Selling can be fun, challenging, profitable and frustrating. It order to make it a little easier, be prepared with responses to some common objections:
I can buy it cheaper elsewhere
Can you get it with the same advantages (ingredients, etc.)?
Is it actually the same thing that you are buying elsewhere?
I can't afford it
Let me show you how it would be more cost-effective in the long run
Let me show you how long it will last
Let me show our payment options
We do offer discounts under the following circumstances
There will be a price increase on this soon
Let me show you how you could get it at a big discount (recruiting prospect)
It won't work for me
Tell me more about what you need
Why do you feel it won't work
We offer a money-back guarantee
I'll think about it
Is there additional information I can give you to help you decide?
Here's a sample you can try
We have a special promotion for a limited time
What questions do you still have?
I don't like _________ about it.
Can you tell me specifically what you don't like?
In what way would you like it to be different?
Once you have prepared yourself for most of the common objections you hear, you can counter them easily and help your prospect make an informed decision.
A large part of selling is listening, assessing and making recommendations to your customers. If you really care about helping them solve a problem versus just making a sale, they will be more comfortable buying from you...again and again.
Get more tips from our Direct Sales Power Series, www.isellmoretoday.com
Monday, November 26, 2007
Two Powerful Ideas for Getting Leads Fast!
Needs Leads? Here are a couple sure-fire ways to get leads quickly.
Ask Permission
To get great leads, you first need to give permission to someone to market to them. By this we mean, you can offer a complimentary newsletter or send a postcard offering them a complimentary gift. If someone decides to take you up on your offer, they will contact you to get the free item. When they do this, they have given you "permission" to market to them. This is also known as "opt-in" marketing. The person has opted in to your program. They are now a bona-fide lead.
After you get the response from them, you can then add them to your regular mailing list, follow up with them for sales/questions, invite them to sales events. If you have an enticing offer, you will increase the amount of leads you get! By offering a free newsletter with helpful tips (for cooking, children, beauty--whatever your business target is) AND a free gift, you will get better, more qualified leads actually contacting you!
Establishing yourself as an expert
OK, get ready to groan...this tip involves something some people hate so much they would rather have a root canal than do...it is public speaking. (Told you!) But once you get past your initial fear, think about it. If you want to market your business and service and establish credibility to numerous people at one time, try speaking at a live event. Even if it's only 10 people--these are now 10 new prospects.
If you have spent a lot of time and money marketing yourself to one, two or three people at a time, you should consider growing that audience. If you can book yourself as a speaker to specific groups in your local area, you can develop yourself as an expert on your subject. These events are going on in nearly every sized city (business groups, womens groups, mommy groups, success groups, networking events, etc.) The mere fact that you get up in front of others will help to establish you as an expert.
Do a little research of groups in your area. Identify one or two that may work for you and write them a letter explaining your business and a brief outline of topics you speak about. You will almost certainly get some bites, and you can start getting yourself in front of many new prospects. If you are shy, work as a team with someone else in your business or in a complementary business. Put together a "team speech" for even more confidence!
Need some more assistance in marketing and developing your business? Visit us at: www.directsalespower.com
Ask Permission
To get great leads, you first need to give permission to someone to market to them. By this we mean, you can offer a complimentary newsletter or send a postcard offering them a complimentary gift. If someone decides to take you up on your offer, they will contact you to get the free item. When they do this, they have given you "permission" to market to them. This is also known as "opt-in" marketing. The person has opted in to your program. They are now a bona-fide lead.
After you get the response from them, you can then add them to your regular mailing list, follow up with them for sales/questions, invite them to sales events. If you have an enticing offer, you will increase the amount of leads you get! By offering a free newsletter with helpful tips (for cooking, children, beauty--whatever your business target is) AND a free gift, you will get better, more qualified leads actually contacting you!
Establishing yourself as an expert
OK, get ready to groan...this tip involves something some people hate so much they would rather have a root canal than do...it is public speaking. (Told you!) But once you get past your initial fear, think about it. If you want to market your business and service and establish credibility to numerous people at one time, try speaking at a live event. Even if it's only 10 people--these are now 10 new prospects.
If you have spent a lot of time and money marketing yourself to one, two or three people at a time, you should consider growing that audience. If you can book yourself as a speaker to specific groups in your local area, you can develop yourself as an expert on your subject. These events are going on in nearly every sized city (business groups, womens groups, mommy groups, success groups, networking events, etc.) The mere fact that you get up in front of others will help to establish you as an expert.
Do a little research of groups in your area. Identify one or two that may work for you and write them a letter explaining your business and a brief outline of topics you speak about. You will almost certainly get some bites, and you can start getting yourself in front of many new prospects. If you are shy, work as a team with someone else in your business or in a complementary business. Put together a "team speech" for even more confidence!
Need some more assistance in marketing and developing your business? Visit us at: www.directsalespower.com
Objections? Counter with these come-backs!
Selling can be fun, challenging, profitable and frustrating. It order to make it a little easier, be prepared with responses to some common objections:
I can buy it cheaper elsewhere
Can you get it with the same advantages (ingredients, etc.)?
Is it actually the same thing that you are buying elsewhere?
I can't afford it
Let me show you how it would be more cost-effective in the long run
Let me show you how long it will last
Let me show our payment options
We do offer discounts under the following circumstances
There will be a price increase on this soon
Let me show you how you could get it at a big discount (recruiting prospect)
It won't work for me
Tell me more about what you need
Why do you feel it won't work
We offer a money-back guarantee
I'll think about it
Is there additional information I can give you to help you decide?
Here's a sample you can try
We have a special promotion for a limited time
What questions do you still have?
I don't like _________ about it.
Can you tell me specifically what you don't like?
In what way would you like it to be different?
