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These People Are…Incredible – Guest Post by Joe Mariano, DSA President

These People Are…Incredible – Guest Post by Joe Mariano, DSA President

From The DSEF: Today we’re delighted to bring you a guest post by Direct Selling Association President Joe Mariano. Joe and his team at the DSA work tirelessly to protect, serve and promote the effectiveness of member companies and the independent business people they represent. The DSA also works to ensure that the marketing by member companies of products and/or the direct sales opportunity is conducted with the highest level of business ethics and service to consumers.

“These people are … incredible.”

That’s what one direct selling CEO recently emailed me during her conference. I know exactly what she meant. After 26 years working at the Association, I’ve seen more than just a few company meetings. Each company brings its own unique style and expertise to its get-togethers, but they all have one thing in common: the passion, enthusiasm and love that the salesforce brings to our business. There is nothing more exciting, invigorating and gratifying than to get out into the field and see this reflected in the eyes and voices of our salespeople.

In recent weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to speak to thousands of company salespeople, from Philadelphia to Columbus to San Francisco. They are hungry for the messages that DSA, DSEF and our World Federation are uniquely suited to bring—the spirit of the industry, credible industry statistics and information, identification of our opportunities and challenges, a validation of what they do, a report on the government regulations that may affect them, and finally—a sense of being part of something truly phenomenal. Something larger than just a kitchen table crowded with receipts and paperwork, larger than their neighborhood party, larger than the sales organization they are working so diligently to build. Larger even than their great companies. They are part of a remarkable industry that is changing lives and helping people across the country and across the globe. A true phenomenon, 100 years and more in the making, that is offering an income opportunity to struggling people, that is changing communities, that is making unparalleled charitable contributions, that is capable of changing lives.

When we talk at these meetings of some of the 16 million people in the U.S. and more than 70 million across the globe, heads nod and notes are scribbled. When we tell the story of the direct selling representative floating down the Amazon River to sell her goods, or someone embracing entrepreneurship in China with the economic opportunity that direct selling provides, a collective “Ah” rises from the audience. When we describe the single mom who found her calling and herself in direct selling, a smile spreads across the listeners’ faces. Each of these sellers knows this story. Each of these sellers has seen this story reflected in his or her own life, and the lives of the people they have touched through their direct selling activities.

And when the remarks are done, the audience cheers. They cheer for themselves and everything they know they have accomplished and will accomplish. Each of you has probably seen this played out in some way at your own company events. I truly wish each of you could join me at all of these company meetings so you can see you are part of something even beyond your own great company. That you, as part of this great industry, are changing lives. That you are part of a community coming together through DSA. That all of these people are … incredible.

Joe Mariano is President of the Direct Selling Association. He also serves as Vice Chairman on the Direct Selling Education Foundation Board of Directors, and Chairman of the World Federation of Selling Associations (WFDSA) Global Regulatory Affairs Committee.  

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How Are Those Goals Working For You?

How Are Those Goals Working For You?

Many of our goals are similar to those of our neighbors, friends and family. Most of us would like a nice house, a new car and more stuff. But are these things what dreams are made of? Are these our true goals? Or are we following what everyone else wants?

Sometimes it’s important to stop and ask yourself: How do I know what I really want? How do I find my OWN purpose and passion?

Here are some practical steps to help you get started:

  1. Don’t be afraid to dream. Give yourself a few hours today and daydream about what you want to accomplish. Visualize, imagine success, and write down those activities and/or achievements.
  2. Make a list of what makes you smile, delights you and gets your heart pumping.
  3. Review your list and pick one to focus on.
  4. Briefly, write down what it is and clearly describe how it looks, smells and tastes like. Use this process to turn your vision into words and bring it into your reality. Give it life.
  5. Now that you have a rough idea of what it is, do some more research. Answer who, what, when, where, why and how.
  6. As you continue to define and think about your new goal, start to get yourself excited and make it your own.
  7. Once you have a concrete goal, follow a plan to achieve it. Here’s a simple way to create a plan: http://dsef.org/2011/09/12/the-power-of-a-plan-and-30-days/

Accomplishing goals that really matter to you will not only bring you true success, but offer deeper personal satisfaction. Like with any journey, the beginning is filled with excitement, you’ll open greater opportunities along the way, and in the end you’ll create a lifetime of memories.

So, what’s your purpose and passion? How’s your journey going? We would love to hear about it. Please share your thoughts and insights in the comments 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!

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How to Be More Productive

How to Be More Productive

We all procrastinate once in a while, and usually we just wait for it to go away. But we’ve also experienced moments when we felt unstoppable. Like a super hero! So, how can we experience more super hero moments?

