All posts tagged home-based business

DSEF & CBBB – Go On, Trust Me: Why We Trust Some People But Not Others

DSEF & CBBB – Go On, Trust Me: Why We Trust Some People But Not Others

By Holly Doering

Ever think about why you trust some folks and not others? Author and psychologist Michael Lovas once conducted an experiment using body language. He stood at one end of the airport and walked toward someone at the other end, copying their gait, head position, and hand gestures. Almost always, the other person nodded, smiled, or otherwise acknowledged — even kids who looked like gangbangers.

I can remember a customer review on www.bbb.org that mentioned the author was initially inclined to trust a certain business because of the store cat, a well-fed, rescued animal. But the customer ended up unhappy. I don’t know who is wrong, right or misunderstood in that situation, but I do know this: If you want to “start with trust” when you research a company, it’s great if they’re kind to animals, a family-owned, multigenerational minority business, donate to charity, or in some other way seem similar to you. But!

The real substance is their track record. When you check out a company at www.bbb.org, you’re starting to build a picture of its past actions in the marketplace. Are they properly licensed? Do they generate a pattern or volume of complaints? How do they handle complaints? Remember that scam artists love to prey on your sympathies by telling you they, too, are Christian, policemen, disabled, teachers or something else that seems trustworthy.

A recent study at the Kellogg School of Management found that using subliminal clues, like the name of a good friend, could stimulate feelings of trust for a stranger without people realizing it. Con men, the professor says, commonly drop names to stimulate trust. So investigate before you invest: A gut feeling is fine, but trust ideally is earned.

Previously published in the Spokane Spokesman-Review.

DSEF and Council on Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) fosters honest and responsive relationships between businesses and consumers—instilling consumer confidence and advancing a trustworthy marketplace for all.

Free e-book “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P Pass it on!

About the Better Business Bureaus
As the leader in advancing marketplace trust, Better Business Bureau is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews® and BBB Wise Giving Reports® to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. Visitwww.bbb.org/us for more information.

Leverage Your Productivity

Leverage Your Productivity

Which would you rather do: spend two hours completing a task or get it done in 45 minutes?  You may be spending more time than is necessary on various projects and day-to-day responsibilities for your business because you may not be working efficiently.  Take a look at the list below to learn how you can make the most of your time and increase your productivity.

  • Find your best time of day.  We all have a certain time of the day during which we are the most energized, motivated, and therefore productive.  For example, if you’re a morning person, plan on tackling the most challenging of tasks as soon as you begin your day.  Not only will you be able to make the most out of your peak time, but you will also be able to enjoy the remainder of your day much more because you already completed the hardest part. On the other hand, if you know you work best after lunch, make a point to eat something healthy and filling enough to give you the fuel you need to kick the next chunk of time into high gear.  By identifying when you work best, you can plan your day around those times.
  • Focus on what makes you money.  It isn’t difficult to side-tracked with several smaller tasks like answering emails, updating your Facebook status, and de-cluttering your filing cabinet.  Although these are all things that need to be done regularly, when time is of the essence, pour your energy and attention into things that actually make you money.  Call your referrals about hosting a party, book a meeting with a prospect to share your opportunity, or work on your demo for that upcoming vendor sale.  Money-making activities should always be a top priority when creating your day’s agenda.
  • Keep a time journal.  Whether your do it electronically or by hand, keeping a time journal can be a very helpful tool that you can use to improve your work habits.  Document every activity for at least a full work week. Don’t forget to include snack breaks, time spent sending and receiving personal texts, and anything else that you think only take a second.  Those “seconds” quickly add up, and by seeing in writing how you have been spending your time, you may realize that a change is in order.  On the other hand, you may also find that you are generally good at tuning out distractions, but certain times of day are less productive for other reasons (less energy, something unexpected comes up).  Analyze your time journal to further improve your good habits and eliminate bad ones.
  • Take advantage of what your upline has to offer.  One of the great things about the direct selling industry is the access you have to people with experience and success doing exactly what you’re doing.  Reach out to your upline to help you stay on task.  Ask them for tips on staying focused, how they manage a typical day, and what strategies they have used to increase their own productivity.  Your upline is a wonderful resource that can both help you directly or refer you to others who can.  Do seek them out to help you make the most out of your day.

