probably use a "throw away" email address to send your newsletter to. Instead, plug your newsletter AFTER they enter your drawing. Give them a chance to look around your site first with the questionnaire, and THEN offer the newsletter. You'll build a much more responsive list this way.

- Build a relationship with winner
At the end of the drawing and after you pick your winner, you can now build a relationship with them for future orders. Follow up, ask questions, talk to them, etc. Treat them as you would any other customer!

One of my main regrets for the last drawing I held was that I didn't ask enough questions. Had I done a longer questionnaire, I could have gotten more information and kept the potential customer on my site longer. It's in my notes, that's for sure. ;)

The main point here is, don't make it easy. Easy to figure out, but not easy to enter. Don't be afraid to make them jump through a few hoops. You may not end up with as many entering, but you'll have a much more targeted group of entries. The more work they do to enter, the more interested they are!

~Anita DeFrank & Kara Kelso~
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Success Kit
Complete success kit showing you step by step how to make your business a success!
Details at:http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/kit.html

Direct Sales Products & ServicesOur goal is to help you succeed!
Details at:http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/tools.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Was this newsletter passed on to you? Subscribe at: http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/newsletter.html

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers News
Published By: Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank
PO Box 104Prairie City, IA 50228
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

Capturing Leads

2006-04-12T03:30:00.000-05:00

Attending craft shows can be an excellent way to pick up sales, but more importantly - gathering leads. Your ultimate goal is of course to make sales in the end, but to have the name and address of your customer can prove to be more valuable than just one simple sale.

There's many ways to capture a lead or get the name of your customer at the very least. Two of the main ideas I spotted at the last craft show that were working the best were:

1. Drawings
This is almost a given, and we all know this is one of the best ways to pull in leads. Most tables has the options to check off boxes for more information on the products, earning free products, or more info on earning money.

2. "For Display Only" Products
Several tables I saw that were set up very nicely were for display only. There were no "cash and carry" products at all, only displays of popular products. Reps would talk to each person that walked by and encourage orders from the catalog. This way they were still making sales, but they also had information on the customer so they could contact them later.

At your next craft show, see if you can use one or both of these ideas to gather leads. Don't forget that your mailing list is gold, and will bring you the more sales than any other type of marketing!

Direct Sales Helpers - On the Road

Online Parties Increase Sales

2006-04-05T12:45:00.000-05:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers NewsTips you can use!
April 5th, 2006
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-------------------------------------------------
News From Direct Sales Helpers
-------------------------------------------------

Online Classes Now Available! See details at:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/classes.html

New Ebook: Successful Online PartiesLearn how to make your online party a success!http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/online-parties.html

Free Class: Choosing Your BusinessStart out on the right foot by choosing the right business first!This class and ebook free at. Details at:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/free-class.html

Number Crunching Made EasyYour guide to keeping costs under control. http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/calculating-costs.html

Mom Chats Reopens!Details at:
http://direct-sales-news.blogspot.com/2006/03/momchatscom-grand-re-opening.html

-------------------------------------------------
Editor's Notes
-------------------------------------------------
Lots of things going on, and we're excited! First let us mention yesterday's announcement about the online classes. This was a pretty big announcement, since our online party class is the first of many to come. Not only will there be others available, but we've got a line of ebooks being released right along side of them. LOTS of information included, and did we mention the ebooks are free to those who have purchased the Direct Sales Kit? Here's some links you may want to check out for more information:

Online Classes:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/classes.html

Online Party Class:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/online-party-class.html

Successful Online Parties Ebook:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/online-parties.html

Direct Sales Success Kit:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/kit.html

-------------------------------------------------
Direct Sales Helpers on the Road
-------------------------------------------------

The chapter of Anita's day out at the Home Business Job Fair has come to an end, although there's still plenty of offline even tips to come. Kara is on the road with Prairie Soy Candles and will have lots of information to share after each craft show and event. This week's topic is all about networking with other vendors. Read more here:
http://direct-sales-news.blogspot.com/2006/04/networking-at-craft-shows.html

-------------------------------------------------
This Week's Article
-------------------------------------------------

Online Parties Increase Sales Everyone in the direct sales party plan business knows what a home party is. It's the basics of a direct sales company, more or less. Even if your company doesn't focus on home parties, you know what they are and almost everyone has been to one.

However, with the growing number of people coming online to do business, online parties are becoming more and more popular. Even still, not many know what an online party is or how they can drastically make a difference in your online sales.

The basics behind an online party is very much like that of a home party. Guests are invited to one location to listen to a presentation, and then look over products to buy. Often times games are played to keep the guests having fun, and products ordered.

With online parties, guests only have to log in to a chat room where they meet the consultant, and often times a hostess. Instead of looking at products in a catalog or on a table, products are viewed on websites. Games are still played, but done virtually.

Online parties can work wonderfully for consultants, hostesses, and guests. Noone has to drive to a home, the hostess doesn't have to clean house, noone needs baby sitters, family and friends from all over the country can join the party, yet all the same benefits apply to everyone involved.

Despite the ease of online parties, it's equally hard to gather all guests into a chat room at one time. Some are still "new" at "the computer thing", so may not be able to easily enter the chat room. Time conflicts still apply, even though not having to drive makes it easier. Remembering to be online at a certain time is also a set back, since there is no pressure to go somewhere, it’s easier to forget. Because of this, you'll want to keep your party open for a certain amount of time after to make sure you don't miss party sales and make sure you are doing all the advertising possible.

We've addressed the basics, although know there are many other questions and concerns about online parties. For help getting started on setting up your first online party, visit: http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/online-party-class.html

~Anita DeFrank & Kara Kelso~
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Success KitComplete success kit showing you step by step how to make your business a success!Details at:http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/kit.html

Direct Sales Products & ServicesOur goal is to help you succeed! Details at: http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/tools.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Was this newsletter passed on to you?Subscribe at:http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/newsletter.html

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Direct Sales Helpers News Published
By:Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank
PO Box 104Prairie City, IA 50228
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com

Networking at Craft Shows

2006-04-05T07:25:00.000-05:00

When you attend a craft show as a vendor, the main goal is of course to make sales and gather leads. However, there's one important step that should be forgotten, and that's networking with the other vendors.

The last craft show I attended wasn't a large one, but it was very local. We had the choice to attend a large one in a big city, or a small local one. I sure am glad we picked the smaller one, because it gave us a chance to get more local leads and make a better impression.

Because there was two of us, we took turns walking around and talking with the other vendors. Not only did we gather display ideas, but we got to talk to the vendors about their businesses as well. As a result of doing this, several business cards were handed out, a wholesale lead gained, and another show was scheduled. I was most impressed with the additional show scheduled. If I wouldn't have gone to talk to her, I would have never known she held her own shows in a small town near by.

Networking online is so important, yet many overlook how much more important it is to network offline. By making connections and friendships with other vendors, you are opening the door for more opportunities to promote your products. The more you network, the more lucky it seems you are.

The lesson of this story is to not stay stuck in your own table, but rather get out on the floor and chat with other people. You will be surprised on what you can find out, and how much better you will do!

Direct Sales Helpers - On the Road

Direct Sales Chatter

2006-04-05T07:05:00.000-05:00

Have you been to the boards recently? (Or at all for that matter!) We have some really great Direct Sales Discussions going on and I'd like to invite you to come join us!

(Links will open in a new window so you don't loose your spot)

How do you offer discounts?

Profit, Team Building or Both?

Do you sell pieces from your sales kit?

Do you have car magnets?

New Syndication Format

2006-04-05T06:48:00.000-05:00

Some of you may have noticed lately that you haven't been receiving your Bloglet updates from here. I'm not sure why it's not working and I've been trying to get it fixed for quite some time now. In the meantime I had been testing another service for myself called FeedBlitz. This service is basically set up the same way as Bloglet but way better features (and I don't think I've not received an update for over a month now). Another great feature that FeedBlitz had was the ability to import our Bloglet subscribers right to FeedBlitz so each of you don't have to do a thing. Those of you that were subscribed to Bloglet have been automatically switched to FeedBlitz.

