Sales Buzz Business Solutions

SALES BUZZ Continues It's #1 eBook Ranking!

2011-10-10T09:26:00.001-07:00

SALES BUZZ: SIMPLE SELLING IDEAS FOR YOUR DIRECT SELLING BUSINESS CONTINUES TO BE THE #1 B2B BOOK ON MYEBOOK.COM! WANT A PEEK?

CLICK HERE TO READ EXCERPTS!

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/An-Even-Better-PINK-Christmas---NOW-ONLY--25-.html?soid=1102729867741&aid=heIN2vAWd7k

2010-12-08T19:02:00.000-08:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/An-Even-Better-PINK-Christmas---NOW-ONLY--25-.html?soid=1102729867741&aid=heIN2vAWd7k

Make Your Retail Profits Soar While Creating Opportunities For Others!

2010-12-07T14:51:00.001-08:00

SOUL PURPOSE EVENTS - CHICAGO

2010-12-01T04:51:00.000-08:00

SOUL PURPOSE - CHICAGO EVENT
Saturday, Dec 4
Chicago Marriott @ UIC - 625 S. Ashland Avenue, Chicago

JOIN THE TEAM!
Become a Lifestyle Consultant before December 31st and receive a FREE copy of
"SALES BUZZ:Simple Selling Ideas for Your Direct Selling Business"
visit http://www.salesbuzzbook.com/ or Call 630-300-4217.

Want to Build Your Business? Build Your Relationships First!

2010-08-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

Have you ever experienced "sales pitch" rejection? Let me explain. Let's say you've met someone while standing in the checkout line of your neighborhood grocer. You assess your target and assume what you're "selling" is something this person would want. You reach into your bag or wallet, pull out your business card and attempt to hand it to the customer. You immediately follow with a 10-second introduction of yourself, your product and an explanation of how your service can be of great benefit to them. Potential customer response: "Sorry, not interested". In fact, your target comes off irritated and turned off by your blatant inconsideration of their Saturday morning shopping experience.

The truth is, it's virtually impossible to sell one's products and services "on the fly". The most common mistake most direct sellers make is in trying to sell without establishing a relationship. Most lasting relationships develop over time and requires continuous deposits of trust and reliability. Going in for the "kill" will often ruin your reputation, causing many potential customer to run in the other direction when come within 100 feet of you. Clearly, that's not what you want.

The key to building interest in your business is allowing your relationships to grow over time. You want your potential leads to know that you are not attempting to peddle your what-nots, but to build lasting relationships.

Let me provide you a few examples of simple things you can do to attract new contacts. First, everyone loves something for free. Do you have samples of your products you can give away? If yes, then do so. Follow-up by asking if you can email them a survey to obtain their opinion about the product. Objective: the lead will try-out your product without any commitments and you have obtained their email address with their permission. Here's something else. Have you written articles about something that may be important to your potential leads? Let's say your business is related to Natural Bath & Body products. If so, you won't necessarily want to send your leads information about your business specifically, but consider sending information about the benefits of the natural ingredients contained in your product. Education and information is key!

This will do two things. First, the lead will consider you a business professional, perhaps an industry expert, well versed in the many benefits of holistic body treatments. Secondly, if the information is of greater benefit to your leads, subsequent articles will create a sense of anticipation, making them think they're getting some free they would have otherwise paid for.

Remember: Building Relationship is the key to Building Your Business Big!

Was this article helpful? Please let us know. To receive more free direct selling tips and resources, email salesbuzzbook@hotmail.com or visit www.salesbuzzbook.com .

We look forward to hearing from you!

Attention Shoppers: Your Best Finds May Be Right In Your Own Neighborhood!

2010-08-04T07:49:00.000-07:00

The direct selling shopping experience combines quality items, a personal touch from knowledgeable consultants and memorable moments shared with family and friends. Millions of Americans look to direct selling companies to buy everything from health and beauty items, apparel and accessories, to cookware, wine, pet products, gardening items and so much more.

One of the benefits of shopping through direct selling, is the ability to try, then buy, in a relaxed and fun setting. Check out the latest jewelry trends and ask your friends how that new necklace will look on your before you buy it. Take the opportunity to try various shades of blush, eye shadow and lip gloss in the comfort of your own home, and give that new utensil a whirl with fresh produce before you buy it. Even better, ask your consultant for tips and a complete demonstration that will ensure your purchase will be one with which you will be completely satisfied.

More importantly, this is a great way to stimulate the current economy by supporting and purchasing goods and services from reputable companies which offer fantastic products at competitive prices. Happy Shopping!