Leveraging your productivity requires knowledge of your own strengths and weaknesses, a willingness to reflect and adjust, and motivation to succeed.  How do you leverage your productivity?  Please share your ideas in the comments section below!

Free e-book “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P Pass it on!

Effective Sales Calls

Effective Sales Calls

Making sales calls are a necessary part of your business, though for many people, it is one of their least favorite things to do.  We are sometimes hindered by a fear of rejection, but by implementing a few suggestions and preparing well, you will find your sales calls to be much more pleasant and effective.

  • Use referrals.  When making your list of contacts, use your referrals as a starting point.  You already have an opening when you make the call by telling the customer who referred you; this can even lead to a bit of small talk that will put the person at ease. For example, “Jane Woodson referred me to you. Our sons play on the same baseball team, and she mentioned that your son is on the team as well?  How is he enjoying the season so far?”  Using referrals can help you take a genuine interest in your contact, which will motivate them to listen to your pitch.
  • Offer a good value.  This can be a bit tricky, as value is perceived differently by different people.  However, as long as you are knowledgeable about the benefits of your product or service and how it compares to others, you will be able to demonstrate its value in ways other than price.  For instance, if a product you carry has similar features to a competitors’ but is more expensive, point out that it is made from higher quality materials, that it comes with a lifetime guarantee, or that the customer can try it risk-free for 60 days.  Whatever the incentive, always be clear in emphasizing a product’s value.
  • Provide solutions.  Most consumers are seeking certain products that have a purpose in their lives.  What solution does your product provide for a customer’s problem?  Reflect on your own experiences to help you answer that question.  One consultant for a jewelry company first fell in love with the product line because it allowed her to take her outfit from the office to an evening out by simply changing out one necklace for another or clipping an extra piece onto her bracelet to make it sparkle for her night out.  This may not be a life-altering solution, but it is a common one that most women would love to know about.  Be the answer to your customers’ problem.
  • Know your client.  A client never wants to feel as if he or she is just a number on your list of calls to make.  Tailor your calls to be specific to each person; this doesn’t mean that every single call will be different, but it does mean that you have done a certain amount of preparation for the call so that you can appeal to a client’s unique need.  You wouldn’t have the same conversation with a repeat customer that you would have with a prospect you’ve never met or done business with.  Take a few minutes to find out something about each contact before picking up the phone. Often that research can be done when receiving the referral.
  • Anticipate objections.  Sometimes you will encounter one or more objections to what you are trying to sell.  Before making a call, prepare a list of possible objections and decide how you will respond to each one.  You will not be able to anticipate every possible objection, but having a good idea as to how you will handle them can be useful in helping you overcome objections and make the sale. The more prepared you are, the less likely you are to be caught off guard without knowing what to say.
  • Use scripts wisely.  Writing a script is a great way to get started with sales calls.  You can literally map out your ideal conversation, and then using the suggestions above, prepare yourself for the many different turns the conversation may take.  One thing to be aware of, however, is not to sound like you are reading from a script which can sound extremely impersonal, and may cause a client to either tune out or cut the call short.  Use the script as a guide only; know what you are going to say and speak in a natural, conversational tone.

Do you have any tips to share for making your sales calls more effective?  Please share them with us below!

Free e-book “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P Pass it on!

DSEF & CBBB: Can You Get Rich Quickly By Flipping Houses?

DSEF & CBBB: Can You Get Rich Quickly By Flipping Houses?

By Holly Doering

This weekend, a company is coming to my town to hold a free seminar on “flipping” houses. According to our state’s Department of Labor & Industries, flipping is defined as owning a property for less than one year, making more than $500 in improvements, and selling the property with the intention of monetary gain.

