Replicated Website Names Get You Minimal Results in Your Direct Sales Business
Don't you just love replicated website names? They are especially fun when you are trying to type them into a contact manager. Can you imagine how often you actually get hits on them. Take for example. http://www.mycompany.com/rolkowski How many people do you think can spell Olkowski without looking? Unfortunately, not many. So, do you wonder why orders are not streaming to your replicated website?
Why not pick out a domain name that is easy to remember, tells you something about your product, and maybe even your name? I use http://www.radiantskinwithrebecca.com It says you can have radiant skin when you shop with me. All I did was go to GoDaddy and purchase a domain name. I then was able to forward the name to my replicated website. Once you purchase the website, you go to domain manager. Click on the website, and click forward to: You insert the name of your website, and within minutes, you can start using it.
Another site I use is http://www.chocolateyum.com That domain has been forwarded to a blog I have on Blogger.com which is a free blog site. If I hadn't purchased the domain name it would have looked like: http://www.darkchocolateyum.blogspot.com Who would ever type that name in? The same goes for Wordpress.com or Typepad blogs.
I purchased the domain from GoDaddy and used Custom Domain on Blogger. (under publish) You can also purchase a domain directly from Blogger, but I found using Go Daddy gives me more control.
Put your personal domain on all your business cards and handouts if your company allows you to, or make your own cards. Stand out from the crowd. Company cards are rather boring. Keep your domain and email names as short and succinct as possible. Check this one out. Houseanddogsittingbymissmarple@gmail.com (made up) A bit long, don't you think?
If you would like to get a custom domain name please click on the banner.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business. 
The Flakiness Factor: Why Direct Sales Reps Who Are Serious Get a Bad Rap
With all the direct sales companies out there these days, many NEW Entrepreneurs are joining the ranks. Unfortunately, this can lead to an influx of flakiness. Are you a flaky consultant?
Look at yourself carefully and think about the following:
- Do you know why you are in business? (you would be surprised at the many who have no clue)
- Have you opened up your starter kit since you received it, or is it still sitting in the corner waiting until you get around to unpacking it?
- Have you tried all the products? (You can't sell them unless you use them yourself)
- Is your voice mail recording that of your kids, a long minute of loud music, or the generic message?
- Do you have voice mail?
- Have you told anyone you are in business?
- Do you know how to find your online website and know what the password is?
- Did you order an online website?
- Do you have a computer?
- Do you know how to use a computer?
- Do you know how to take an order?
- Do you check your phone messages every day or once a week?
- Is your voice mail mailbox full?
- Do you know how to check your voice mail?
- Do you call back your customers immediately or did they move on to a new consultant months ago?
- Do you hide under the table and not answer the phone when your sponsor calls you.
- Do you know who your sponsor is?
- Do you know what company you signed up for?
- Did you know that you had a business instead of a job?
- Do you have more than one customer . . . your mom?
- Do you know why you haven't made any money yet?
This list could go on and on. Do you get the picture?
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
The Challenges of Working From Home and What You Can Do About It
For women, especially, working from home can be a God send. It can also be a huge challenge. How do you maintain balance and be productive? Here are a couple tips.
1. How do you get work accomplished when you are constantly being distracted by dirty dishes, laundry, other family members demanding your time, or the refrigerator?
One Facebook friend of mine had a great idea. He rents out a coop office with other entrepreneurs, who also work at home. That way he has an office to go to, and doesn't feel isolated in his business. If you are a mom, an outside office might be a challenge. However, there is no reason you couldn't get together with other work at home moms to make phone calls, take care of customers for several hours per day and challenge each other. Take turns watching kids or enlist a teenager. Look into being able to use the parent center at your kid's school as an outside office.
2. What do you do with a non supportive family member, or a spouse who is out of work?
Having someone who is not supportive, or is hanging around the house depressed because they are out of work, is a major drag mentally and financially. It may make you feel like it is impossible to get ahead. It is important to put yourself first. Sometimes men become negative, or are not financially responsible, as a method to gain control over you. Get yourself into the mindset that you are capable of handling your finances by yourself, and then do what you have to do to make that happen. Don't use your man's issues as an excuse not to work your business. The fact is, no matter how much you love the dude, he could get run over by a truck at any moment, leaving you alone and having to support yourself. No matter how lovely it is to depend on someone else, you have to make sure you, and your family are taken care of, no matter what happens.