For more information about direct selling, shopping tips and seller resources visit http://www.salesbuzzbook.com/

PRE-MOTHER'S DAY GLASSWORKS EVENT - Classified Ad

2010-04-12T13:10:00.001-07:00

PRE-MOTHER'S DAY GLASSWORKS EVENT - Classified Ad

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SALES BUZZ DIRECT SELLING SPOTLIGHT - SOUL PURPOSE LIFESTYLE COMPANY

2010-03-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

In 2009, I met a lady by the name of Cynthia Jackson-Jones at a business expo in Chicago. At the time, I was promoting my new book, "Sales Buzz: Simple Selling Ideas for Your Direct Selling Business" and Cynthia was promoting her business, Darcel Lo'Ren, a classy south-Chicago shoe boutique and foot spa. Cynthia, or "Cint" as I like to call her, and I hit it off immediately and we have been friends ever since. Since that time, Cynthia introduced me to a product line called Soul Purpose, an affordable bath and body product line I found to be a unique complement to her business. At first, I didn't think I'd find anything special about Soul Purpose, as I considered it one of many bath & body product lines.

For me, wellness is not only my daily vitamin and herbal regiment or my 4-day-a-week workout sessions, but a journey of the mind, body and spirit. I had been looking for natural wellness products that would provide me that spa-like experience in my own home. Fortunately, after taking home several samples to try, I found Soul Purpose to be the lifestyle product I had been looking for.

Soul Purpose, a woman and minority-owned company, is the brain-child of Nadine A. Thompson, Founder and CEO of Soul Purpose Lifestyle Company. Most recently, Ms. Thompson has been named one of "The 50 Most Influential People In the Direct Sales Industry".

Soul Purpose not only offers natural, essential oil and plant-based products that delights the senses and nourishes the body, the company also offer individuals the opportunity to operate their very own Soul Purpose Lifestyle Business. For a nominal enrollment fee (under $50), each "Lifestyle Consultant" receives extensive sales and marketing training and product samples to get them started on the road to entreprenuership. Additionally, Soul Purpose parties are a great way to entertain family, friends and creates the perfect enviromnent to introduce guests to the Soul Purpose Lifestyle .

As far as actual product offerings goes, there are many to choose from such as moisturizers, body balms, shower gels, custards, salves, scrubs, polishes, essential oils and mineral cosmetics. With names like Carribean Ginger, Brazillian Jackfruit, Malabar Black Pepper, Singapore Tangerine Lychee, Normandy Cream, Brown Sugar & Vanilla, Moroccan Olive Nectar and Hollywood Fresh (my newest favorite) you are certain to find a scent that stimulates your senses.

For more information about Soul Purpose Lifestyle Company, visit http://www.darcelloren.soulpurpose.net/

Getting Started in Direct Sales: Questions You Should Ask

2009-10-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

Direct Selling 411!

Start up costs. The start up costs in direct selling companies are generally modest – usually the cost of a sales kit – and are often less than $100. Legitimate companies want to make it easy and inexpensive for you to start. On the contrary, pyramid schemes make their money through fees paid by new recruits or by loading inventory and/or training aids on them. High entry fees should be a warning sign.

Unsold inventory. Be sure to ask how much inventory (if any) you will be required to purchase and what the terms of return are if you decide to leave the business. DSA member companies, for example, are required to buy back unsold marketable inventory and sales aids purchased within the prior 12 months if you decide to quit the business, for at least 90 percent of the price you paid for them. Beware of opportunities that encourage “front end loading,” or buying large inventories of unreturnable products to reach achievement levels or receive a “special” or larger “discounted” price.

Compensation. Is the money you’ll earn based on the sale of products or services? The answer should be “absolutely.” This is a key element of a legitimate business. Direct selling, like other methods of retailing, depends on selling to customers who use and/or consume the product. This requires quality products and services sold at competitive prices in quantities that can reasonably be used and/or resold. Beware of any business that claims you can get rich by solely using their products or by recruiting new people into the business.

For more information, on how to get started in direct selling, visit www.SalesBuzzBook.com.

Cashing In With Network Marketing

2009-09-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

Cashing In with NetworkMarketing
Published by My Fox Chicago.com

When the economy took a hit, so did Warren Preis's auto repair shop on Chicago's North Side. "We're definitely down in volume not like what it was." So to make extra money, Preis started selling for Arbonne International.
It's a health and beauty products company that relies on a network of sales consultants who recruit other consultants. The more sales people Preis recruits, the bigger his earning potential.

"I've heard that it's pretty obnoxious, it could be a lot of money it could be 6 digits a year."