If you'd like to recieve an email each time DSIN is updated please feel free to subscribe with our FeedBlitz box on the sidebar.

Successful Online Parties

2006-04-04T09:28:00.000-05:00

If you've been thinking about hosting a party online, but didn't know
how to get started, Direct Sales Helpers has the perfect solution.

Introducing: Direct Sales Helpers Virtual Classes

On April 17th, we'll be starting our first online class taught by
resident expert Val Selby. She'll be using our brand new ebook, "Successful Online Parties" to teach you how to set up your first online party. In addition, you'll learn how to gain the most visitors to your party and earn the most sales.

For details on registration, visit:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/online-party-class.html

Only 50 spots are available, so be sure to register as soon as
possible!

To your success!

~Kara Kelso & Anita DeFrank~
http://www.DirectSalesHelper.com

P.S. Interesting in just the ebook? For details, visit:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/online-parties.html

Connie Horne, Home Business Job Fair Vendor

2006-03-28T19:42:00.000-05:00

Elementary school teacher, Connie Horne, shares the joy of education even in her home business.

Horne of State College, Pennsylvania has been with Usborne Books/EDC Educational Services for over 11 years. The fact that she’s an elementary school teacher and former day care provider makes it more than obvious why this was her company of choice. This veteran direct sales consultant has 20 active downline members, 234 inactive and keeps them motivated with emails, phone calls, newsletters and awards.

Connie works approximately 8 hours a week on her business but like most of us – this greatly varies from week to week. “The look of joy on children’s faces when they look at Usborne Books” is this consultant’s favorite aspect of her business.

Horne was contacted by Gwen via email to attend this event, having met at a previous job fair and usually finds out about such events through word of mouth and newspapers. When asked what she’d bring had she been allowed only one, Connie replied with a very simple – products. “Advertise, Advertise, Advertise for events, keep samples of products/catalogs with you everywhere you go” says Connie.

A little more about Usborne…

Colorful, educational, fun books, puzzles, kids kits for all ages available through direct sales, homeshows, internet sales, e-shows, bookfairs, fundraisers, school and library sales are the types of products carried by Usborne consultants.

Usborne Books does not have any territory restrictions in place.

Promotional materials are available through the consultant website and are offered at great discounts and new titles monthly.

Usborne does not have any quotas in place however, you are required to have $85 in net sales within the first 12 weeks.

Consultants are not required to keep inventory.

Usborne does offer company websites, sometimes for free to new consultants through various promotions, with $50 yearly renewal fees.

Consultants are responsible for hostess credits/gifts.

Shipping and handling is 8% of the sales with an optional $5 special delivery fee and usually arrive within a week.

Usborne does offer dropshipping to party hostesses.

The commission structure is as follows:
25% for Home Shows with a minimum of $85 retail,
30% for Direct Sales with a minimum of $85 retail,
15% for Direct Sales $25 - $84,
20% for Book Fairs form $200 - $499,
17% for Book Fairs $500 and up,
17% - 25% for School & Library sales with a $25 minimum

Consultants are paid immediately – taking the commission out before they send the orders in.

Usborne also offers personal sales bonuses of 3 – 5% for sales over $300 net per month and 4% recruiting bonus on all of your personal recruits.

Usborne does not have any inactive fees.

Cash, Check, Charge, and Debit (except AMEX) are accepted forms of payments with no minimum purchase requirements.

Opportunity Structure is as follows:
Usborne offers “One Step at a Time Program” during first 12 weeks where discounts, free books, and cash can be earned. They can offer Double Free hostess books during this time to 20 hostesses, including themselves. Once an initial kit is purchased, the consultant has lifetime discounts for products. Consultants can promote to supervisor or executive supervisor and have unlimited earning potential from their downline.

Usborne also offers monthly contests awards and trips.

Usborne does have a fundraising opportunity available.

Startup kits and prices vary but are currently $29.95 or $99.95.

For training purposes, Usborne offers conventions, regionals, online training, chat rooms, FTP site, message boards, consultant web sites, CDs, books, manuals etc.

Consultants/Customers pay taxes when ordering.

Usborne offere a satisfaction guarantee, lifetime ½ price replacement policy.

Consultants can advertise online.

Please note that any of the above is subject to change and was true at the time of this writing. Please be sure to contact the vendor below with any questions, comments, concerns and/or changes.

Connie Horne
conubah@aol.com
http://www.ubah.com/C0560

Wahm-Articles.com - Submit Your Articles

2006-03-28T13:03:00.000-05:00

There's a new article directory in town and it's catering to especially you. The work at home mom (aka wahm)!

The idea behind it is pretty simple - not only did we have a good size
library of articles available for reprint, but we knew there was a ton
of other wahms that have articles as well. We also have had a hard
time finding family specific articles for our childcare section of
MHMM Ezine. The main reason for this is because most article
directories aren't focused on moms. Well, we've fixed that!

Please feel free to submit any articles or stories you have about
family, kids, business, health, or other woman-related topics. If you
publish a newsletter, stop by and see the articles in our database.

I hope this will be a great resource for those of you with newsletters
and articles!

Wahm-Articles.com

Enjoy!

Direct Sales Helpers on the Road

2006-03-23T07:24:00.000-05:00

Since we had such a good response from Anita's Day Out series, we've decided to make this type of thing permanent column. Anita still has several more interviews, and Kara will be attending several craft shows in the upcoming weeks as a vendor. While there, she'll be taking notes and making observations to share in this new section titled "Direct Sales Helpers on the Road".

You'll be able to visit this post to find all of our most recent trips. You'll notice a link on the left that will stay there so you can always find this section for quick and easy access.

Please note that all the following links will open in new windows.

Capturing Leads

Networking at Craft Shows

Craft Show Tables - Is Expensive Better?

Anita's Day Out - Home Business Job Fair - Lewistown, PA
Home Business Job Fair Introduction
Gwen Cleck, Home Business Job Fair Coordinator
Laurie Fischer, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Pat Noll, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Tina Leininger, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Karen Huber, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Deb Barlett, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Carla Olberholtzer, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Connie Horne, Home Business Job Fair Vendor

Carla Olberholtzer, Home Business Job Fair Vendor

2006-03-22T20:45:00.000-05:00

Scrapbooking lover, Carla Oberholtzer, attends the Home Business Job Fair.

Oberholtzer of Lititz, PA has been with TopLine Creations since October of 2004. Looking for something new to the market with a ground floor opportunity for growing a home based business and the fact that she loves to scrapbook made choosing this business a simple decision.

This not being her firt event, Carla found out about this event basically the same way she usually finds out about other events, relying on email, referrals and word of mouth.

With 5 members in her downline, Oberholtzer says she keeps her team motivated with, "Monthly incentives from my [her] uplines and myself, emails and goal setting."

"Using my own products at a great discount and meeting people who also like to scrapbook", are her favorite aspects of this business, says Carla. She also spends approximately 14 hours a week on her business between, one show a week, preparing samples, orders, emails etc.

Oberholtzer also mentions that if she were only allow to bring one thing to events such as these .... she'd bring her examples.

A little more about Top Line Creations...

Top Line Creations (aka TLC) carries a wide-array of scrapbook products.

There are no requirements to hold home parties or any territory restrictions.

Consultants can obtain promotional materials by purchasing them themselves or use company TLC Cash (free money that is earned through orders) to purchase business materials or products.

Catalogs are $2.50; Flyers/Marketing Brochures are $3.00/25 (minus consultant discount)

Consultants are required to place a $25 retail order every 6 months to remain active.

TLC does not require consultants to keep inventory.

TLC does offer company websites for $9.95 a month or $99.50 for 12 months.

TLC does offer one gift and hostess credits for home parties. The consultant is responsible for extra incentives and gifts.

TLC charges a $5 handling fee and the shipping costs depends on the order amount – starting at 5%.

Packing of orders takes 3-5 days and the shipping depends on the area – usually 3 -5 days. They also do offer dropshipping.