The trick to being more productive is to spot when you’re not being productive and be prepared to overcome it. You are practicing self-discipline and you can master it.

Step 1 – Use your calendar to mark short, medium and long term goals.

Step 2 – Create a daily schedule.

Step 3 – Make and prioritize your daily to do list to help you focus on what needs to be done and to reduce unproductive temptations.

Step 4 – Acknowledge and recognize time wasters/unproductive activities.

Step 5 – Decide to stop the time wasting or allow the unproductive activity for 5 minutes and use it as a break, or make it a reward with no time limit when you have completed your productive tasks.

Step 6 – Understand and identify your work strengths and weaknesses.

Step 7 – Use your strengths and/or set aside the time when you’re typically the most productive to tackle more challenging tasks.

Step 8 – Get more organized.

Step 9– Improve time management and efficiency skills. Read up on how others manage their time, and use their methods. Here’s a web page from Dartmouth College to get you started: http://www.dartmouth.edu/~acskills/success/time.html

Step 10 – Keep a journal or chart and write down your accomplishments.

Step 11 – Reward yourself when you accomplish the tasks on your to-do list.

How do you handle moments of procrastination? Do you have a tip to share? We would love to hear from you in the comments below!

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Simple Tips for Saving Energy

Simple Tips for Saving Energy

If you’re a small business owner that works from home, your electricity bill may be doing double-duty…covering both your home and business energy needs. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to save energy throughout your home, leaving you with more cash for the bottom line!

Here are some simple ways to save energy around the house:

  • Caulk and weatherstrip your doors and windows. It keeps cool air in during the summer, and heat in during the winter.
  • Add a storm door to all outdoor doors.
  • Replace your windows with energy-efficient windows if possible.
  • Use heavier window treatments, such as shades and curtains, to help maintain the indoor temperature in your home.
  • Make sure all of your appliances are energy-efficient.
  • Unplug all appliances, including computers, when they will not be used. This keeps them from drawing power when not in use. (Alternately, plug into a power strip and turn off the strip when not in use.)
  • Turn off your computer if you’re not going to use it for more than 2 hours. If your monitor is separate from your computer, turn the monitor off if it will not be used for more than 20 minutes.
  • Use of new lighting technologies can reduce lighting energy use in homes by 50%–75%. Upgrading 15 of the inefficient incandescent light bulbs in your home could save you about $50 per year. (source: energysavers.gov)
  • Use the lowest watt bulb practical for each space. The lower the wattage, the less energy the bulb uses when lit.
  • Turn off your lights whenever you don’t need them, and teach your family to do the same.
  • Turn down the heat in your home. By getting your family used to a lower temperature (even 5 degrees) you can save a lot of energy.
  • Consider using a space heater, rather than turning up the system in your whole house, if you’ll only be using one room in your house for long periods of time (like a home office.)
  • To conserve hot water, fix leaks and install low-flow fixtures.
  • An energy-efficient dishwasher can actually save more energy than hand-washing dishes in hot water several times per day, especially when using shorter wash cycles.
  • Get an energy-efficient clothes washer and dryer. In your clothing washer, use cold or warm water for washing, and cold water for rinsing.
  • Lower the thermostat on your water heater. For each 10ºF reduction in water temperature, you can save between 3%–5% in energy costs. Most households are just fine with a setting of 120ºF on their water heater. Reducing your water temperature to 120ºF also slows mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes. This helps your water heater last longer and operate at its maximum efficiency.

By giving some attention to these small details, and teaching your kids to do the same, you can reduce your energy costs and conserve energy. And that means more money in your pocket!

How do you save energy at home? How does your business conserve energy? We would love to read your thoughts and tips in the comments below!

We are thankful to the US Dept of Energy for sharing these valuable tips on their website at http://www.energysavers.gov. For more information on any of the topics above, please visit their website.

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Want to Work From Home? Tips for Getting Started as an Entrepreneur

Want to Work From Home? Tips for Getting Started as an Entrepreneur

Do you wish you could find a job that will let you work from home and make your own schedule? Have you ever considered becoming an entrepreneur and owning your own business?

Many people start a business because they think they have a great idea, or a product or service that will make money. Some people start because think that they can do something better than the businesses already out there. Other people are introduced to a business by a friend, and join because the timing is right or they love the product line.

