by Midwest Mom

Created on: June 01, 2008

There are lots of women (and a few men, too) making lots of money in direct sales, specifically home party sales. Not only that, they are being recognized for their leadership, earning trips, meeting lifelong friends and having a great time. There are hundreds of direct sales companies selling everything from wine and gourmet food to home dcor and candles to bed linens and romance items.

According to the Direct Sales Association, U.S. sales through direct selling totaled $32.18 billion in 2006, up from $26.7 billion just five years earlier, with more than 74 percent of the American public having purchased goods or services through direct selling (www.dsa.org).

There are two ways to make money in most home party companies - selling and sponsoring. Each company has its individual career plan, with different levels of leadership and compensation. So whether someone is looking for a full-time work at home career, a chance to get out of the house a few nights a week, build a sales team, or just earn a few extra bucks, a serious look should be given to a career in home parties.

Here are some good questions to ask of the company and/or the consultant under whom you will sign:
How long has the company been in business - before and after the home party plan?
How many consultants are in your area? Are there territories?
What is the full commission plan, including levels of leadership?
What is the company's business plan/goal?
Are there required meetings or conference calls?
How much are business supplies?
What makes their products special?
What is the true potential for re-orders?
Who pays sales tax and is there a charge for credit card orders?
Cost to start - what is included? Most companies will have the new consultant purchase a "starter kit" that should provide all necessary supplies for several parties.
Earned discounts (if any)?
What additional incentives are offered for sales and recruiting? Trips, cash, products, business supplies?
Average sales or average sales at a party (if applicable)?
How much money does the average consultant makes (and/or how may parties they do)?
What kind of training and support can one expect to receive?
What is the upline's experience?
Can products be sold on line?
Does the company provide a Web site with shopping cart? Is there an additional fee?
Is there a home office that can provide support?
Are there advertising restrictions?

In addition, the potential consultant should ask herself a few questions when selecting a company:
Am I passionate about the products?
Can I afford the starter kit right now?
Do I see a future with this company - one where I am having fun and making money?
Will I be proud to represent these products?

A career in home party sales can be very fulfilling and very profitable especially if one can make a good match when it comes to selecting a company.

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