3. Be clear on what you truly want to accomplish
Are you working for your goals or goals given to you by someone else? It is easy to get talked into doing something you may not be excited about, rather than be true to yourself and what makes you happy. That is not to say you shouldn't be a team player, but make sure what you are doing resonates with your over all goals. It is important to set goals for every aspect of your life. What would you like your lifestyle to ultimately be? Do you see yourself leading huge teams, speaking on stage, traveling to motivate other consultants, or would you rather take life easy, go on trips around the world for pleasure, and get massages whenever you like? There is nothing wrong with either of these goals.Your ultimate goal may be entirely different. Plan your work at home, based on the lifestyle you truly wish to create.
More and more people are going the work at home route. Write down in a journal what would truly make you happy if you could have anything you wanted in life. Then, create a plan to make it happen, no matter what.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Your Pizazz Factor: Are you Projecting a Classy Image?
The following applies to any business, whether it is direct sales, an entrepreneurial venture, the film industry or just about anything else, for that matter.
I just saw a video posted on Facebook from some friends that displayed a definite lack of class. Bad language, crude message, et all. It was a feeble attempt to be funny. I now realize why I have drifted away from that particular group. I prefer to hang out with kinder, gentler and more successful people.
What determines class? There are probably a multitude of answers, but I wanted to mention a few.
- Bad language usually shows a lack of intelligence, wit and is a cheap way to get attention. Have you ever been to a comedy show where the comedian used 90% potty language. YAWN! The most brilliant comedians do not have to resort to this trick. They are actually clever.
- Talking badly about other people or another company puts you in the class free category. Those who do it, have a lack of self esteem and feel it is important to shoot others down, rather than focus on being uplifting and encouraging. How many times has someone told you their company was better than someone else's? Sometimes this is hard to do with all the mean spirited reality type shows on the air. Unfortunately our young people are learning they have to do what it takes NOT to get voted off the island, or the boardroom, even if it is despicable.
- A classy person helps others to succeed and in doing so, succeeds themselves. A "Me Me Me" person gets old fast.
- A person with class will sandwich constructive criticism with praise. This was one of the philosophies that Mary Kay Ash used to build her multi-billion dollar company and why there is great retention for those who embrace it.
- Treating others with kindness, and making them feel important ,is one of the true characteristics of a person who will continue to grow and earn the respect of others.
- Integrity - Doing what you say you will do, not cheating others, and being honest. That goes without saying.
Remember that the image you project to the world will brand you in a way that will stick in people's minds forever. Go for the high road and be classy. What do you think determines class in a person? Let us know.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Direct Sales Success: A Tasty Opportunity to Get In At the Top
As everyone knows, there are various ways to create additional income streams, via network marketing. There are direct sales companies, party plans and MLM's, all with various downline systems. Through my association with CEO Space, a 21 year old entrepreneurial organization, we often have access to up and coming NEW companies that offer amazing opportunities to those who get in at the top.
One such opportunity is Sensy Chocolate. This company essentially launched at CEO Space 1209 and has the backing of several major players who have taken top positions in the company. The reason for this, is to aid in funding a miraculous program called SuperTeaching, that will help school children comprehend what they learn better. Superteaching has been presented to the United Nations to put its technology into schools throughout the world. Those who are more right brained, are able to become more left brained and vise versa.
Sensy Chocolate offers organic, healthy, dark chocolate from Peru, that is sweetened with Xylitol. Xylitol, unlike fructose, has been shown to be one of the safest sweeteners out there, and is recommended to prevent tooth decay.
Benefits of Xylitol http://www.dentist.net/xylitol-benefits.asp
Sensy Chocolate is also a more affordable alternative to other MLM chocolate products as far as auto-ship goes. chocolate-compensation-plan1
The company has just launched its online website and it is still under construction, however, it is operational. Please be patient. That is how NEW this company is, and how ON TOP you would be if you sign up. The beauty of Sensy Chocolate is that it is amazingly simple. The dark chocolate is sold in bags of 15 bite-sized pieces. This is an easy addition to any other direct sales business you may be running. Simply serve the chocolate as your refreshment..
At this time, you can enroll as a preferred customer, or at levels all the way up to World Leader, depending on how much you are willing to invest. Obviously, the higher you come in, the higher your income potential. You enroll 4 people who enroll 4 and so on. The company is offering the use of a Ferrari Car for top earners.
What if you had the opportunity to start at the very top of Amway, Herbalife, or any other top MLM? Every woman LOVES chocolate. This chocolate actually helps you lose weight. Sure, there are other wonderful chocolate companies out there, however, this is YOUR opportunity to be at the top. The worst that could happen is that you would be forced to eat a couple bags of delicious chocolate. So . . . . what do you have to lose? I am still working with my primary direct sales company, and I am going for it. Why not YOU?
