I know their are many crafters out there including handmade jewlery,cards,scrapbooking,knitters,handmade soaps, candles and much more. I am one of those crafters myself. Now if you are looking to make a profit and sell them to the online community where should you start? Well there are many ways like starting up your own website which can cost a good amount of money,blogging which is free but some people may look at it as "unprofessional". Than theirs the perfect Solution: Etsy and Ebay.
What is Etsy?
Etsy is a wonderful site where you can buy and sell home made items. It has a very active forum for discussing all kinds of things. See for yourself http://www.etsy.com/
When crafters first start out turning to ebay is the easiest way. Yet the fees can add up, especially if your items do not sell.
EBay vs Etsy
Etsy Pro's
-You can start by opening your own store for Free!
- When listing an item the listing fee is only $.20 flat rate.
-You receive 5 Free spaces to place pictures of the item you are wanting to sell.
-Item stays on site for 6 months (unless it sells prior too).
Etsy Con's-
- Must self promote
-Does not get as much traffic as EBay does
-Will incur Late fees without notice
Ebay Pro's-
-Have many options to listing your item
-Can add an auction to your item
-First picture is free
Ebay con's
-Any picture you add after your first is $.15
-there are extra fees for items over a certain amount of money
-Item can only be listed for 7 days unless you pay for more time
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Monday, October 29, 2007
Craft/Business Fair Time!
As the holiday season approaches their are many craft/business fairs being held all around you!. Make sure you jump in and become involved. These shows are wonderful and help promote your business.Never been involved with one? I have a guideline to which I follow every time. I hope this helps you.
Learning about the fair:
-Make sure you ask questions including what are the table fees?, do I need to pay a certain percentage of what i make? (Some places ask for 10-20% of what you made that day on top of table fees) Is their a Door prize donation?. Allow your self time to plan for it,and make sure you are available and free the day/s of the fair.
Preparing:
-Check Inventory. Go over all of your inventory. Write down what items you will need to order,what items have gone on sale, what items are no longer available ex. Here's a small checklist to look over :
-Any items you have in stock
-Order forms
-Catalogs
-Business cards
-promotional items
-sale flyer's
-Inserts
- Have items in Stock. I always make sure I have enough items in stock so i can sell them at the fairs. I will usually add an extra quarter or 50 cents on top of the price to cover shipping charges. I order a large supply (depending on how big the fair is) to cover everything.Before I was a WAHM I went to many fairs and It really drove me away when i approached a table and their was nothing to purchase. Just grab a catalog and either order or book a party. They would have some of their items out (demo items) but nothing else.
- Price you items. Always price your items before the fair,not during. You don't want to have "extra" work to do at a fair. If your constantly working on your table it could drive away customers. You want to be prepared and show other your prepared also.
- Organize!. No matter what you sell you need to have your items organized. Place them in Rubbermaid containers,boxes, or rolling totes. Something that is easy for you,and still looks professional.
- Make your signs. If you have any specials,discounts or free gifts, make sure you print up or make a cute sign that says so. You want to draw your customers to you. I love seeing signs that state "75% off!" or "Free Gift!" I have a radar for those he he. Also make sure you have enough door prize slips.
The night before the show:
Make sure you double check everything. Nothing worse than forgetting something important!. Here's a checklist for items other than your inventory
-Pens
-White out
-calculator
-gift certificate's (if you offer them)
-Change
-Business cards
-extra price tags (they can fall off through out the show)
-Door prize box
- Table decor (items like table cloth/s, stands and other decor)
-Lunch including snacks and a drink (Your going to have people continually coming to your table so you may not have a chance to go buy food.) Bring food that's easy to eat and not messy.
- Pack all of your stuff the night before so you can leave fresh and early with your coffee and no worries.
- Go to bed early and get a good nights rest
My experience:
The first business fair I did. I didn't pack my items the night before thinking it wouldn't be a problem. I also didn't double check anything the night before I just assumed it was all their because I checked it a week prior. Well after getting ready the morning (Hair, makeup ex) of I went to pack all of my business materials into the car, it was very windy and my car door was locked. I forgot my keys in the house so i had to run back in to get the keys,in the mean while the wind blew a top of one of my containers off and papers flew everywhere! I struggled to get everything together. Finally after Everything was packed I get into the car and my Hair was one big knot from the wind, my coffee was cold and I was running late. After I got to the fair to set up I realized I had forgot so many things! I had to borrow items left and right from other booths. It was unprofessional but I learned a lot from it. I hope this article helps you not to become a
The day of the show:
- Set your alarm a little earlier than you need just in case you have ideas that come to mind. (I always get new ideas in the morning). Also so you can get up and have your "time" especially if you have kids.
- You have arrived!. Grab your business materials and find your table. When setting up for booth, make it stand out!. Don't make it too cluttered or unorganized looking.
- When making sales (especially if your selling items from your inventory) write down any and every items you sell and for how much. Its nice to have a simple list to see what you sold and how much you made.
Tips to make your table stand out!
- Add different heights to your table like placing boxes under the table cloth and place an item on it. It really stand out.
-Have color!
-Decorate according to the time of year. If its right around the holidays, have a Santa table cloth (or something to do with the holidays).
-Make you sale signs visible.
- Have a door prize box. Place a sign above it "FREE Drawing!". Have customers fill out a door prize slip. Not only are they entering a Free drawing for a free gift you are receiving info about them. Here's what I add to my slips:
Name:
Address
Phone number:
email address:
would you like to join my newsletter?
Would you like to host a party? (catalog or home)
Comments:
Some Do's and Dont's for craft fairs:
Do's:
- Do make yourself approachable and ready to converse
- Be prepared
- Be up to date with specials or sales
- Have catalogs ready with order forms nearby ready for customers to order.
