Direct Selling

Direct Selling is another great way of being your own boss – you can be in control over your income. It is popular for women with family commitments as they can chose to work part time with and it needs minimal start-up costs.

Direct Selling is about selling products and services directly through face to face contact with customers, usually in their homes or at their workplace. Sales are typically made through party plan, or one to one demonstrations. It has a number of benefits:

• It is convenient for the customer
• You can learn more about what the customer wants
• You can build a relationship with your customer
• You can convince your customers to buy

Top Tips for Successful Direct Selling

• Chose a product range that appeals to you and which you consider to be fairly priced. If you like the product, then you will find it easier to sell it.
• To need to be able to cope with many rejections - selling can be tough and you need to be sociable and confident, and love talking to people.

• Be cautious with claims about high earnings. High earnings may be possible with a sound business but you need to give a lot of time, hard work and dedication. And earnings are always based on actual sales of products.
• High rates of commission and bonuses are less important that the appeal of the product. Its better do sell appealing products with reasonable commissions than high commission on products that don’t sell well.
• Always ensure that you receive a proper written contract and that you understand it. If the opportunity includes the right to recruit others, then check that it complies with the Law.
• Check whether the business is a member of DSA, which gives assurance that the business is legal and abides by DSA codes membership is a useful indication of legal compliance.

What are my initial costs?

There will be initial outlay costs and this varies with the product and recommended method of sales. With most companies the investment in a business kit and a range of sample products rarely exceeds £100. It’s not always necessary to buy goods before you have made any sales to consumers.

Only buy stock that you are certain you will sell and beware of claims to achieve higher bonuses by having to buy more stock.

The costs of selling may outweigh your sales, but repeat sales may justify the expense.

Can I manage my Direct Selling Business from home?

Remember that this type of business mainly involves selling face to face, so you will be visiting customers in their own home or in their workplace. Some of the work can be done at home – such as recruiting on the telephone and internet.