Register with me TODAY at http://www.chocolateyum.com
For a detailed ingredient list sensy-chocolate-ingredients2
More Business Owners Taking on Direct Sales and Networking Marketing to Increase Income Streams
One thing that I have found, is that business owners and entrepreneurs are signing on to direct sales or network marketing companies, in droves, to supplement their "passion" income. An MLM, may not necessarily be a business owners true calling, but they recognize the business model, the amount of residual income that can be made, and have the business mentality to make it work.
Although direct sales, has often focused on work at home moms, especially in party plan models, a more qualified candidate may be your family lawyer, accountant, or beauty salon owner.
I haven't seen many real estate agents lately who aren't touting the latest juice, or beauty product. And practically everyone is sending those handy little greeting cards.
Many look for cutting edge products or product launches, so they can get positioned at the top for greater income potential. You have to be careful, of course. Some brand new pre-launches end up sinking before they sail.
Business owners understand the value of receiving commissions. The other advantage is that a direct sales or network marketing company comes pre-branded, with business materials, supplies and products available all on one website. It can usually be worked on a part time basis that will not interfere with the primary business. I have seen many business owners with not one, but several mlm businesses.
Business owners are looking for the easiest way possible to market their network marketing projects. You may not see them attending live preview events, because of time constraints, but if they LOVE the product, they will promote it in one way or the other.
Here's a brand new product that will be launching in one week. Why not check it out? Hint: It tastes yummy!
See you at the TOP. www.chocolateyum.com
PS, as an actor for over 30 years, I recommend that all actors have a network marketing business. However, many are thick headed and would rather struggle and starve. Oh well. You have to slap them over the head and say "Residuals in acting - get smaller. Residuals in network marketing get bigger."
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Direct Sales Reality Check: Be Accountable to Someone Else to Manage Your Money
I haven't written in this blog for a while, mainly because I have used my direct sales experience to go into something that I am very excited about. It is not direct sales, but my position is similar. I am helping business owners pursue their passions no matter what business they are in. CEOSpace.
However, I was listening to an audio by Carrie Wilkerson, the Barefoot Executive, and she talked about something that is near and dear to my heart. She, herself, had gone into debt because she hadn't been able to properly manage her money. She suggests that you assign someone else to do your book keeping to stay accountable and not embezzle from your business. This could be a spouse, parent, or any other outside source. GREAT idea!
If your heart is not with what you are doing to make your production, get a reality check and step down. Don't keep putting in more than you have earned simply to maintain your position. Instead, come to CEOSpace and discover what your passion really is! LOL.
That is not to say I advocate company bashing sites. I personally hate them. I wish someone would blow up the PINK YUCK! (a site dedicated to bashing a company that is dedicated to improving the lives of women) I personally had an encounter with the witch who runs that site, when I decided to step down as a director. She seeks out directors who step down. We had a hideous conversation in which she ranted on and on about how I failed, etc.
Those types of people are whiners and complainers who did not take personal responsibility for managing their money. They blame everyone else but themselves. I still have a large inventory and I don't think I would ever be able to run my business without one. I wish I had more in stock right now. Just listen to what Carrie has to say and run your business like a business. No one forced you to spend more than you earned. Get over it!
Here is the link to Carrie's Teleseminar.
http://instantteleseminar.com/?eventid=10159662
(I didn't even add my affiliate link, because frankly, I couldn't find it. Hee Hee!)
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
The Straight Skinny on Marketing Your Direct Sales Business Online
I am only giving you my personal opinion. Some of you out there may have had different experiences and I would love to hear them. I have tried many of the options available for online marketing for direct sales: Facebook, Twitter, Blogging, Social Networking Specific Groups, Online Lead Generator Programs, etc.. They are all great for getting your message out, socializing, and clarifying your goals, visions and dreams. They can also be huge time wasters. Fabulous for procrastinating. Hey, we all do it, right?
You can spend hordes of money figuring out how they all work or do it all for free. What works and what doesn’t?
I just received an email newsletter from a friend and he is claiming that Facebook is the BEST landing page there is. I have to agree with him. Facebook is a constant party. If you want to connect, voice your opinion, let people know what you are up to, you have to be on Facebook. That doesn’t mean just sign up and leave. It means you must participate on a daily basis. Usually several times per day, without being obnoxious.
Don’t sell, ask people to help you reach your goals,come to your party or, heaven forbid think they will sign up online. That is pretty ridiculous. Many of your FB friends live thousands of miles away. Simply connect and carry on real conversations.