- Be courteous to other booth renters. If someone is looking for candles and you don't sell them direct them to the nearest table that does sell them. Also if you are playing music or have candles lit, make sure the music is suitable for all ages and the candle isn't too strong.
-Be on your feet as much as possible
- Always be positive!
Don'ts:
- Do not chew gum. Nothing worse than conversing with a consultant that representing a business and their smacking away at their gum.
- Do not sit the whole the time. Your making it look as if your not interested or excited to be there.
- Don't be obnoxious to other booth renters. Like commenting on their products "That doesn't work" or " You'll never sell that". (I had a woman do this to me about a year ago. She kept commenting on my items "that's to expensive" " I would never put that in my house" she was just rude to everyone around her. Sure enough she didn't sell one single item due to her attitude)
-Do not be negative about your business or company. No one likes to hear about how bad your products are.
- After the Day is done, pack up your items, clean up your booth area. Pack all of your items nicely so you can go through them when you get home.
After you get home:
Go through and see what items sold, what items were looked at the most. (So you know what items were most popular and make sure to order more next time.)
Follow ups!- Those good Ole' door prize slips now come in handy. I usually wait a day or two before I contact them. Not to long after though or they may forget. Contact them either by email or phone.
Now that you have done your first (or another) booth you always learn something new!.
Please add any experiences you have had or do's and dont's :)
Learning about the fair:
-Make sure you ask questions including what are the table fees?, do I need to pay a certain percentage of what i make? (Some places ask for 10-20% of what you made that day on top of table fees) Is their a Door prize donation?. Allow your self time to plan for it,and make sure you are available and free the day/s of the fair.
Preparing:
-Check Inventory. Go over all of your inventory. Write down what items you will need to order,what items have gone on sale, what items are no longer available ex. Here's a small checklist to look over :
-Any items you have in stock
-Order forms
-Catalogs
-Business cards
-promotional items
-sale flyer's
-Inserts
- Have items in Stock. I always make sure I have enough items in stock so i can sell them at the fairs. I will usually add an extra quarter or 50 cents on top of the price to cover shipping charges. I order a large supply (depending on how big the fair is) to cover everything.Before I was a WAHM I went to many fairs and It really drove me away when i approached a table and their was nothing to purchase. Just grab a catalog and either order or book a party. They would have some of their items out (demo items) but nothing else.
- Price you items. Always price your items before the fair,not during. You don't want to have "extra" work to do at a fair. If your constantly working on your table it could drive away customers. You want to be prepared and show other your prepared also.
- Organize!. No matter what you sell you need to have your items organized. Place them in Rubbermaid containers,boxes, or rolling totes. Something that is easy for you,and still looks professional.
- Make your signs. If you have any specials,discounts or free gifts, make sure you print up or make a cute sign that says so. You want to draw your customers to you. I love seeing signs that state "75% off!" or "Free Gift!" I have a radar for those he he. Also make sure you have enough door prize slips.
The night before the show:
Make sure you double check everything. Nothing worse than forgetting something important!. Here's a checklist for items other than your inventory
-Pens
-White out
-calculator
-gift certificate's (if you offer them)
-Change
-Business cards
-extra price tags (they can fall off through out the show)
-Door prize box
- Table decor (items like table cloth/s, stands and other decor)
-Lunch including snacks and a drink (Your going to have people continually coming to your table so you may not have a chance to go buy food.) Bring food that's easy to eat and not messy.
- Pack all of your stuff the night before so you can leave fresh and early with your coffee and no worries.
- Go to bed early and get a good nights rest
My experience:
The first business fair I did. I didn't pack my items the night before thinking it wouldn't be a problem. I also didn't double check anything the night before I just assumed it was all their because I checked it a week prior. Well after getting ready the morning (Hair, makeup ex) of I went to pack all of my business materials into the car, it was very windy and my car door was locked. I forgot my keys in the house so i had to run back in to get the keys,in the mean while the wind blew a top of one of my containers off and papers flew everywhere! I struggled to get everything together. Finally after Everything was packed I get into the car and my Hair was one big knot from the wind, my coffee was cold and I was running late. After I got to the fair to set up I realized I had forgot so many things! I had to borrow items left and right from other booths. It was unprofessional but I learned a lot from it. I hope this article helps you not to become a
The day of the show:
- Set your alarm a little earlier than you need just in case you have ideas that come to mind. (I always get new ideas in the morning). Also so you can get up and have your "time" especially if you have kids.
- You have arrived!. Grab your business materials and find your table. When setting up for booth, make it stand out!. Don't make it too cluttered or unorganized looking.
- When making sales (especially if your selling items from your inventory) write down any and every items you sell and for how much. Its nice to have a simple list to see what you sold and how much you made.
Tips to make your table stand out!
- Add different heights to your table like placing boxes under the table cloth and place an item on it. It really stand out.
-Have color!
-Decorate according to the time of year. If its right around the holidays, have a Santa table cloth (or something to do with the holidays).
-Make you sale signs visible.
- Have a door prize box. Place a sign above it "FREE Drawing!". Have customers fill out a door prize slip. Not only are they entering a Free drawing for a free gift you are receiving info about them. Here's what I add to my slips:
Name:
Address
Phone number:
email address:
would you like to join my newsletter?
Would you like to host a party? (catalog or home)
Comments:
Some Do's and Dont's for craft fairs:
Do's:
- Do make yourself approachable and ready to converse
- Be prepared
- Be up to date with specials or sales
- Have catalogs ready with order forms nearby ready for customers to order.
- Be courteous to other booth renters. If someone is looking for candles and you don't sell them direct them to the nearest table that does sell them. Also if you are playing music or have candles lit, make sure the music is suitable for all ages and the candle isn't too strong.
