Click here to order the March 2017 issue in which this article appeared.
Direct selling companies are known for placing a high value on recognition. The regular celebration of personal growth and achievement is one of the aspects of the channel that makes it such an enjoyable place to do business.
This month, the team at Direct Selling News is pleased to honor a group of individuals who are shaping the future of our business. The inaugural class of Forces Under 40 honorees represent the up-and-comers in the corporate offices of direct selling. Nominated by a top executive from their company, each person is making significant contributions in their area of the business. You’ll enjoy getting to know them in the special report included with this edition of the magazine, and we hope that you will join us in congratulating them on their achievements.
Of course, millennials aren’t just making an impact in the workplace, they are reshaping your salesforce and your customer base as well. In this month’s cover story, writer Heather Martin explores the influence this generation is having on direct selling and what we can expect in the years to come. She spoke with a number of executives from companies that have found success by embracing the millennial mindset, and they shared their strategies for communicating the direct selling story with this powerful generation.
Our Company Spotlight this month was founded by one of the Forces Under 40 honorees: Bella Weems, who launched Origami Owl at age 14 by making custom lockets at her kitchen table. Her dream at the time was to earn enough money to buy her first car. She, along with her mother, Chrissy, and now a full corporate team have accomplished that and so much more. This year, Origami Owl is expanding into skin care with the addition of Willing Beauty to its family of brands. “We want to be a global force for good,” Chrissy Weems says. “We don’t have a number associated with that, but we sure believe our reach will be far wider than North America and we’ll be successful if we export the same commitment to leaving people better off who engage with us.”
Don’t forget that this is the last month to nominate your company for the 2017 Global 100, our annual list of the largest direct selling companies in the world. Data is due by March 15, and the nomination process is simple. Visit DSNGlobal100.com to find all the information you need to submit your company’s nomination. You’ll also find ticket and sponsorship information for the April 19 Global 100 Celebration, where we will announce this year’s list. I hope to see you there!
All the best,
Lauren