If you think this sounds like a pyramid scheme...you're not alone..but UIC marketing expert Charles King says its legit.

"That's a industry that is very powerful, very credible but most of our consumers don't understand anything about it." The business model is called network marketing...or multi-level marketing.

Companies like Amway, Mary Ky and Pampered Chef operate the same way. They allow you to be your own boss. You sell at your own pace and best of all, can never be fired. King believes safety net jobs like these will become an economic necessity.

"I argue that in the next decade were going to be working on a two income model not two family incomes, but two incomes per person."
But before you join a network marketing company do your homework.
Experts advise that you research the company and make sure belongs to the direct selling association. It imposes strict standards for these companies.

Myebook - Sales Buzz: Simple Selling Ideas for Your Direct Selling Business

2009-08-13T12:26:00.001-07:00

Myebook - Sales Buzz: Simple Selling Ideas for Your Direct Selling Business

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The Fastest Way To Get Customers To STOP Doing Business With You Is To Develop This Bad Habit - PART II

2009-07-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

The Fastest Way To Get Customers To STOP Doing Business With You Is To Develop This Bad Habit - Part II

This is Part II of a post from earlier this week - an article originally written by a good friend of mine, Larry Beacham of Diamond Cutter Marketing Group. If you're in business for yourself, you very well know the importance of building and maintaining RELATIONSHIPS with your customers and not just making the SALE. If you are experiencing trouble retaining customers, this article is for you. Happy Reading and I look forward to your comments! -Regina

The only way to do that is to demonstrate it in your behavior:

-Be easily available for questions or concerns
-Don’t assume that because you don’t hear from them that everything is good; situations change so be on top of it

-Get to know your customer on a personal level and make sure to connect with their life outside of your business relationship (i.e. birthdays, anniversaries, special events, etc.)

You’ve probably heard people say, “it’s business; it’s never personal.” I think that’s a huge flaw in thinking. It’s because of the personal relationship that business is done in the first place. People only do business with people that they like and trust, and that can only happen with personal connections.

Don’t ever get caught taking your customers for granted; it could cost you your business.

For more Sales Buzz Business Resources, visit www.SalesBuzzBook.com.

Regina Thomas-Dillard
Sales Buzz Business Solutions
(630) 300-4217

The Fastest Way To Get Customers To STOP Doing Business With You Is To Develop This Bad Habit

2009-07-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share this very enlightening article, written by a good friend of mine, Larry Beacham of Diamond Cutter Marketing Group. If you're in business for yourself, you very well know the importance of building and maintaining RELATIONSHIPS with your customers and not just making the SALE. If you are experiencing trouble retaining customers, this article is for you. Happy Reading and I look forward to your comments! -Regina

The Fastest Way To Get Customers To STOP Doing Business With You Is To Develop This Bad Habit

"Did you know that it is a lot easier to keep an existing customer or business partner than it is to acquire a new one? After all the time and energy that is invested into getting business, I’m always amazed at how some people drop the ball when it comes to follow through, especially with a newly acquired customer.

My wife has recently bought a service from an individual who my wife has called and emailed multiple times with questions, yet they are extremely slow to respond and difficult to reach. Now, if my wife were to cancel that service, I would be willing to bet that this individual would be blowing up my wife’s cell phone and email trying to figure out what happened.

There’s absolutely no excuse for the developing the bad habit of poor customer service. You should care more for your existing business than you do about any potential future business. Satisfied customers will:

-Remain loyal even if someone else comes along with a better price or even better quality product
-Develop generational business for you by getting their immediate family “sold” (think about the detergent you use – did your mom use it?)
-Upgrade to a more expensive version of the product/service when offered
-Purchase additional products related to their original purchase (i.e. detergent leads to bleach; bleach leads to fabric softener, etc.)
-Defend their purchase (and indirectly you) when challenged
-Provide referrals WITHOUT YOU HAVING TO ASK

None of these above benefits are available to you unless you sell out to making sure that your customers feel loved and cherished. If someone cancels your service or discontinues ordering from you, it’s a sure sign of potential neglect on your part.

If you have developed a strong enough relationship with your customers, they will contact you before they stop doing business. The main reason is that sense of loyalty; they don’t want to negatively impact your life because they realize that their commitment is helping to feed your family. If there’s no relationship there, they could care less about all that. This is why you want to take the time to build your value AFTER the sale". (Stay tuned for Part II of this article).

For more Business Building Resouces, log on to www.SalesBuzzBook.com or call (630) 300-4217, Regina Dillard, Sales Buzz Business Solutions.

Start Your Business During The Recession!