Once you have prepared yourself for most of the common objections you hear, you can counter them easily and help your prospect make an informed decision. A large part of selling is listening, assessing and making recommendations to your customers. If you really care about helping them solve a problem versus just making a sale, they will be more comfortable buying from you...again and again.
Get more tips from our Direct Sales Power Series, www.isellmoretoday.com
I can buy it cheaper elsewhere
Can you get it with the same advantages (ingredients, etc.)?
Is it actually the same thing that you are buying elsewhere?
I can't afford it
Let me show you how it would be more cost-effective in the long run
Let me show you how long it will last
Let me show our payment options
We do offer discounts under the following circumstances
There will be a price increase on this soon
Let me show you how you could get it at a big discount (recruiting prospect)
It won't work for me
Tell me more about what you need
Why do you feel it won't work
We offer a money-back guarantee
I'll think about it
Is there additional information I can give you to help you decide?
Here's a sample you can try
We have a special promotion for a limited time
What questions do you still have?
I don't like _________ about it.
Can you tell me specifically what you don't like?
In what way would you like it to be different?
Once you have prepared yourself for most of the common objections you hear, you can counter them easily and help your prospect make an informed decision. A large part of selling is listening, assessing and making recommendations to your customers. If you really care about helping them solve a problem versus just making a sale, they will be more comfortable buying from you...again and again.
Get more tips from our Direct Sales Power Series, www.isellmoretoday.com
What Does She Have That I Don't Have?
Why does a competitor's business expand while yours stays still? It might be only the difference of making a few easy tweaks in your branding and image. But exactly what is branding, anyway? Think of branding as defining what a company is all about in the minds of its clients. Good branding differentiates your products and services in a positive way that really sticks in the minds of potential customers.
Let’s say you have been traveling around town without your morning coffee and are getting just a little cranky. Quick! What’s the first coffee shop chain that comes to mind? Chances are, you thought of Starbucks. Why?
* Attractive and easily read logo;
* Consistency of product, décor, signage, and interior; and
* A great product
Assuming your product is fabulous, it all comes down to image. Graphic design can play a huge part in that image. But what are some key things to consider?
A great logo is key.
You have already given a great deal of attention to your company name and believe that it speaks to who you are and what you do. Great! Now you need to wrap a graphic image around that name to carve out a prime piece of real estate in the mind of your target customer. That is exactly what a great logo can do.
Whether or not you eat fast food and regardless of your opinion as to what might constitute the best in fast food, my guess is that the name McDonalds conjures up an immediate image of the golden arches. Those golden arches really work as a logo!
The McDonalds logo is a good example of merging a symbol with a letter in the company name. It is also a good example of simplicity, another key element to great logo design.
A good logo also:
* has a strong, balanced image with no little extras that clutter its look;
* is distinctive and bold in design, making it easy to see at a glance;
* has graphic imagery that looks appropriate for your business;
* works well with your company name;
* is done in an easy to read font;
* communicates your business clearly; and
* looks good in black and white, as well as in color.
Consistent visual identity is also key.
If you are going to capture that prime piece of real estate in the customer’s mind, you must provide not only a compelling image, but a consistent one. Use one logo and image and repeat in on everything. Don't try to mix and match similar items; it just dilutes your branding. For instance, if you sell golf equipment and use golf clubs in your logo and brand, don't use golf balls on your cards, and golf tees on your website, etc. It's confusing.
Each of the three images has its own distinct personality. You may be tempted to give your stationery, website, business card, brochures, and other marketing materials different visual personalities.
All of the materials that represent you, from business cards to brochures, need to have image consistency in order to be immediately recognizable by your customers…and potential customers…as being related to the unique brand that is your company.
Logo, color scheme, fonts, and layout that are consistent from letterhead to business card and from envelope to ad suggest credibility and stability, in addition to taking up more of that prime mental real estate by virtue of repetition. Inconsistency of graphic elements among materials not only suggests uncertainty and sloppiness, it is just plain forgettable.
Creating a great logo and maintaining consistency among all your marketing materials will take you a long way towards creating a memorable brand that just might make your competitors mutter, “What does she have that I don’t?”
Let’s say you have been traveling around town without your morning coffee and are getting just a little cranky. Quick! What’s the first coffee shop chain that comes to mind? Chances are, you thought of Starbucks. Why?
* Attractive and easily read logo;
* Consistency of product, décor, signage, and interior; and
* A great product
Assuming your product is fabulous, it all comes down to image. Graphic design can play a huge part in that image. But what are some key things to consider?
A great logo is key.
You have already given a great deal of attention to your company name and believe that it speaks to who you are and what you do. Great! Now you need to wrap a graphic image around that name to carve out a prime piece of real estate in the mind of your target customer. That is exactly what a great logo can do.
Whether or not you eat fast food and regardless of your opinion as to what might constitute the best in fast food, my guess is that the name McDonalds conjures up an immediate image of the golden arches. Those golden arches really work as a logo!
The McDonalds logo is a good example of merging a symbol with a letter in the company name. It is also a good example of simplicity, another key element to great logo design.
A good logo also:
* has a strong, balanced image with no little extras that clutter its look;
* is distinctive and bold in design, making it easy to see at a glance;
* has graphic imagery that looks appropriate for your business;
* works well with your company name;
* is done in an easy to read font;
* communicates your business clearly; and
* looks good in black and white, as well as in color.
Consistent visual identity is also key.
If you are going to capture that prime piece of real estate in the customer’s mind, you must provide not only a compelling image, but a consistent one. Use one logo and image and repeat in on everything. Don't try to mix and match similar items; it just dilutes your branding. For instance, if you sell golf equipment and use golf clubs in your logo and brand, don't use golf balls on your cards, and golf tees on your website, etc. It's confusing.