Commissions start at 25% discount and 5% commission on recruits. Once you’ve attained 3 active recruits under you, you earn 8% on downline orders/sales (personal and group volume apply). Consultants also have the opportunity to ultimately earn a 30% discount and a free car. Potential to earn up to 12% commission on downline. Commissions are sent via checks once a month.

TLC also offers extra incentives quarterly for reaching certain sales or highest recruits.

Credit card, Checks, Money Order and Paypal are accepted forms of payment with no minimum purchases.

TLC does offer fundraising opportunities but does not offer wholesale.

TLC offers a start up kit for $49.99 plus S&H (over $100 in value) also an add-on kit opportunity for $100 plus S&H (over $200 in value). These contain a scrapping bag/tote, products and Business Elements.

TLC does also offer training.

Consultants are responsible to collect and report sales tax.

In the event of termination – TLC will purchase re-sellable stock, minus a re-stocking fee.

TLC does not have a non-compete clause in place and consultants are allowed to advertise their business online.

Please note that any of the above is subject to change and was true at the time of this writing. Please be sure to contact the coordinator below with any questions, comments, concerns and/or changes.

Carla Oberholtzer
oberholtzercarla@yahoo.com
http://www.topline-creations.com/simplescraps

Are your costs more than your profits?

2006-03-22T07:50:00.000-05:00

As a reader of DSIN we know you are actively trying to improve on your business, and calculating costs is often something that's left out. If you aren't accurately tracking your costs, then you could be spending more money that you are making from promotions.

Fortunately, there's one easy way to keep your costs under control, and that's by estimating your promotion costs before you start.

This may sound simple enough to some, but not all of us can be a wiz at math, or know the "secret formula" to making more than you spend. The truth of the matter is, calculating costs is boring and sometimes complicated.

Which is why DirectSalesHelpers has come up with a solution to this problem:

"Number Crunching Made Easy - Direct Sales Guide to Controling Your Costs" is a brand new kit, which puts YOU in control of your costs. It will save you tons of money on promotion as well as your precious time.

If you don't have a clue, or don't even know where to start, this new kit available is perfect for you. We've taken the most popular forms of promotion, and maped out the steps you need to take to figure the estimated costs for each.

With this kit you'll be able to:

- Calculate your profits and losses
- Know the average response rates
- Immediately know which promotion is worth it
- Take the "guess work" out of promotion

The best part is, you don't need to know a whole lot of math in order to do it! Hiring an associate to do this type of work for you can be costly, so why not do it yourself?

For more information, visit:
http://www.DirectSalesHelpers.com/calculating-costs.html

To your success!

By the way ... for a limited time ... Number Crunching Made Easy comes free with each purchase of The Direct Sales Success Kit ;-)

MomChats.com - Grand Re-Opening

2006-03-20T19:59:00.000-05:00

Back by popular demand - MomChats.com Re-Opens their doors!

We'd also like to take this time to announce the newest member to our team ... Val Selby of

http://www.LittleScrapBookShop.com
Specializing in kits to get your pages done.

http://www.BusyMommaWellness.com
Your health should be top priority ... join her in discussions on how to make sure it is!

Val will be helping you in scheduling your next online event and will make sure you never miss another!

What is Mom Chats?
Mom Chats is a competely free website where mothers can get together to host online parties, chat, attend networking events, and so much more. All chats are free, and it's also free to schedule events.

Chat Schedule
Don't want to miss the next scheduled networking event? Maybe you want to see if a certain date is available for your next online party. Whatever the reason, be sure to see our current chat schedule for all events!

Schedule a Chat
Looking for a place to hold your next online event? Renting a room at MomChats.com is free. Schedule Online Parties, Networking Events, Topic Chats (aka "How To Chats"), Team Meetings, Opportunity Chats ... or whatever your event. Be sure to check out the guidelines!

Don't forget to register so you won't miss the next chat!

Importance of Calculating Costs in Direct Sales

2006-03-20T07:31:00.000-05:00

Did you miss the chat?

Chat Transcript Now Available!

If you missed our chat on Thursday about the importance of calculating costs, don't feel left out! The transcript is now available for free at http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/chat.html

Dear Anita & Kara-

I just finished going through your newest ebook "Number Crunching Made Easy". Again, you have broken down the basics into an easy to understand guide for those of us in Direct Sales. Not only will I be able to use it in preparing for an advertising campaign, but the forms you have provided will help me determine the cost effectiveness of each method, before and after. You've really covered all the bases.

Thanks for another great product-can't wait to see what you come up with next!

Sincerely,
Lauren Haugh
Independent Consultant, #420635
Top Line Creations

Direct Sales Chat Alert

2006-03-15T08:52:00.000-05:00

If you are a mom in direct sales, this is a chat you don't want to miss!

DirectSalesHelpers will be featured at WAHM's United for a very special chat. In this chat you'll find the importance of counting your pennies and watching what you spend on your promotions. We'll cover some important points, and of course be answering questions.

You'll also want to stick around to the end when we make a very important announcement about an upcoming product from DirectSalesHelpers.com!

Chat Topic: Importance of Calculating Costs in Direct Sales
Date: March 16th
Time: 7pm EST
Place: WAHMs United Chat Room

Need a reminder or want to be notified of future chats? Visit:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/chat.html

Deb Barlett, Home Business Job Fair Vendor

2006-03-15T06:31:00.000-05:00

New to her companies, multi-tasker, Deb Bartlett represents two companies at the home business job fair.

This being Bartlett’s first event, she found out about this particular event at CraftLister.com. Deb represents both Stuff a Friend (that she’s been with for about 3 months) and The Greeting Cake Company (that she’s been with for about 5 months).

Mrs. Bartlett joined these companies because the product and company were something different to her local area and both very easy businesses to run. She’s also enjoying the low or no start up fees and the fact that she can run both businesses her way.

Being new to these businesses she does not yet have a downline with either business and works them about 8 hours a week on each business. When asked if she could only bring one thing to an event such as this Deb replied that she’d bring her products because they will sell themselves. “Ask everyone you know and always talk about your business,” shares Barlett.

A little more about Stuff a Friend…

Stuff a Friend carries un-stuffed animals and dolls, similar to the popular mall store and many other new products are being added frequently. Kids stuff the kits themselves.

SAF does not have any territory restrictions nor any requirements to hold home parties.

Representatives can purchase promotional materials via the company website, use their own resources or even make their own.

SAF does not have any quotas for representatives to meet.

There is no requirement to keep inventory however, it certainly helps to have a few animals on hand to show prospecting customers.

SAF does offer company websites which are give to each representative for free.

Representatives will be responsible for any hostess credits/gifts that the representative would set up. SAF parties are not like a traditional home party so there usually is nothing like this.

SAF shipping and handling prices start at $5.00 and then vary depending on order sizes. Delivery time of 2 weeks is a good time frame to advise customer but can be less.

Stuff a Friend does offer dropshipping.

Commissions are distributed via paypal for orders placed through representatives websites. Representatives sell at retail and purchase at wholesale (approximately 30% off) so they’re paid immediately for all offline sales.

Paypal, credit cards, checks and cash are accepted methods of payment with no minimum purchases.

Stuff a Friend does have a unique fundraising opportunity as they’re able to be held online and for an ongoing basis.

There are no start up fees for SAF and the starter kits pricing varies as there is a lot of different kits to choose from.

SAF does not offer a lot of hands on training but does offer advice, tips, tricks etc to help you run your business and has an active message board for representatives.

Representatives are responsible for their own taxes for all offline orders. Online orders are taken care of by SAF.

Representatives may advertise online.

Please note that any of the above is subject to change and was true at the time of this writing. Please be sure to contact the coordinator below with any questions, comments, concerns and/or changes.

Deb Barlett
Independent Representative #742
servicemom@stuffafriend.com
http://www.stuffafriend.com/shop.php?servicemom

A little more about The Greeting Cake Company…

The Greeting Cake Company offers cakes that come with a personalized greeting on the top, brownies, “cup cakes” (coffee mug cakes) plus many new items are being added frequently.

GCC does not have any territory restrictions or any requirements to hold home parties.

Distributors can order promotional materials through the home office, use their own resources or make them themselves.