I have decided not to use Facebook events. They get buried in the mix. People are getting overwhelmed by the constant stream of invitations. The same honestly goes for groups and fan pages. Hardly anyone can find them. Well, I can’t anyway! Just talk to the streaming feed and carry on conversations.Conversing with the feed and messaging friends is all you need. When it comes to events, I much prefer www.meetup.com
The other thing you must have is an email service such as Constant Contact or Aweber. That is the only way you should be sending group emails. Did you know that if you have more than 10 people listed in your TO column or even BCC on your regular email, it will end up in a Spam folder? I just learned that from a person who works for Constant Contact.
Enter your existing customers on your email service list and add as you get new ones (always asking for permission) On AWeber, people have to confirm that they have given you permission. Then send out a regular newsletter with 80% tips and useful information, and 20% max promotion. By regular, send it out like clockwork (weekly, bi monthly, monthly) Do not send out a shopping cart. I personally do not subscribe to my direct sales company customer EZINE because of that very reason. It is a shopping cart and nothing more. Customers opt out of it.
I blog for fun and enjoyment. I cannot say I have recruited new team members or added to my customer list. Direct Sales is personal and usually locally based. It means you have to get out and meet people face to face. I love passing on useful information and I hope people appreciate it. You can create additional streams of income from blogging by participating in affiliate programs, tele-seminars or ebooks. Multiple streams of income are good and recommended for everyone.
Lead generating systems: OK, I tried two of them. I earned some affiliate income from them but did not build my team. Some types of direct sales companies may find this helpful, but for most party plans I would say it is a waste of time and money unless you are in it strictly for the affiliate income.
For those who are claiming to be building teams online and making sales, I would say their income mainly comes from offering coaching programs and not directly from their direct sales income. Coaching is a noble profession if you are hugely successful in your business. The majority of direct sales income will usually come from meeting real life customers. Sure, some people do online parties, but I would guess that is not a large percentage of their income. People buy from party plan companies to have fun at parties.
What has your online experience been like? I would love to know!
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Build Leaders By Supporting Your Local Direct Sales Consultant Community
I have always felt fortunate that my direct sales company made it part of their business plan to have their leaders support all consultants in the organization no matter if they were directly connected to them or not. It makes a huge difference in the success of one leader over another. We call it the Go Give Spirit, and the most prestigious award the company gives is for the person who gives back the most.
Unfortunately, in an ideal world, this doesn’t always happen. When it doesn’t, you will see local direct sales leaders of a particular company, in a community, start to flounder. Or, you might see a top leader who is strong in one area, for example, sales, but who is not building strong leaders in her own organization.
Those who are new, or have not built up their business, need support. This helps everyone as a whole. The bigger you can build a local area meeting, the more exciting it is, and the easier it is to recruit and build strong leaders.
If a local leader feels that they are an island, they will end up falling off. Here are some tips to support your local sales force and build more leaders:
- Band together for regular events. Have a monthly career breakfast, or evening event to include area leaders and their teams. Make sure everyone is connected via email or a phone tree.
- If you are a strong leader, but your strengths do not lie in organizing events, enlist another leader who is better at it.
- Use sources such as www.meetup.com or Facebook, to find other consultants, leaders and guests in your area with like interests. Be careful not to promote this as a selling event, or you will be blocked. Promote your event as educational or for networking opportunities.
- Create a monthly management meeting for leaders in your area to share ideas and bring in guest speakers.
- Treat other consultants and leaders as if they were just as important as your own team members.
- Edify all local area leaders in your company to give them confidence and strength. Delegate portions of the event or responsibilities to each leader
- Create a support network for your community to serve local area needs or help when someone in your company is in a crisis.
- Group events for all direct sales reps (in any company) is helpful for all because you can learn, and do business with each other. This is a great way to build your customer base.
If you find you have become successful in one particular area, but have not built leaders along the way, it could be that you have neglected to focus on your local area of consultants and leaders. You can’t go to the top alone. Plus, with help and support, you won’t have to work so hard.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Business Mentality and Systems Make the Difference For Direct Sales Success
It’s difficult to watch people who have invested good money into top level training who are still stuck and wondering why their business is floundering. We all know the fortune is in the followup. Are you doing it? I can’t even count the times that I have found a new customer or recruit because their previous consultant wasn’t on the ball.
Many times when I have asked a new customer who their previous consultant was, they couldn’t even remember their name. Potential recruits have searched corporate websites because they wanted to sign up to start a new business and never received a response. One person told me she had attempted to contact 9 consultants until she finally got a hold of a director who called her back.
And you wonder why direct sales and networking marketing has a bad name? People associate direct sellers as being flaky, or as those who have no job skills, who sign up because they couldn’t find anything else to do.