The company in question has advertised in the past that you could earn between $3,000 and $10,000 a month with their program. Now they just say you’ll earn cash and build a massive residual income stream. It’s supposed to be pretty easy. Sound like a sweet deal?

Not so fast. Here’s the rest of the story:

1) While initial seminars are free, additional seminars cost $1,500. You’ll also be encouraged to invest in more training—up to $25,000.

2) Fox Business says that to make a living flipping houses, you’ll need to have at least half a dozen going at once. Other sources caution that flipping isn’t for the financially strapped—it requires cash reserves.

3) Even if you only flip one house per year, your state may consider you a “contractor,” which means you’ll need to be licensed, bonded, and insured with L&I. If the IRS considers you a “dealer-trader,” you’ll have to pay self-employment taxes.

4) This company has earned an F rating with the BBB, based on a government action alleging deceptive trade practices and consumer complaints reporting trouble canceling purchases and obtaining refunds. Always check the track records of companies atwww.bbb.org before doing business.

According to MSN Real Estate, house flipping is not as easy as it looks on TV. They report that on the original video of the A&E reality show “Flip This House,” there was even a warning stating “Do not try this at home. It’s for trained professionals. You will lose money.”

Making money in real estate is possible. But like anything else, it takes time and effort. If you attend a seminar like the one described above, ask a lot of questions and read contracts thoroughly before signing. (Make sure you get the exact name of the seminar you attended.) Understand any cancellation clauses or refund policies too.

DSEF and Council on Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) fosters honest and responsive relationships between businesses and consumers—instilling consumer confidence and advancing a trustworthy marketplace for all.

Free e-book “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P Pass it on!

About the Better Business Bureaus
As the leader in advancing marketplace trust, Better Business Bureau is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews® and BBB Wise Giving Reports® to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. Visitwww.bbb.org/us for more information.

4 Rules for Business Growth

4 Rules for Business Growth

Do you remember running the 50-meter dash as a kid in gym class?  The task was simple: run as fast as you can until you reach the end.  Your direct sales business, however, requires a much different approach, one more similar to running the mile; you need endurance, stamina, and a view of the overall task in order to succeed.  Growing your business should always be a super-objective you are striving to achieve to stay ahead of the competition, evolve with the industry, and know how to satisfy your customers’ needs.  Read on for some suggestions to grow your business for the long haul.

  • Educate yourself on current trends.  You should make it your business to always be aware of where the industry is headed; the last decade, for example, has found the direct selling industry rife with change.  The focus has shifted from building face-to-face relationships exclusively to combining those efforts with building online relationships as well.  In addition to this virtual internet takeover, the economy has also played a major role in how direct sellers operate their businesses.  Did you know that an economic downturn can actually benefit the industry?  Always do your research to stay on top of what is happening with the direct sales industry as a whole, not just your particular company.
  • Evaluate your ideas and seek improvement.  This is especially true if you have been working your business for a long time.  You most likely have some tried and true methods of marketing, demonstrating products, and recruiting prospects for your downline.  Make sure you periodically self-evaluate what you’re doing and continually be on the lookout to better your own ideas.  Get feedback from your upline, your customers, and your network.  The best way to grow your business is to be a perpetual student; never stop learning.
  • Take calculated risks.  Risk-taking is a necessary element to any business, but since you are ultimately responsible for the consequences, both good and bad, of those risks, really weigh the pros and cons before making the final decisions.  When faced with a decision about your business, take into account not only the financial implications, but also those that may affect other aspects such as your reputation, adherence to your company’s policies, or your ability to provide top-quality customer service.  While we certainly cannot look into a crystal ball, the key to risk-taking is to be educated enough to make an informed, well-thought out decision.
  • Brand and market yourself.  You are likely one of thousands of direct sellers representing your company.  What sets you apart from other consultants?  What benefits would a customer reap by choosing to work with you instead of the representative across town?   Focus your efforts on becoming an expert in your field, and market yourself as someone who is passionate not just about the products themselves, but what they can do for others.  If your company sells products that are environmentally-friendly, your prospects and customers should know why this is such an important issue for you.  What is your connection?  Why did you choose to do this as your way of earning a living?  Decide what makes you unique and begin building yourself into a brand to differentiate yourself from others.

