Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Getting Over the Summer Slump

The summer months are well known by direct sales consultants to be the slowest time of the year. Whether you chose to take time off voluntarily to take vacations and enjoy family time, or you just didn't have a full calendar like you hoped for, now is the perfect time for anyone to jump back in.

With that being said, it's perfect timing for a brand new catalog to be released by Origami Owl®, isn't it? 300 new and exciting items that you can market to past customers, hostesses, and friends. New product gives you a reason to follow up and creates an equal playing field for all Designers to get back in the game! So how can you do that?

1. Plan your own Fall Launch Party - Remember when you first joined how your mentor encouraged and helped walk you through planning your Launch party? Well, did you know that every time we release a new catalog, you should be hosting your own launch? That's right! Use this launch party just like you did in the beginning to show off all that's new and fill your calendar back up with Jewelry Bars. All it takes is ONE party on your calendar to get the ball rolling again.

2. Search for Events/Bridal Shows - The Holiday season may seem like it's still far away, but in direct sales, it's really not! People are already planning their gift giving, and fall events and craft fairs are booking up. Check Facebook, Craigslist, or any search engine for events in your area and contact them! Even if an event is only a month away, check to see if they have an opening for you. You may be surprised that the spot has now become available even if previously booked. You can also ask to get on their mailing list to be informed of future events.

3. Contact your Past Customers/Hostesses - Even if you have never done it before, follow up now. Let them know you are restarting your business and have some very exciting things to share. Use it as an opportunity to schedule a special girl's night with them right then and there OR invite them to your own launch party. They may just be so excited when they see the new product, that they won't be able to say no to a Jewelry Bar of their own. Whether it's by email, text, or phone, follow up should be personalized. Do what works best for you and do it well!

4. Wear Your New Product EVERYWHERE - Going to the grocery store? Wear a locket! Nail salon, Dr. appt, or PTO meeting? Wear your locket! And earrings, and a bracelet! You are a walking billboard for your own business. Be sure to keep TOMs in your purse as well as business cards and a way to collect follow up information as well. I've never been a girl to carry a purse, but after having too many incidents where I wished I had a TOM available vs. a business card, I now carry a purse just for this reason!  

These are only a few ideas to get you started on a successful fall. From fundraisers, to charity donations, there are so many more ways to get your name out there and jump back in! Just because the summer months may have been slower than you hoped for, doesn't mean your calendar has to stay that way. Your business is what you make of it. If YOU put the time and effort into your business, and treat it as such, it will come back to you. 

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