GCC does require that distributors make at least one order each quarter. This order can even be as small as one cake to remain active.

There is no requirement to keep inventory however, it does help.

GCC does offer company sponsored websites for $7 a month.

Shipping and handling costs vary on size and destination. They usually ship orders within 3 business days.

GCC does offer dropshipping.

Commissions are paid via check for all orders made online. Distributors are paid immediately for offline orders as customers pay at retail price and distributors purchased at wholesale cost.

Paypal, credit cards, checks and cash are accepted methods of payment with no minimum purchases.

GCC does offer both fundraising and wholesale opportunities.

GCC’s start up kits start at $15 for paperwork only.

Distributors are responsible for all taxes.

Greeting Cake Distributors are permitted to advertise online.

Deb Barlett
Independent Distributor #05091228
http://www.greetingcakeco.com/dbartlett/

Karen Huber, Home Business Job Fair Vendor

2006-03-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

Cozy and fashionable, Karen Huber of Weekenders also attends the home business job fair.

Huber, who has been with her direct sales company for two years, proudly displayed her apparel via both her display table and on herself. Really enjoying the clothing line was one of her biggest decision makers in joining this company. Living nearby, Karen found about this particular event and usually finds out through the coordinator of this event.

Ms. Huber currently does not have a downline but is actively working on building. Seeing the new fashions each season is one of her favorite aspects of her business and she only works a few hours a week at the moment. If there was only one item she could bring to an event such as these, Huber says she’d bring her catalogs.

When asked to share any comments concerning events such as this one, without delay, Huber says, “These types of events are great for networking!”

A little more about Weekenders…

Clothing, skin products and nutrition products make up the majority of the Weekenders line.

There are no territory restrictions for coordinators to comply with.

Weekenders does not require coordinators to hold home parties.

Coordinators can acquire promotional materials through the company and are as follows:

Clothing packs range from $300 to $600.
Sales aids, postcards etc. are available for around $2 to $15.

Weekenders does have a sales quota in effect that coordinators are to make $100 in orders in three months and there is no requirement to keep inventory.

This company does offer company websites and they cost $30 a quarter.

Fashion coordinators are responsible for hostess credits/gifts.

Shipping and handling costs $10.95 per order and they’re delivered usually within a few days.

For In-home sales…
Coordinators demonstrate Fashions in customer’s home and takes orders. The coordinator then orders from Weekenders and receives a 25 – 40% retail discount on in-home fashion line merchandise. Coordinator delivers products to the customer.

For Website sales…
Coordinator refers customers to Life-Products web site. Customers order their own products on the internet. Weekenders collect the money from the customer and credits the Coordinator back 25% (web income). All orders are shipped directly to the customer.

Jewelry, vacations, awards from the president and seasonal incentive awards of company products are some additional bonuses offered by Weekenders.

There are no inactive fees, however, if you loose your 40% discount status, you have to sign up all over and work up to the 40% again.

Visa, MasterCard, Discover, checks and cash are accepted payment methods with no minimum on purchases.

The opportunity structure is named as follows:
Independent Coordinator, Team Leader, Sales Manager, Senior Sales Manager, Executive Sales Manager, Senior Executive Sales Manager, National Sales Manager

Weekenders does offer a fundraising opportunity but does not offer a wholesale opportunity.

Start up kits range from $300 to $600 and include different types of clothing, brochures, postcards and swatches.

Weekenders does offer training.

This company does offer a Buy Back Policy within a time limit and has a Return Policy for customers to return within ten days.

Weekenders can not advertise online.

Please note that any of the above is subject to change and was true at the time of this writing. Please be sure to contact the coordinator below with any questions, comments, concerns and/or changes.

Karen Huber
Weekenders
libraria@verizon.net OR librariall@yahoo.com
http://www.weekendersusa.com

Are you having Online Parties?

2006-03-07T20:10:00.000-05:00

We've had quite a few subscribers asking for more information about online parties. Since we're here for you ... answering the questions you have ... giving solutions for your problems. We need your feedback!

Are you still having online parties?

Locating Local Craft Shows

2006-03-04T18:51:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again! Christmas is over and the weather is starting to get warm, which means craft shows are starting to be scheduled. Are you ready to start looking for events?

We all know how profitable a craft show can be. Offline events are perfect for getting the word out about your business and making new contacts. What could be better than hundreds of shoppers walking right up to you and saying hello?

The most difficult part of a craft show is actually locating them before all the tables are booked. If you have never attended an event before, be prepared to spend several shows stuffed in the very back at a last minute table. Many of us start out like this, but as soon as you get on "the lists", your table location WILL be better.

The following idea for locating events is brand new, and given to us by a "neighbor" at our last craft show. While chatting with her, she pulls out a book and asked if we had this. It was titled "Iowa Calendar of Events", and was FULL of events for all over the state. Granted there were many events that do not accept vendors (theater dates, car shows, etc), but the list of shows that did accept vendors was amazing. All events were listed by date, complete with location and contact information. Perfect!

While this information might have been great for us being in Iowa, you might ask what good does it do for the rest of you in different states. I'll tell you - this booklet was free from our travel information website. All we had to do is go online and request a free copy. Iowa has a very limited amount of sights to see, yet we still have a travel website. This to me says other states have the same kind of information on website or with local offices.

There's a few ways to find out if your state has information like this:

- Check your state website
Often times the travel and event information will be right on your government website.

- Search online
Use terms like "travel" or "tourism" with your state to see if there's a specific website.

- Local offices
If all else fails, contact your state government offices to see if anything in print is offered.

Even in a small state like Iowa, we were able to find a list that will keep us booked every month for the entire craft fair season. Once you have your information, the easy part is contacting those on the list. Easy!

---------------------------------------
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. If you need additional help with booking and attending offline events, visit: http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/offline-events.html

Tina Leininger, Home Business Job Vendor

2006-02-28T20:42:00.000-05:00

Ten year veteran, Tina Leininger of Longaberger, attends the home business job fair to show off her fabulous baskets.

Ten year veteran, Tina Leininger of Longaberger, attends the home business job fair to show off her fabulous baskets.

Leininger of Lebanon, PA found out about this particular event through a friend, who is also the coordinator. Otherwise, she usually finds out by networking at other events, CraftListers, and ads in merchandisers and newspapers.

With 7 members in her downline, Tina keeps them motivated through monthly meetings, regular email messages and challenges with incentives. Instant gratification [her paychecks] and the desire for the products by customers are a couple of the more important reasons for choosing this company. She also shares that one of her favorite aspects of her business is the friendships that she has made over the years.

When I asked Leininger approximately how much time she spends on her business, she proudly replied, “This is the beauty of the direct sales business, time varies to whatever you make it. When my children were younger, my time was usually one hour every other day. But, now that they are older I try for at least one hour everyday. If it is a day of a party or event, then of course more time is spent, but it is also planned. As a Branch Leader, I also set aside 1 day a month for 2 hours to plan m my meetings, incentives and update my knowledge of company issues.”

Tina responded that business cards – “because they hold the resource information of everything for me i.e. contact of me, contact of the company, and online reviewing and order of products” – would be her choice if she were only able to bring one thing to an event such as this one.

A few words of wisdom …
Always network, especially with other direct sales companies. We all have good ideas, suggestions and resources. We all have good days and bad days. Networking with others helps keep you and your business in line and conquers the ‘fear’ and ‘I can’t do this’ mentality.”

A little more about Longaberger…

Home décor, baskets, pottery and wrought iron makes up the product for Longaberger.

There aren’t any territory restrictions or requirements to hold parties.

Consultants can acquire promotional materials through the company’s home office. They vary in pricing but, for example – Feature Flyers are $17/100 and Wishlist (full catalogs) $13/30.
To stay active, Longaberger does require you to have $1000 in sales per year but they do not require consultants to keep inventory.

Longaberger offers but there is no requirement for consultants to have a company sponsored website that allows ordering for $75 a year.

Consultants are responsible for hostess credits/gifts.

Shipping and handling costs 10% of the order and usually delivers within 3 – 4 weeks (but does vary at times). They also offer dropshipping for a small additional feel.

