Working In The Home And Decorating It Too

You want a home-based business, why not one that will decorate your home too? Whether your friends ask you to help them spice up their home, or it just happens to be something you enjoy, following your passion when you start a business is very important.

AtHome America is a growing direct sales business which offers a variety of products and items to help dress up any home. If you want to buy one of their products, you’ll have to go through one of their HomeStyle Specialists, like Rebecca Bell. She’s been a specialist with this company for 3 years now, and she is just one of many success stories which helps prove that you get back what you put into your business.

What is AtHome America and what are the products that this business sells?

AtHome America is a direct sales company specializing in home décor products. These beautiful, useful and affordable products make great accents for your home and fantastic gifts. We have almost 600 products, of which more than half are priced at $25 or less. AtHome America is celebrating its 25th anniversary this Fall, so they have a great deal of experience but they also have their eye on today’s decorating trends.

How long have you been a HomeStyle Specialist? What made you choose this business opportunity over the many others available?

I have been a HomeStyle Specialist for 3 years. I was attracted first to the products, which reflected my decorating style and were priced attractively. Then I was drawn to the company’s mission statement, which reflects a commitment to “God first, then family, followed by AtHome America”. I liked that they knew where my priorities lay and I wasn’t going to be asked to put my business ahead of my faith and family. That has proved to be very true over the past 3 years.

How much time per week do you spend working? Is there a specific amount of time you feel is required to be able to get the most out of the opportunity?

I’d say I’m probably actively working about 12-15 hours a week. But the beauty of this job is its flexibility to fit around you and your schedule, so there’s no set time commitment that is required. I have two small children at home, so finding the right balance between work and home is a constant juggling act, but a challenge I relish! During the day I am online a lot, checking on orders and contacting customers by email. I make phone calls while my son is in school and my daughter is napping, or in the evenings. I do 1-2 homeshows a week on average, and the Fall is my busiest season.

What benefits does a hostess receive when they host an AtHome party within their home?

In exchange for inviting their friends over and serving a few snacks, my average hostess receives $75-$150 in free products of her choice and 2-5 half-price items. In addition there are special promotions, hostess-only homewares, and extra credit offers which vary from month to month. For example, in October, hostesses with a $500 homeshow will automatically receive an extra $25 hostess credit to spend on free products and 10 hostesses each day will be randomly picked to receive a phone call during their show and win an extra $100 in hostess credit!

How does someone join your team and become a HomeStyle Specialist? How much does it cost and what are the requirements?

Anyone can browse my website at http://www.athomewithrebecca.com and check out the Career With Style section for full details on the current sign-up promotion. Your starter kit contains $600 worth of homewares and $100 of catalogs and business supplies, which is everything you need to get started. The cost is either $159 plus tax if paid in full, or you can choose to start for just $50 down and have the balance of $129 plus tax deducted from your first two months’ pay. This is a great option if you don’t have all the money up front. In September 2008 only, you can get an additional $25 off these prices! I love having team members in other states and can support you by phone or email as you grow your business.

What products are some of your most popular sellers? Do you have any personal favorites amongst the products you sell?

Our Homestead dinnerware is a perennial bestseller, with new pieces added to the mix-and-match collection each year.

Other top sellers include the Hampton banana tree/fruit bowl; the Windsor Timepiece (a large red clock); and our Sussex Wall system, an expanding metal rod with various hanging attachments including picture holders, vases and glass hurricanes to make a unique customizable wall display. My personal favorite is a sign that reads “At Home Is Where Your Story Begins” – my husband liked it so much he made me buy a second one for our family room, as well as the one I bring to homeshows!

What have you learned from your experience in direct sales? What lessons have you been able to take from it and apply to your daily life?

Direct sales has definitely made me more confident and outgoing. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is not to be afraid of the word “No!” The more times you hear no, the closer you are to finding that person who truly needs what you have to offer. This story has really stuck with me: if you had a packet of gum and offered pieces to your fellow passengers on a plane, you wouldn’t be offended if one person declined, and that wouldn’t stop you offering the gum to others sitting nearby! In the same way, you can’t take it personally when someone says this product or business opportunity isn’t for them.

What are your top resources to help attract new customers?

I talk to everyone! You never know where you might meet your next customer or hostess, and many of these folks are now great friends as well! I talk to the mom pushing her kid on the swing at the playground, the other preschool moms, and the new neighbor who doesn’t know her way around town yet.
Also, I never underestimate the power of word of mouth. Customer service is a declining commodity these days, and to differentiate myself from the stores at the mall I like to offer that personal touch. I try to remember people’s names, and I like to go the extra mile for my customers and delight in helping them find the perfect gift or obtain an elusive retired piece to complete their collection. People remember good service and will recommend you to others.

Where do you see yourself in the coming years? What are your goals as a HomeStyle Specialist?

My goal is to increase my personal sales each year and to earn all our future incentive trips. In 2009 we are going back to the Mayan Riviera in Mexico – I earned my first trip there in 2006 and it was unforgettable, so I can’t wait to return (with my husband this time!) I also want to grow a close-knit and dynamic team across many states, and continue to grow as a leader and mentor. I love helping others succeed and get great joy from seeing my team members achieve their own goals!

What do you feel someone should know before they take the steps required and join AtHome America?

This company is a real family and they will support and reward you every step of the way. If you have a passion for helping others and love beautiful home products, then come and join my growing team! Together we’ll have fun changing America “one heart, one home and one family at a time”, as our Mission Statement says. My involvement with AtHome America has truly changed my life for the better, and I look forward each day to the opportunity to share that possibility with others.