Get Organized

Like many WAHMs out there, you are doing your best to bring in a consistent and valuable income. The trend in the WAHM world of consultant and affiliate programs is an overwhelming amount of memberships to companies. The more you join, the more versatile your product offering, the more people visit your businesses, and the more money you will bring in right? While affiliate marketing (signing up for several affiliate programs) and/or starting several part-time consultant programs sound like the right path, this can spell your demise if you are not careful.

The most common thing we do is take all of our affiliate/consultant programs and place those banners all on a free website. After all placing these all on one website gives us a one stop shop that customers will love. They can find all they need in one place. That's why you joined so many right?

We join or start a business for many reasons but the main goal is money. Whether full-time or part-time you are in it for the money. Now you may be thinking how can signing up for so many spell my demise? Ask yourself this, do you place your links on a website and send out text ads and links to that site for people to view? What is on that site that will make people want to buy? You are ultimately sending them to a site that will redirect them away from your site. You are telling them go elsewhere to purchase. Does this make sense? This is network marketing and without a full knowledge and understand of this you will fail.

The idea behind joining several consultant and/or affiliate programs is great but many times you end becoming overwhelmed. You never give your businesses the right amount of attention which in turn never gives them a chance to grown and blossom into a fruitful venture.

If you decide to take on a few companies, get organized. This is essential to your growing businesses. First thing you need to do is create a schedule. Know how much time you are willing to give your businesses each day. This is important. You need to give your attention to your businesses 5 days a week. The term make your own hours does not mean just whenever you feel like it or when you decide you have time. You need to make time. Make a list of all that needs to be done everyday and get on that schedule. Find a minimum of 2 hours a day Monday through Friday for 1 business, 1 hour for each business after. These time suggestions are just minimum suggestions. Your real time requirements can be far more. Avoid the trap of 30 minutes here and there. When you do this it is very easy to push it off and even skip it. Find solid time. Make the time. You can't build a successful business if you don't give your business time.

Create a folder on your computer desktop labeled "My Business". On your desktop is the best place because this is always in view when you sit down and easily accessible. In your main folder create a sub folder for each business labeled with the business name. This is where you will store all pertinent information about each business including files. In each business sub folder create folders for customer lists, product info, account info, business templates (business cards, flyers, etc). Next make a list of all your businesses and store in your main folder. Note any requirements for each business as well. I suggest an excel file (if you are in need of a template, contact me for information). This gives you a quick reference guide.

If you are a WAHM with more than 5 businesses a strict schedule will be crucial to your success. You will need a daily outline of duties. While you may have decided to become a WAHM for the flexible schedule this does not mean you will be without one. Each day dedicate time to each business. A minimum of 1 hour a day per business. This is more than just advertising. This may be researching, learning about the products, planning a party, etc. If you have too many businesses to dedicate 1 hour a day, it is time to weed out the businesses that do not work for you. Stick to 2-3 at most.

Create a work space. This is important. Using the kitchen table is not a work space. Ideally an extra room is best so you can close the door after working hours. At minimum you need a corner of a room with your desk, computer, business supplies, and file cabinet. This is the only place you do work and this space is used for nothing else.

Take time to create a budget. Know your business needs and how to promote your business. How much can you spend each month without commissions. Know how you plan to spend that budget. Break it down per business and stick to it. Keep a tally on all expenses made with each business during the calendar month to stay on top of expenses.

Each week look over your previous weeks work and be sure you are staying organized. Clean your desk area to keep it from getting out of control.

Take a the extra steps to get organized and stay organized will help keep things running smoothly. Staying organized allows you a place to refocus when you get off track.

Olivia Vidal
© 2009
http://sochicbagboutique.com/

Getting Started as a Consultant

So you've decided to start working from home. You are pumped! You are excited! You are maybe a bit overwhelmed and even a bit lost as to where to begin.

Before you are off and running lets run down a few things first.

At this point you should have an idea of what you want to do and likely have found a company to join. If you have not I want you to think about this -how many do you know that sell the same product in your area or your networking circle online? If you do not know, start looking and asking. This will give you an idea of what your competition is. You need to know this from the start. If you know 20 people who sell the same thing, you will have a tough time building a business.

Next see how many would actually be interested in the product you offer. As an example lets say you sell southwest home furnishings. Do you live in a place where this would sell? Being unique does not always mean a good thing. You need to be able to sell it. Just because you feel it is great doesn't mean everyone else will. Do your local research as well.

Are you willing to invest in your business? Many don't realize you will have to invest. This includes advertising, business materials such as business cards and catalogs, demo product, samples. If you aren't willing to invest, this is not the right time to start a business. Create a budget of what you can spend now and sustain over the next 6-12 months. You want to look at up to 12 months because in some cases this is how long it can take for you to turn a profit and not returning it all back into your business.