Each of the three images has its own distinct personality. You may be tempted to give your stationery, website, business card, brochures, and other marketing materials different visual personalities.
All of the materials that represent you, from business cards to brochures, need to have image consistency in order to be immediately recognizable by your customers…and potential customers…as being related to the unique brand that is your company.
Logo, color scheme, fonts, and layout that are consistent from letterhead to business card and from envelope to ad suggest credibility and stability, in addition to taking up more of that prime mental real estate by virtue of repetition. Inconsistency of graphic elements among materials not only suggests uncertainty and sloppiness, it is just plain forgettable.
Creating a great logo and maintaining consistency among all your marketing materials will take you a long way towards creating a memorable brand that just might make your competitors mutter, “What does she have that I don’t?”
Top Sellers Tell ...
Top Direct Sales Professionals Tell How They Achieved Big Success!
"What a terrific and helpful book, I couldn't put it down. It is like a guide to your direct sales business.
It is a must have book. I am so thankful , it gives me insight on how other people went about achieving success. From finding the right company to join, what to do and what not to do in your business and all the steps in between to building your team. I can really relate to the sales professionals in this book.
This has been truly, a great inspiration." Donna D.
Got your copy?
I know you know this already, but...
Are you spending enough time following up? You probably work like crazy to get good leads, have interesting promotions and book sales events. But are you so busy focusing on getting NEW leads that you forgot about OLD ones?
Your "warm" leads (leads who have already met you / bought from you, etc.) are the best source for new business...and new recruits. If they have purchased from you, then be sure to put them on your priority list for follow-ups. If you contact each warm lead each month (by phone, email or mail) you will certainly find yourself with higher sales.
It's easy to forget, get busy, get re-focused, etc., however if you establish a "tickler file" to keep yourself on track you will find it much easier. These files can be physical or electronic and will keep you in constant contact with your customers and potential customers.
Another method is to send out a monthly newsletter with a special promotion that expires by the 25th of the month. By having it expire by the 25th, it will allow you to end the promotion, send out all orders and develop a new promotion/newsletter for the next month.
Education vs. Sales
If you are offering your customers catalogs, fliers, coupons, freebies, etc. you are selling to them. However, if you are offering your customers information to meet their needs, you are educating them. No one likes to be sold to. We all like to know how to solve our particular problems.
If you are not providing an information-based marketing program to your customers, consider doing so . It can be as simple as a newsletter sent via mail or email. Write a one-page solution to a common problem targeted to your product line.
For instance, acne can be relieved by various methods--list several, including your product line of acne items. Or, child development milestones--what should you expect at one, two, three, etc. You can also provide the appropriate toys from your product line for each age group. You can find the information to include by just surfing the web. However, be sure to write your newsletter in your own words. Do not plagiarize or cut and paste topics into it.
If you give your customers relevant information plus a little sales & marketing, you will likely get a customer who not only actually reads your newsletter...but appreciates it, too!
For more Direct Sales Power Tips, visit: www.isellmoretoday.com K. Moehr, author & owner, Moehr & Associates
Your "warm" leads (leads who have already met you / bought from you, etc.) are the best source for new business...and new recruits. If they have purchased from you, then be sure to put them on your priority list for follow-ups. If you contact each warm lead each month (by phone, email or mail) you will certainly find yourself with higher sales.
It's easy to forget, get busy, get re-focused, etc., however if you establish a "tickler file" to keep yourself on track you will find it much easier. These files can be physical or electronic and will keep you in constant contact with your customers and potential customers.
Another method is to send out a monthly newsletter with a special promotion that expires by the 25th of the month. By having it expire by the 25th, it will allow you to end the promotion, send out all orders and develop a new promotion/newsletter for the next month.
Education vs. Sales
If you are offering your customers catalogs, fliers, coupons, freebies, etc. you are selling to them. However, if you are offering your customers information to meet their needs, you are educating them. No one likes to be sold to. We all like to know how to solve our particular problems.
If you are not providing an information-based marketing program to your customers, consider doing so . It can be as simple as a newsletter sent via mail or email. Write a one-page solution to a common problem targeted to your product line.
For instance, acne can be relieved by various methods--list several, including your product line of acne items. Or, child development milestones--what should you expect at one, two, three, etc. You can also provide the appropriate toys from your product line for each age group. You can find the information to include by just surfing the web. However, be sure to write your newsletter in your own words. Do not plagiarize or cut and paste topics into it.
If you give your customers relevant information plus a little sales & marketing, you will likely get a customer who not only actually reads your newsletter...but appreciates it, too!
For more Direct Sales Power Tips, visit: www.isellmoretoday.com K. Moehr, author & owner, Moehr & Associates
Once in awhile a customer will write and tell us how our Direct Sales Power Tools have helped her business. Or sometimes they've just read one of our books and feel excited about how to make our tools work for them. Those are the days that make this all worthwhile. Of course it is a business to us, but when we get a message that what we put out there actually helps people make a difference, it's awesome...in the truest sense of the word!
A recent note:
"I can't wait to get started with this program. I just know it will boost my confidence and my sales!"
Heidi C., OH
RE: Get Booked Solid!
http://www.isellmoretoday.com/
RESOURCES FOR:
direct selling, direct selling opportunities, direct sales, home party, home party plan, party plans, work at home, home party sales, in home party sales, direct sales resources, home party opportunities, direct sales company, direct sales companies, direct sales opportunities, direct sales business, business opportunities, work at home opportunities, recruiting tips, hostess coaching, booking tips, home party plan games, consultant supplies, direct sales tips, home business tips, home party plan directory, shopping directory, stay at home mom, work at home mom, WAHM, SAHM, new home party plan companies, work at home, network marketing, entrepreneurs, mlm
A recent note:
"I can't wait to get started with this program. I just know it will boost my confidence and my sales!"
