Direct Sales Providing Business Opportunities for Moms during Recession
I read a really interesting article in the New York Times entitled “Direct Sales as a Recession Fallback.” According to this article many direct sales companies report rising numbers of sellers signing up. The spokeswoman for the Direct Selling Association said that’s typical in recessionary years. Why?
The article said people use their earnings to pay off debts or as a way to bring in cash while they — or their spouses — look for jobs. Also, if you want to start a home-based business, the start-up costs for direct sales are usually fairly minimal.
I believe direct sales to be a smart option in ANY economy. Here are the five reasons I see women drawn to direct sales as a career option:
1. MONEY – Direct sales gives us the ability to meet and establish our own financial goals – whether that’s a few hundred dollars a month or a more substantial income.
2. CONTROL – Direct sales allows us to control our careers. Instead of just a JOB, we enjoy something more meaningful. You can also work around your family’s schedule.
3. FUN – There are over 30 industries represented in direct sales, so there is certainly something to fit your interests – from books, to finances, to travel, to gourmet food, to wellness products, to scrapbooking… Many of us also love the chance to share our products through “parties” and gatherings.
4. BEING OF SERVICE – As women when we find a solution to a problem we naturally want to share it with others and direct sales helps us to do that while we make a profit.
5. PRODUCTS – Direct sales allows us to get our products at a reduced price and/or make a commission for sharing something we’d happily buy anyway. (Here’s an extra perk, products moved through direct sales, like jewelry, cosmetics or home décor items, are often considered recession-resistant because most are priced under $50.)
Why should you care about your reasons? Knowing what motivates you is a key factor in your success. Read more in my article Unique Home-Based Business Opportunity in Direct Sales.
Women in direct sales – please share what you DO and DON’T like about direct sales. Also, what impact on your direct sales business have you seen by the economic slowdown?
Tags: Direct Sales, Direct Selling Association, entrepreneur moms, Kim DeYoung, women in direct sales, work at home moms