Unfortunately, flaky consultants do not possess the capability to be business owners in the first place. So, why do we keep recruiting them? They spend money they can’t afford and then lose it because they do not have any inkling of how to take manage or take advantage of it.
We recruit them because we want the numbers. Who hasn’t heard that success is a numbers game? But why have numbers that do not produce results, or turn off future customers? Sometimes you just have to say, I don’t think this business would be a good fit for you. You aren’t ready yet. Don’t quit your day job. If someone is determined to succeed, they will dispute this and prove that you are wrong. Let’s hope they do.
If you want to be successful in direct sales or any business for that matter, you must develop the business mentality for success and a system to make it work. These are learned skills. However, learning skills is not all there is to it. You have to take action on them.
When you wing it, you get wing it results.
If your business isn’t working, quit crying about it and develop a system. Then make sure you take action on it and work it. Keep it simple and teach it to your recruits. Be more discriminating on who you bring into your business. Who you bring in is a reflection of you and your company. If you have a precise system that works and you are implementing it yourself, others will follow your lead.
For more info on developing a sales system, I suggest you check out Eric Lofholm at
www.saleschampion.com He is a wizard and has worked with many top companies including Mary Kay.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Team Member Retention: What is the Disconnect?
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How many times have you recruited a new team member only to have them quit or never get started? It happens all the time. What causes this to happen? There are, of course, many reasons, but it comes down to not having the proper mindset for success in the first place. Much of this has to do with not indoctrinating a new team member as to what is really required or expected of them to succeed.
They may initially be excited about the product or the prospect of making extra income. Inevitably, an obstacle, fear or disappointment evaporates that excitement. Much of this comes from having an employee mentality. Face it, the main purpose of a school or college is to prepare people to become part of the workforce . . . as an employee. It doesn’t teach them to be entrepreneurs. An employee mentality comes from waiting to have someone else tell you what to do. It is not so much taking it upon yourself to be responsible for your own success.
That is why only 5% of direct sales consultants achieve significant success in their business.
The Direct Sales Mindset Manual For Success is a guide to prevent new team members from falling into the employee mentality trap. It should be the first thing they ever read before the first obstacle strikes. As we know, that can happen even before they open up their starter kit. I suggest you sign them up and have a copy ready to put in their hot and excited little hands.
Once they read it, they will never have any reason to blame you if anything goes wrong in their business.
To order, simply go to: It is only $9.97
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Guest Post : Are You Taking Responsibility by Debbie Friedman
ARE YOU TAKING RESPONSIBILITY?
It is time to take responsibility for our actions and the results we create in our lives. It’s time to stop expecting someone else to do for us what we are unwilling to do for ourselves. It’s time to remember that no one is doing it to us and no one is going to do it for us.
We have the right and the responsibility to powerfully, positively choose what we desire for our lives, and to create our success and the life we love to live we must also take the appropriate actions in our world.
I was leading a workshop where people voiced a string of “I can’ts” and one woman said she “wants to be out of debt.” There are no “can’ts”. Either you choose to or you don’t choose to. There is no “trying”. Either you do it or you don’t.
Your mind does not have a sense of humor, does not know true from false, and does not know fact from fantasy. All your mind knows is what you tell it.
Your mind also has a strange way of eliminating certain words so that if you say “I want to be out of debt” your mind hears the shortened version of “want debt”. If you say you don’t want to be afraid, your mind hears “be afraid”. When we say “I don’t want to forget”, we tend to forget. It’s best to say “I am remembering”. Focus on the positives of what you choose for your life so there is only certainty.
Here are some tips to improve your communication for creating your great success:
1. Avoid using negatives. Make powerful, positive statements of what you choose to experience in your life. Remember that your mind does not have a sense of humor and will take whatever you tell it literally.
2. Be clear, specific, and detailed about what you choose for your life. Invest the time and effort to focus your thoughts so you can get more of what you desire and deserve. Be grateful for what you receive, and yet refine and define your choices more powerfully. You CAN have what you choose.
3. Let go of any old stories you’ve been telling yourself and others about the past. It’s the past. It’s gone. You can’t go back and redo it, but in the re-telling and re-living you re-create more of the same by keeping the past alive. Learn the lessons you need so you can let go and grow into your powerful, prosperous future.
Instead, vision what you DO choose so that you can feel the excitement of everything you know is coming your way.
4. Be conscious. Be aware. Be awake. If something happens that you hadn’t expected, take time to figure out what you did to create it so you can do better in the future. No blame. No shame. Only gain.