-Be on your feet as much as possible
- Always be positive!
Don'ts:
- Do not chew gum. Nothing worse than conversing with a consultant that representing a business and their smacking away at their gum.
- Do not sit the whole the time. Your making it look as if your not interested or excited to be there.
- Don't be obnoxious to other booth renters. Like commenting on their products "That doesn't work" or " You'll never sell that". (I had a woman do this to me about a year ago. She kept commenting on my items "that's to expensive" " I would never put that in my house" she was just rude to everyone around her. Sure enough she didn't sell one single item due to her attitude)
-Do not be negative about your business or company. No one likes to hear about how bad your products are.
- After the Day is done, pack up your items, clean up your booth area. Pack all of your items nicely so you can go through them when you get home.
After you get home:
Go through and see what items sold, what items were looked at the most. (So you know what items were most popular and make sure to order more next time.)
Follow ups!- Those good Ole' door prize slips now come in handy. I usually wait a day or two before I contact them. Not to long after though or they may forget. Contact them either by email or phone.
Now that you have done your first (or another) booth you always learn something new!.
Please add any experiences you have had or do's and dont's :)
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Have you joined a Trade group?
Their are many placed to receive advertising through on the Internet. Have you ever joined a trade group or a "swap and shop" group? You can find these through yahoo groups. Their are many groups like this to choose from so make sure you take your time and go through them. Some times you can join one and see how they operate before you join in, if you don't like them you can simply send the moderator a nice email explaining that you are not interested.
How does a swap group work?
When you join a group the moderator will place you in a group of 5-20 people (depending on the size of the whole yahoo group). You will be required to purchase any one item from the company of one of the consultants in your group. Usually they require one purchase once a month, some groups require 2 or 3 purchases a month. Each consultant will have their advertising time once or twice a month and each other member in your group must purchase an item from you.
Some questions to ask your self before you join a particular swap group:
- Is the moderator active? Does she help out, answer questions, and make sure all members obied by the rules?
- Am I going to be available to get to a computer during the times I need to make a purchase or receive sales?(If you are gone a lot, this wouldn't be a good idea unless you have a access to a computer to answer questions and such. Being an active member helps you meet more people and give you a good name.)
- Am I here to help others out? or just to make sales? ( Both! Don't join just to advertise, its a great way to meet other consultants. Other members will catch on quickly if your an advertising "troll". They wont read your post and you will be deleted quickly from the group.)
Cons of joining a group:
- When it comes time for you to purchase any items from a consultant, the company they represent may not be your "cup of tea". Either way you must purchase something. Think if a friend or family member would like or use something from that company.
- Their are a lot of people who join just to make sales and than they leave and just take the sales and never purchase from anyone else.
- If your a little tight with money very often,don't join. Not only will this be a hard time for you but if you cant make a purchase for another member it can lead to lots of bad reports for you.
Do you have anything to add? Please leave a comment :)
How does a swap group work?
When you join a group the moderator will place you in a group of 5-20 people (depending on the size of the whole yahoo group). You will be required to purchase any one item from the company of one of the consultants in your group. Usually they require one purchase once a month, some groups require 2 or 3 purchases a month. Each consultant will have their advertising time once or twice a month and each other member in your group must purchase an item from you.
Some questions to ask your self before you join a particular swap group:
- Is the moderator active? Does she help out, answer questions, and make sure all members obied by the rules?
- Am I going to be available to get to a computer during the times I need to make a purchase or receive sales?(If you are gone a lot, this wouldn't be a good idea unless you have a access to a computer to answer questions and such. Being an active member helps you meet more people and give you a good name.)
- Am I here to help others out? or just to make sales? ( Both! Don't join just to advertise, its a great way to meet other consultants. Other members will catch on quickly if your an advertising "troll". They wont read your post and you will be deleted quickly from the group.)
Cons of joining a group:
- When it comes time for you to purchase any items from a consultant, the company they represent may not be your "cup of tea". Either way you must purchase something. Think if a friend or family member would like or use something from that company.
- Their are a lot of people who join just to make sales and than they leave and just take the sales and never purchase from anyone else.
- If your a little tight with money very often,don't join. Not only will this be a hard time for you but if you cant make a purchase for another member it can lead to lots of bad reports for you.
Do you have anything to add? Please leave a comment :)
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Consultants Check!
Their are so many businesses and companies popping up everyday. So have you had a very good transaction or a really bad one with a company or a Consultant? You can share it with other wahms and sahms! Join http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/ConsultantCheck/ today!. With over 1300 members your story is sure to be seen by many!. This group is wonderful in many ways including they get stories from both sides (if it is a negative transaction). Its not a "flame" group. Hope to see ya there!
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Do you send or receive Fillers?
What are Fillers?
Fillers can be samples, business cards, or flyer's. You send them out to other people who are having an event of some sort whether its a business fair, craft fair, or an expo. Some even hand out small goody bags at their home parties so they will take them at any time. You can also receive them whenever you have an event. This is a inexpensive way to promote and advertise your business to people all around.
I want to start sending and receiving Fillers, Where do I start?
www.mompack.com you can join their yahoo group for mompackfillers. There are thousands of users on this group and theirs always someone looking to receive fillers.
Here's a few examples of what to send for your fillers:
- Send Business cards with a coupon attached. Business cards work, but add that extra something to make it stand out.
- Have a candle company? You can send a small tea light (if your budget allows it) in a cute sample bag and attach your business card, or simply shred part of the candle for a sample.
- In or have a Beauty business? Attach a small sample bag of bath salts or scrub with your business card attached.
Receiving Fillers?