What are you willing and not willing to do to make your business a go. If you are looking at a party plan but not willing to do parties, this is not the right type of business. Knowing what you are will and not willing to do will help determine a business that is right for you.

Doing a little homework will be very helpful when starting out. You will be more prepared in the long run and better able to take on the challenges you will face.

Olivia Vidal
© 2009
http://sochicbagboutique.com

Quotas, quotas, quotas

As a WAHM it is likely you have joined as a consultant with a company that requires a quota. Some understand and fully comply while others challenge this. For this discussion we will focus on the consultant. We will talk later about the difference between a consultant, affiliate, etc.

Lets get an understanding of quotas. Quotas are set for many reasons. One the company must make money to cover expenses. If you are not selling, they are not making money, that can lead to a company's demise and you with a failed business. Another reason is if you don't have a goal, what motivates you to build a business? It is easy for you to walk away and do nothing. What is the point of joining a business to do nothing with it? As a consultant you must build a business.

Before joining any company get the details. Know what the quotas are, when are they due, and decide can you live with this. If you cannot, don't join. Don't join in case you can meet the quota. It is a waste of your time and the company's time to train you.

Once you have decided to join and meet the required quota, create a plan of action. Do not wait until the last minute and enter a desperate panic. Your plan of action should include parties, fairs and expos ad campaigns, phone calls. Know how you will sell, where, and when. Put your plan of action into effect immediately. Panic time does not produce the sales you would have made had you started right away and stayed consistent.

If you are in panic time, stop and breathe. Panic will not get your sales so take a moment to regroup. Brainstorm on how you can get those sales in. Book an online party, have a last minute catalog party, offer a spree. If you are too late you may have to accept you will need to make up the difference or the entire quota.

A WAHM business, even part-time, does not mean work when you feel like it. You still have to work. Put in the hours on a weekly basis. Create a schedule and stick to it. If you worked outside the home you would need to work to get paid, correct? A WAHM business is no different. If you do the real work, you will get the sales. Telling people about your website and waiting for the sales to come in is simply not enough. That takes maybe an hour a week. Sorry to break it to you, that is not work.

Most quotas are quarterly while others may be monthly. Break that quota down into 3 parts for quarterly or 4 parts for monthly. Smaller goals are easier to manage and feel more attainable.

Create a list of items or group of items that will help you meet your quota. This can be the full quota or the broken down manageable goals. Create your marketing plan around promoting these items during your quota period. Change it often and keep things fresh.

Before a quota period begins, create a list of needed items. If you need to fulfill your quota personally you have a list of items needed for business to help you along. This will keep you from scrambling later. You have to invest in your business so this is one of the times to take advantage of adding to your investment.

Don't look at a quota as a disappointing event. This is what makes your business. The goal of a business is to make money and meeting a quota is money in your pocket. Imagine what you can do with the money you earned just from making the minimum quota.

A trick that I often recommend and have used in the past is take the quota and triple it. I see that as my quota fulfillment. If I only make half I still meet my quota. If I make the entire goal, that is three times what I would have made had I stuck to the required quota.

If you are with a company that requires a purchase of any size to stay active, turn that into a number. How much are you wanting to make? $10? $25? $100? How much will you need to sell to make that? Use that as your quota number.

Quotas are a business goal; not a death sentence. These are necessary to ensure business continues and thrives for all involved including customers. This is a positive action so keep this in the back of your mind.

Olivia Vidal
© 2009
http://sochicbagboutique.com

On A Mission

In every business including WAH businesses you are on a mission. A mission to build a successful business and support your family. Every business should have a mission and you are going to write a mission statement. Yes, even a WAHM, consultant, affiliate, distributor, crafter, or any other title you wish to give yourself.

A mission statement can be either complex or simple. This may be a statement others will never see. No matter what you need to create one.

Your mission statement is your vision for your business. Your goals. Your values.

Look at the larger companies and read their mission statement.

Here are a few of my favorite companies and their mission statements:

Starbucks
To inspire and nurture the human spirit— one person, one cup, and one neighborhood at a time.
http://www.starbucks.com/mission/default.asp

Walmart

What is Wal-Mart's mission statement?

Wal-Mart’s mission is to help people save money so they can live better.
http://walmartstores.com/Investors/7614.aspx

McDonalds
What is McDonald's Mission Statement?
McDonald's brand mission is to "be our customers' favorite place and way to eat." Our worldwide operations have been aligned around a global strategy called the Plan to Win centering on the five basics of an exceptional customer experience – People, Products, Place, Price and Promotion. We are committed to improving our operations and enhancing our customers' experience.
http://www.aboutmcdonalds.com/mcd/our_company/mcd_faq/student_research.html#1

Don't over think it. Start writing and it will come.

From time to time refer back to your mission statement. Use your mission statement to keep you on track. Update if needed.