A successful direct sales business is within your reach; look at the big picture, continue developing your talents and skills, and make informed decisions about where to focus your professional efforts.  What are some tips you have to add to our list?  Please share them with us below!

Free e-book “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P Pass it on!

How to Run a Successful Direct Selling Business (and a Free Gift for You!)

How to Run a Successful Direct Selling Business (and a Free Gift for You!)

More and more people are turning to direct selling to supplement their incomes. And it’s no mystery why. Benefits like flexibility, training, and low cost of entry make this as attractive option for millions of people around the world.

While there are a variety of factors that contribute to a successful direct selling business, it’s important to focus on the basics to succeed in this unique business model.  It doesn’t matter if you are just launching your business or if you have been running your business successfully for years; a mastery of the basics will allow you to maintain and grow a profitable business for as long as you would like to.

Here are some keys to running a successful direct selling business:

  • Keep your calendar full.  This obviously depends on how much work you want.  Let’s assume you would like to have a consistent schedule of three parties per week.  Your goal for each party you complete should be to replace it with another party. If for some reason that does not happen at that particular event, find that booking elsewhere.  The same goes for one-on-one sales appointments. Set yourself a weekly number you want to maintain, and hold yourself to it. Don’t stop until you’ve got the dates on your calendar. Your business is a business, so time, planning, and effort are all required for turning any kind of a profit on a regular basis.  Be proactive and schedule as many sales opportunities as you need to meet your goals.
  • Make each sales appointment count.  What this means is that each time you do a party or sales appointment, you should approach it as freshly as you did for your very first one. Even if you’ve done your sales presentation hundreds of times, even if you’ve demonstrated your products hundreds of times, etc., your enthusiasm and commitment to your customers should always be strong.  To prevent your own boredom with your sales “routine,” don’t be afraid to tweak it every now and then.  While you don’t want to alter things that always work really well, it’s still necessary to keep it fresh by replacing certain elements with new ideas.  Look to your upline and internet resources such as Direct Selling 411 and Between Moms for tips on how to incorporate new ideas into your sales presentations.
  • Be an expert on your product.  No product sells itself.  Because of this, you need to know the ins and outs of your product line, especially its benefits.  Think of your product as a solution to a problem.  When in a sales situation, solving this problem for the customer should be your focus; you are educating the customer so they know why they need it and demonstrating your expertise to show that you are the person they should be buying from.  Direct sales companies normally provide additional product information to supplement the standard materials like catalogs and pamphlets, but if this isn’t the case, don’t be afraid to reach out to your upline and even your corporate office.  It behooves everyone involved for you to know as much as possible about what you’re trying to sell.
  • Recruit often.  Many direct sales consultants shy away from recruiting for fear of seeming pushy.  What they don’t realize is that they are likely missing out on additional streams of income.  If you truly believe in your company and the opportunities it offers, then take the initiative to share it with others often.  Always be ready to talk about your business in both formal and informal situations.  Tip:  Create a few scripts to memorize that cover a wide variety of situations.  How would you respond if someone making small talk at a birthday party asks what you do for a living?  What about if a customer at a party asks how if you enjoy being a consultant?  Different situations call for different conversations, so preparedness is essential.

At the Direct Selling Education Foundation, we’re committed to helping you achieve success! That’s why we’ve created a free e-book called “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P

Pass it on!

Here’s to your success!

Creating Additional Income Streams For Your Business

Creating Additional Income Streams For Your Business

As an entrepreneur, you’re always looking for ways to increase sales and diversify your opportunities.   The business world is unpredictable, but especially in times like these, having the security of an alternate income can be a lifesaver if for some reason you experience a lull in business.  Fortunately, there are many ways to create additional income without having to shell out any kind of significant investment.