- you will want to have a cute way to hand them out. Try purchasing cute inexpensive bags to hand out, or have a Cute basket set out for everyone to take what they would like.
A few guidelines to Filler success:
- Don't spend a lot on shipping. Unless you are going to send out 20-50 fillers, don't use a large envelope. You can place 5-10 cute small fillers in an envelope and a cute thank you card for only $.39, or you can place 25-50 business cards in a $.39 envelope.
-
Don't expect business, sometimes you will receive a few that are interested and even a few new customers. This works just like any other way of advertising.
- Give them out, don't just take them because they are samples, and Don't throw them away!
-Ask the receiver how many fillers she is wanting to except. You don't want to send too many, they may just go to waste.
-Do not accept fillers from companies that are similar to yours. If you are a rep for Party lite, you don't want to advertise for Mia Bella.
- If you are receiving Fillers make sure you announce if you are accepting adult companies.
I hope this gets you off to a great start! Have any other tips or suggestions? Please leave a comment :)
Fillers can be samples, business cards, or flyer's. You send them out to other people who are having an event of some sort whether its a business fair, craft fair, or an expo. Some even hand out small goody bags at their home parties so they will take them at any time. You can also receive them whenever you have an event. This is a inexpensive way to promote and advertise your business to people all around.
I want to start sending and receiving Fillers, Where do I start?
www.mompack.com you can join their yahoo group for mompackfillers. There are thousands of users on this group and theirs always someone looking to receive fillers.
Here's a few examples of what to send for your fillers:
- Send Business cards with a coupon attached. Business cards work, but add that extra something to make it stand out.
- Have a candle company? You can send a small tea light (if your budget allows it) in a cute sample bag and attach your business card, or simply shred part of the candle for a sample.
- In or have a Beauty business? Attach a small sample bag of bath salts or scrub with your business card attached.
Receiving Fillers?
- you will want to have a cute way to hand them out. Try purchasing cute inexpensive bags to hand out, or have a Cute basket set out for everyone to take what they would like.
A few guidelines to Filler success:
- Don't spend a lot on shipping. Unless you are going to send out 20-50 fillers, don't use a large envelope. You can place 5-10 cute small fillers in an envelope and a cute thank you card for only $.39, or you can place 25-50 business cards in a $.39 envelope.
-
Don't expect business, sometimes you will receive a few that are interested and even a few new customers. This works just like any other way of advertising.
- Give them out, don't just take them because they are samples, and Don't throw them away!
-Ask the receiver how many fillers she is wanting to except. You don't want to send too many, they may just go to waste.
-Do not accept fillers from companies that are similar to yours. If you are a rep for Party lite, you don't want to advertise for Mia Bella.
- If you are receiving Fillers make sure you announce if you are accepting adult companies.
I hope this gets you off to a great start! Have any other tips or suggestions? Please leave a comment :)
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Where is your button/banner at?
Have you had a Banner or a Button made for your business/company? This is a great way to get your business out there! What kind of business do you have? You can strategically place you ad on certain websites. For instance if you have a candle company you wouldn't place your ad on a car website, you would place it on a candle website or a site that has something to do with candles or candle making.
Most websites charge a low fee for having your banner or button on their site. Somewhere between $1-$50 for a month. It all depends on how popular the website is and how many views it receives. You can also check out eBay for ad spots on certain sites.
- Have a Banner or a button made. Or both!
- Check out sites that you would like to place your ad on
- make an advertising Budget
-Make sure your ad appears on the site
Happy advertising!
Most websites charge a low fee for having your banner or button on their site. Somewhere between $1-$50 for a month. It all depends on how popular the website is and how many views it receives. You can also check out eBay for ad spots on certain sites.
- Have a Banner or a button made. Or both!
- Check out sites that you would like to place your ad on
- make an advertising Budget
-Make sure your ad appears on the site
Happy advertising!
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Mystery Hostess Party!
Looking for a great way to invite everyone you know and those that you want to introduce to your company? Have a Mystery Hostess Party! Dont know where to start? :
-Make a list of friends and family that would be interested in attending, dont forget co-workers and teachers.
- Send out an email or call to everyone with the date and time. Include what specials you will be having, if their will be snacks, drink or games. Also let them know if any prizes are going to be given out.
-Let them know the rules: for example: for every $10 you purchase, you will receive one raffle ticket (or however much you would like to make it). If a person books a party that day they will receive 5 raffle tickets. If they join under you they will receive 10 tickets.
- Try and close the party the day of so you can get the total of the party , draw the mystery hostess and let them pick out the FREE products and or half-off items.
- If the party isnt able to close that day..give them a week at most and than close it.
DO's for a successful Mystery Hostess Party
-DO call and email as many people as you know
-DO advertise
-DO state the "rules" clearly of the party before hand
-DO close within a timely manner
-DO email/call all guest afterwards thanking them for coming
DONT'S
-Do not change the rules in the middle of the show
-Do not cheat on the drawing of names, just because "Maria" is a friend doesnt mean she should receive the products. Everyone came for the chance to win also. Even if the name drawn is that of an enemy, reward them.
-Do not state an exact amount that the mystery hostess will win until all of the orders have been processed.
Have you had a Mystery Hostess Party before? Share your story and receive a FREE link to your site.
-Make a list of friends and family that would be interested in attending, dont forget co-workers and teachers.
- Send out an email or call to everyone with the date and time. Include what specials you will be having, if their will be snacks, drink or games. Also let them know if any prizes are going to be given out.
-Let them know the rules: for example: for every $10 you purchase, you will receive one raffle ticket (or however much you would like to make it). If a person books a party that day they will receive 5 raffle tickets. If they join under you they will receive 10 tickets.
- Try and close the party the day of so you can get the total of the party , draw the mystery hostess and let them pick out the FREE products and or half-off items.