Have a mission statement you wish to share? Lets see it!


Olivia Vidal
© 2009
http://sochicbagboutique.com

Keep Records

As we get through day to day WAHM business we often forget to keep good records of our expenses. Keeping records is not just for business owners. This goes for consultants/distributors/affiliates too.

Here is the IRS definition of a business expense found on their site at http://www.irs.gov/publications/p535/index.html:

To be deductible, a business expense must be both ordinary and necessary. An ordinary expense is one that is common and accepted in your industry. A necessary expense is one that is helpful and appropriate for your trade or business. An expense does not have to be indispensable to be considered necessary.

Now I am not going to get into the deep dark complicated details. What I am going to get into is a few ways to keep track of your expenses.

The simple thing many do is keep a shoe box or envelope that holds all receipts for expenses. This can get messy but at least it is a start. If you are going to use this method alone try to keep it semi organized. Have more than one envelope and have a tracking page attached to each. Keep one for office supplies (paper printer ink, envelopes, tape, paper clips, pens, etc) gas receipts, (this is for keeping up with gas prices at the time of business travel. You also need to keep track of miles traveled for business only) meal receipts (these are meals strictly for closing the deal, negotiations, contracts, etc. These are not for personal meals turned into business chit chat), charity donations, misc, and so forth.

Keeping a ledger is a step up from the above. You still have to keep receipts but you can keep a running total better. You can purchase a ledger at an office supply store. Still takes work but a cheap way to keep those records.

Yet another step up create or have someone create an excel sheet. All the numbers can be tallied for you. Again you still have to keep those receipts but this gives you an instant view of all your expenses.

If you are familiar or willing to learn check out Quickbooks for all your accounting needs. These types of software are the best way to stay organized and on top of all your business expenses.

Software and spread sheets are the preferred methods or staying organized but the old school methods work as well. No matter the method you have to keep these up. They don't keep themselves up.

Now I am not a tax expert and can only help you in the direction to find the information you need. For all your questions regarding deductions and how to sort these for tax purposes please visit the IRS site at http://www.irs.gov/publications/p535/index.html.


Olivia Vidal
© 2009
http://sochicbagboutique.com

Own Your Business

As a business owner it is obvious who has complete control over the company. As a consultant/distributor/representative you have control over your portion of the business. This portion of the business is what you have worked hard to build. As a WAHM you joined a company to start a business. Problem is very few "own" what they have started.

Now when I speak about owning your business this does not mean starting a new company. When you join a company and earn your pay through commission sales, you own that part of the business. You pay for the business cards you share with potential customers and recruits. You pay for the samples you pass out for customers to try. You pay for the ad space getting your name out there. You "own" your business.

Too many are in the mindset that it everything is done for you when you join a business. All you have to do is tell people and they will buy. In a far off land where the prince slays the dragon to win the heart of the princess this may be true. In the world we live in you have to work.

You have control over how successful your business will become. You have control over what you are willing to do to create the business you desire. You have control on whether your business will ultimately fail.

Don't wait for a company to offer customers incentives to buy. Take the reigns in your business. You offer your own incentives. Be creative. This is your business so own it. Offer your own sales. You know your customers best. Take care of them and own your business.


Olivia Vidal
© 2009
http://sochicbagboutique.com

"I don't have time"

I am taking a break from the usual article because this is becoming a problem. Too many are talking about this same issue so someone needs to address it.

I hear this over and over again when the discussion comes up about building a business- I don't have time and/or money. If you have no time and/or money and not willing to make the time or spend the money, why are you in business (business owner or consultant)? Because you thought it would be easy? To make fast money? Fast money does not exist in business. If you want fast money, have a garage sale this weekend. Even then, a garage sale takes work and money. A garage sale you need to make change so you have to have money. What about those signs to tell people you have a garage sale? Who is going to put out all the items you wish to sell? The little gnomes in your garden will not magically wake up and do it for you. It is work.

Don't join a company because someone told you that money can be made easily. Its not easy. It is work. When was the last time you walked into a job and did absolutely nothing and got paid for it? It is no different than a business you work from home. It is neither easy or fast money.

Don't sign up for a company without evaluating what you are and are not willing to do. If you aren't willing to have parties, don't join a party plan. You have to hold parties to be successful. Internet marketing simply will not do. If others are doing it, it is either a fluke or they have established those all important customer relationships over time. It didn't just happen.

Don't join a company because "it will work out eventually." It won't. The only way it will work is if you make it work. You have to invest time and money to build a business. There is no such thing as a free business. You will be investing in product (you have to use it to sell it), business materials (you can't build a business without the basic business card), advertising (if nobody knows you exist, they won't buy).