Last, but not least, take time to have fun, laugh, and play. Those are the truly exquisite moments in life.
Debbie Friedman, M.S., C.Ht. is a scientist who has turned her attention from the Study of Nature to the Study Of Our Nature as human beings. As an internationally recognized Transformation Expert, she is a master at helping people clean out the closets of their mind, releasing old beliefs that have held them back in the past, so they can be free to consciously create the life they love to live. To listen to a special recording with Debbie on Manifesting Made Easy: The 9 Steps for the Secret Of Success in this Economy, visit
http://www.cleaningoutthecloset.com/audio.htm
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Are You Letting Naysayers Deter You From Direct Sales Success?
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The bigger a direct sales company gets, the more people there are who want to trash it. Does what people say about your company or product, keep you from achieving direct sales success?
I had a run in a while back with a woman, who makes it her mission to trash the company I represent. Even though the company is known for it’s high ethics and integrity, there are disgruntled former consultants who seem to have a need to vent. No wonder those consultants were not successful.
This woman, first of all hunted me down via email. I, like an idiot, felt the need to respond, because I hated seeing the negative content she was spewing on the Internet. She called me every name in the book, and I have to admit I gave some back to her. She went on to say former consultants were forced to purchase products they didn’t need, thought upline had lied to them, etc. etc.
I personally know first hand that absolutely no one is ever forced to purchase products. They do it of their own volition. If they don’t sell it, whose fault is it? The company or themselves? Of course it isn’t the company’s fault. This is called taking personal responsibility for your success and managing your money.
Sometimes others will dish the product as well. Let’s face it. Not everyone is going to like your product or your company. There is nothing you can do about it. It could be the best product or company in the world and there will always be someone who has a negative opinion of it.
Those who do not like it are not YOUR people. They are not YOUR tribe. Forget about them. If you personally believe in your product and your company, you will find many others who share your same view.
Those who feel it is their duty to trash a company or product have a need for attention and have severe mental problems. They are sad and want to blame their failures on everyone, except the one person who is at fault and that is themselves.
Personal responsibility for your business, success and life is what separates you from the rest of the herd. If you experience failure or are disillusioned, either change what you are doing or move on. Do something you are personally passionate about that doesn’t have a negative impact on others.
We can’t stop people like that from coming on the Internet and discrediting what we do. Counter it with spreading positivity and good vibes instead.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
VIDEO OF THE WEEK - Self Discipline For Success - Funny!
VIDEO OF THE WEEK:
Joachim de Posada is a speaker and motivational coach. He’s the author of "How to Survive Among the Piranhas" and "Don’t Eat the Marshmallow … Yet."
Make sure to check back for our Video of the Week. You never know what you will find. This week, Joachim de Posada speaks about Self Discipline for Success. This is a very funny, but oh, so true video reminiscent of Art Linkletter’s Kid’s Say the Darndest Things.
You will find the video of the week on the top right of the screen
MY PINK PIZAZZ: Direct Sales Success and Empowerment
Enjoy!
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
How to Make Offline Networking Work For Your Direct Sales Business
I personally enjoy networking and I’m surprised that not more direct sellers do it. It is the easiest way for me to connect with people. I have never enjoyed walking into a mall or store and accosting people asking them to book a party or try a product. I’ve also wasted time networking. Some groups work and some do not. You have to track your results and then be ready to change if things are not working for you.
Here are some tips:
1. Join a Chamber of Commerce: Chambers can be wonderful, because so many types of businesses are involved. Make sure your Chamber offers many opportunities for networking. Some are small and do not. Visit a couple chambers and go to some mixers before making a decision. If you show up to an event and only a couple people show up, chances are you won’t get much out of it. Chambers often give you access to other events such as boothing or speaking opportunities. Joining the Ambassador team in a chamber will make it easier for you to talk to people. You are representing the Chamber.
2. Leads Groups: Most leads groups will have one business owner per category. For example, one skin care person, one jeweler, on banker, etc. The way they work, is each member passes warm leads to other members. You are expected to do this as well. Relationships form and there is a great deal of loyalty. Well known leads groups are BNI or Le Tip,
3. Charitable Organizations: Rotary, Kiwanis, Optimists, Soroptimists, etc. Business owners help the community through charitable efforts. Business is created through members of the group and the community who become familiar with you.
4. Business Forums such as CEOSpace: CEOSpace members meet 5 times per year at a forum that takes place in a hotel setting. Business is done through cooperative and non competitive networking. CEOSpace offers a lifetime membership in which you can connect with over1200+ business owners, per event who are actively and enthusiastically on a mission to help you grow your business. The membership cost is steep but pays for itself quickly by giving its members high quality and effective connections. CEOSpace offers a capital language fundbusting program to help business owners raise the tuition to become a member. It works and is a great education. For more info, please call Rebecca at 818-515-7880.
