Direct sales involves selling products to customers without having to have a retail store and invest in a large inventory. While the potential for profit is enormous, so are the dangers if you haven’t done your homework. To help you with that, the following are some of the pros and con of direct sales.
The Honest To Goodness Pros of Direct Sales
Direct sales is often misunderstood and has sometimes gotten a bad rap because of this. Certainly, all of the companies are not schemes and many do sell legitimate products of high quality. So it’s important to learn the facts before you make an educated decision. Don’t just listen to people who have failed, talk to people who are enjoying success in the industry. There is something for everyone, from affordable products people use daily to luxury ones on the higher end for affluent consumers.
1. Direct sales gives anyone a chance to be a business owner. Entrepreneurship allows you to realize your dream of working for yourself. How much you make is directly proportional to how hard you work at selling your product to others.
2. Direct sales business owners have the flexibility to set their own hours. It is a perfect proposition for you, if you are retired, a stay-at-home mom with small children, or for someone who wants to secure your future. You can work part-time or full-time as your schedule allows. As a Mom you can spend time with your kids and many people gain a real sense of purpose.
3. Direct sales businesses have low overheads. When you sign up with a direct sales company, they provide all of the tools you will need to get started for a small investment. Most can be started for $500 or less. You probably spend at least that much on shopping for your family. Now, you can start your own business with unlimited return.
4. Direct sales programs offer support for their sales consultants. It can be tough starting your own business, especially if you have no sales or marketing experience. The support of the company and your upline or sponsor can mean the difference between success and failure.
5. There is plenty of variety with direct sales. You can choose a product line you feel comfortable with and believe in. From food to home decor, jewelry to health products there is a business to fit your interests.
The Honest To Goodness Cons of Direct Sales
All that glitters, is not gold as they say. That’s why it is so important to check out your direct sales company and your sponsor before you sign on the dotted line.
1. All direct sales programs are not on the up and up. They can talk a good game but in the end, take your money. If the up-front cost is heavy and there is no support to speak of, keep on moving. On the other hand, if joining is free it’s most likely that you’ll receive no materials to market your business or for basic training.
2. Some direct sales programs have hidden costs you might not have counted on. They supply a starter kit for you to host parties but don’t tell you about the brochures, other products, and any marketing items that you pay for out of your own pocket and are not reimbursed for.
3. Each direct sales program has its own guidelines for earning commission and compensation plan. In an effort to earn money it is easy to lose sight of the goal and concentrate solely on money. You may be able to convince people to buy something once and gain initial earnings but for long term gain, you need repeat customers and business partners.
4. Direct sales companies often offer websites for their consultants. Unfortunately, all of these sites are exactly the same and tied to the main company site. Search engines won’t be able to find you individually and neither will the traffic you need to make sales.
Are you considering a direct sales career or home based business? Be aware of both sides of the coin with this business before you begin. Take the time to do your research to ensure it’s right for you, your goals and lifestyle.