When you decide to jump into entrepreneurship, here are some thoughts to consider:

  • Who would be your customers?
  • Where could you find these customers?
  • How much money do you need to start this business?
  • What makes your business special?
  • Are you passionate about what you will be doing?
  • What other resources do you need?
  • What’s your financial goal?
  • Are you willing to invest a lot of time and energy into this business?

If you’re still interested in pursuing a business, here is a handy site from the Small Business Administration. It contains step-by-step instructions and advice to starting your own business. http://www.sba.gov/content/follow-these-steps-starting-business

 

You might also consider a direct selling business. Legitimate direct selling businesses offer low start-up costs, a proven product line, training, and support. Many of these companies are members of the Direct Selling Association, and agree to comply with the DSA Code of Ethics. You can learn more about direct selling, and how to find an opportunity that’s right for you, here: http://www.directselling411.com/

And if you do decide to take the leap and start your own business, we congratulate you! Great countries are built upon entrepreneurs like you.

The DSEF is here to help. If you have any questions we’re here to provide the answers and support for you to succeed! So, what’s your first question? We’d love to hear how your business is going!

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Ethical Selling

Ethical Selling

When we think of selling, we often think of the shady used car salesman. The whole idea of selling anything is often uncomfortable for people. It requires a mind shift to move into your comfort zone when selling. Imagine that selling is more like helping a friend. And it can be. In fact, that’s the foundation of ethical selling.

Here are some ways to make the selling process more comfortable, natural and lower stress.

  1. Start in your own backyard, your community. Talk to people you know, your friends, neighbors, and the people in your town. Gradually build and network outward with people with whom you have something in common.
  2. Build friendships (clients) based on common interests. Share things that are happening in your town, church, local organization, in charities, in local sports, cultural events, schools and local businesses.
  3. Listen, have conversations, and develop friendships within your community. Find out who has problems that your products/services can help. When you genuinely care about people (clients), you’ll find that providing your products/services doesn’t feel so much like selling, but more like helping.
  4. Develop the skills to figure out who needs your help. For this, you will need to learn networking skills, develop a positive attitude that attracts people, develop good listening and communication skills, and act comfortable in your own skin even when you don’t feel entirely comfortable inside.
  5. Remember, make friends with everyone. Even the people who don’t require your help can be your ears and eyes for others who may need your help.
  6. Share testimonials. During the transaction process, focus on how the product/service has helped you and/or share testimonials on how it has helped other people. Make it less about the selling process and more about how it will help them.
  7. Continue to nurture your friendships. It will bring personal fulfillment, grow your network and create more loyal customers.

This way may take a little more work and time. But, it will make selling feel less like selling, while you focus on matching people with products and services they actually need, while also building fulfilling relationships. Ultimately, your financial success will also include the satisfaction of really caring about other people.

To learn more about ethics in sales, and the DSA Code of Ethics in direct selling, check out this series of videos.

What are some effective, ethical sales techniques that you use?  We would love to hear your tips and comments.

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!

 

 

 

 

 

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More Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses

More Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses

When you’re in business for yourself, marketing is incredibly important. You need to get the word out about your business, and there are specific strategies you can use to market yourself effectively.

Before you begin, have a plan, target audience and goal in mind. For instance, a discount or promotion to reward your loyal clients, or provide free delivery for clients who are new moms is a plan, aimed at a targeted audience and has specific goals. Include in your plan a way to measure your return on investment. This way you’ll know if it worked and how well it worked.

Here are some tips to help you market your business:

  1. Become a contributing expert for a blog or local news media.
  2. Start a Facebook page for your town and be a positive voice for what’s happening in your area.
  3. Start a YouTube channel and provide tours of your town.
  4. Partner with other businesses in your area to increase word of mouth.
  5. Offer workshops, teleseminars or webinars
  6. Display signage on your cars, t-shirts and temporary signs on lawns (with permission).
  7. Organize a charity collection or fund raiser.
  8. Hand out tip cards to solve problems that relate to your business.
  9. Sponsor free car washes.
  10. Sponsor free sidewalk address number painting.
  11. Sponsor a street performer/artist to promote your business.
  12. Promote causes and charities in your area.
  13. Sponsor free workshops to help people in your community, like a math or personal defense workshop.
  14. Make yourself and your business memorable. Be known as the lollipop giver.
  15. Showcase testimonials in your marketing.
  16. Hold special promotions like client of the month.

The best marketing is providing your customers with consistent excellence and memorable service that they’ll tell their friends about.

How do you market your business? Please share in the comments!

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8 Steps to Create a More Efficient Business

8 Steps to Create a More Efficient Business

For many of us, maintaining our business is what we focus on every day. We rely on what’s been working and old routines. However, by implementing small changes, you can make your business more efficient and more profitable.

