In my role as the Direct General of the Direct Selling Association UK, I’ve noticed several interesting trends in the evolving direct-to-consumer channel. Here is my perspective on what’s shaping the future of the sector, from hyper-personalization to the rise of socially conscious shopping.

Resilience and a willingness to adapt have always been critical, but as the industry enters into a unique and new phase of disruption, there are key essentials for driving success in the future.

When we looked at what story we wanted to tell this year in honor of International Women’s Month, we quickly realized a shift in leadership has been happening at several powerhouse companies in the channel—a shift worth noting and exploring. There is a new generation of female executives taking the lead, women who have been a part of direct selling their entire lives.

If history has taught us anything, it’s that direct selling’s path runs parallel to personal development. Tactics, messaging and delivery evolve. Technology increases accessibility. Methodology, like gamified and virtual programming, modernizes. Messaging keys to new themes like emotional intelligence and mindfulness, but retrieves original edicts like resilience, purpose, connection and earning, too.

The direct selling industry is a mystery to many people, especially lawmakers who often equate it with negative stereotypes of the past rather than recognizing the positive impact it has on state and local economies. Who better to explain all the positive attributes of direct selling than the companies themselves?

Gordon Hester shares the key insights and takeaways from an analysis of public US direct selling companies from a recent project for the DSA Industry Research Committee. Information is important, but what turns information into results is utilizing the information to improve your business.