So, you want to work from home, set your own schedule, and make unlimited income? Well, according to many direct sales companies, all of that and more is possible simply from starting a career in direct sales.
Direct sales is the sale of a product or service in a person-to-person atmosphere marketed through independent sales representatives, consults, or distributors. Products range from cosmetics to candles to cookware. There is definitely money and interest in direct sales as it is a $30 billion industry employing 16.8 million people.
There are several hundred direct sales companies which offer thousands of products. Below I’ve listed some of the more popular categories.
Personal care
When it comes to direct selling personal care products and cosmetics you’ve probably heard of the classics like Avon and Mary Kay, however there are a slew of growing personal care direct sales businesses. There is 3D mascara, fashionable nail wraps, and personalized fragrances just to name a few.
Health and Wellness/Weight Loss
Looking to improve your health and wellness or lose weight? There are a multitude of direct sales companies focused on health, nutrition, and weight loss. Products include nutritional supplements, weight-management products, health coaching, and even body tightening wraps.
Home Products
There is an endless supply of home products available via direct sales. You know Tupperware, right? Surely your Mom still has some Tupperware in her cabinets from the seventies! Tupperware has been around since 1946, however new home ware companies have emerged including Cutco knives, Pampered Chef cooking products, and Scentsy candles.
How much can you make in direct sales?
There have been multiple success stories about individuals making up to six figures a year by joining the direct sales work force. However, this is not typical. According to the Direct Selling Association, the median annual income for direct sales consultants in 2011 was $2400. A nice chunk of side income, but certainly not enough to leave your full time job.
The Key to Success
Seasoned direct sellers agree that if you want to earn serious income through direct sales, a long term committed effort is required. In many cases this means committing full-time hours to your part time direct selling gig, and allowing enough time to build a customer base. Additionally, it’s important to know which direct sales companies are already represented in your area. Joining a saturated market will definitely make growing your business more difficult.
Would you ever consider a career in direct sales?
Side Hustling in Direct Sales is a post by The Four Hour Work Day.