- If the party isnt able to close that day..give them a week at most and than close it.
DO's for a successful Mystery Hostess Party
-DO call and email as many people as you know
-DO advertise
-DO state the "rules" clearly of the party before hand
-DO close within a timely manner
-DO email/call all guest afterwards thanking them for coming
DONT'S
-Do not change the rules in the middle of the show
-Do not cheat on the drawing of names, just because "Maria" is a friend doesnt mean she should receive the products. Everyone came for the chance to win also. Even if the name drawn is that of an enemy, reward them.
-Do not state an exact amount that the mystery hostess will win until all of the orders have been processed.
Have you had a Mystery Hostess Party before? Share your story and receive a FREE link to your site.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Do's and Dont's of starting your business..
Zig Ziglar says "You'll have everything thing you want, if you just give enough people what they want."
A few Do's:
-Do something you feel good about!!!!
-Do realize it takes time to build a business, most times it's not an overnight success.
-Do keep good records
( written by http://mybusinessfairy.blogspot.com)
Do something that you believe in and that is fun for you!
In those times that it seems like obstacles keep getting in the way, just remember that hard work pays off!!!
-Be patient
-Be the most dedicated person you know.
-do something you have a passion for and enjoy spending lots of time doing.
-do expect to have lots of patience when it comes to seeing results financially.
-do create an in-depth business plan/plan of action complete with all estimated start up costs and a rough plan for how to go about advertising your new business, as this is a very important element of gaining visibility.get into something that you have not researched.
Don't:
-try to reach for the pie in the sky "get rich overnight"
-do something you don't necessarily enjoy but only want to do it because it "could" make you lots of money.
-get into something that you have not researched.
-try to reach for the pie in the sky "get rich overnight"
-do something you don't necessarily enjoy but only want to do it because it "could" make you lots of money.
- Don't do it just for the money.
- Don't listen to what everyone else says.
-Don't be annoying.
(written by http://mybusinessfairy.blogspot.com)
All and All: Find your passion! it will show to your customers if its a business you do not like to be in. Just in it for the money. So love what ya do!
When you are feeling up go down and when you are feeling down go up. I think its really important to stay positive when you are building your business as your attitude effects the people in your downline. So never carry a negative attitude when you are speaking to your downline and when you need help and guidance and feeling down, go to your upline to encourage you.
(written by Vanessa www.glowtopia.com )
A few Do's:
-Do something you feel good about!!!!
-Do realize it takes time to build a business, most times it's not an overnight success.
-Do keep good records
( written by http://mybusinessfairy.blogspot.com)
Do something that you believe in and that is fun for you!
In those times that it seems like obstacles keep getting in the way, just remember that hard work pays off!!!
-Be patient
-Be the most dedicated person you know.
-do something you have a passion for and enjoy spending lots of time doing.
-do expect to have lots of patience when it comes to seeing results financially.
-do create an in-depth business plan/plan of action complete with all estimated start up costs and a rough plan for how to go about advertising your new business, as this is a very important element of gaining visibility.get into something that you have not researched.
Don't:
-try to reach for the pie in the sky "get rich overnight"
-do something you don't necessarily enjoy but only want to do it because it "could" make you lots of money.
-get into something that you have not researched.
-try to reach for the pie in the sky "get rich overnight"
-do something you don't necessarily enjoy but only want to do it because it "could" make you lots of money.
- Don't do it just for the money.
- Don't listen to what everyone else says.
-Don't be annoying.
(written by http://mybusinessfairy.blogspot.com)
All and All: Find your passion! it will show to your customers if its a business you do not like to be in. Just in it for the money. So love what ya do!
When you are feeling up go down and when you are feeling down go up. I think its really important to stay positive when you are building your business as your attitude effects the people in your downline. So never carry a negative attitude when you are speaking to your downline and when you need help and guidance and feeling down, go to your upline to encourage you.
(written by Vanessa www.glowtopia.com )
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Just started with a Business? Heres some tips to start you off the right way!
I have seen many mistakes when representatives first start up so here some do's and don'ts list I have compiled.
Do:
-Become a rep for a company that you are passionate about.
-Learn all about the company
-Spread the word to friends and family
- place Business cards in bills your sending out,magazines at the waiting room and when sending out fillers or sending out ebay merchandise.
- have Business cards made that are professional and fun!
-place flyers up
-Start a newsletter
Dont:
- Have an email account that is vulgar or offensive.
- Go against company rules (example: selling on ebay) it may work for you for a while but you will get caught.
-Always bring your business up to your friends. They know what you do and if they are interested they will ask you. Its a good way to loose friends and customers
- Place a Business card in Christmas cards,Birthday cards or other special holidays.
-
Please feel free to add your do's or dont's.
Do:
-Become a rep for a company that you are passionate about.
-Learn all about the company
-Spread the word to friends and family
- place Business cards in bills your sending out,magazines at the waiting room and when sending out fillers or sending out ebay merchandise.
- have Business cards made that are professional and fun!
-place flyers up
-Start a newsletter
Dont:
- Have an email account that is vulgar or offensive.
- Go against company rules (example: selling on ebay) it may work for you for a while but you will get caught.
-Always bring your business up to your friends. They know what you do and if they are interested they will ask you. Its a good way to loose friends and customers
- Place a Business card in Christmas cards,Birthday cards or other special holidays.
-
Please feel free to add your do's or dont's.
Great Offline advertising!
Selling and recruiting in your own town is very important. Online advertising helps out a lot, but getting to really know your customers is the topping on the cake.
Here's a couple of ways:
-Advertise on bulletin boards around town. Along with leaving flyer's, catalogs, business cards. Think, Grocery Stores, beauty salons (just about everyone picks up a magazine when their getting their hair done , might as well be your catalog :), local stores and shops.