2009-05-28T15:01:00.001-07:00

According the “USA Today,” a recession may be the best time start a new business. Many well-known businesses began during a recession and are doing quite well. With a bit of research and careful planning, you might discover that now is the time for you to launch your dream.

Several years ago, the company I worked for was being acquired by a larger company, which for me meant “job elimination”. While unemployed, I began thinking of ways I could earn extra money. However, I wanted to do more than simply earn extra cash. I starting researching the web for business opportunities and soon discovered several opportunities in direct selling. After all, my goal for starting a business was three-fold: (1) a business that that required little start-up capital, (2) a business that would compliment my personality and lifestyle (3) a business I could build part-time, to start.

I have always had a love for cooking, as I have a culinary arts background. However, I wasn’t sure how I could translate my passion for cooking into a career opportunity. After doing some research on the web, I discovered a company called “Inspired Chef”. This direct selling company allowed culinary enthusiasts to utilize their expertise by conducting professional in-home cooking classes, wine tastings and product demonstrations. A business where I could make money by simply sharing my passion for food and wine, sounded like the ideal business for me! In addition, I also had the opportunity to receive a 30-50% discount on Kitchen Aid tools and appliances. I felt as if I had struck gold!

While this particular direct selling company was a perfect fit for me, in direct selling, “One Size Does Not Fit All” and finding one that suits your lifestyle and personality can be quite challenging. However, there are over 200 direct selling opportunities worldwide – from Wellness, Environmentally-friendly Products and Vitamin Supplements to Interior Design, Internet Training, Utility Services and Apparel.

Direct Selling can also be used as an “add-on” business or concierge service. For example, a close friend mine owns and operates an event planning company and will often fly in panel experts and speakers for various events. Rather than utilizing a third-party travel service, my friend joined a direct selling travel service. This means she can offer meeting and travel services, or a “One Stop Shopping” experience, for her clients.

Direct Selling is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to launch an independent business. The investment to join a direct selling company may be as little as $10…and what you earn depends on your efforts. Some full-time representatives earn a six-figures, others own licensed retail centers, and many simply sell around their family schedules.

For some, the goal may be to leave their jobs and focus on their direct selling businesses full time. For others, direct selling is a way to earn additional income to help finance their child’s education, afford family vacations, pay off debts, or purchase a new car. Whatever your individual goal, a direct selling business may be the best way to help you reach it.

For a directory of direct selling companies, visit www.DSA.org. To learn more about direct selling opportunities, please visit www.SalesBuzzBook.com.

10 Creative Ways To Earn Extra Money

2009-05-07T09:51:00.000-07:00

If you're tired of not having extra cash at the end of the month, or if you've lost your job altogether, these simple side gigs can help put some padding in your pockets until --- maybe even after --- you get back on your feet.

1. Do Freelance Work
2. Sell Your Books
3. Seach Circulating Coinage
4. Be a Secret Shopper
5. Sell your photo to stock agencies
6. Start a business
7. Enter local and online sweepstakes
8. Give you opionion and get paid
9.Sell Your Junk

and my personal favorite...

10. JOIN A DIRECT SELLING COMPANY!

"Direct Selling is one of the easiest ways to earn some extra cash, especially if you sell products you love. The investment to join a direct selling company, may be as little as $10 --- and what you earn depends on your efforts. Some full-time representatives earn six-figures, other own licensed retail centers, and many simply sell around their family's schedule" - MSN News, May 7, 2009

With that mind, I'd like to suggest the following websites to help you get started researching direct selling opportunities.

1. Sales Buzz Book www.SalesBuzzBook.com (1) De-mystifies the term"direct selling", (2) speaks to established independent direct selling business owners and individuals seeking direct opportunities, (3) Assist individuals in indentifying and finding the direct selling business that best suits their career goals, personality and lifestyle and (4) offers proven, yet simple selling ideas to get your products and services into the hands of the customer, be it business to business or business to consumer.

2. Direct Selling Association www.DSA.org lists over 200 of its direct selling members by organization, industry and location.