5. Meet For Coffee: The point of networking is to form relationships that will lead to business. When you meet someone at an event, invite them to have coffee or a meal with you, so that you can get to know each other better and help support their business. Find out as much as you can about that person and resist the temptation to talk and sell your products or service. Ask many open ended questions. (not just yes or no answers) If a person seems interested in your business, then you can invite them to an event or demonstration. Never give a demonstration without permission. Always ask for referrals.
6. Know Your Target Market and What You Are Looking For: Be able to tell people what problem you can solve and who your ideal client would be. Not everyone will be able to personally purchase your product or join your opportunity, but may know someone who will. Explain this in a short and succinct way. Under 30 seconds.
7. Networking Will Bring You A Higher Quality of Client: Are you tired of dealing with people who are broke and who do not have a business mentality? There are many business owners right now who are looking for multiple streams of income. They know what it takes to run a business. Why waste time with those who do not have a clue or have no desire to build a successful business?
8. Networking is Face to Face: No matter how wonderful social networking is, it will never replace face to face marketing. Social networking is a great way to filter people, however. Ideally, the more people you actually meet, face to face, the more success you will have in your direct sales business.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Sales Statistics: Why Direct Sellers Don’t Hit the Mark
You get inspired in the most amazing ways. Below are sales statistics that were sent on a Send Out Cards note. Thought they were awesome and so true:
- 48% of sales people never follow up with a prospect
- 25% of sales people make a second contact and stop
- 12% of sales people only make 3 contacts and stop
- Only 10% of sales people make more than 3 contacts
- 2% of sales are made on the first contact
- 3% of sales are made on the second contact
- 5% of sales are made on the third contact
- 10% of sales are made on the fourth contact
- 80% of sales are made on the 5th to 12th contact
Are you giving up after 1-4 contacts? I would suggest you print this out and stick it in front of your phone. Thanks for the card Casey!
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Settling For Mediocrity: Small Thinking Gets You No Where in Business
Ah, the famous comfort zone! It is the place, many people sit and vegetate in their business. I find this particularly true with women. Their biggest fear is not working their business, but rather being afraid of becoming successful. With success comes more responsibility, a larger circle of influence, and deep set beliefs about money.
However, we know that abundance brings freedom and, most importantly, the ability to help more people. You cannot help anyone if you are poor and struggling. Yet, many people continue to surround themselves with mediocrity, or try to wing it on their own without the support of others. That’s okay if you want to make tons of mistakes and keep letting success elude you.
When you have the opportunity to be around someone who is successful in what they do, especially if it will inspire you in your own business, do what it takes to take advantage of it. Surround yourself with those who have the ability and gift to take you to the next level in your business and in your life. Quit hanging around with snivelers, whiners, complainers, negative Nellies, dream stealers, and small thinkers. ALWAYS, look up. Do not believe that you will make it without support. It doesn’t work that way.
Most successful people are willing to help you if you allow yourself to be teachable. They will not waste time with you if you are not open to what they have to give to you. How do you know who you should spend your time with? Those who are successful, have integrity, are givers and not takers, and who lead by example.
There are plenty of mediocre leaders in direct sales. Just because someone is "above" you does not make them mentor material. Choose your mentors wisely.
Stop thinking small. It is not as "comfortable" as you may think.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Signs of Business Professionalism: Are You Guilty?
It is my observation in working with business professionals vs. direct sales consultants, that direct sales consultants, as a rule, conduct their business less professionally. It comes with the territory. The price point for starting a direct sales business is much lower than starting a business from scratch. That is why only a small percentage of consultants succeed in their businesses. It is not that their business is not as viable. In fact, in many ways, it has more of a chance of succeeding than other types of businesses.
The problem is a lack of understanding of what being professional really means.
Here are 3 signs of a business professional:
- Returns phone calls, emails and other methods of contact in a timely manner. I have even known directors in direct sales who return phone calls only to those who will immediately serve them. Unfortunately, in not returning calls, to those who are seemingly less important, word gets around that particular person is flaky and not someone you can rely on. That doesn’t mean waste time with people who just want to drain your time and produce zero results. It means making people who can influence others feel important and valued.
- Is on time to appointments: Some people feel that they can swish on in to a meeting or appointment whenever they like, leaving other people to do the work or sit in a coffee shop waiting, stressing that they are not going to show up. If you are going to be late, all it takes is a phone call to say you are stuck in traffic, etc. However, you also need to give yourself time to get there. Chronically being late is a habit, not an excuse, and is just plain rude.