  • Teaching, coaching, and consulting are all great ways to bring in some extra cash.  All you need to invest is your time, which you’ll use to reach out and offer your services, as well as time you’ll need to prepare a presentation of some kind.  If teaching interests you, reach out to local community colleges, libraries, or recreation centers with an idea for a class, workshop, or seminar.  Create multiple sessions and offer prospective students a package deal.  If teaching isn’t your thing, you might be more comfortable with one-on-one coaching or consulting.  Using your skills and experience, you undoubtedly have a lot to offer someone who is just starting out in small business ownership or something else related to your field.  The possibilities are limited only by what you’re willing to do, and the result can be very profitable.
  • Start a blog.  Writing a blog can be an effective way to share your expertise with others, market your business, and attract more customers.  You don’t have to limit yourself to blogging; create a website that includes how-to videos, customer testimonials, or even guest posts from other industry experts.  Earning money as a result of online content can take some time, but the potential for it paying off is certainly achievable.
  • Listen to what your customers want.  Take the initiative by asking your own customers as well as others in your network about what other services/products they would like to see. For example, if you’re in the business of creating gift baskets, ask your customers what other service/product they would like to see. A customer might suggest fun gift baskets for kids. This might be an idea worth exploring. Ideas from customers are often your best source of creating an additional income stream.
  • Explore your other interests and skills. Make a list of all your hobbies, as well as all the things you do around the home, for your kids and through volunteer work. For example, you might list doing pedicures with your daughters. Since you sell cosmetics, this might become a service you offer. Or besides selling kitchenware, you also love healthy cooking and you might sell an easy to follow healthy cooking program. You want to look for things that compliment what you are doing now and other interests and skills you possess.
  • Other ideas to explore.
    • Create your own How-To-Videos
    • Sell other services that compliment your current business
    • Personalization services – gift wrapping, sewing, special delivery
    • Create partnership with local businesses

With some effort and extra time, you have the ability to find additional sources of income.  This revenue can help you get through a slow season or simply help you reach your personal and professional financial goals faster (not to mention expanding your contact list for your primary business!)  What other ways can you create alternate streams of income?  Please share with us below!

Free e-book “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P Pass it on!

Finding Confidence

Finding Confidence

There are so many different factors that contribute to success in your direct sales business, but one of the most important is the confidence you project to others.  Because your business functions on the relationships you build with others, your customers must know that you are the right person for the job.  When you truly believe that you’re great at what you do, then your customers will know it too.

  • Practice makes perfect.  If you lack confidence in your sales presentation for example, improving yourself can be as simple as practicing.  Start by making your presentation in front of the mirror, and then move on to your kids’ stuffed animals.  When you start feeling better about what you’re doing, get up in front of a few close family members to continue rehearsing.  For the truly brave and ambitious, consider recording yourself on video.  Watch it back and take notes on what you’d like to improve as well as where you excelled.  This will give you a more accurate perspective on how others perceive you and will also allow you to pinpoint areas of strength and weakness.
  • Find a mentor.  The mentor relationship can be extremely beneficial for both the mentor and protégé.  The first place to look is to your upline, most likely the person who brought you into the business.  If that person is unavailable, he or she can connect you with other experienced and successful direct sales consultants either within your company or others that can help increase your self-esteem through pep talks, professional development opportunities, networking events, etc.  It may be a good idea to observe your mentor in action.  If the person is always at the top of list in sales every month, ask him or her to take you along to a sales presentation or home party.  You may come away from the experience with some fresh ideas that you can apply to your own method.  The key to an effective mentor relationship is having someone that you trust and respect.
  • Find a partner.  A partner, unlike a mentor, doesn’t have to be someone involved in the business.  Sometimes the best partners are people already in our lives that can act as our personal cheerleaders.  A close friend or relative that can share joy in your accomplishments and bolster your self-esteem after rejection would make a great partner.  Identify first what you want and need in a partner and share your ideas with that person.  It never hurts to have someone who you know will be in your corner no matter what.
  • Dress for success.  This may seem obvious, but when we are self-conscious about the way we look, it affects our entire being; this lack of confidence can be sensed by others.  Make sure when you leave the house for a sales demo or training event, for example, you are wearing something that makes you feel good.  It should fit you well, be appropriate for the event (not to casual and not too dressy), and be put together with appropriate accessories and hair style.  A put-together look exudes professionalism, competence, and of course confidence.