In Direct Selling, One Size Does Not Fit All

2009-05-05T12:54:00.000-07:00

Just as we all have varied tastes in clothes, food, and home furnishings, we also have varied tastes when it comes to choosing a direct selling business. After much research, I’ve discovered dozens of companies operating worldwide that provide direct selling opportunities for people like you and me. However, finding one that suits your lifestyle and personality can be quite challenging. The following are a few direct selling business categories to consider:

Aromatherapy
House & Kitchenware
Insurance
Art & Framing
Jewelry
Baby/Child Care
Baskets
Books
Brokerage Services
Candles & Accessories
Clothing/Shoes
Coffee/Tea/Specialty Beverages
Homecare
Cosmetics
Craft/Craft Supplies
Crystal/China
Cutlery
Educational Materials
Encyclopedias
Financial Services
Fragrances
Giftware
Hair/Hair Accessories
Health/Fitness/Wellness
Home Accessories/Décor
Home Appliances
Home Technology
Internet Services
Jewelry
Legal Services
Lingerie/Sleepwear
Nutritional Supplements
Oral Hygiene
Paper Products
Party Supplies
Personal Care
Photography/Photo Processing
Plants/Foliage
Religious Books/Gifts
Scrapbooking/Photo Albums
Security Systems/Devices
Skin Care
Software/Computers
Spa Products
Telecommunication Services
Tools
Toys/Games
Travel
Utilities
Vacuum Cleaners
Water Treatment Systems
Weight Management...and more!

While there are many direct selling businesses to choose from, I suggest you select three to five businesses that interest you. For instance, do you have a knack for interior design? If so, then an independent interior design or furnishings company may be perfect for you. Do your friends and family members rave about your gourmet cooking skills? Perhaps becoming an independent cooking instructor or operating a cookware business would best fit your personality and skills.

Whatever organization you choose to align yourself with, be sure to do the research. The company’s website should provide the information you need to help you determine whether the company is a good fit for you. The website should also contain the company’s historical information, business objectives, management team, financials, and philanthropic objectives, among other things.

The DSA provides helpful information with regard to opportunities within direct selling organizations. You can also find contact information and web addresses for each DSA member on the DSA’s website.

In my experience, most direct selling companies suggest you begin building your business by soliciting the people you see every day—family, friends, and coworkers. Although these individuals are eager to support your business endeavors, believe me, you’ll only be allowed to knock on their doors so many times. Sooner or later, you will have to start looking outside of your immediate circle of family and friends to enlarge your customer base.

Now that you’ve chosen the company that best fits you, let me provide you with some simple tips and ideas to get you moving in the right direction.
Ready? Well, let’s go!

Internet Networking In Great, But Start At Home First

2009-03-18T11:17:00.001-07:00

In direct selling, networking is a very important part of growing your business. The technology age has taught us to utilize Internet networking sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to build personal relationships, which many times leads to successful business relationships. While this is a wonderful way to create networking opportunities, don't forget about the everyday opportunites all around you. Your neighborhoods, community organizations, schools and local businesses contain numerous business building opportunities. Think about ways you might be able to cross-market your product or service in your local trading area. Begin your search within a 3-mile radius of your home. When broadening your business network, you not only want to focus on business-to-consumer marketing, but business-to-business marketing as well. Ask yourself a few questions - What type of product or service do I provide that could benefit other businesses within my community? Is my product or service the solution to another business' problem? How can I utitlize my services to establish my business as a community business partner or community supporter? Start with the local beauty salon, the corner market or floral shop? Perhaps there are local merchants looking for the perfect product or service they can extend to their own clientele. What a great way to network and build business relationships within your own community! There are many opportunities waiting to be discovered. For more creative simple selling ideas and marketing tips, visit http://www.salesbuzzbook.com/

2009-03-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

Book Exerpt - "Sales Buzz: Simple Selling Ideas For Your Direct Selling Business" by Regina E. Diillard, Silo House Publishing, Copyright 2008 - www.SalesBuzzBook.com

Over the past ten years, I have aligned myself with very reputable companies in direct marketing. Working within this industry has provided me the opportunity to become financially independent while selling products I believe in. In joining this industry, my goal was very simple—to use a company’s existing selling tools and resources to earn sustainable income. What I have enjoyed most about direct selling is the freedom it has allowed, as I created my own work schedule while growing the business at my own pace.

Over the years, I have had the pleasure of meeting like-minded individuals who have obtained financial security using the tools and resources within direct selling organizations. These individuals have gone on to live the lives of their dreams.

For some, the goal may have been to leave their jobs and focus on their direct selling businesses full time. For others, direct selling was simply a way to earn additional income to help finance their child’s education, afford family vacations, pay off debts, or purchase a new car. Whatever your individual goal, a direct selling business may be the best way to help you reach it.

While selling, marketing and recruiting skills are essential to the success of your direct marketing business, there are many valuable resources available to help cultivate and develop those skill sets hidden within you. In addition, many direct selling organizations offer solid marketing plans, business consulting and mentoring programs for independent business owners and operators. These free resources can save an independent business owner money as well as valuable research time.

For more information in choosing the direct selling business that is right for you, visit www.dsa.org website.