Heidi C., OH
RE: Get Booked Solid!
http://www.isellmoretoday.com/
RESOURCES FOR:
direct selling, direct selling opportunities, direct sales, home party, home party plan, party plans, work at home, home party sales, in home party sales, direct sales resources, home party opportunities, direct sales company, direct sales companies, direct sales opportunities, direct sales business, business opportunities, work at home opportunities, recruiting tips, hostess coaching, booking tips, home party plan games, consultant supplies, direct sales tips, home business tips, home party plan directory, shopping directory, stay at home mom, work at home mom, WAHM, SAHM, new home party plan companies, work at home, network marketing, entrepreneurs, mlm
Explode Your Sales With These Killer Techniques!
Party Plan, Wahm and Direct Sales Pros
After the sale follow up with the customer. You'd be surprised how often this simple tips is overlooked! You could follow-up with a "thank you" email and include an advertisement for other products you sell. You could follow-up every few months.
2. You could upsell to your customers. When they're at your order page, tell them about a few extra related products you have for sale. They could just add it to their original order.
3. Tell your customers if they refer four customers to your web site, they will receive a full rebate of their purchase price. This will turn one sale into three sales. 4. When you sell a product, give your customers the option of joining an affiliate program so they can make commissions selling your product. This will multiply the sale you just made.
5. Sell the reprint/reproduction rights to your products. You could include an ad on or with the product for other products you sell. You could make sales for the reproduction rights and sales on the back end product.
6. You could cross promote your product with other businesses' products in a package deal. You can include an ad or flyer for other products you sell and have other businesses selling for you.
7. When you ship out or deliver your product, include a coupon for other related products you sell in the package. This will attract them to buy more products from you.
8. Send your customers a catalog of add-on products for the original product they purchased. This could be upgrades, special services, attachments, etc. If they enjoy your product they will buy the extra add-ons.
9. Sell gift certificates for your products. You'll make sales from the purchase of the gift certificate, when the recipient cashes it in. They could also buy other items from your web site. 10. Send your customers free products with their product package. The freebies should have your ad printed on them. It could be bumper stickers, ball caps, t-shirts etc. This will allow other people to see your ad and order.
Need REAL success FAST?
Take our 30-Days to Success Challenge! www.directsalespower.com
After the sale follow up with the customer. You'd be surprised how often this simple tips is overlooked! You could follow-up with a "thank you" email and include an advertisement for other products you sell. You could follow-up every few months.
2. You could upsell to your customers. When they're at your order page, tell them about a few extra related products you have for sale. They could just add it to their original order.
3. Tell your customers if they refer four customers to your web site, they will receive a full rebate of their purchase price. This will turn one sale into three sales. 4. When you sell a product, give your customers the option of joining an affiliate program so they can make commissions selling your product. This will multiply the sale you just made.
5. Sell the reprint/reproduction rights to your products. You could include an ad on or with the product for other products you sell. You could make sales for the reproduction rights and sales on the back end product.
6. You could cross promote your product with other businesses' products in a package deal. You can include an ad or flyer for other products you sell and have other businesses selling for you.
7. When you ship out or deliver your product, include a coupon for other related products you sell in the package. This will attract them to buy more products from you.
8. Send your customers a catalog of add-on products for the original product they purchased. This could be upgrades, special services, attachments, etc. If they enjoy your product they will buy the extra add-ons.
9. Sell gift certificates for your products. You'll make sales from the purchase of the gift certificate, when the recipient cashes it in. They could also buy other items from your web site. 10. Send your customers free products with their product package. The freebies should have your ad printed on them. It could be bumper stickers, ball caps, t-shirts etc. This will allow other people to see your ad and order.
Need REAL success FAST?
Take our 30-Days to Success Challenge! www.directsalespower.com
Customer Says "I can't afford it now" What to do?
Customer Has No Money? Sell It Anyway! Here's How...
"Wow, I wish I could because I love it, but I can't afford it right now" Sound familiar? Or maybe they want so many items they cannot decide and end up leaving the party with nothing. Yikes...there must be a solution!
One idea is to use a well-tested program used by many department stores: A gift registry. You've used them for weddings, baby showers and many other events. Why not for your business?
Be sure to let all your party guests know about it so during the party they can choose those they want to take home today and those they want to add to their personal registry.
Have them fill out a form with their personal information including special dates (Birthdays, Anniversary, etc) and the products they want. Then, they add the names and contact information of people (friends, relatives, etc.) that they know will be purchasing them a gift in the future. Obviously, you will make the contact with the person on the list, send them a brochure with the items requested flagged or circled, etc. A bonus of this idea? Besides making two sales (one the day of the party and one later from the gift-giver), you can add the contact names from each list to your potential customer list. Include them in your mailings, etc. They may even become a regular customer, hostess or new recruit for you down the line!
Using creative techniques such as this is one way to get the initial sale, a back-end sale later and build your mailing list. Be sure to use the list to contact prospects for the gift registry as well as for prospecting for your business.
Learn how to Build a $100,000 Year Team
"Wow, I wish I could because I love it, but I can't afford it right now" Sound familiar? Or maybe they want so many items they cannot decide and end up leaving the party with nothing. Yikes...there must be a solution!
One idea is to use a well-tested program used by many department stores: A gift registry. You've used them for weddings, baby showers and many other events. Why not for your business?
Be sure to let all your party guests know about it so during the party they can choose those they want to take home today and those they want to add to their personal registry.
