DIRECT SELLING ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

How to get started

Over one million people in South Africa and over ninety-six million people globally, find that direct selling fits their unique lifestyle.         Whether you’re looking for a part-time opportunity to earn supplementary income or if you think direct selling might be a good career choice for you, finding the right opportunity is important. The decision to become a direct seller should be one that you make based on your personal goals. It’s important to clearly identify what you want to achieve and then evaluate companies based on those goals. Don’t be swayed by what others say, as they may have different goals and expectations. Here’s a quick guide to getting started: Identify a company and product range that appeals to you. Many direct sellers are customers of the company prior to joining as a direct seller, so deciding on a company and product range is then easier as you’re already familiar with them. If you’re new to direct selling, a good place to start is the Member Directory to view the member companies of the DSA – there’s almost certainly a company selling a line of products that’s just right for you (all member companies have pledged to abide by and uphold the DSACode of Conduct which is designed to protect both consumers and direct sellers who sell the company’s products). In most cases, from the Member Directory, there is a link to the member company websites that you can also visit. Take your time deciding. There’s no rush to get started, a great opportunity will not disappear overnight, so relax and make sure your decision is the right one. Don’t think short-term, think long-term. Be sure you make your decision based on your personal goals and objectives, and what you want to achieve. If you know anyone who works, or has worked, as a direct sales representative for the company, talk to them about his or her experiences, especially if they have similar goals and objectives to yours as it will make for a better comparison. Ask questions… About the company, its leadership, the products or services, start-up fees (usually the cost of a sales kits and a small administrative fee), realistic costs of doing business, average earnings of direct sellers, return policies, and anything else you’re concerned about. Be sure to ask as many questions as you need to get a good feel for the company, its products and its policies and procedures. If the person recruiting you can’t answer all of your questions call the company directly. Get copies of all company literature. And read it! Be sure to be aware of all requirements before signing on the dotted line. Consult with others who have had experiences with the company and its products. Verify the products or services are actually being sold to consumers. Investigate and verify all information. Do not assume that “official looking” documents are accurate or complete or even produced by the company, as opposed to the person trying to recruit you. If anything seems questionable, then contact the company directly to check it out. Have fun! Direct selling is a source of income, personal satisfaction, personal growth and perhaps most importantly – fun! http://www.dsasa.co.za/modules_fe/layout1/displayfull.asp?id=48#.VJ6_3DAc