- Is good for their word. It’s amazing to me how many consultants will borrow something and never give it back. They think it isn’t important to return that lipstick you loaned them to give to a client, that they weren’t prepared for. Meanwhile the other consultant is out that amount of money because it is missing from her shelf. To me, that is one of the most important factors in determining if someone is leadership quality. Sure, everyone borrows things once in a while, but those who do not return them, should not wonder why they aren’t successful.
Well, there are many other ways to be unprofessional in business but I think the three reasons above are sure signs of it. What do you think are signs of not being professional in business? Share your thoughts!
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Support Direct Sellers to Stimulate Your Local Economy
When I started my direct sales business, I was about to become a widow with two kids, who were 11 and 13 at the time. I had worked in the entertainment industry, and so had my husband. Because of the unpredictability of the industry, we had nothing saved up. Nine months later, when my husband passed away, I received letters of condolences from the heads of my direct sales company, top sales people and others, whom I had never met. This impressed me greatly. I was just a lowly consultant with one accidental team member.
How often would that happen at a big corporation? Probably not very much Direct sales gives many people the opportunity to take control of their lives and dip their feet into becoming an entrepreneur. Whether they stay for a lifetime, or just a season doesn’t matter. They will have learned marketing and business skills for life if they took advantage of the training.
I was also a snob about home parties before I started my business. I thought it was sort of hokey to get together for makeup, jewelry or plastic wear parties. I live in LA. I had never given a party and rarely had attended any. What I found, however, was a sense of community. It was fun getting together with friends to shop.
I am not saying to support someone who is flaky and doesn’t follow through, or who wants to jam their business opportunity down your throat. Unfortunately, that is something that the direct sales industry itself needs to correct. However, there are many serious representatives who take pride in giving great customer service and making sure their customers have a pleasant experience.
So next time you want to shop at Target or Walmart, think to yourself, "Could I be helping out a single mother or someone who is working hard to provide for his or her children today?" A box store, a department store or drug store, really isn’t going to care very much if you shop there or not. Direct sales companies offer very high quality products. Do you want a spatula from the dollar store, that will probably break after a week, or a super sturdy one from your kitchen consultant that has a lifetime guarantee?
Is that collection of makeup colors at Costco really something you need, or would you prefer to have a free makeup consultation from a skin care and makeup consultant who genuinely cares about how happy you are with your products. Think about it.
Happy shopping and thanks for supporting and stimulating your local economy where it counts the most.
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
Have a Garage Sale: Start a Direct Sales Business
If anyone tells you they do not have enough money to get started in a direct sales business, you should take them seriously. They do not have the where with all or capability to be in business in the first place. Instead, they should probably go back to their job at McDonald’s.
A direct sales business generally costs between $100 and $500 to get into. What other business, besides internet marketing, has such a low start up cost? And with direct sales, you start earning money immediately. If someone really wants to take control over their lives, and go into business for themselves, they can always have a garage sale, put items on Craig’s list or Ebay. Even better, would be to start taking orders before their first selling event.
I do not consider myself to be a garage sale junkie, but have had several in the past 6 months. I’m downsizing into a smaller house because we enjoy traveling more than paying the Department of Water and Power. In LA, DWP bills are as much as many people’s mortgages. Each time I had a garage sale I made an average of $400. I am not even a person who collects and hoards junk. On the contrary, I prefer a more zen environment without clutter.
Each month, like clockwork, a very lovely woman calls me to ask if I have clothes for the blind. I have gotten to know her and always donate items if I happen to have some. She recently became ill and now her husband does the calling for her.
In my direct sales business, I sell cosmetics. If I find I have items that have been sitting on my shelf for too long, samples that have been discontinued, etc., I ship them off to a battered woman’s shelter. It makes me sick to see someone put useful items in the trash when someone else, who is less fortunate, can use them.
So don’t let lack of capital keep you from getting started in business. There is plenty of money out there for all of us. Get rid of the junk that is cluttering up your house and cluttering up your mind. Let someone else who needs it, enjoy it. Once you get rid of the clutter, you will find that it is easier to focus. Plus, you will enjoy the flow of money that comes into your hands because of it. No . . . you really don’t need that white elephant that has been sitting gathering dust on your shelf. Get rid of it, and start your direct sales business.
Contact me if you want to get started today! EMAIL
Did you check out the fantastic products and services in the I HIGHLY RECOMMEND section of this blog? (right sidebar) They are people I know, like and trust, whom I believe would bring great value to your business.
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