Have you heard the rumor that the J months are the worst months in direct sales? I’d like to debunk that rumor for you.
There are always customers, hostesses and potential team members looking for what you have to offer. Most Direct Sellers go into the summer months and close up shop. They don’t actively look for business. That is a huge mistake!
Improve your Social Media Presence:
Work to improve your online presence. Update your Facebook business page, Instagram and Pinterest regularly. This is a good time to invite your customers to follow you.
Housekeeping:
Sort through all the 2016 paperwork and get them sorted into folders for tax time. Check on your product displays, materials and supplies. Order or re-order what you need for the rest of the year.
Happy Mail:
Contact past hostesses and invite them to schedule their fall home parties or demonstrations. Include an offer to get them to confirm a date by August 1 such as a discount or a give away tied to your new fall line. I also invite mine to a VIP Sale in July and start teasers a couple of weeks before.
Giveaways and Force for Good projects:
Do you have retiring product? Why not do a giveaway? Invite your customers to nominate a deserving person (a mom, a veteran, a teacher) and get them talking! Choose a winner, announce it (leaving out personal info) then photograph your donation and post on your social media channels to show your followers you are a Force for Good!
Look to the Future:
Research and book vendor events, holiday boutiques, expos, markets – whatever public events that fit the demographic you are seeking to attract. These can be booked several months to a year in advance. If you inquire and are told your brand is already booked, ask to be put on a wait list or standby list if anything changes. I’ve gotten two shows this year by asking to be wait-listed!
Get out and meet people:
While home parties might be more limited in the J months, the opportunities to showcase your business at an event such as a fair or festival are numerous. Locate events through Facebook and friend referrals. Arrive early to network with the vendors. Some of my best leads for events came from staying connected. I also give the other vendors a small Gift Certificate and rack card to shop my booth.
While some of these tasks may not be income producing in the J months, they are laying the groundwork for future success. People do business with those they know, like and trust. Being consistent throughout the year will have a very positive impact on your business. Tend to your garden and watch it grow.