Have them fill out a form with their personal information including special dates (Birthdays, Anniversary, etc) and the products they want. Then, they add the names and contact information of people (friends, relatives, etc.) that they know will be purchasing them a gift in the future. Obviously, you will make the contact with the person on the list, send them a brochure with the items requested flagged or circled, etc. A bonus of this idea? Besides making two sales (one the day of the party and one later from the gift-giver), you can add the contact names from each list to your potential customer list. Include them in your mailings, etc. They may even become a regular customer, hostess or new recruit for you down the line!
Using creative techniques such as this is one way to get the initial sale, a back-end sale later and build your mailing list. Be sure to use the list to contact prospects for the gift registry as well as for prospecting for your business.
Learn how to Build a $100,000 Year Team
Thinking of Joining an MLM / Direct Sales Company? Be Smart!
Choosing a Direct Sales or MLM Company to Join? Make your checklist now or be sorry later...
When starting a new business, your goal is usually simple: Make money. However, how to accomplish this can be confusing, especially with the large number of direct sales opportunities available to you. There are so many, that whatever your interest, it can be served by one of the established or budding companies out there. The choice of which company is right for you is akin to making a large purchase like a car or home.
First, do your research! Make a list of your personal goals and read as much as you can about your chosen company to make an informed decision. If you simply choose a product and/or company without first researching the company and products, you could end up disappointed and unable to move forward with your plans. Before you make your decision as to which direct sales opportunity is right for you, ask yourself a few key questions:
What is your TRUE opinion of the products it offers?
They should be products you can sell now and see yourself selling in the future. In other words, they must stand the test of time. Trendy, fad items may not make the cut. The price range of the products is also important. You need to make sure the products you sell are affordable enough to use on a regular basis. Will people plunk down their money for what they are? Would you?
Consider how often the products will need to be reordered. A huge portion of many direct sales rep's commission come from repeat customers. Are your products consumable--meaning, do they get used and need to be re-ordered on a fairly regular basis? Also consider the commission or other money that you will earn for your efforts. How much is it, how does it compare with other companies you may be interested in and what is it that you will be required to do or achieve before get it? Also, is there a yearly fee if so, how much is it?
How will you advertise your direct sales company and how much will it cost?
Most companies are internet savvy these days. Many offer professionally-designed sites you can join with to promote your business. Also, companies can be sticky about you using their name, logo, etc. in your advertising efforts. Make sure you are free to use the company name and logo in your advertising campaigns and that your advertising plans are in line with the company guidelines. Talk with those who are already selling the products and collect all the information you can to help you make an informed decision.
How much money do you want to invest?
Even as a rep for another company you are a business owner. You will be solely responsible for your success or failure. You must set a budget for your business and its needs from the beginning. This will prevent overspending, desperation and ultimately quitting. Success will come easier for you if you are realistic about your earnings and expenditures, etc.. You should only invest the amount of money you are willing to lose. With every business there is a chance of failure, regardless of the reason.
Go to meetings, training, and other functions. As a business owner, you will benefit from networking with other business owners. Check into what your company and local team offers as far as seminars, training sessions, and product releases.
Don't kid yourself...direct sales will require hard work and determination. You will not be able to simply join one company or another and expect that the products will sell themselves. After all, if they sold themselves, what would they need you for?
You will have busy times and slow times and you must be prepared financially for the slow times. Know this upfront, make an informed decision, determine your budget and promotions for your business. Now, just get excited and get busy!
Take the 30-Day to Success Challenge: www.directsalespower.com
When starting a new business, your goal is usually simple: Make money. However, how to accomplish this can be confusing, especially with the large number of direct sales opportunities available to you. There are so many, that whatever your interest, it can be served by one of the established or budding companies out there. The choice of which company is right for you is akin to making a large purchase like a car or home.
First, do your research! Make a list of your personal goals and read as much as you can about your chosen company to make an informed decision. If you simply choose a product and/or company without first researching the company and products, you could end up disappointed and unable to move forward with your plans. Before you make your decision as to which direct sales opportunity is right for you, ask yourself a few key questions:
What is your TRUE opinion of the products it offers?
They should be products you can sell now and see yourself selling in the future. In other words, they must stand the test of time. Trendy, fad items may not make the cut. The price range of the products is also important. You need to make sure the products you sell are affordable enough to use on a regular basis. Will people plunk down their money for what they are? Would you?
Consider how often the products will need to be reordered. A huge portion of many direct sales rep's commission come from repeat customers. Are your products consumable--meaning, do they get used and need to be re-ordered on a fairly regular basis? Also consider the commission or other money that you will earn for your efforts. How much is it, how does it compare with other companies you may be interested in and what is it that you will be required to do or achieve before get it? Also, is there a yearly fee if so, how much is it?
How will you advertise your direct sales company and how much will it cost?
Most companies are internet savvy these days. Many offer professionally-designed sites you can join with to promote your business. Also, companies can be sticky about you using their name, logo, etc. in your advertising efforts. Make sure you are free to use the company name and logo in your advertising campaigns and that your advertising plans are in line with the company guidelines. Talk with those who are already selling the products and collect all the information you can to help you make an informed decision.
How much money do you want to invest?
Even as a rep for another company you are a business owner. You will be solely responsible for your success or failure. You must set a budget for your business and its needs from the beginning. This will prevent overspending, desperation and ultimately quitting. Success will come easier for you if you are realistic about your earnings and expenditures, etc.. You should only invest the amount of money you are willing to lose. With every business there is a chance of failure, regardless of the reason.
Go to meetings, training, and other functions. As a business owner, you will benefit from networking with other business owners. Check into what your company and local team offers as far as seminars, training sessions, and product releases.
Don't kid yourself...direct sales will require hard work and determination. You will not be able to simply join one company or another and expect that the products will sell themselves. After all, if they sold themselves, what would they need you for?
You will have busy times and slow times and you must be prepared financially for the slow times. Know this upfront, make an informed decision, determine your budget and promotions for your business. Now, just get excited and get busy!