Home consultants earn 25% commission on personal sales. Branch Leaders earn between 5.1% and 6% of direct team sales and 3% of indirects if monthly direct group personal sales are $6,000+. If less than $6,000 – 3% and 1.5%.

Personal commissions are kept immediately when paid for shows. Leadership commissions are paid via direct deposit monthly.

Free featured products earned in each new campaign with consultants who have sales of $1000 a month and free products and money at times with new recruits that sign and qualify with $1000 in sales in 30 days are a few of the additional bonuses offered through Longaberger.

Consultants pay company via check, money order or direct withdrawal. Consultants have the option to sign up with a credit car service company if they wish to accept credit cards. There is no minimum purchases.

The opportunity structure is named as follows:
First Line – Home Consultant
Second Line (with 6 direct recruits) – Branch Leader
Third Line (with 3 branches in addition to your branch) – National Sales Leader

Longaberger offers downline incentives with every campaign and monthly.

They do offer a fundraising opportunity. They also offer a program Design-a-Basket which allows an organization or group to make their own basket and sell.

Start up kits range in pricing of:
$129, $249, $399 (the $399 kit also offers an opportunity of complete refund). Each kit varies with the amount of sample products and is at least a 50% savings.

Longaberger also offers several forms of training for consultants.

Taxes are taken care of via the company.
They do have a buy-back policy, had a non-compete close in place and will return merchandise within 90 days, but most times will replace flaw items any time.

Consultants may not advertise online.

Please note that any of the above is subject to change and was true at the time of this writing. Please be sure to contact the coordinator below with any questions, comments, concerns and/or changes.

Tina Leininger – Branch Leader
whytewynd@yahoo.com
http://www.mylongaberger.com/tinaleininger

Bringing Prospects and Recruiters Together

2006-02-21T06:10:00.000-05:00

Need more recruits? Looking for that perfect home business for you? The Daily Home Business Report helps recruiters and prospects meet more easily.

Anita DeFrank of MommysHelperOnline.com felt there was a need to make it easier for prospects and recruiters meet, hence the birth of the Daily Home Business Report. The DHBR is a report that will be sent out to prospects one business a day until they find the perfect business for them. Each section of the report will include a full business profile including full contact info of a representative that will be more than happy to answer any questions the prospect may have.

"With so many business opportunities available one can spend days or even weeks weeding through all the information [and scams] available online causing a bad case of information overload. Then on the other hand recruiters spend countless hours searching for those perfect recruits and more often than not coming up short. With the Daily Home Business Report, these wasted hours could be spent on more important aspects such as building your business and training your recruits. We're taking the searching part out saving both prospects and recruiters tons of time." says DeFrank.

The way the report works is this...
Recruiters will send DeFrank a full company profile including many frequently asked questions and full contact info. DeFrank will then set up an autoresponder for prospects to receive an email each day with a new business profile. Prospects will be able to sign up for the autoresponder at www.MommysHelperOnline.com, www.WahmStateDirectory.com, and www.DirectSalesHelpers.com to name just a few. DeFrank also plans to allow many other work at home resource website owners offer the DHBR to their visitors widening the range to nearly unlimited access.

To make it fair for each representative DeFrank is only allowing one rep per company submit their business profile and has it set up on first come first serve. DeFrank says, "I felt as though this was the only fair way to one not have representives "fighting" over the same prospect. The second reason was that the idea was to save time on the research. It's a waste of time to send more than one profile for one company and defeats the purpose of the time saving."

A few things to keep in mind about this report are...

These profiles are exclusive. This means they will only accept one rep per company.
Companies will be sent out on a first come first serve basis.
Profiles will include your Direct Sales Company Name, Website, Email Address & FULL Description
Adult companies are accepted however, keep in mind that it will be noted with adult companies that it is indeed "adult".
The report editor holds the right to accept or not accept any listings for reasons.
This is not going to be full of "ads". This will be full descriptions of various direct sales companies. Please be sure to state FACTS.
Recruiters will be able to sign up to the autoresponder yourself to see exactly how they're sent out.

For more information on getting your business profile featured, please visit http://www.mommyshelperonline.com/report.html More information for prospects coming soon.

# # #
Press Contact: Anita DeFrank
Company Name: MommysHelperOnline.com
Email: mommyshelperonline@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.mommyshelperonline.com/report.html

Dear Anita and Kara...

2006-02-15T20:18:00.000-05:00

I wanted to let you know how much I like your new look at www.DirectSalesHelpers.com. It really highlights everything you have to offer! As I went through the site, I realized I was already involved in many of your services-so I thought I should send you a quick thank you to let you now how much you have helped me, and my business.

I purchased The Direct Sales Success Kit three months ago, and found it to have everything I needed to give me a sense of direction for my direct sales scrapbook business. You two also opened my eyes to the many options I have for building my business, both on and offline. You’ve really helped me step by step to where I feel confident about where I am taking my business.

Currently, I am using Kara’s book “Step by Step Guide to Starting Your First Website” to build my new site www.MomsOnlineRetreat.com , and I have also been able to configure my Consultant website with the book’s help as well. I’ve printed the material out and have it in a three-ring binder, always close at hand.

I have taken full advantage of my membership to the private DSH forums at Mommy’s Helper. I can’t thank you enough for all of the individualized help you have given me. It’s nice to have that personalized attention, and to feel that I have a source of information that I can trust.

I look forward, also, to receiving the Direct Sales Helpers News every week. The articles are often very thought provoking, and always informative. I have recommended it, as well as all of the services and products available at DirectSalesHelpers.com to my team, and would say to anyone who was looking for guidance in Direct Sales-this site has it ALL!

Thanks again for your continued guidance and support!

Lauren Haugh
Independent Consultant, #420635
Top Line Creations
-------------------------------

Lauren,
Thank you so much for the kind words. It's greatly appreciated to hear back from our customers/readers/visitors etc. Hearing and watching success stories such as your own every day makes it well worth our time. Remember, you're the one who really needs the pat on the back ... we've just provided the tools ... you've done the work!

To your success,
Kara & Anita

Pat Noll, Home Business Job Fair Vendor

2006-02-15T17:00:00.000-05:00

In the top ten for the past six years, vision of success, Pat Noll attends home business job fair representing Heart Warming Creations.

It was certainly all my pleasure to speak with Mrs. Noll. Not that it wasn't wonderful to speak with each of the talented women at this event - but it was truly an honor speaking with someone who has been in the top 10 in the US for the past six years, featured in the company catalog time and time again, featured on the company website, and featured at numerous company functions - this women is truly what we can each view as a success story.

Noll from Millerstown, PA has been with Heart Warming Creations for almost 9 years. Having done similar events in the past, she found out about this particular even through the News-Sun paper. Pat normally finds out about other events such as these through this method and also via word of mouth from consultants at other events.

When asked why she chose Heart Warming Creations, Noll responded with, "I joined this company because there were NO consultants in our area, it was a fairly new company and no one heard of it. I thought that would be good. New merchandise to offer and I like these kinds of items. It was down my alley."

Currently with only 2 active downline members who live too far away for monthly meetings, Pat still makes sure she keeps in contact with them. Depending on the week and what all needs to be done, Noll works on her business full time at approximately 30 hours a week.

"Doing the parties and meeting new people, making new friends and sharing Heart Warming Creations with them [is her favorite aspect of this business]" Says Noll.

When asked if she could only bring one thing to this event, what would it be, Pat promptly responded with her catalogs. "I would have to say Catalogs, so people can see our merchandise and what we have to offer. I would also bring some samples of our items."

Noll shares her tip for events such as these...
I would say be yourself and be honest with the people you come in contact with ... and most of all have FUN in what you are doing.

A little more about Heart Warming Creations...

Country & Traditional décor and gifts, featuring Scented candles from a few different companies, Wood furniture made in Ohio, Boyd’s Bears, Shelves, Afghans made in the USA, Wrought Iron items and much more are the types of products carried.

There are no territory restrictions.

The only requirement for a home party is that the hostess has a $100.00 in orders to qualify for free and half price items for having a show.