Don't join a company with products you will not use or like. Nobody will buy from someone who won't even use the products they sell no matter how good it is. If the excuse is I don't have the money to buy, how do you expect to sell a product? You can't tell someone how great it is if you haven't experienced this yourself. Can you imagine trying to sell a lotion and tell someone it is not oily and soothing to the skin to only find it is in fact oily and stings because of heavy perfume? Are you willing to risk your reputation now and in the future?

I was at an online party recently and had a conversation with a woman who over and over said she had no time to build her business. Then she proceeded to complain she wasn't getting any sales. The worst part is she said this in front of so many people. You can't do that and still expect to get orders. What happens is you are telling potential customers you have no time for them so don't bother buying. You are telling potential customers you don't care about your business. You are telling potential customers you are only concerned about the money and not about what they need. This is not the impression you want to give. She would have been better off telling nobody about her business. At least then she would not be committing business suicide.

A common reason people sign up for a company is because they need to make money while they have none. They never once take into account the time and money that will be required to build. This is not what the company requires. This is what anyone requires when building a business. This is one of the worst ways to start a business no matter a business owner or consultant. If you start broke how do you invest? How do you buy quality business cards? How do you buy product to sell? How do you do anything but tell people you link?

Yes there are some who boast starting out broke but they got money somewhere - borrowing, selling off property, recycling cans, something. What I am talking about is you sign up for a company that is free because you can't even afford the sign up fee and expect to generate sales without every spending a dime.

Before you join a company you need to ask yourself these questions:

Am I willing to commit time to my business daily? (bare min of 2-4 uninterrupted hours a day)Am I able to try the product/service before joining?

Do I like the product/service?

Am I willing to invest money into my business immediately? (business materials, product, advertising)

Am I joining for reasons other than just a discount?

If you answered yes to all these questions, then it is time to do your research with the company you wish to join. Join yahoo groups such as Consultant Check and research your sponsor, the business owner, and the business. Also join a yahoo group called the Mom Pack. You can send out posts asking for the good and bad on a company and the current owner (if you have name). With a group that has over 8,000 members you will get some great feedback.

Know what is involved with building a business with the company you are interested in. Know you will be investing time and money. There is no excuses for not devoting time to your business.

Keeping your eye on the goal

In your business, whether a consultant or owner, you need to always have your eye on your goals. Without goals you have no direction. Goals are vital to your success. You cannot succeed if you don't know what the means and have a plan of action to get there.

The competition for business is heating up especially in this economy. The advances in technology, ease of communication, and increasing expectations from customers when combined make the marketplace more competitive than ever. In this day it is crucial for businesses to be proactive about creating their future. Without this, things happen without your control and usually for the bad.

It sounds simple enough, but most consultants and businesses don’t set goals ever. The idea of setting goals can feel intimidating if you don’t know where to start. The process is not difficult and can be very simple but there is a process. You may already have an idea but haven't gone any further.

There are 3 steps in the goal setting process:
* Your goals - what you want to achieve
* Actions needed to achieve your goals
* Review your goals

Sounds simple right? Of course it does. But that is also why you probably haven't taken the time to do this. You have it in mind what your goal is so why bother writing it down? Because until you lay it all out it is a dream not a goal to work towards. Achieving goals doesn't just happen. You make them happen.

So what are your goals? You may have several "dreams" but we want goals right now. Financial freedom is not a goal. It is a dream. Making $1000 a month is a goal. This may spell financial freedom but when you get down to the nitty gritty and make it specific you have a certain level to reach - a goal. See the difference?

Now ask yourself this, what do you not like about where you are in your business? Why ask yourself this? You need to know what you do not like so you know what you need to improve. This may be a long list and that is OK. When you are done with your list I want you to list your top 3. These are the most negative when it comes to impacting your business. Be specific. This is your list of goals. You will work on the other goals but lets concentrate on your top 3 right now.

Next I want you to write down all that you have not been doing that you could be doing. This list can include things that you don't know how to do, afraid to do, or simply just put off. This will become your actions to achieve your goals. Being a WAHM does not make this list easier or more flexible. You have to work and work towards what you want to achieve.

Last write down all that has been going well. What is working for your business. This should also include what is working well but can still be improved upon. Nothing is perfect in business so include all that you like. This is your review of your current business and will give you what you need in the future for reviewing.

You have identified your goals so match those to the actions you have listed. Don't list what you want to do. List what you need to do. If we only did what we want to do we may never get anywhere. Each goal will have more than one action and you may have more than 1 goal with the same set of actions. This is OK.

Keep your goals reachable and reasonable. It is OK to reach a bit but don't go too big. Making a million dollars your first year sounds great but this is not realistic. Separate your wishes from your wants. At the same time don't only go after goals you know you can do. You have to go beyond.

Each goal you have specified you will break down into steps based on your matched actions. There are steps. These steps will be broken down into time frames. Set short term, incremental goals. Short range goals are very important. Begin the first month and increase a little bit each month. Work up to larger goals. Never put yourself under huge pressure from the word go. This will only set you up for discouragement leading you to give up and quit.