-Get your name in the paper. If you live in a small town advertising in your local paper can be inexpensive. If you have a big budget advertise in papers in towns around you.
- Get your business in the radio, once again most small towns don't require a large amount for a quick advertisement.
-Place your business card in any outgoing mail. Bills, newsletters, anything you may sell on eBay and others. You would be surprised at how many will keep that card and may even give you a call about a purchase or a recruit.
-Have an open house! Of course you are going to want to advertise this. When people come, you will want to tell them about the business, make some sales, and hopefully even have people join. Make sure everyone leaves with a catalog, and you leave with names and numbers.
These are just a few ideas. Do you have any other ideas? what have worked for you? leave a comment and let me know! I will give you 6 months free advertising here on my site:)
Here's a couple of ways:
-Advertise on bulletin boards around town. Along with leaving flyer's, catalogs, business cards. Think, Grocery Stores, beauty salons (just about everyone picks up a magazine when their getting their hair done , might as well be your catalog :), local stores and shops.
-Get your name in the paper. If you live in a small town advertising in your local paper can be inexpensive. If you have a big budget advertise in papers in towns around you.
- Get your business in the radio, once again most small towns don't require a large amount for a quick advertisement.
-Place your business card in any outgoing mail. Bills, newsletters, anything you may sell on eBay and others. You would be surprised at how many will keep that card and may even give you a call about a purchase or a recruit.
-Have an open house! Of course you are going to want to advertise this. When people come, you will want to tell them about the business, make some sales, and hopefully even have people join. Make sure everyone leaves with a catalog, and you leave with names and numbers.
These are just a few ideas. Do you have any other ideas? what have worked for you? leave a comment and let me know! I will give you 6 months free advertising here on my site:)
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Poll info!
A recent survey I took with wahm.com and dabblingdivas.com showed the following:
Survey One:
Do you only purchase a certain product from a rep you have purchased from before?
7 out of 15 voters responded saying that they are very loyal to their Representative of a company they purchase from.
5 out of 15 voters said that they usually stick with one Representative unless their service is bad (example: late with getting orders in or shipping problems).
Case in Point: People want to get to know a representative, maybe even become good friends with. They want to know their order is going to someone who deserves it and not someone who is just money hungry. So if your the type who just constantly take orders and don't get to know anyone, than business may be good for you now, but soon it will more than likely steer the other way. Get to know your customers and guest, they are what keep your business going, and you may even meet a new best friend.
Survey 2:
Have you ever checked out links that people may have at their siggy? have you ever purchased from them?
5 out of 12 said yes they click on signature lines all the time and have purchased from them 5 or more times
5 out of 12 also said yes they click on signature lines and have purchased 1-3 times
Case in Point: Signature lines do work! they are a great way for Free advertising. Use them to your advantage!
Survey 3:
Which way (online) have you received the most business whether its recruits or a sale?
3 out of 6 said that signature lines and message boards gave them the most business
3 out of 6 said that online vendor parties gives them the most business
Case in Point: Two of the best ways to bring in business are Free! (message board and siggy lines). Some online vendor parties are also free, but most might cost a buck or two.
So as pointed out in these surveys most people like sticking with their one representative the best way to meet people to become "their" Rep is advertising,online vendor parties, signature lines, chatting with everyone, and answering questions. Remember these are just online ways.
Check back Tomorrow for great ways to advertise offline and in your town!
Survey One:
Do you only purchase a certain product from a rep you have purchased from before?
7 out of 15 voters responded saying that they are very loyal to their Representative of a company they purchase from.
5 out of 15 voters said that they usually stick with one Representative unless their service is bad (example: late with getting orders in or shipping problems).
Case in Point: People want to get to know a representative, maybe even become good friends with. They want to know their order is going to someone who deserves it and not someone who is just money hungry. So if your the type who just constantly take orders and don't get to know anyone, than business may be good for you now, but soon it will more than likely steer the other way. Get to know your customers and guest, they are what keep your business going, and you may even meet a new best friend.
Survey 2:
Have you ever checked out links that people may have at their siggy? have you ever purchased from them?
5 out of 12 said yes they click on signature lines all the time and have purchased from them 5 or more times
5 out of 12 also said yes they click on signature lines and have purchased 1-3 times
Case in Point: Signature lines do work! they are a great way for Free advertising. Use them to your advantage!
Survey 3:
Which way (online) have you received the most business whether its recruits or a sale?
3 out of 6 said that signature lines and message boards gave them the most business
3 out of 6 said that online vendor parties gives them the most business
Case in Point: Two of the best ways to bring in business are Free! (message board and siggy lines). Some online vendor parties are also free, but most might cost a buck or two.
So as pointed out in these surveys most people like sticking with their one representative the best way to meet people to become "their" Rep is advertising,online vendor parties, signature lines, chatting with everyone, and answering questions. Remember these are just online ways.
Check back Tomorrow for great ways to advertise offline and in your town!
Monday, April 9, 2007
All about Online Vendor Parties!
Joining in on an Online Vendor Party is a great way to get your name and company out there. It happens in a live chat room, and at your time you will present your company.The usual Vendor party works something like this
-Check their Online Vendor party times and schedule.
-Sign up under a time that is good for you that you are free (you don't want any distractions)They have vendor spots for 30 min -60 min (you may have to pay extra if you want 60 min)
-Usual vendor party's cost about $1-$5, so make sure you have a pay pal account.