Take the 30-Day to Success Challenge: www.directsalespower.com
Need to Build Your Team? Simple Tips for Success!
A Simple Tip to Build Your Direct Sales Team Quickly!
Are you interested in recruiting? If so, develop a program that works for you. Set your recruiting goals just as you do your sales goals. And, just as you do with sales goals, figure out how you're going to get the recruits on your goal sheet.
If you plan to recruit one person per month, identify 5 customers whom you feel are the best prospects. Start with current customers because they already know your products/services, but by all means keep your eyes open for new possible recruits.
Of those 5, develop a way to show them the value of becoming a member of your team and company. You may write them a letter and enclose recruiting materials, send them a tape with note attached telling them you think they would be great at what you do, or just pick up the phone and ask them.
Be sure to follow up if you choose to mail or email them. Ask them if they have received what you’ve sent and see if they have questions. Perhaps you could offer them a special incentive for joining by a certain time (gift cards are nice) if your company allows you to do this.
Whatever you choose to do, be sure to identify at least 3-5 people every month in which to concentrate your efforts. Some may tell you up front—no thank you—but some may be interested now or in the future. Remember, even if they are not interested in joining now, they may be eventually. And even they join, they may have an order for you!
POWER TIP: Abolish negative people from your life. If you have a friend who always whines, complains, has problems, don’t let them drain you too!
Need Leads? Get booked solid! Triple your direct sales, leads and recruits. Visit: http://www.isellmoretoday.com
Are you interested in recruiting? If so, develop a program that works for you. Set your recruiting goals just as you do your sales goals. And, just as you do with sales goals, figure out how you're going to get the recruits on your goal sheet.
If you plan to recruit one person per month, identify 5 customers whom you feel are the best prospects. Start with current customers because they already know your products/services, but by all means keep your eyes open for new possible recruits.
Of those 5, develop a way to show them the value of becoming a member of your team and company. You may write them a letter and enclose recruiting materials, send them a tape with note attached telling them you think they would be great at what you do, or just pick up the phone and ask them.
Be sure to follow up if you choose to mail or email them. Ask them if they have received what you’ve sent and see if they have questions. Perhaps you could offer them a special incentive for joining by a certain time (gift cards are nice) if your company allows you to do this.
Whatever you choose to do, be sure to identify at least 3-5 people every month in which to concentrate your efforts. Some may tell you up front—no thank you—but some may be interested now or in the future. Remember, even if they are not interested in joining now, they may be eventually. And even they join, they may have an order for you!
POWER TIP: Abolish negative people from your life. If you have a friend who always whines, complains, has problems, don’t let them drain you too!
Need Leads? Get booked solid! Triple your direct sales, leads and recruits. Visit: http://www.isellmoretoday.com
New Party Plan Recruits? Idea for Fast Success!
New Recruits?
Make them feel cozy with practice!
Your new recruits are probably very excited, nervous and downright scared! They are anxious to get started earning money, confidence with their products and a steady business growth. But are you casting them to the customers too soon?
Each of your new recruits should be invited to a “practice party.” This party would involve each of your new recruits you've signed up that month. Each of these new recruits should invite two people to attend the practice party. Having friendly faces in the crowd always helps to steady jitters.
These parties should be segmented so each recruit gets the chance to do a part of the presentation. The presentations should be divided up and each recruit does a separate item, service, etc. They should each be involved in the sales part of the presentation (usually toward the end).
These parties are fun and relaxing and perfect for new recruits to “get the bugs out” of their presentation skills, sales skills, etc. The guests should be informed that it is a practice party and everyone will feel more relaxed knowing that fact. Guests are at ease and the newbie sellers will feel more freedom in giving information, showing the products and practicing their sales skills.
Recruits will feel much more comfortable knowing that they have this practice party (or even two) in order to develop their confidence and skills before setting off themselves. Since it won’t be billed as a “real” sales party it will set them at ease. Of course, it should be a selling situation as well. It should be productive financially but very casual and easy-going (read: lots of laughter, a few goof-ups, but ultimately a confidence builder!).
As their recruiter you can attend the party to offer them tips, suggestions on their techniques, etc. This can be done after the party at a personal consultation session or as a group session after the party. Recruits can learn from others’ mistakes and their own triumphs. It will help get them off on the right foot even faster!
We include information resources for consultants with direct seller companies, hostess coaching, booking sales parties, direct selling opportunities, home sales party reps, home sales party, direct sales company, direct sales companies, direct sales opportunities, business opportunities, work at home opportunities, recruiting tips, booking tips, home party plan games, online parties, consultant supplies, home business tips, home party plan directory, shopping directory, stay at home mom, sahm, network marketing, home party business, direct sales opportunity, home party business ideas, home party leads, top home party business, building downline, multi-level marketing, sales consultants, moms work from home business, direct sales consultants, working moms, parents, beauticontrol, southern living at home, avon, partylite, jafra, mary kay, tupperware, candles, cosmetics, skincare, scrapbooking, celebrations lillian vernon, longaberger, make money at home, find work at home, discovery toys, precious kids, home interiors, watkins, athome america, distributors, party plan hostess, hostess coaching, work at home resources, affiliate program, recruiting leads, home party business, moehr and associates, and more!
Make them feel cozy with practice!
Your new recruits are probably very excited, nervous and downright scared! They are anxious to get started earning money, confidence with their products and a steady business growth. But are you casting them to the customers too soon?
Each of your new recruits should be invited to a “practice party.” This party would involve each of your new recruits you've signed up that month. Each of these new recruits should invite two people to attend the practice party. Having friendly faces in the crowd always helps to steady jitters.