Consultants can earn materials (catalogs, order forms, invitations etc.) with their monthly sales starting at $1500 a month.

Consultants must do $250 in sales a month to stay active.

HWC does not require consultants to keep any inventory, they have all items stored in the warehouse in Ohio.

HWC does offer company websites at a $7.00 one time set up fee and then $12.95 a month.

Heart Warming Creations is responsible for hostess credits/gifts, the only cost to the consultant is if they chose to give the hostess a Thank You gift.

Shipping starts at $4.00 up to $25.00 and it goes up $1.00 for every $25.00 in orders.

Delivery time is 2 to 3 weeks, sometime less depending on the time of the year and how busy the home office is.

Heart Warming Creations offers drop shipping. Any customer can have their order shipped directly to their home for additional $5.00 Also, they have some items that are directly shipped from the vendor if it is a large piece or personalized item, that is not supplied in the warehouse.

Consultants earn 22% of all retail sales. In Jan they give consultants 25% because they know that it is hard to get bookings that month.

Consultants pay themselves the night of the show, take out the taxes that were collected and send the rest to HWC.

There are rewards for monthly sales and rewards for your yearly sales. (Trips, Jewelry and etc.)

There are no inactive fees. If you fall behind a month or so and become inactive all you need to do is send in a $250.00 show a month and you become active again.

Cash, Check, Credit & Debit cards are the types of payments accepted.

There is no minimum purchases.

Uplines earn commission on their downlines.

HWC does offer fundraising opportunities, however they do no offer a wholesale opportunity.

Start up kits are as follows:
HWC has a basket kit for $99.00 which includes merchandise totaling more than $176.92. You get 70 Catalogs, 70 Summer flyers, 100 Order forms, 100 Invitations, Training Manual and Training Video. A Traveling kit for $199.00 which includes all of the above plus more merchandise for the kit. It retails for $338.36 or more.

Training includes a training video and if at all possible, consultants are to go to a in home show with another consultant who would be in your upline.

HWC Consultants are resposible for handling the taxes.

HWC does not offer a Buy Back Policy however, they do offer if you want to sell items you don't need off your display and in return you can order new items to replace them.

HWC offers a 60 day return policy for any reason customers are not pleased with their product.

HWC consultants Can advertise online.

Please note that any of the above is subject to change and was true at the time of this writing. Please be sure to contact consultant below with any questions, comments, concerns and/or changes.

Pat Noll
Heart Warming Creations
cookie@pa.net
http://www.myheartwarmingcreations.com/paheartwarmer
http://www.patscountrycrafts.com(Personal Website)

Some News About Direct Sales Success

2006-02-14T09:28:00.000-05:00

Just released!
"Direct Sales Success: Complete Guide to Boosting Your Direct Sales Business"

This is not just another ebook - this is a full version paperback book available from DirectSalesHelpers.com. All the information from the Direct Sales Success Kit rolled into one handy paperback version!

The failure rate for direct sales is high, but one of the biggest reasons for failure is not knowing what to do next after you join. Uplines can be helpful, but not always the answer to all your questions.

We've spoken with many, many others who are in the exact same place you are. We've listened to the challenges you face and questions you ask and we've heard the cry loud and clear. You want to be serious about your business and you want to make serious money. Don't be ashamed or feel 'money-hungry' because you want to make money. You went into business because you want to be home for your children when they need you, while also being able to bring in an income.

With the Direct Sales Success Kit you won't have to ask yourself, "Now what?" You'll be able to use this kit to make your plans and goals. You'll know exactly what you need to do each and every day to succeed in your home business.

"Direct Sales Success: Complete Guide to Boosting Your Direct Sales Business" will teach you how to:

- Overcome your fear of selling
- Stay ahead of your competion and gain the sales you deserve
- Set and reach goals, so you earn more money
- Save time and money in research by learning from experts

Will you stand by and watch as others in your company succeed, or will you take action now? Grab your copy before your competition does! Visit:
http://www.directsaleshelpers.com/book.html

To your success!

HandmadeFriend.com - Helping Save Lives!

2006-02-10T07:19:00.000-05:00

Founding Rep#17, Anita DeFrank of Stuff A Friend is helping daughter Melanie, of Mountain View Elementary School collect money for the American Heart Association.

Having two grandparents with recent heart surgeries, an aunt with a recent heart attack, an uncle with stints in place and another grandmother with heart disease, daughter Melanie knew this fundraiser was just for her to help people like her close relatives with similar problems.

Melanie's elementary school is holding a fundraiser for the American Heart Association - Jump Rope For Heart. DeFrank and other participating students will be jumping rope during school on February 24, 2006 in their cafeteria. Activities will include Jumping Rope (alone, partners...), Relay Races, Jr. Jumping Activities (for Kindergarten through Second Grade) and many other activities.

"Look mom! We can set up our own web page!", says DeFrank's daughter. Being active in the online work at home mom community - DeFrank knew just how to handle her daughter's plea.

Not only is Melanie collecting sponsor via her personal web page but also via her mother's website http://www.HandmadeFriend.com All commission made from February 10th through February 17th will be donated to the American Heart Association.
Sponsors have a few ways to choose to donate too...

Melanie's Personal Web Page
Donations can be made directly on the website.

HandmadeFriend.com
Choose your favorite stuffable friend and commissions will be made to the American Heart Association during the jump-athon.

Personal Checks
Personal checks can be written out to the American Heart Association and mailed to the above participant. Contact this mother and daughter team at mommyshelperonline@yahoo.com

If you have any questions, comments and/or concerns please don't hesitate to contact the participant at the above email.

Remember - Every donation can save a life!

Laurie Fischer, Home Business Job Fair Vendor

2006-02-08T17:00:00.000-05:00

Active networker, Laurie Fischer, direct sales rep for Home & Garden Party of Litiz, PA attends Home Business Job Fair.

[Pictured with fellow Home & Garden Party Rep, Danielle Farmer (left)]

Finding out about this particular even was easy for Laurie since the coordinator emailed her. She now keeps a running list of all the vendors she comes in contact with so she can keep in contact and find out about upcoming events such as these. Knowing that networking is a very important tool to her direct sales business, Fishcher knew that attending a home business job fair would be a good choice.

In May of 2004 Laurie was asked by her sponsor about becoming an H&GP Designer and since she already loved to products she decided to give it a try. Now with over 18 members in her downline with the title of Diamond Designer and titled 2005 National Star, Fischer keeps her team motivated with meetings, workshops and phone calls. Laurie as sends cards to her members once a month just to say they are wonderful. She does this whether they're working or not ... just to keep up the encouragement. Her team does challenges and are in the beginning stages of doing a mentoring program with individual team members.

When I asked Laurie what her favorite aspect of her business was she replied with, "The people that I meet and the relationships that I have built." If Fischer was only allowed to bring one type of promotional item to the event, she would bring her hostess packects because all the products and opportunity info is in there.

Laurie shares some wise words of wisdom...
"I say when you do an event like this ... you can't sit behind your table ... you need to be out there talking to the people. If there is no one around or there is down time, go out and about and talk with the other vendors, or depending where you are, go around the hotel or facility and hand out your information. Just keep talking to the people."

Fischer is also very active in her community with other business women and a member of "Litiz Women in Business" - a group of professional women business owners committed to providing consistent superior service and quality that benefits both customers and community. They are a group of business owners and operators who have banded together for the good of the community and to help each other's businesses thrive.

A little more about Home & Garden Party ...

Home Decor and Accessories are the products carried.

H&GP do not have any territory restrictions.

They do not have a requirement to hold home paraties.

Designers can either earn or purchase promotional materials through the company.

Designers also have the opportunity to buy some of the promotional materials in bulk to really save. One way Laurie's team saves is buy buying materials in bulk and dividing up the costs making it very cost effective.

H&GP doesn't have any quotas nor have any requirement to keep inventory.

The company only offers a company website however, designers are able to create their own website if they choose.

Home & Garden Party pays for the hostesses free credits (they offer 20% free with every $100 in sales before tax and shipping) and consultants pay $2 for every half priced item. A hostess can get 1 half priced item/grouping for every $100 in sales. (The company pays the remaining.) HG&P also very generously pays $10 per booking gift and the consultant pays the remaining $5.

