You’ve done your homework, and now you’re ready to join a direct selling company. You enjoy sharing and selling products you love, and your companion company has a proven track record of product quality and integrity. Now that you’ve got your starter kit, you’re ready to hit the ground running. Get the most for your effort right out of the gate with some strategic tips and helpful hints to make your new business successful.
1. Set Your Goals
The first order of business is defining your goals. You may be only interested in product discounts. Or maybe you’d like to learn new skills, meet people, and earn a modest supplemental income. Your goal may be to make consistent money by building a team of other sellers. When they are realistic, you’re ready to dedicate the time and resources to make them happen.
Ask yourself these questions:
- What do I want to achieve?
- What is my definition of success?
- How many hours will I work per week?
- What will it take to reach my goals?
- Do I have the support I need from friends and family?
- Can I find a mentor in the business?
- What training will I need?
Decide what you want to achieve in rank and income—and when. Committing to a firm date is vital for measuring progress toward your goals. Finally, list the time and resources necessary to reach your goals. Now you’re ready to put in the effort.
2. Find Passion for the Products
Explore your company’s products and introductory information. Try as many products as you can, research reviews for those you can’t, and match specific products to your customers’ anticipated needs.
Ask yourself how each product will either solve a problem or bring joy. For example, USANA Health Sciences offers products in four categories—nutritional supplements, skincare, healthy living, and Active Nutrition. There’s something for everyone.
Now prepare to share your experience. Your passion fuels your motivation to share what you love.
3. Build Relationships
If your goal is to make money, you’ve got to reach out, attend networking events, support other sellers on your team, and promote your product. Here are some specifics for building lasting relationships:
Get to know your customers. Research who uses your products, how they use them, and add-ons you could suggest. Understanding your target market helps you find and connect with them.
Seek genuine connection. Most people don’t like to be “sold” something. There’s magic in making a friend and suggesting products they’ll like. That connection is the chef’s kiss of selling.
Share stories. The fastest way to connect is to authentically tell your story. Whether you share a personal experience or a customer testimonial, storytelling is the best way to get someone invested in your products. Your stories can be as simple as a sentence—anything from how a product made your life easier to how your partner company changes lives. Remember to be honest above all else.
Follow up. Staying in touch with and engaging in meaningful conversations may lead customers and potential team members to a greater commitment to the products and, assuming it’s a match for them, becoming part of your sales team.
4. Leverage Selling Avenues
Even if you’ve experienced success with retail sales in the past, you’ll likely find new ways to get your story out. Though you’re selling for a specific company, you’ll want to build your own brand. Focus on marketing techniques that create and expand your community.
Social media marketing. Harnessing the power of the internet is more than making Facebook posts. Boost customer engagement with consistent communication, engagement, and savvy for building an online community.
Network. Share your products and story whenever you get a chance. Think about how they can provide a valuable service in any situation. Then ask your connections how your products can help their connections. Offer contests, perks, and freebies to create memorable, positive experiences your customers will want to share with their friends and families.
Cross-promote with partnerships. Foster relationships with colleagues in related industries. For example, if you’re selling skincare, you may offer to write a blog post for an online beauty magazine in exchange for exposure. Swapping services can help everyone win.
Practice communication. Sending emails, hosting parties, making videos, or even speaking at an event—one way or another, you’ll end up communicating to a crowd. Polish your writing and speaking skills to better convey your passion for the products you love.
5. Manage Your Business
As your business starts growing, don’t neglect the “behind-the-scenes” management. Along with making important strategic decisions, you’ll place orders, handle paperwork, offer customer service, and keep a ledger of expenses and income.
Continually review your goals as you manage your business. Are you spending more on products than you’re making in commission? If so, you may be better suited as a customer and not a seller. That’s fine if purchasing the product at a discount is your main goal.
The Give and Take
In direct selling, you are usually an independent contractor. You’ll likely face required minimum purchases or a low annual renewal fee to be considered an “active” seller. However, the company usually provides valuable business benefits:
A personal website—an online shopping experience with your “profile” displayed. Customers use this website to buy products, and you receive the commission. Some companies also offer an app for an on-the-go shopping experience.
Marketing resources—download and share digital marketing resources like advertisements, email templates, and social media posts. These professional assets help you boost your online presence and professional image. And remember to link everything to your online store.
Training—most direct selling companies provide free training to help you reach your goals. Fill in the holes by searching for how-to videos or courses that fit your budget.
Services from the Direct Selling Association (DSA)
The DSA offers business resources for filing taxes, navigating health insurance, and filing a code complaint. Access to industry research, government relations, direct selling advocacy, and press releases is just a click away. Take advantage of these resources to make smart decisions about building your business.
You’re on Your Way
The key ingredients to reaching your goals are showing confidence in what you offer, building authentic relationships, and staying consistent. To build a community, sprinkle in some commitment, persistence, and grit—all while never compromising your integrity—and you’re on your way to success.
