Ever wondered about party plan or network marketing? Looking for an opportunity to try something new?
It could be easier than you think! Here’s how to start your own mum-boss business with flying colours…
Party Plans are increasingly popular choices for Mums who want to stay home with their families yet earn good money. It’s easy to understand the appeal – you get to be your own boss, you make your own hours, and of course, you bring in some extra money! But before diving in headfirst, it’s worth considering a few things to make sure you choose the business that’s right for you!
[mc_block_title custom_title=”1. Do choose a company (and products) you’re genuinely excited about!”]
Selling something is a lot easier when you really love it. Excitement is infectious, and if your potential customers can see how much you love what you’re selling, chances are, they will want a piece of it! It might be tempting to choose products that seem like a sure-seller but trust me – if it’s not your thing, your presentation will be bland and unconvincing. Go with what you know, go with what you love!
[mc_block_title custom_title=”2. Don’t get coerced into signing up with a company if you’re not sure about it”]
If you ask a company for information on consultancy, you are instantly opening yourself up to their sales pitch for potential consultants. They’re salespeople, it’s what they do! Don’t be swayed into making a quick decision as you hear success stories how everyone’s earning cars and holidays!We’re not saying don’t sign on – we’re saying make the right decision for you! The best approach is to take the information away and process it in your own time. Discuss the terms with your partner or a friend, and search online for reviews from past and current consultants. It’s great to be excited at your new venture, just don’t get swept up in the initial buzz of it all! Your future self will thank you for choosing the best and right business possible!
[mc_block_title custom_title=”3. Do take yourself seriously as a businesswoman”]
Girl, you’re a boss now! Own your role; be proud of your business venture!When people ask what you do, avoid saying things like “I’m just a party plan consultant”. Running a successful business takes lots of time and effort and that’s worth anyone’s respect – especially your own! Be passionate and assertive and sing your endeavors from the rooftops, excitement and energy are contagious after all! (And you never know who or where your next customer might be!)
[mc_block_title custom_title=”4. Don’t compare yourself to other consultants”]
Generally party plan or network marketing businesses give back what you put into them. The successful people in these organisations work incredibly hard. Occasionally someone just gets a lucky break – they stumble upon a gaggle of women who are all obsessed with the product line or they find one client who wants to buy up big on gifts for everyone she knows. Don’t let someone else’s success deter yours – stay focused, and keep going! Be a slow boiler not a flash in the pan!
[mc_block_title custom_title=”5. Do use social media to your advantage”]
We’re living in an age where social media is more than just a tool for business owners – it’s a lifeline! Set up business pages on Facebook and Instagram, and sell baby, sell! Having a business page not only gives your clients an easy place to connect with you and learn of deals or specials that you’re running, but it also enables new clients to find you. Hashtags are your new best friend! Get your social on to your advantage!
[mc_block_title custom_title=”6. Don’t add all your friends to your Facebook Business Page”]
This is a contentious point! Personally it irks me when I log into Facebook and find that I’ve been added to “Scentsy with Sally” or “Lydia’s Tupperware Troop”. It’s not that I don’t want to support my friends, but I’m selective with my time on Facebook, and don’t want my feed flooded with sales pitches for products. Please don’t assume I am your customer. The professional approach is to instead, consider which of your friends would be interested in your business, and share your page with them via private message, leaving the decision to join with them. An invitation sets the right tone; feeling like you’ve been kidnapped to a brand does not!
[mc_block_title custom_title=”7. Do ask friends and family to host a party or two when you’re starting out”]
Your friends and family will probably be some of your first customers, and you will almost certainly find that some of them would love the opportunity to support your new venture! Hosting your first couple of parties in a familiar environment with familiar people will do wonders for your confidence as you learn the ropes. Once you break out of your personal circle the magic will begin to happen, keep learning and keep trying until you get there! Don’t forget to thank those peeps who helped you along in your fledgling days!
[mc_block_title custom_title=”8. Don’t guilt-trip your friends and family into buying or hosting”]
Asking for support is one thing, but trying to force someone into hosting a party or buying something isn’t good business practice – it’s just plain awkward! Some of the people in your life will be genuinely interested in your business, and some won’t. Don’t waste time trying to convince – or push – people into something they don’t want. Instead focus your sales energy towards those who are keen – and keep all your relationships intact! When someone says no move along, it’s those wonderful positive yes people you’re looking for!
Party plan consultancy and network marketing is a great opportunity for Mums. It’s a way to balance work and parenting and bring in a little (or a lot if you’re good) of extra money to your home. Follow these tips and tricks and look for a mentor who’ll be happy to see you on your way to success! Best of luck from us to you on your new venture! You can do it girl!
Are you a seasoned consultant with some more tips under her belt? Let us know in the comments below!
