Wow, I havn't used my blog in almost 2 years :(.  Testing this out and getting back up and running.  Testing out raffelcopter to see how it works.  YES, this is a real give-a-way.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Check Out Some Other Great Blogs!

Sam's Club Military Appreciation

The Hampton Roads USO sent me an email the other day that I want to pass on.

Sam's Club will give you a $15 Gift Card if you Join or Renew your membership (*Must be in Virginia).

Click Here to print off a flyer.

Tips For Starting A Home Business In Direct Sales

Starting a business can be one of the most rewarding adventures you do but it doesn't come without risks.  Do all the research you can, be well informed and add these 5 must follow tips to your journey;

1) ASK, ASK, ASK!  When talking with a Consultant with a Direct Sales Company don't be bashful with asking questions.  You can never ask to many and as your teachers in grammar school said, "There are no dumb questions."  This is true here too.  You want to find all the details BEFORE joining.  There is nothing like signing the dotted line, paying your start up fee and then to find a company policy your don't agree with.  On the note of asking questions...NEVER pay to get information about a company.  Even if they say its just to cover shipping.  My response to consultants asking for shipping costs is send me an email.  I then (so far in my Direct Sales journey) get the run around on why I must receive it via "Snail" mail.  Again, NEVER NEVER pay to get company information this should be freely given to you.

2) In addition to asking questions, RESEARCH!  No matter your interests there is a Direct Sales company out there for you; Cosmetics, Jewelry, Pet Products, Food, Cleaning Supplies and everything in-between.  Look at multiple companies to compare to find your match.  The internet has made searching for information a snap, but beware of using creditable sources. Some great places to start are the Direct Selling Women's Alliance and the Direct Selling Association.  Just remember you are always going to find good and bad reviews for every company, so you need to look into the why behind the review.

3) PLAN! Writing a business plan is not just for "Big" businesses its for small and home business too.  Business Plans define the who, when, where, why and how of your business.  It lists your goals and how you plan to get there.  This is an important step and one that should not be skipped or taken lightly.

4) Gather up your family and SHARE with them your plans for a new business.  Let them know your goals.  If you have kids you might want to look for ways to include them in your business.  My 3 year old loves to help.  Even if I ask to her to run to the printer to bring me a flier she gets so excited.  Your daily schedule also may need to be modified to incorporate your business, its best to talk these out with your family.

5) LEAP and be ready to leave your comfort zone.  The one thing I hear most is, "I'm to shy to speak in front of other people."  I'm a firm believer that when we step outside of our comfort zone we grow as individuals and truly find who we are.  It's OK to start with small steps cause that's all it takes. 

I wish you most success in your business endeavors.  More home business tips to come!