Is Direct Sales Right for You?

Aug 28 | Income earning ideas

Is Direct Sales Right for You?

You may have been to direct sales parties, which are the ones such as Scentsy, Avon, Stampin’ Up, Thirty One, Young Living and other purchase from home products. You may have thought about being a brand rep for these products yourself, so you can earn a little extra cash on the side or just pay off a few extra bills. While direct sales are a great way to make some extra cash, it isn’t for everyone. Here’s what you need to know to determine if direct sales are right for you!

1. You have to be motivated.

With direct sales, you need to go out and find your clients, and they may not just fall into your lap. Make sure you have the motivation to get out and do a little door knocking per say, so you can start your own customer base and start getting some sales.

2. You have to be thick skinned.

When you are in any kind of sales, you may hear the words NO or NOT INTERESTED. You have to be thick skinned and realize these are not personal attacks, this is just a person who is not interested and you can move on and use your energy elsewhere.

3. You have to put in evening hours.

Most parties for direct sales products happen in the evening hours when the party host is off work for the day. If you want to do home parties, be prepared to work evenings and attend weekend parties as well as this is generally the time that’s convenient for most.

4. Your income may fluctuate.

Around the holidays you may have amazing sales, but those sales may drop off during the deep winter or deep summer months. While the extra income is fun, you don’t want to have to rely solely on it as it can fluctuate.

5. You are in charge of looking after your own taxes.

In most cases of direct sales, the company does not deduct your income taxes for you. Check with a local accountant to make sure you have the correct paperwork on file to look after your own taxes and keep your business legal.

6. You may need money out of pocket to start.

Most direct sales companies require the sales rep to come out of pocket for their starter kit. You may need to purchase your own catalogs, samples, and other products with your own money as well. If you’re going into direct sales, be prepared to spend your own money to get set up.

7. Know that fads come and go.

Before diving into any direct sales company, remember that fads come and go. What’s hot today may not be hot tomorrow. Be sure you are investing in a company that offers some long term stability and a quality product that people are sure to come back for.

So is direct sales right for you? If you think so, start researching companies that you believe in and have purchased from yourself. You might find that you can make some extra money while doing something you really love!