These parties should be segmented so each recruit gets the chance to do a part of the presentation. The presentations should be divided up and each recruit does a separate item, service, etc. They should each be involved in the sales part of the presentation (usually toward the end).
These parties are fun and relaxing and perfect for new recruits to “get the bugs out” of their presentation skills, sales skills, etc. The guests should be informed that it is a practice party and everyone will feel more relaxed knowing that fact. Guests are at ease and the newbie sellers will feel more freedom in giving information, showing the products and practicing their sales skills.
Recruits will feel much more comfortable knowing that they have this practice party (or even two) in order to develop their confidence and skills before setting off themselves. Since it won’t be billed as a “real” sales party it will set them at ease. Of course, it should be a selling situation as well. It should be productive financially but very casual and easy-going (read: lots of laughter, a few goof-ups, but ultimately a confidence builder!).
As their recruiter you can attend the party to offer them tips, suggestions on their techniques, etc. This can be done after the party at a personal consultation session or as a group session after the party. Recruits can learn from others’ mistakes and their own triumphs. It will help get them off on the right foot even faster!
We include information resources for consultants with direct seller companies, hostess coaching, booking sales parties, direct selling opportunities, home sales party reps, home sales party, direct sales company, direct sales companies, direct sales opportunities, business opportunities, work at home opportunities, recruiting tips, booking tips, home party plan games, online parties, consultant supplies, home business tips, home party plan directory, shopping directory, stay at home mom, sahm, network marketing, home party business, direct sales opportunity, home party business ideas, home party leads, top home party business, building downline, multi-level marketing, sales consultants, moms work from home business, direct sales consultants, working moms, parents, beauticontrol, southern living at home, avon, partylite, jafra, mary kay, tupperware, candles, cosmetics, skincare, scrapbooking, celebrations lillian vernon, longaberger, make money at home, find work at home, discovery toys, precious kids, home interiors, watkins, athome america, distributors, party plan hostess, hostess coaching, work at home resources, affiliate program, recruiting leads, home party business, moehr and associates, and more!
The Power of Testimonials
What Did They Say About Me? Harness The Power Of Testimonials!
Testimonials are a great way to market your business and service. They give you credibility—a third-party endorsement. It is no longer you alone saying that you and your company and products or services are phenomenal—it is someone else saying that they are phenomenal! When you place an ad, everyone knows that you have paid for it. It is you “tooting your own horn.” Much more believable and credible is someone else who is “tooting your horn!”
Where should you use them? Use testimonials in your marketing materials, use them on your web site, use them in advertisements, use them in your media kits, put them on business cards and make sure to use them in your sales presentations and/or on the telephone as success stories. Use them as often as possible—people love to see what other people say, who they are and what their experience was with your service. If possible, follow a current trend of putting a small picture of the person giving the testimonial next to it. This really helps your potential customers feel more comfortable by putting a face to the testimonial.
So, how do you get all of those glowing testimonials from satisfied customers? Simply just ask them. Get in the habit of asking every single satisfied customer for a testimonial. It may take some time to get comfortable with but once you do it will come naturally. Your customer will be pleased you asked them for their viewpoint and likely happy to oblige!
In getting testimonial, there are many ways to get them. Here are a few:
1. Ask your customers to fill out a brief customer satisfaction survey. Leave space for comments at the end. Make sure to also ask at the end of the survey, “May we use your name and comments in our marketing materials?” Have a space for them to check “yes” or “no,” along with their signature. Most people are delighted to have you use their comments!
2. If you use public speaking to increase your visibility and generate leads for your business pass out an evaluation form to your audience. Make sure to ask at the end of the evaluation form, “May we use your name and comments in our marketing materials?” Have a space for them to check “yes” or “no,” along with their signature. Again, most people are delighted to have you use their comments!
3. Using the satisfied customer’s name greatly increases your credibility. It is far stronger to have an endorsement with a name than without. Use the customer’s name and the company name. Make sure to ask permission to use their name first.
4. Ask your customers to write testimonial letters. Say, “I was wondering if you could help me.” (People love to help!) “Would you write a testimonial letter for me outlining how happy you are with our product/service?” (Only ask customers that you are sure are happy!)
5. Offer to write it for them, “I know that you are very busy. I’d be more than happy to draft something for you to edit.” People do genuinely want to help, and people are also genuinely very busy. This makes it easy for them to help.
6. Every time you complete a project and/or a customer says something positive to you about your product/service, say to them, “Would you write that down on your letterhead? It would be a big help to me, and I would use it to market my product/service.”
7. Use your testimonials as success stories when speaking with prospects or even customers. This enables you to tell others what you have accomplished for your customers without appearing to brag. The model of a success story is: Your customer had a problem. You fixed it. They are now very happy. Remember to always tell your success story from the customer or prospect’s point of view. That means stick to the benefits that your customers received from your work. 8. On blue days, post your favorite testimonial letters on a bulletin board or clear wall space near where you work. Put the rest into a three-ring binder. Anytime you start to feel “blah,” read through your letters from all of the people saying how much you have helped them. It will perk you right up!
Learn more about the Direct Seller Guide and Top Sellers Tell…Direct Sales Professionals Tell How They Achieved BIG Success! www.isellmoretoday.com
Testimonials are a great way to market your business and service. They give you credibility—a third-party endorsement. It is no longer you alone saying that you and your company and products or services are phenomenal—it is someone else saying that they are phenomenal! When you place an ad, everyone knows that you have paid for it. It is you “tooting your own horn.” Much more believable and credible is someone else who is “tooting your horn!”
Where should you use them? Use testimonials in your marketing materials, use them on your web site, use them in advertisements, use them in your media kits, put them on business cards and make sure to use them in your sales presentations and/or on the telephone as success stories. Use them as often as possible—people love to see what other people say, who they are and what their experience was with your service. If possible, follow a current trend of putting a small picture of the person giving the testimonial next to it. This really helps your potential customers feel more comfortable by putting a face to the testimonial.