How do you find confidence within yourself?  Does it increase your success?  Please share your ideas with us in the comments section below!

Free e-book “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P Pass it on!

Executive Spotlight: Joan Hartel Cabral, Vantel Pearls

Executive Spotlight: Joan Hartel Cabral, Vantel Pearls

From the DSEF: We’re excited to continue our blog series featuring top executives in DSEF-supporter direct selling companies today! Every few weeks we’ll introduce you to another top executive, and they’ll share their thoughts on Direct Sales, Ethics, Social Good, and why they support the DSEF. 

Today we’re thrilled to continue this series with Joan Hartel Cabral, the Founder and President of Vantel Pearls, a company that features parties where oysters are opened and guests purchase jewelry made with the pearls inside. Vantel Pearls has been a big supporter of the DSEF for many years, and we’re thrilled to have Joan Hartel Cabral share her thoughts with you today. Enjoy!

Executive Spotlight: Joan Hartel Cabral, Vantel Pearls

Joan Hartel Cabral

What did you do before you got involved with your company?

I lived in Spain for 3 years.  I moved there for the adventure, to learn Spanish and to enjoy the lifestyle.  It was in Spain that I started my first business.   I opened an Aerobics Studio in Denia, along the coast.   My students found it very funny when I said “toque sus hombres” touch your men, instead of “toque sus hombros” touch your shoulders.  I instantly loved running my own business and inspiring others to believe they could positively impact their own lives.   After only 3 months, the Town Government endorsed my business and offered me a rent-free gymnasium.

What do you love about your company?

 I love that our Vantel Pearls’ oysters are a metaphor for Life.  Inside every oyster, there is at least one pearl.  A pearl is formed when an oyster defends against a grain of sand or foreign particle.  The oyster secretes layers and layers of nacre or mother-of-pearl around the irritant.   When we have a challenge, how many of us, as oysters do, find the gift in it-actually turn it into something positive?   We can learn to embrace transformational opportunities.  The pearl is a creation of beauty from adversity.  How fabulous is that?!

What makes your salesforce amazing?

Our Sales Team is truly amazing in the way they see all things are possible.  They strive for excellence.  They give back generously.  They express gratitude to Vantel Pearls because they have learned that their beliefs and attitudes directly influence their choices and actions.   They are connected to each other and support each other.   They transform the lives of others knowing pearls make a woman feel beautiful on the inside.  They are empowered women who are inspired to live authentic, joyous and abundant lives.

How do you ensure your company maintains the highest level of ethics?

Ethics is an integral part of the Vantel Pearls culture.  We adhere to principles of integrity, our 8 Treasured Gems, which are incorporated into our meetings, our catalog, our manner of doing business.

Our Sales Team is held to high standards.  In the event that an individual is outside the guidelines of our standards, their Agreement is terminated.  We keep things very simple.

Our general objective is to grow organically and from that we build enduring loyalty.

What kind of social good campaigns does your company participate in or run?

Vantel Pearls offers early intervention education to children in schools and YMCA programs.  When we present an unopened oyster and discuss how “ugly” the outer shell is and then open the oyster and discover the ‘beautiful’ pearl, with a specific format, the children open up about the name calling, harassment, and intimidation that occurs when teachers are not present.  We have a full discussion without ever using the “bullying” word!  We transform the conversation into believing in your gifts, non-judgment of others and a whole lot more!  It’s the most amazing program providing self-esteem awareness.  We plan to expand on this program and change the world!