Set your time frames in increments. Give yourself a chance to succeed. Never give up too early.

Every week you need revisit your goals and where you are in your progress. Each week list your progress and honestly. This is not the time to lie to yourself about what you have and have not done. There are also no excuses here. You either do or don't. Partner with someone who will help you stay on track. Stay on track. Always revisit your goals and be sure you are still after the same things.

Your confidence builds as you move along. If you fall down, get back up. If you miss a goal by its selected time frame, correct the problem and move on. Do not stop and dwell. Keep going with the same passion and determination as before. If this was your problem, fix it.

This process is a constant review and resetting of goals and actions based on actual progress. It is never over. You will also be adding to your list of goals as you complete goals. This is business not a to do list.

Make the time and set your business up for success. Put this on your schedule. Invest a few hours each week in the careful planning and goal setting for your business. Only then will you and your business reach it’s full and true potential.

Olivia Vidal
© 2009
http://sochicbagboutique.com

Marketing your business

In this time of recession many WAHMs and small businesses are seeing the decrease in sales. Some unfortunately are seeing sales stop completely. While it is discouraging you can still be successful. It takes work. If you were properly marketing your business prior, the added things you need are not going to be a strain. You may have to add an extra hour a 2 a week. Some will add more. The harder you work, the more benefits you enjoy.

When marketing your business it is far more than just telling everyone about your business, giving them a link, and watching the sales come in. If you do this you will never get your business off the ground.

First thing everyone in business for themselves, whether you are a consultant or a business owner, are business cards. Even if you are strictly doing online networking you will come across someone offline who is interested and needs your product. While I am not a big fan of less than professional cards, you can print these yourself on heavy card stock or order free ones through places such as Vista Print. Even if you start with an option that is easier on the pocket I highly recommend you move to a better quality business card. These speak volumes at your attention to detail and quality.

When you are out at the store, in the Dr's office, waiting for an oil change, how many conversations do you over hear? How many times you wish you had a card. While getting my nails done I was talking about makeup. Another woman getting her nails overheard the conversation and brought me her card. Ever leave a cashier that was exceptional? Did you ever leave them a card and tell them to call you and how you needed more team members like him/her? When someone asks for your number this is when you give a business card. What about those restaurants that offer free giveaways when you drop in your business card? I never just drop one in. I tuck it in on the side facing those outward so anyone walking up will see the card. Leave a business card with a tip. I was recently eating at a local restaurant where the table at the entrance has business cards from patrons visiting. As I left I placed a stack of cards on the table. I was playing pool at our local billiards establishment where they had bulletin boards in the bathroom and mini billboards on the back of the bathroom stalls. Management placed my flyer on the bulletin board and I contacted the bathroom billboard company.

Thinking outside the box is easier than you think. How about those waiting rooms with magazines. Ever see the opportunity to donate you own with a label on the front and back saying "Donated courtesy of xxxxxxxxx", a pocket for several business cards tucked on the first page, add in a brochure to the middle or even a catalog.

How many of your children have classroom newsletters? Many of those are teacher sponsored. Ever thought to negotiate a small ad in that newsletter while you take on the sponsorship of that newsletter? That is money back in the teachers pocket for other classroom needs. Visited the local boys and girls club? How about the local ballet school, cheer leading or gymnastics gym? They need sponsorships at some point and even fundraisers. Same with private sport organizations.

How many parades come through your town every year? Maybe just once for Christmas or as many as every holiday. You can dress up your truck or even a borrowed truck to advertise during a parade. Toss our wrapped candy with a label wrapped around it containing your information. Have someone pass mom and dad mini flyers with a coupon.

Utilize Youtube to promote your business. Be yourself and give a little blurb about who you are and your company. Show a product or 2 and why you love them. This is just like talking to your customer one on one. Leave the self consciousness at the door and don't over criticize what you look like. Its you they are looking at not something else you are trying to be. A webcam is n easy purchase with great options for $30 and under. These can take video as well. Once you uploaded that video to Youtube, upload to MySpace, Facebook, and anywhere else that allows video uploads.

I love the plant deals I find at Walmart and Lowes. You can get the small 5" pots for $5 or less. Many times you can take this one plant and turn it into 3 or more. Their palms are a great for this. Replant them in new pots, wrap colored cellophane with a ribbon around the bottom, attach a thank you note with a business card and brochure or catalog. This is an instant thank you gift to hand deliver for party hostesses, first time customers, or loyal long time customers. Even just recognize your customer's birthday with a cute and simple plant.

Everyday is an opportunity, every door that is closed can be opened, every person is a potential lead to a sale. Keep your eye open and look at all sides. Look outside the box and see where you can shine. Avoid the ordinary and do the extraordinary. This is when you will truly be successful.

