How to Choose the Right Direct Sales Company for YOU

Many of us have been to home parties and heard the consultant tell us how wonderful their job is. They are telling you the truth, they do have great jobs, but quite often, you are not told everything. The companies that these consultants represent are direct sales companies. These are companies that sell their products primarily through catalogs and home shows, usually through independent sales consultants. Some better known direct sales companies are Tupperware, Avon, Mary Kay, and The Pampered Chef, but there are hundreds (possibly thousands) more. The sales consultants typically have no sales areas and can sell anywhere they choose, however, some limit internet sales. Each company has their own guidelines and rules so it takes investigating several companies if you want to be able to do certain things (sell only occasionally, sell on the internet, etc). You can find a list of companies that belong to the Direct Sales Association (DSA) at www.dsa.org under "membership directory". Members of the DSA are held to a strict code of ethics, which include buying back the starter kit that new consultants must buy, if the consultant decides the business is not for them within one year. There are other direct sales companies that do not belong to the DSA, and therefore do not need to follow the code of ethics, though many do. Below you will find several questions that you should ask a company before signing any contracts.

1) What products does the company sell?

It is important that you find a company whose products you truly believe in, if you want to be the most successful. There are companies that sell kitchen tools, home decorating accessories, toys for children, adult "toys", cosmetics, candles, crafting supplies, and many, many other items.

2) How much does it cost to get started and what do I get for that money?