We were all hopeful that the record highs the direct selling channel experienced in 2020 and 2021 would continue its upward trajectory. But as we settle back into the normal rhythms of day-to-day life, we’re seeing that the macrotrends that were already in play before the pandemic are still inescapable.

In our channel, our customers are not just numbers. They are people we know. They are our friends and colleagues. We have asked them what they are looking for and provided solutions that could have a real impact. And not just in some generic sense. We are focused on creating an impact on a person—a real person—not a number.

E-commerce systems have become so fast and smart in the last few years. It seems we barely have to think about our next purchase, and there it is, in a matter of hours or days. It’s tempting to dismiss the fact that such simplicity requires complex thought and planning.

The goal of a direct selling company’s online marketing strategy is building trust through personal relationships with customers. The direct selling channel is based on the one-to-one interactions between independent consultants and customers. But what about the relationship between the company and the customer? What happens when negative comments appear online about a company’s products […]

Thirty-One Gifts is committed to empowering women—whether consultants, customers, or young girls struggling with confidence and other issues. This passion to help women is driven by Founder and CEO Cindy Monroe, who began the company 15 years ago in her basement. Thirty-One specializes in personalized handbags, totes, duffle bags, lunch bags and other carryall products. […]

I do not remember exactly when I first heard the question: Are we there? My memory is of a television commercial many years ago with two kids in the back seat of a car constantly asking their parents that very question. The question is indeed an excellent one. It is full of anticipation and excitement […]

Click here to order the September 2017 issue in which this article appeared. If you stand still, the world will fly past you. It’s as simple as that, and anyone in the direct selling channel—whether employee or independent representative—is keenly aware of that principle. For direct selling executives, inspiring action is a twofold challenge: How do they […]