Direct Sales Home-Based Business
Marketing and Selling Other People's Products
A home-based business in direct sales provides the opportunity to sell products created and manufactured by an already-established company.
Direct sales consists of the marketing and sales of products person-to-person by independent salespeople. Sales can be made via home parties, door-to-door, vendor booths, fundraisers, and now, in some instances, sales are made online through the salesperson's company website. Those who choose to start a direct sales business are oftentimes given the title of distributor, representative or consultant, and are considered independent contractors, not employees.
Benefits of Direct Sales
Direct sales provides men and women an opportunity to own a home-based business without creating and manufacturing their own product, while receiving training and ongoing support from the direct sales company. A direct sales business also provides the opportunity to work from home earning an extra income, an opportunity to meet and socialize with other people, and a flexible schedule set by the consultant to work as much or as little as they want. Direct sales requires no formal education or experience and in most instances, the cost to start a direct sales business is minimal. From books to candles to environmentally safe cleaning products, clothing, skincare, vitamins, and toys, there is no shortage of companies and products to represent.
Direct Sales Compensation Plan Structure
Direct sales compensation plan structures are setup as single-level compensation or multi-level compensation. In a single-level compensation plan, representatives are paid a commission based solely on a representative's sales. In a multi-level compensation plan, representatives earn a commission not only on their sales, but the sales of those they bring in to the company.
How to Find a Direct Sales Company
One way to find a direct sales company to represent is by researching direct sales companies listed with the Direct Selling Association (DSA). The DSA is the national trade association for companies who make and sell their products directly to consumers. According to the DSA, their mission is "To protect, serve, and promote the effectiveness of member companies and the independent business people they represent. To ensure that the marketing by member companies of products and/or the direct sales opportunity is conducted with the highest level of business ethics and service to consumers." There are over 200 member companies listed at DSA and one can search for a company based upon interests.
Another way to find a direct sales company to represent is just doing a search engine search for the term "direct sales company." There are numerous websites that provide comprehensive listings of direct sales companies.
Anyone interested in joining a direct sales company should contact a current representative of the company in order to sample or purchase products. In addition, asking questions before choosing a direct sales company to join will ensure that the individual and the company are a good fit.