Shipping & Handling Costs are as follows:
$0 - $99 = $2
$10 - $19.99 = $3
$20 - $29.99 = $4
$30 - $39.99 = $5
$40 - $49.99 = $6
$50 - $74.99 = $8
$75 - $99.99 = $10
$100 & over = 10%

Delivery time is 2 - 3 weeks max but is always quicker than that. HG&P gets them out in a few days, and then it in the hands of Fed Ex. They do not offer dropshipping.

The commission structure is as follows:
The basic is 30% until you make your first $1500 in sales and then it goes to 40%. The commission level stays at 40%. You can basically do a $300 party and that night pay yourself $120 when you're at the 40% level.

Depending on which level consultants are on, they can pay themselves the commission of either 30% or 40% at the night of your poarty or the time of the sale. Sponsoring commissions are paid to you the 15th of the following month.

HG&P also offers designers many contests to earn bonuses and prizes as well as sponsoring bonuses when you reach certain levels in your career.

There is a $25 annual renewal fee.

Cash, personal check, Master Card, Visa, and Discover are the types of payments accepted with no minimum purchases.

The opportunity structure is as follows:
-->When you first start, you are a Designer in Training until you do your first $1500 in commissionable value sales.

-->After your first recruit you are a Master Designer.

-->Two recruits is a Silver Designer

-->Three recruits is a Gold Designer

-->Five recruits is a Half Carat Designer

-->Ten recruits earns you the Diamond Designer title
After that, there is a guideline for monthly team sales to earn the title of Infinity Designer and with that comes extra bonuses.

Home & Garden Party offers a very simple fundraising program.

This company offers you the choice of 4 different start up kits.
2 of the kits are $99 and they have over $200 worth of products, training and start up materials.
2 of the kits are $149 and have over $300 worth of products plus the training and start up materials such as catalogs, order forms, hostess forms, training manual, dvd's and much more.

They offer online training, telecourses, annual Rally, annual Spring trainings, team meetings, workshops, and much more to help train upcoming designers.

Taxes are simply handled by the customer paying the tax at the time of the sale and then the consultant pays it with the order.

HG&P does have a non-compete clause in place - you can not represent a competitor while you're representing HG&P.

This company also has a 30 day guarentee on all products as well as 1 year warranties on their pottery.

Designers Can advertise online.

Please note that any of the above is subject to change and was true at the time of this writing. Please be sure to contact consultant below with any questions, comments, concerns and/or changes.

Laurie Fischer
Indpendent Diamond Designer/Career Builder
2005 National Star
lfisch80@ptd.net
http://www.homeandgardenparty.com
http://www.decorateyourhomewithlaurie.com (Personal Website)

DirectSalesHelpers.com - New Look!

2006-02-05T20:26:00.000-05:00

DirectSalesHelpers.com has a new look! There's many, many new things happening around DirectSalesHelpers.com - starting with a brand new look!

Have you been to DirectSalesHelpers.com recently? We've gone under major reconstruction to better fit our mission.

So, what exactly is everything at DirectSalesHelpers.com? Here's the scoop...

Direct Sales Success Kit
The Direct Sales Success Kit is a complete kit showing you step by step how to make your direct sales business a success!
With this kit you won't have to ask yourself, "Now what?" You'll be able to use it to make your plans and goals. You'll know exactly what you need to do each and every day to succeed in your home business.

Direct Sales Helpers Private Membership Forum
Authors and experts of The Direct Sales Success Kit are open to answer your top business questions!
We understand that sometimes just reading advice isn't enough, which is why Direct Sales Helpers membership includes personal help catered to your business. Ask your questions or post your problems in the member community, and an expert WILL respond. We'll help you every step of the way - Now Free with every Direct Sales Success Kit Purchase.

Offline Event Kit
A complete package for you that has all the tips and forms you need to get ready for the offline events in your area. Learn how to increase your sales from events and stay organized too!

Direct Sales Helpers Newsletter
Free direct sales tips.
Each week we publish a newsletter sharing tips and tricks to help you succeed in your direct sales business - All original content. Subscribe to see it first!

Direct Sales Company Directory
Looking for the best direct sales company for you? Looking for the perfect directory to share your opportunity? Visit our directory for more information.

Successful Consultant of the Month
Each month we'll feature a new successful direct sales consultant. Stop in and congratulate our newest!

Direct Sales Team News - New!
Need a little help training your team/downline members?
Due to overwhelming requests - we've put together a blog to help you train your team. At least once a week we'll post new articles that you're free to use in help with training your team. All we ask is to give credit where credit is due and include the biline that is included with each article.

Got News?
Do you have something newsworthy about the Direct Sales Industry?

Affiliate Program
Make money with DirectSalesHelpers.com!
Direct Sales Success Kit uses PayDotCom.com to manage our affiliate program. We will provide you with great tools to sell our product easily. We also provide you ways to track your hits, sales, campaigns, and commissions. All you need is a free PayDotCom.com affiliate account ID. PayDotCom.com will even credit you for sales even if your buyer does not buy on the first day. So even if they come back years later, you still get paid. We always pay the last affiliate who referred the customer to us. Affiliates make $10 per sale.

Direct Sales Chatter
Stop on in and discuss your direct sales business with fellow direct sales reps. From Avon to White Lily Candles and everything in between. Visit individual forums to chat about certain companies OR visit our Direct Sales General Discussion forum to chat about any aspect. We're looking forward to hearing from you!

And that's just a few things! There's many, many more big changes and additions! Be sure to subscribe to Direct Sales Helpers News to find out first hand!

Gwen Cleck, Home Business Job Fair Coordinator

2006-02-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

Unlike your typical job fair or typical business expo, Gwen Cleck of Mifflintown, Pennsylvania coordinates successful Home Business Job Fair.

Having participated in quite a few events in the past Cleck knew what not to do and simply did the opposite in the organization of this fair. Setting the price seemed to be a little difficult. She wanted to make sure that the fee wasn't too high as to attract consultants but also be able to cover the costs involved with the event itself.

Cleck chose local newspapers, radio stations, online advertising and posted flyers in the area to bring attention to her event. Choosing the location for her event seemed to be one of the easiest decisions to make. Living in the area, she chose a venue that was well-known, inexpensive and easily accessible. The location was a fairly-sized room of the Clarion Inn, Lewistown, Pennsylvania. This location was super-easy to find and to access, having an on and off ramp to a major highway less than 1/2 mile away.

Already having a network of vendors that she often works with helped in finding the vendors for this event. "I also advertised on CraftLister.com and searched company websites looking for local representatives.” says Cleck.

Cleck says, "I don't think I'd change too much about how I organized this. I think the way I advertised seemed to work well and that's probably how I'll do it again in the future. I'm not sure that I would do a job fair exclusively. I think a sales event would work out better toward the Christmas season."

With the interest of many vendors at this event the plans of a "stop and shop" in early November are currently underway.

Cleck has been a representative of Country Bunny Bath & Body since March of 2002, falling in love with the products first and then falling in love with the company once she joined.

Gwen has at least 23 members in her downline that she keeps motivated via holding monthly organizational meetings, monthly training calls, monthly challenges and motivational emails. Her favorite aspect of her business is holding spa retreats and spends 8 - 10 hours a week with her business, depending on whether or not she's holding retreats or attending events.

When asked if there was only one thing she could bring to this event ... Cleck responded with "If there was only one thing, it'd definitely be my products to sample." She also shares the best tip she's ever gotten for direct sales ... "Talk, talk, talk to everyone and share your opportunity."

A little more about Country Bunny Bath & Body...

The types of products carried are Bath, Body & Skin Care Products.

There aren’t any territory restrictions.

There are no requirements to hold home parties.

Products are purchased at full price, but are commissionable. All flyers are posted on their websites for bunnies to print.

Sales quotas are broken down as ... $300 in sales every 6 months, $300 every 3 months to have your name listed on the rep locator, $300 in any given month to earn downline commissions.

There is no requirement to keep inventory.