Olivia Vidal
© 2009
So Chic Bag Boutique

Advertising Highjacking

First thing many ask is what is advertising hijacking? This is what I call it when someone posts a thread on a message board or different social groups (such as Yahoo groups or Google groups), and another comes in from the same company and offers the same thing or a different special trying to get sales or recruits off someones post. This happens often in chat rooms as well.

Example of this is: I am offering you 20% off your entire order of wonder widge books and if you sign up now. Another person, maybe even my own upline, will ask could share such and such if the host doesn't mind. The idea is out there, the answer is yes so they do not have conflict or appear rude, and the offer is announced. This is the case where the other is making the sale or recruit not the host no matter how it was intended. This is advertising hijacking.

One, this should never have been asked in front of everyone. Two you should never hijack a party hosted by another, thread posted by another, or directly follow with the same add right behind someone who has posted already. Who will actually say no in front of everyone? The answer is always yes forcing that person to allow you to advertise and reap the benefits they are working so hard for. You may say the other can say no but would they really want to say in front of everyone no don't advertise during my party? Even if they want to say now they feel forced to agree so no is not an option. It suddenly changes the mood of the party and the guests will make a decision on how they feel about the person or persons in questions and also the company.

If you were having a home party for your business would you allow someone else to offer your guests a different special if you order or join under them instead of you? Of course not. They are in your home and you would consider this act rude in your home. Nobody would ever dream of doing this. So why is this happening in so many circles on the internet?

Many feel they are helping rather than hindering in these cases. Your intention may be there but how it is seen can be another story. The one hosting is the one to make all sales announcements, offerings, specials. If you want to assist, have a discussion in private. Never in public. Reason is you may be causing others to feel the host is unknowledgeable, unable to assist them, a company they do not want to do business with because they allow their representatives/consultants/affiliates to conduct themselves in a way that is not favorable.

Thankfully this has yet to happen to me but I am seeing this everyday. This is not an uncommon practice. This is becoming the norm. There is nothing wrong with healthy competition. Just remember one word in that phrase - healthy.

Before you post an ad following another in a group or message board thread, during a party that is not yours (including shameless plugs for another product), think about a couple things:
Will this give me more sign ups?
Will I profit from this directly?
Would I do this standing alongside another for the same company/product in front of an actual customer?

This is all about stepping on toes. If you wouldn't appreciate another do the same unto you, don't do it. It makes for bad networking relationships. You need these in the business world especially online. If you take part in anything similar you are losing not only an ally but you can be damaging the confidence resulting in lower team sales and that affects your bottom line.

There is always someone watching. While others say there is nothing wrong with it outwardly, they may be saying to themselves how rude and decide at that point to either not buy from that company no matter the actions or just not buy from you. Don't allow them the opportunity to think ill of you or your company. Even if just one has this enter their mind it can spread like wild fire. Negative reviews and experiences are announced loudly and news spreads quickly. Positive reviews and experiences are quiet, less profound, spread slowly if at all.

Give them reason to announce to all how wonderful and excited they are to use your product proudly. As the say goes you catch more flies with honey than vinegar.

Ready for your product to be reviewed?

Our reader list is increasing (not the same as followers) and that means more opportunity for your product and name out to a larger audience. Starting in January product reviews will become a regular sight here are Liv's WAHM Blog. With 150+ unique visitors a week and a 60% return rate, this is a great opportunity for your product to reach the audience your deserve.

Why do a product review?
How many times have you seen a great product but unsure if it is something you should spend money on? A company you have never tried and nervous about the outcome? A consultant you just met and no relationship built? A product review allows potential customers to search out experiences and see how others have felt about your product. Many times this speaks volumes louder than a simple ad. Many people seek these out but rarely find an experience by someone not associated with the product and only wants to sell them a product or service. This can lead to lost sales. I have 2 product reviews currently available for review here at Liv's WAHM Blog. I know of 3 people who contacted me to let me know they purchased the pedipaws simply because of my personal experience. It was a simple unbiased documentation of my experience without anger or expectations.

What is included in a product review?

I will answer the following questions:

Name of Company
Name of Consultant or Owner
Website URL (if available)
Contact Information
How to order
Product(s) received for review
How long take to receive product(s)
Condition of product(s)
How and what product(s) is used for
Ease of Use
Communication during process
Qualities of product(s)
Overall opinion of product
Any additional information I feel is pertinent to your product review

The question I get frequently is do I post negative reviews. The answer is yes. Here is my reasoning. If someone sends me a product to try and review and there are several reasons for me not to recommend a product, I will post that information. Our readers want real experiences by a real person not trying to sell them a product. They are not looking for glorified advertisements. In a virtual world customers cannot try products themselves. Product reviews by someone who has tried the product and are willing to give an honest and fair observation and experience. This is how they can decide whether a product is worth purchasing. Of course I will not post a negative review for someone who's package arrived late for situations beyond their control (ex. bad weather). These are case by case and during this process communication is key.