-Make sure their are no other reps for your company. All the vendor sites i have been too only accept one rep per company per party. (Which makes sense)
- Some sites require a prize giveaway (around $5). Unless your company has items that you can purchase at this price, use a gift e-certificate. This gives the winner a free $5 and will usually give you a sale. So lets say your prize is a small bottle of hand lotion that cost you $5. Well if that person wins this, he/she may not like it.Even though they won and took it doesn't mean they will like it or use it.They just want something that is free sometimes. When someone else that loves that lotion would have loved to receive it. Also remember it cost a little to ship..so lets say $3 for shipping theirs an $ 8 loss. By giving them a $5 gift e-certificate it gives the winner a chance to purchase something they want. They may even end up purchasing more (so theirs a great sale for you!). Now if someone is not interested in purchasing anything from you they will not use the gift certificate and no money lost to you.
- Once the mod receives your request he/she will have your name on the schedule.
- Now its time to type up all your information. You usually will only have 30 min to represent your company, so you want to spend less time typing and more time answering questions( 30 min goes by very fast). So type up your info and save it so you can copy and paste your info (quicker). Include your link, any sales or discounts your company is offering for that week/month, talk a little about certain items (usually your top selling , or new items), and also include information on becoming a representative (awesome way to recruit!). Also you may want to think about including a discount for the day or a prize or both. Some shoppers who attend these love discounts and of course who doesn't like free stuff?.
- When the day comes for your Vendor fair make sure your wide and awake. You want to be attentive to your audience. *remember Your not just going for a sale, but a way to meet other great wahms!. So chat with everyone, also make sure you have your pay pal ready their may just be something from some other rep you would like and maybe even a discount :).
- Your time is here, first off introduce yourself and link. Simply copy and paste your info from the list you wrote earlier. Don't just go copy and paste crazy, make sure your looking out for questions people may ask, or comments. After you finish your presentation make sure you chat with everyone else about your products and ask if their are any other questions.
- Use all of your time, just don't stop after you have finished, keep people attentive to you even throw in a little game or two for a small prize. This really gets people's attention.A good Moderator will not allow constant chat between each other unless its a "shopper" chatting with you. I have been to a few vendor parties before that during times of "representing" their is chat going on about what their kids did that day or whatever between other people and the rep can barely get a word out.Especially if you paid for a vendor spot I'm sure you would be highly upset.
- Let everyone know the options for instance :" I can take pay pal or credit cards, or please email me your order or order directly off my site"
- When your finished thank everyone for their time, and you will be standing by for any other questions and or orders.
- Unless you have to go do other things, stay in the room for at least another 30 min or even till the end of the party. When someone purchases or thinking about purchasing they don't want to see the rep leave right after their presentation. Not only is that a bit tacky but some that were planning on purchasing will not now, due to them thinking your just all about the money and not about customers.It also gives people a chance to catch up and ask questions. Sometimes during a break the mod will let everyone post their link again and their may be someone that just joined in and sees your link.
Some quick info..
A lot of online vendor party's you attend will usually not have more than 20 people in it. Sometimes you get a great turnout, sometimes you don't. Either way, represent your company in the best way. So make sure you advertise it as much as you can to everyone so they will show up to the party.
Sometimes you make a sale, sometimes you don't. Don't get upset though, just look at it like practice.
Some "shoppers/vendors" will ONLY purchase from you IF you purchased from them. This is an ongoing battle that needs to stop. The same with you, if theirs something that you really want and you like the Representative than purchase from them. Don't expect them to turn right back around and purchase from you. Sometimes they will and sometimes they wont. I wont purchase anything unless i want/need it. Not because they just purchased from me. I will be very thankful though :)
Party hardy! :)
Have you had experience with an online vendor party? How did it go? let us know!
This article may be republished as long as the resource box is kept at the end and fully intact.
Author: Jordan Gaffey
Written: April 9,2007
First off do your research. Some online vendor party sites have a screen in the chat room, so as you talk about an item you simply show it on the screen. In that case you need to make sure you have the links already written so you can just copy and paste. Some sites do not have these. Some sites you may need to do something extra to copy and paste. Make sure you know about it prior so you are prepared. If you really want to research it further join in on a vendor party as a guest not a rep and see how they do theirs.
-Check their Online Vendor party times and schedule.
-Sign up under a time that is good for you that you are free (you don't want any distractions)They have vendor spots for 30 min -60 min (you may have to pay extra if you want 60 min)
-Usual vendor party's cost about $1-$5, so make sure you have a pay pal account.
-Make sure their are no other reps for your company. All the vendor sites i have been too only accept one rep per company per party. (Which makes sense)
- Some sites require a prize giveaway (around $5). Unless your company has items that you can purchase at this price, use a gift e-certificate. This gives the winner a free $5 and will usually give you a sale. So lets say your prize is a small bottle of hand lotion that cost you $5. Well if that person wins this, he/she may not like it.Even though they won and took it doesn't mean they will like it or use it.They just want something that is free sometimes. When someone else that loves that lotion would have loved to receive it. Also remember it cost a little to ship..so lets say $3 for shipping theirs an $ 8 loss. By giving them a $5 gift e-certificate it gives the winner a chance to purchase something they want. They may even end up purchasing more (so theirs a great sale for you!). Now if someone is not interested in purchasing anything from you they will not use the gift certificate and no money lost to you.
- Once the mod receives your request he/she will have your name on the schedule.
- Now its time to type up all your information. You usually will only have 30 min to represent your company, so you want to spend less time typing and more time answering questions( 30 min goes by very fast). So type up your info and save it so you can copy and paste your info (quicker). Include your link, any sales or discounts your company is offering for that week/month, talk a little about certain items (usually your top selling , or new items), and also include information on becoming a representative (awesome way to recruit!). Also you may want to think about including a discount for the day or a prize or both. Some shoppers who attend these love discounts and of course who doesn't like free stuff?.