Country Bunny Bath & Body does offer bunnies a free website/webstore for the first full year of business. After the first full year bunnies pay $12 a month at their own choice.

The company pays for all hostess gifts.

Shipping and handling costs are as follows:
$0 - 49.99 = $4.95; $50.00 - 99.00 = 10%; $100 - 200 = 8%; $200 + = 5%

Products are usually delivered within 4 - 5 days, depending on your location.

Country Bunny Bath & Body offer drop shipping to customers.

Bunnies are paid monthly based via paychecks on their sales. Commission structure is as follows:
$300 = 15%; $500 - 999 = 20%; $1000 + = 25%

This company offers Sponsoring Bonuses of $50 for Associate Reps when a new sponsor sells $300 in the first 60 days and $60 for Managing Reps.

Country Bunny Bath & Body does not have inactive fees or any others other than mentioned.

As a bunny you can accept Cash, Checks, Master Card & Visa for payments with no minimums.

Country Bunny Bath & Body also offers a separate fundraiser opportunity with sister company HOP, Inc. (Helping Other People). They offer products at 50% profit to the organization with free shipping for all orders over $300.

There is no wholesale opportunity.

Start up kits are $89 with approximately $120 in free products, plus sales tools such as catalogs, invitations, flyers, samples etc. An extra $70 in free products is offered when the sponsor sells $300 in the first 60 days.

Country Bunny Bath & Body does offer training and bunnies can advertise via online outlets.

Bunnies are responsible for reporting all income and paying income taxes. 1099s are provided by the company.

This company does offer a Buy Back Policy for all unopened products bought back at 90% of the cost.

There is no Non-Compete clause in place however, ethically; selling for competing companies is not advised. Country Bunny Bath & Body also has a lead management program in place that you can be a part of but, you may not be a consultant for any other company to participate.

Country Bunny Bath & Body will replace products that are defective in any way. Products that are returned for any other reason is the responsibility of the consultant. Sampling products is the best way to avoid having returns.

For full business opportunity structure, please email Gwen at gwen@bunnymart.com

Please note that any of the above is subject to change and was true at the time of this writing. Please be sure to contact consultant below with any questions, comments, concerns and/or changes.

Gwen Cleck, MR#2643
Country Bunny Bath & Body
http://www.BunnyStop.net
Email: gwen@bunnymart.com

Anita's Day Out - The Home Business Job Fair

2006-01-25T04:00:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I had come across a home business job fair located right in my very own backyard listed at CraftLister.com. I quickly noticed that not only were the vendor spots all filled up but I also noticed that both companies I represent were already being represented by a fellow distributor/rep. I planned to visit the job fair because I was really interested in meeting with fellow direct sales women in my own area. I contacted the coordinator, Gwen Cleck of Country Bunny Bath & Body to introduce myself and hopefully build a friendship with her (as networking with other direct sales representatives can be a wonderful business building too). As we started to get to know each other a little better via email it occurred to me what a wonderful opportunity was brewing right before my eyes. Quite a few of the questions we see often are about holding offline events. The questions vary from both coordinating one and being a vendor. I thought that interviewing Gwen herself and some of the vendors would be a wonderful way to share how to coordinate your own event and/or attend as a vendor. I must say that it was a fantastic idea and I think I had a better time talking, interviewing etc than I might have had I been a vendor. Here's the scoop...

Wow! You know, that’s the very first thought that comes to my mind after my visit to The Home Business Job Fair, at The Clarion Inn, Burnham, PA. I had an absolutely wonderful time! I am so glad I thought about it! I honestly think I had a better time interviewing than I would have if I had been a vendor there! I met with so many wonderful and talented women who were more than willing to share their business experience with me!

First of all before I go on I want to thank each every one of the vendors at the job fair. Everyone greeted me with a smile and made me feel right at home. Thank you all! It was certainly my pleasure!

Now I want to mention a few things that really need to be brought up. I picked up a few “tips” from a few vendors who really aren’t that much into the “online thing”.

First and foremost … ladies, those ads you’re sending out … they aren’t working! Wait a minute, let me back up and explain here. Let’s look at this ad for example:

“How would you like to earn $500 a night? What if I told you that you could do it in your own home? No selling! The products sell themselves...”

Okay, I could go on here but I’m sure you get the point. These ads don’t work! Do you know what that ad says? SCAM! Sure, I wouldn’t doubt for a minute that you earn $500 in one night at a home party. And I’m sure your products sell themselves. I’m not saying that it’s not true … I’m saying the ad doesn’t work. If you’re marketing to folks offline with these types of ads, they have scam written all over them and you’re not getting your message across.

If you’re pushing the “online sales” and “online recruiting” to the “offline network” be careful of how you approach your market. Let me explain how I set this whole project up in the first place. I searched online at www.CraftLister.com and found out about HBJF. I contacted the coordinator, Gwen Cleck of Country Bunny Bath & Body. I told her who I was what my intentions were. Now keep in mind, people hold their email addresses near and dear to their heart. With all the spam that’s roaming around the internet you have to be super-careful about how you approach some via email. So, I asked Gwen if she could personally pass on my email to her vendors explaining what I was interested in doing and then had each of them email me personally if they were interested in participating. This way Gwen wasn’t just handing out email addresses without their permission. The response was fantastic.

So, much to my surprise, when I arrived at the HBJF there were quite a few more people there than those who replied to me. My initial thoughts were that these ladies just weren’t interested in what I was doing which of course was absolutely fine by me. I worked the room with my list of those who were interested and started speaking with each one. I of course didn’t want to be rude so I did at least try to stop and visit each vendor. Eventually I’m sure I started to be the “talk of the show” because here I was this woman walking around with a notebook, attaché case and to top it off I was taking pictures also. So unsurprisingly the questions started coming to me first. Can you believe even though my email was forwarded to them from the coordinator of the event they were attending that there were still some that had simply deleted the email. There were even a few who had replied which I believe strictly out of curiosity that still weren’t exactly sure what I was doing. These women weren’t accustomed someone online actually doing something like this. Not to mention I had to get it across that I was a “real person” behind a website. Of course once I explained who I was and what I did … my list of participating vendors grew.

Oh, and I almost forgot, guess what one of my most asked questions were? “How much does this cost?” I really hadn’t thought about that. Well, let me explain, I had absolutely no intentions what-so-ever to charge these ladies to place their info in our newsletter and blog. Ladies, folks nowadays are on “lookout”. And really if you think about it … what do we get for free anymore? This really was a valid question … just one I hadn’t expected to be asked so many times.

So, lesson learned … Is your message getting across or are your emails getting simply deleted?

Now, back to the event itself… Gwen had done an absolute wonderful job coordinating this event. The room looked fantastic and was laid out very nicely. The vendors didn’t look too crowded and there was plenty of walking room from one vendor to the next.

When I first walked through the door I noticed a table set up with pamphlets listing each of the vendors, their contact info and a blank space on the back for visitors to make notes about the companies and/or their representatives - a very thoughtful touch. The companies represented were Arbonne International, Bead Retreat, Big Yellow Box by Crayola, Cookie Lee Jewelry, Creative Memories, Country Bunny Bath & Body, Discovery Toys, The Greeting Cake Company, Heartwarming Creations, Home & Garden Party, Home Interiors, Lia Sophia Jewelry, Longaberger, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Pampered Chef, PartyLite, Passion Parties by Kenya, Princess House, Mia Bella Candles, Signature Homestyles, Stuff a Friend, Tastefully Simple, Tupperware, Usborne Books, and Weekenders USA.

Okay, okay … onto the good stuff! Let’s hear about the wonderful women I met at the job fair. Let’s hear about how they run their businesses, how they found out about this event, and even about the companies that they work with! Oops! I forgot, you’ll have to wait till next week to hear about all of that … stay tuned till next week!

Keep up with the stories here... (Links will open in new windows)
Gwen Cleck, Home Business Job Fair Coordinator
Laurie Fischer, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Pat Noll, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Tina Leininger, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Karen Huber, Home Business Job Fair Vendor
Deb Barlett, Home Business Job Fair Vendor