What is required for product review?

Product- This can either be sample sizes or full size. Which every is preferable for you. Samples can be easiest to allow for more than one product(s) to be reviewed. More than 1 sample of each product is recommended to allow a fair assessment and review of the product(s).
Your full name - Potential customers want to know you are a real person and possibly conduct their own investigation as to who you are. This is not a scary thing. People just want to know you are trust worthy.
Website URL - Potential customers many times wish to view the product on the site and obtain any additional information about the product and/or company
Company name - This is quite obvious
Are you a consultant (or preferred title) or owner - potential customers want to know who they are dealing with.
Contact information to include email - If you cannot be contacted most will not want to purchase from you. They want to know they can contact you with any questions, concerns, or additional information.
Any special instructions needed for use of product - I need to know exactly how a product is used. If I use a product incorrectly, your review may be inaccurate for various reasons. If instructions are not included I need these as well as your customers can use this information in their decision making.
How to order - Does ordering take place via website, email, in person. Also include accepted payment types. If a customer has a specific credit card they wish to use, they need to know they can use it to make a purchase.
Shipping times - This is only to show when a product is expected to arrive from the time a potential customer orders to the time it ships. Also include how an order is shipped (USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc)
Send pictures of your product or I can take my own pictures to post - This is so customers have a visual reference to the product you offer. Many people are visual people and will remember what a product looks like before they remember a name. This gives a face to the product name.
Include a banner (if available).
Include any other additional information you feel is necessary for your review.

IMPORTANT: Do not send your product for review package in any extra special way. It needs to come as though any customer has ordered. How your package arrives will be documented. You do not want to hurt your future sales because you sent it extraordinary and others only receive the ordinary. While the gesture is very much appreciated, just send your product in the way you would normally ship.

If you choose to send a product that would require a length of time to review (ex. change or improvement over 7 days) send enough product for this. I cannot offer a fair review if it needs to be used or observed over a period of time and all I receive is a one time use.

There will be occasions where I will hold a review party. At this time these will be held every other month starting in February. What this means is I will gather a group of ladies to try your product and issue their separate review. They will receive a questionnaire outlined above. I will post the groups review individually. If you wish your product be part of a review party you will be asked to send multiple samples or full product of the same product. As an example only, you may be asked to send as many as 10 or as little as 4. I will post about an upcoming review party and list how many women will be attending.

Your review will appear here and I will also send a copy to you. I will also include a link so you are able to use your review in your chosen advertisement. We are looking for items a woman would use. Whether an item strictly for a mother or an item both a man and woman can use. I will not be accepting men only items at this time. This may change at a later date.

Are you ready for your review? Have questions? Contact Olivia at disneyandmickeyfan@yahoo.com with Product Review in subject line.

Get ready for the new year

Christmas is over, the relatives are gone, the shopping is done. Its time to start thinking about your business again. Start 2009 with a new outlook and ideas for your business. Whether just starting and been in business for years, a fresh start can always be a great thing.

We all should have a business plan in place for how we wish to conduct and grow our business. This does not matter whether you own your own business or you a consultant in direct sales. Everyone needs a business plan. If you do not have a business plan in place, what direction do you go?

Before you panic and think I don't have time to write one or I don't know how, a business plan is easier than you think. I will take you few of the basics in a business plan. By the time we are done you will have enough information to get you started in the right direction. Now I am not where near an expert in writing these. But I can give you a great start from my own experience and business classes.

We all should remember that trusty notebook I am always talking about. It is time to bring it out if you don't have it out already. Don't have one? Go buy one. I recommend the 5 star with the plastic cover. They are more expensive but they take a beating and still hold on. Buy which ever you like or just use a standard long yellow notepad with cover. Doesn't matter. Just get one.

Before we get started there are a few things I want you to remember. You are a salesperson. As a sales person it is your job to convince others to purchase your products. Your product(s) not only represent your business but also you. Because you want others to buy from you, they must believe in you and not just your product. Because of this you want them to believe you know everything there is about the product and can effectively assist them in any way they need in relation to your product. I say this now because this will reflect in your thinking while writing your business plan.

The basics to your business plan will be:
Executive Summary
Market Analysis
Company Description
Organization & Management
Marketing & Sales Management
Service or Product Line
Funding Request
Financials

They may sound like big words and even seem intimidating. Don't let it be. This is what is used when you plan to seek investors and even loans to start your business. We are not going to cover the very exstensive and detail of a traditional business plan. We are going to take pieces of this and break them down simplify a business plan so you have the basics to move your business forward.