- When the day comes for your Vendor fair make sure your wide and awake. You want to be attentive to your audience. *remember Your not just going for a sale, but a way to meet other great wahms!. So chat with everyone, also make sure you have your pay pal ready their may just be something from some other rep you would like and maybe even a discount :).
- Your time is here, first off introduce yourself and link. Simply copy and paste your info from the list you wrote earlier. Don't just go copy and paste crazy, make sure your looking out for questions people may ask, or comments. After you finish your presentation make sure you chat with everyone else about your products and ask if their are any other questions.
- Use all of your time, just don't stop after you have finished, keep people attentive to you even throw in a little game or two for a small prize. This really gets people's attention.A good Moderator will not allow constant chat between each other unless its a "shopper" chatting with you. I have been to a few vendor parties before that during times of "representing" their is chat going on about what their kids did that day or whatever between other people and the rep can barely get a word out.Especially if you paid for a vendor spot I'm sure you would be highly upset.
- Let everyone know the options for instance :" I can take pay pal or credit cards, or please email me your order or order directly off my site"
- When your finished thank everyone for their time, and you will be standing by for any other questions and or orders.
- Unless you have to go do other things, stay in the room for at least another 30 min or even till the end of the party. When someone purchases or thinking about purchasing they don't want to see the rep leave right after their presentation. Not only is that a bit tacky but some that were planning on purchasing will not now, due to them thinking your just all about the money and not about customers.It also gives people a chance to catch up and ask questions. Sometimes during a break the mod will let everyone post their link again and their may be someone that just joined in and sees your link.
Some quick info..
A lot of online vendor party's you attend will usually not have more than 20 people in it. Sometimes you get a great turnout, sometimes you don't. Either way, represent your company in the best way. So make sure you advertise it as much as you can to everyone so they will show up to the party.
Sometimes you make a sale, sometimes you don't. Don't get upset though, just look at it like practice.
Some "shoppers/vendors" will ONLY purchase from you IF you purchased from them. This is an ongoing battle that needs to stop. The same with you, if theirs something that you really want and you like the Representative than purchase from them. Don't expect them to turn right back around and purchase from you. Sometimes they will and sometimes they wont. I wont purchase anything unless i want/need it. Not because they just purchased from me. I will be very thankful though :)
Party hardy! :)
Have you had experience with an online vendor party? How did it go? let us know!
This article may be republished as long as the resource box is kept at the end and fully intact.
Author: Jordan Gaffey
Written: April 9,2007
What ways do you advertise?
Advertising is a huge part of building your business! So how do you advertise? Here's a few simple tips to successful advertising online:
-Take advantage of Free Advertising, whether its a blog,or new website. Even if you spend $3.00 here and $10 there for advertising it does add up quick! You will be surprised at results sometimes. Of course use your own judgement, don't post on widely used "just for advertising" sites. Its usually just a spam board and your wasting your time. Stick to simple sites.
-If you have the budget whether its just $10 a month or $100 pick high traffic sites like www.wahm.com . They usually have their listing spaces up for bid at eBay, granted it can get very spendy so just bid within your budget. A lot of wah sites that have been around for less than a year usually have very affordable ad space. So get on board!.
- If your already part of a WAH message board (most have a signature line) use that!. Even use your avatar Space to your advantage. Include a link to your site, and make it simple to get too.
- Online Vendor Parties are a great way to get your name and business out there! You can find them sometimes for Free and some cost $1.00-$5.00. It goes on in a live chat room, their are usually about 10-20 other vendors their. You talk about your company including sales or discounts going on that current month..go over some items and talk about the company (great for recruiting). Some people like sticking to their "cello in a box lady" or "Toy lady". This is a great way to become a rep for some very loyal customers.
Happy Advertising! :)
If you have any other great ideas about online advertising please email me and ill add them:)
-Take advantage of Free Advertising, whether its a blog,or new website. Even if you spend $3.00 here and $10 there for advertising it does add up quick! You will be surprised at results sometimes. Of course use your own judgement, don't post on widely used "just for advertising" sites. Its usually just a spam board and your wasting your time. Stick to simple sites.
-If you have the budget whether its just $10 a month or $100 pick high traffic sites like www.wahm.com . They usually have their listing spaces up for bid at eBay, granted it can get very spendy so just bid within your budget. A lot of wah sites that have been around for less than a year usually have very affordable ad space. So get on board!.
- If your already part of a WAH message board (most have a signature line) use that!. Even use your avatar Space to your advantage. Include a link to your site, and make it simple to get too.
- Online Vendor Parties are a great way to get your name and business out there! You can find them sometimes for Free and some cost $1.00-$5.00. It goes on in a live chat room, their are usually about 10-20 other vendors their. You talk about your company including sales or discounts going on that current month..go over some items and talk about the company (great for recruiting). Some people like sticking to their "cello in a box lady" or "Toy lady". This is a great way to become a rep for some very loyal customers.
Happy Advertising! :)
If you have any other great ideas about online advertising please email me and ill add them:)
Looking for a WAHM message board?
I know when I first started working from home I wanted to talk to others doing the same. The best way was finding a Great and Supportive message board. Heres a few to get you started:
www.wahm.com
www.dabblingdivas.com
www.passiontosuccess.com
These sites are wonderful! very well moderated and helpful. Meaning if your just going there to spam or just to advertise, dont waste your/our time.
www.wahm.com
www.dabblingdivas.com
www.passiontosuccess.com
These sites are wonderful! very well moderated and helpful. Meaning if your just going there to spam or just to advertise, dont waste your/our time.
Welcome!
First off i would like to thank you for taking a look at my blog! I am hoping to give you all the info i know and find out about being a work at home mom or dad :)..
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