Business Etiquette

by Heike Boehnke-Sharp

http://now.at/FantasticFests

Each of us can change the bad image that Direct Sales or MLM companies have acquired over the years, a little effort and courtesy can go a long way!

1. Do not become a “Recruiting Machine”! Even though building a downline is an important part of your business and profit, remember you are dealing with people here! Not only are you dealing with people, they see YOU and YOUR business as a chance to improve their lives, otherwise they would not trust you with their money! Do not sucker someone into your organization with promises and expectations that are unrealistic! Someone joining your team under false pretense may get you that “bonus” that some companies offer, but these new consultants will not prosper, since they are being set up for failure.

2. Do not forget to inform prospective recruits about quotas, sales minimums to stay active, inventory expectations, etc, in other the words the “fine print”. Do you have to have $200 in sales to receive that 5% commission? Is there a quarterly wholesale figure that has to be met? What has to be done to hold a title? If you leave these things out just so you don’t scare a prospect away; you are making a big mistake. They will either just quit after they find out and spread the word that YOU and YOUR company are fraudulent, or they will bypass you, become successful and try to work with another upline, because they cannot trust you.

3. Remember those MANNERS! Even if you did “spend” (not waste!) hours sharing your business, answering questions, etc, your business may not be what this prospect is looking for! Your can offer the best product in the world, not everyone will want to sell it! That does not mean the prospect does not like the product! We tend to take rejection very personal, since we feel (and that is how you should feel about your product!) that we have found the Cat’s Whiskers! This prospect could become one of your best clients, or refer someone else to you who is more suited for the business. So when they say, “NO THANK YOU!” reply with “Thank you, Susan, for your time. You have seen this wonderful opportunity now; maybe you know someone else who would like to make a substantial (supplemental?) income with this product? I would love to have you as a client, may I put you on my Update & Sales list?” Never pressure anyone or forget your manners when they say “no”! If you leave a good impression now, you can always contact this person again later. Maybe they will change their mind at a later date and join your team. You are a professional, your actions and attitude reflect directly on the company you are representing. Think about the negative reputations some Direct Sales companies have, and how they came about. Unprofessional, pressuring reps and bad business tactics!

4. Both your clients and your downline should be able to turn to you if there is a problem. Do not refer them on unless it is absolutely necessary. Remember, we sell SERVICE!!!! Your are the business owner, and you represent the product. Act like it!

5. My last point is directed to potential and fellow Distributors. It may seem petty, but for those of us that take our business serious, it can be important. When you request further business information or applications for the business, and ask that catalogs, samples, etc be sent to you, PLEASE acknowledge that you received them. It takes a minute to send an email or make a quick call and say, “I got it!” Even after reviewing the info you decide this business is not what you expected, let the sender know! Most Independent Distributors use their personal budget to run their business. Everything they send, including the postage costs. Maybe you could request some info via email, and then ask for additional info if you really feel a need to find out more! The reason you are getting 3 or 4 follow-up calls is because the sender does not know if you received the package!

A little common courtesy goes a long way, especially in our business! I have found a product and a company that I am proud to represent, and that supports me in every way possible. No hidden gimmicks, no fine print. After representing another DS company and having owned a travel agency, I have seen various aspects of business. I have found in the past, both as a client and as a seller, that a little “Thank you for your business!” or “Thank you for your time” can help in building strong business relationships, which turns your business into a strong and successful one!

Author Bio: During my "Metamorphis" in the beginning of 1999, one of the major decisions I made was to start a HBB, and have it be my sole source of income by the Millenium! :) The Party is on, so to say! I am the Momma to one almost 2-year old (pity welcome!), 2 large dogs, and sometimes to my best-friend, my husband. I write two monthly articles, and Fantastic Fests fits right into my already choatic life. For more information or just for the curious, see http://now.at/FantasticFests or email me at Cme4partys@aol.com