We are going to start with your company description. This section will include several elements of your busines that fit together. What needs to be included is the nature of your business, the marketplace needs that you are trying to fullfill; include the ways in which you plan to satisfy these needs using your products or services. So what exactly does that mean? Start with what is your company and what you offer. Why would people want to buy your product? Lets say you sell candles. People like to have a tranquil home, relax, and their home smell good. This is why they would want to buy candles. Say you sell soy candles. The reason people would want to buy yours is because they are not as toxic as others. Of course you want more detail than this but you can see where I am going with this.

In your company description you are going to list your success. What key areas are you superior in? Customer satisfaction? Shipping? Product quality? Location of your business? Why these give you an advantage above others and why you have the competative edge.

Lets turn to Service or Product Line. Describe your service or product, and highlight the benefits to your potential and current customers. Focus on the areas where you have an advantage above the rest. Point out the the problems in your target market for where your service or product provides the needed solution. Provide evidence that people are, or will be, willing to pay for your solution. You don't need to go into detail about each and every product but you do want to go into detail about the major lines of product. If you don't know the answer, find it. You can't effectively sell a product if you know nothing about the product and why you are selling it. Selling it because it sounds like fast money will only cause you failure. Do your homework here.

Marketing & Sales Management is our next stop. What is marketing anyways? Marketing is the process of creating customers. This includes your ads, how you sell your product or service, packaging. In this are you want to first define your marketing strategy. There is no single way to approach a marketing strategy; your strategy should be part of an ongoing process and unique to your company.

Strategy for growing your business. This growth strategy might include what is called a horizontal strategy. This is where you would provide the same type of products to different users. There is also a vertical strategy where you would continue providing the same products but would offer them at different levels of the distribution chain.

Channels of distribution strategy. Choices for distribution channels could include a sales force, distributors, or retailers. To keep it simple this will be your sales force. You can branch out further as your expertise and skills strengthen and grow.

Communication strategy. How are you going to reach out to your customers? This will be a combination of the following: promotions, advertising, public relations, personal selling, and printed materials such as brochures, catalogs, flyers, etc.

Once you have defined your marketing strategy, you can then define your sales strategy. How do you plan to actually sell your product? This can be a meriad of avenues. You need to decide what is best for you and your skills. This will also include what you will not do and why. If you cannot do home parties, why? No babysitter? How can you get around that? Are you not good with large groups? Can you start with a small amount of people and work your way up? Strategy is not only what you are willing to do but what you can do to overcome what you are not willing to do.

You need a sales force strategy. In direct sales your sales force is those you recruit to be part of your team. You as a team leader are responsible for helping them develop the skills to build their own business. This is why you receive compensation. How many salespeople will you recruit for your sales force? What type of people are you looking to recruit for your sales force? Be specific on type. Don't just state anyone wanting to make money. Are you targeting women from ages x to y? Married men with children? People who own homes? These are just examples so make these questions relate specifically to you, your products, and your company. What type of recruitment strategies will you use? Maybe your strategy is strictly online. Be specific how this will work. Even online strategies will include some offline skills so you must include them. How will you train your sales force? Will this be conference calls, chat room training, in person meetings. What about compensation for your sales force? This is not what they earn for sales. This is what can you offer. Maybe you will offer a product package for hitting a certain goal.

Your sales activities. When you are defining your sales strategy, it is important that you break it down into activities. For instance, you need to identify your prospects and make a list. Once you have done so, you need to prioritize it. Next, identify the number of sales calls you will make over a certain period of time. This can be monthly, quarterly, or yearly. I prefer monthly as you can make these appear attainable using your present skills. This can later change as your skills develop. From there, you need to determine the average number of sales calls you will need to make per sale. It may take 20 calls to make one sale. You need to know the average dollar size per sale. You can modify this to be home parties, catalog parties, conference calls, sales meetings, and any other method you have chosen to make the sale.

Lastly we move on to Financials. This should include historical and prospective. If you are just starting you will not likely have historical so focus on prospective. You should have a breakdown of what you spend vs sell. You also should have an idea of what you need to allocate where. Even as a consultant you need to know what is coming and what is going out and not just spend whatever, whenever. Based on past you should be able to project your financial outlook for the coming year. If you plan to receive business loans or gain investors, this is a must and cannot be left out.

As you can see we have skipped a few areas. The areas we covered are where most need to focus. If you wish to start a new brick and mortar business using loans and investors, you will need a full comprehensive business plan. You can find several samples of these online. There are some who offer the service of writing this for you with the information you provide. Just do a search on Google or any other chosen search engine.

When writing don't feel overwhelmed. Take one section at a time. Once you have completed these sections, review them periodically and make adjustments as needed. This is a work in progress and will never be the end. If you create this digitally it is easier to read and change.

This is by no means complete but you now have a great start to making your business successful.

Olivia Vidal
©2008
So Chic Bag Boutique
http://sochicbagboutique.com/