So, how do you get all of those glowing testimonials from satisfied customers? Simply just ask them. Get in the habit of asking every single satisfied customer for a testimonial. It may take some time to get comfortable with but once you do it will come naturally. Your customer will be pleased you asked them for their viewpoint and likely happy to oblige!
In getting testimonial, there are many ways to get them. Here are a few:
1. Ask your customers to fill out a brief customer satisfaction survey. Leave space for comments at the end. Make sure to also ask at the end of the survey, “May we use your name and comments in our marketing materials?” Have a space for them to check “yes” or “no,” along with their signature. Most people are delighted to have you use their comments!
2. If you use public speaking to increase your visibility and generate leads for your business pass out an evaluation form to your audience. Make sure to ask at the end of the evaluation form, “May we use your name and comments in our marketing materials?” Have a space for them to check “yes” or “no,” along with their signature. Again, most people are delighted to have you use their comments!
3. Using the satisfied customer’s name greatly increases your credibility. It is far stronger to have an endorsement with a name than without. Use the customer’s name and the company name. Make sure to ask permission to use their name first.
4. Ask your customers to write testimonial letters. Say, “I was wondering if you could help me.” (People love to help!) “Would you write a testimonial letter for me outlining how happy you are with our product/service?” (Only ask customers that you are sure are happy!)
5. Offer to write it for them, “I know that you are very busy. I’d be more than happy to draft something for you to edit.” People do genuinely want to help, and people are also genuinely very busy. This makes it easy for them to help.
6. Every time you complete a project and/or a customer says something positive to you about your product/service, say to them, “Would you write that down on your letterhead? It would be a big help to me, and I would use it to market my product/service.”
7. Use your testimonials as success stories when speaking with prospects or even customers. This enables you to tell others what you have accomplished for your customers without appearing to brag. The model of a success story is: Your customer had a problem. You fixed it. They are now very happy. Remember to always tell your success story from the customer or prospect’s point of view. That means stick to the benefits that your customers received from your work. 8. On blue days, post your favorite testimonial letters on a bulletin board or clear wall space near where you work. Put the rest into a three-ring binder. Anytime you start to feel “blah,” read through your letters from all of the people saying how much you have helped them. It will perk you right up!
Learn more about the Direct Seller Guide and Top Sellers Tell…Direct Sales Professionals Tell How They Achieved BIG Success! www.isellmoretoday.com
Direct Sales Superstars: From Trailer Park to Millionaire
Top Sellers Tell: How to grab your own piece of direct sales success
TUCSON, Ariz., May 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Thinking of signing up with one of those companies that does home sales parties? Entranced by stories of housewife-turned-millionaire? Or have you already been there, tried that with a kit of products collecting dust in your own spare bedroom? Don't be one of the thousands who drop out from dashed dreams of running your own successful direct sales business. It can be done, and many top sellers are sharing how they did it in the new book, Top Sellers Tell: Top Direct Sales Professionals Tell How They Achieved Big Success!
The book, published by Moehr & Associates, includes candid interviews with reps of such powerhouse companies as Avon, Jafra, AtHome America and Celebrations by Lillian Vernon, as well as lesser-known companies and the reps who are working hard to build them into household names. These sellers in the U.S. and Canada who have built teams from 41 to over 25,000 members share personal stories and advice detailing their mistakes, learning experiences, what works (and what doesn't), how they stay motivated, how they have developed their teams and more. Also included are innovative marketing tips and unique business plan ideas for direct sellers.
Top Sellers Tell addresses the core questions of many who delve into this multi-billion dollar industry. "As consultants to the direct sales industry, we talk to too many who buy the company kit and then get discouraged when their dreams of success don't pan out fast enough," says Karen Moehr, President of Moehr & Associates. "They want to know what works and what doesn't. This book is for anyone who is wondering how those at the top levels got there and how they can do it, too."
Top Sellers Tell is available at http://www.isellmoretoday.com/, http://www.amazon.com/ and other major on-line retailers. To contact or learn more about Moehr & Associates, visit http://www.isellmoretoday.com/ or email .
TUCSON, Ariz., May 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Thinking of signing up with one of those companies that does home sales parties? Entranced by stories of housewife-turned-millionaire? Or have you already been there, tried that with a kit of products collecting dust in your own spare bedroom? Don't be one of the thousands who drop out from dashed dreams of running your own successful direct sales business. It can be done, and many top sellers are sharing how they did it in the new book, Top Sellers Tell: Top Direct Sales Professionals Tell How They Achieved Big Success!
The book, published by Moehr & Associates, includes candid interviews with reps of such powerhouse companies as Avon, Jafra, AtHome America and Celebrations by Lillian Vernon, as well as lesser-known companies and the reps who are working hard to build them into household names. These sellers in the U.S. and Canada who have built teams from 41 to over 25,000 members share personal stories and advice detailing their mistakes, learning experiences, what works (and what doesn't), how they stay motivated, how they have developed their teams and more. Also included are innovative marketing tips and unique business plan ideas for direct sellers.
Top Sellers Tell addresses the core questions of many who delve into this multi-billion dollar industry. "As consultants to the direct sales industry, we talk to too many who buy the company kit and then get discouraged when their dreams of success don't pan out fast enough," says Karen Moehr, President of Moehr & Associates. "They want to know what works and what doesn't. This book is for anyone who is wondering how those at the top levels got there and how they can do it, too."
Top Sellers Tell is available at http://www.isellmoretoday.com/, http://www.amazon.com/ and other major on-line retailers. To contact or learn more about Moehr & Associates, visit http://www.isellmoretoday.com/ or email .
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