Here are some tips to help make your business more efficient:

  1. Create or review and if necessary revise your business plan to help you focus on your business goals.
  2. Make a chart highlighting your goals and include a calendar that shows daily steps toward obtaining your goals.
  3. Implement schedules and budgets. Create schedules to clarify time management, and carefully track budgets to reduce expenses.
  4. Formalize your processes. To start, walk through processes that your business uses frequently. Then, formalize best practices and methods in that process. This will make things run more smoothly and reduce confusion.
  5. Use practical technology to make communication better, to help yourself stay better organized, and to save money on paper and wasted time.
  6. Provide a forum for feedback from team members and customers. People who do the work every day or use your products/services can help stream line your business processes and generate positive buzz.
  7. Do a formal business assessment. Evaluate your duties, schedules, budgets, processes, technologies and feedback from employees and customers. Ask yourself if these processes can be done more quickly, reduce waste, do double duty, generate more customer satisfaction, and save money. Your assessment could be done quarterly, bi-annually or annually.
  8. Think through new processes. Prepare a plan to roll out new systems/ideas, assess their implementation, and deal with adjustments and complaints.

Businesses that improve will succeed, and efficiency is key! In assessment, we try to reduce errors and build upon successes.

How do you make sure your business is running efficiently? How do you review/adjust? Would love to read your thoughts in the comments 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!

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22 Ways to Earn Extra Money

22 Ways to Earn Extra Money

There are many reasons to take on extra side jobs. Sometimes we need to make extra money because we want to save up for something, or simply have extra spending money. Sometimes it’s just for the pure enjoyment of working on a job we love. And for some, it’s to test the waters and see if we have the entrepreneur “chops.” For many it’s most likely a combination of reasons.

Whatever your reasons, here are some ideas to make extra income:

  1. Pet sitting/walker
  2. Pet grooming
  3. Lawn mowing/ Lawn maintenance
  4. House or Business cleaning
  5. Selling homemade goods on a site like Etsy
  6. Kids party organizer
  7. Childcare
  8. Senior care
  9. Personal baker
  10. Personal cook
  11. Personal spa treatments
  12. Substitute teacher
  13. Tutor
  14. Specialized skill services – like teaching a foreign language, sewing, teaching music, etc.
  15. Local delivery service
  16. Personal car washer/detailer
  17. Sell baked goods
  18. Personal chauffeur
  19. Garage sales
  20. Handy fix-it person
  21. Painter
  22. Direct sales opportunities (this can be part time or full time, depending on how much money you want to make)

You might even want to partner with your older kids. It’s a great life lesson, and a great way to teach finances, goal setting and math in a practical application.

Do you have other ideas to generate extra income? Do you use life experiences to teach your children about finances and math concepts? Would love to read your thoughts in the comments

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Feeling Stuck? Tips to Get Yourself Moving

Feeling Stuck? Tips to Get Yourself Moving

Call to action!

There are times when you just don’t want to do something, or you feel it’s too overwhelming to even begin. Here’s a process that can call you to action!

  1. Write down your goal and post it somewhere you will see it. Include how it will make you feel when you achieve your goal.
  2. Create a simple and easy work mantra – for example “One more step to get ahead!” Saying your mantra as you work will help cancel any negative thoughts as you work through your task.
  3. Ask yourself, what would get you moving? It might be turning on some loud music, posting motivating quotes around your work area, turning on all the lights to make your work area brightly lit, using motivation tapes, setting a loud timer, and/or asking a friend to be your accountability partner.
  4. Break it down to smaller tasks, and if it’s an extremely large goal, break it down by time. For example:
    • 5 minutes to finish the first step
    • 10 minutes to finish the second step
    • 15 minutes to finish the third step
    Consider how you break down the time. Make sure it’s appropriate to complete the task.
  5. Give yourself small rewards in between completing several steps toward your ultimate goal.
  6. Change location. If you can’t work at home, then go to the library or to the park.
  7. Be positive, use positive words and never beat yourself up.
  8. Keep going. If you get off schedule, just dust yourself off and start where you left off.

Life is like a river. Your action is like a boat and paddle. Use it to get to where you want to go, or you may end up going nowhere.

How do you get yourself motivated? How do you get through difficult tasks? Would love to read your tips and advice in the comments.

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.
  • The existing connections that our employees may have with a university.
  • How our team can better support or align with these relationships.

Please provide us with the following contact information:

Do you or your department have an ongoing professional partnership or personal relationship with a university, college professor, program or department?