Why do you think the DSEF is important?

We have been an active supporter of the DSEF for several years.  The DSEF significantly promotes and educates the public about direct selling.  I believe that our business model of direct selling can allow others to have a richer, more meaningful life.  I believe direct selling empowers individuals to set their own goals, choose their own working hours, have financial independence and fulfill their own dreams.  College debt is rising and personal debt is increasing.  We have a growing crisis.  Rather than encourage widespread borrowing, let’s promote a simple entrepreneurial plan that offers financial security and confidence.  The insurmountable debt of our society needs attention and direct selling is an answer.

Thank you, Joan, for sharing your inspiring story with us. We are grateful for the support of companies like Vantel Pearls, that help us to spread the message of ethics, entrepreneurship and integrity around the world. We appreciate you!

Free e-book “Business Owner’s Road Map to Success.” It has over 50 pages of techniques for everything a small business owner needs to master, from business planning and ethical selling to a success mindset. It’s all there and it’s free for you. To get it, just “Like” our Facebook Page here: http://on.fb.me/KsIN6P Pass it on!

Quick Start to Your Day

Quick Start to Your Day

As a kid, you probably heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  As a working adult, you most likely now realize how true that statement is!  Just as eating a healthy breakfast gets your metabolism off to a great start, there are other things you can do to give your mind and body the head start they need for a productive day.  Try to set up a morning routine for yourself that includes some or all of the following suggestions.

  • Avoid the rush.  This may be especially relevant if you work outside the home.  If you find yourself rushing around in the morning for whatever reason, consider waking up earlier.  Even 10 extra minutes can make a world of difference.  Usually when we are pressed for time, our bodies respond physically: increased heart rate, perspiration, headache, etc.  Set your alarm for a few minutes earlier than usual, and try it for at least a week.  Once you get an idea of how much better it is for you, you won’t want to go back to sleeping in.
  • Get inspired by the words of others.  Motivational quotes are quick and easy ways to get an inspirational pick-me-up in the morning.  Sometimes we get so bogged down in our own responsibilities that we forget to be thankful for what is good in our lives.  Take a few seconds in the morning to read an inspirational quote; if you have a smartphone, there are several apps on the Apple, Android, and Blackberry platforms that provide one a day.  However, if you’re more conventional, get yourself a mini desk-calendar with a motivational quote for each day of the month.
  • Use “positivity Post-Its.”  The invention of the sticky note has allowed all kind of people to find creative uses for them in all aspects of their daily lives.  Try taking out a stack and jotting down a few positive words or phrases that will motivate you, help you handle stress, and remind you of what you feel is important in your job or your life.  For example, one man who took a part-time job so his wife could stay home with their two daughters put sticky notes around his home, car, and office that said three simple words: for my girls!  Reading those words repeatedly throughout the work week motivated him to continue and reminded him of what was the most important thing to him.  Find your positive thoughts in words and phrases and place them in plain sight so that you will come across them throughout your day.
  • Just breathe.  Sounds easy, right?  Of course, you’re breathing all the time and not noticing it.  However, sometimes our obligations get the better of us and we just go through the motions of our day without taking any time for ourselves.  When you first sit up in bed in the morning, try a 2-3 minute deep breathing exercise.  Such an exercise can relax your muscles and focus your mind.  The internet is full of descriptions of different techniques, and YouTube has a great deal of videos demonstrating these techniques, such as Quick Calm seen here.  Give it a try tomorrow morning; you’ll notice the effects right away!

Starting your day off on the right foot will increase your productivity and improve your state of mind.  How do you get a jump on your day?  Please share your ideas with us below!

DSEF Academic Engagement

Complete a brief survey to help us identify academic or university connections companywide.

This survey will help us learn more about:

  • The various partnerships each department has with a professor, college or university.
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