The Greenville News:
With a tough job market and many full-time workers experiencing a reduction in hours, salaries and benefits, almost everyone is looking for ways to boost the bottom line. One option that continues to be successful for many: direct selling.
The Direct Selling Association in Washington, D.C., defines direct selling as “the sale of a consumer product or service person-to-person, away from a fixed retail location.” More than 15 million people participated in direct selling in 2007, with direct sales in the U.S. reaching more than $30 billion that year. Ninety percent of those involved in direct selling operate their businesses part-time.
For Barbara Belyski of Carolina Forest, direct selling seemed to offer great potential. With a husband in the construction industry and the economy taking a nosedive, she needed to find a way to contribute financially.
Belyski recently signed on two new consultants to work with her. Once she has three consultants working with her, she’ll begin making a commission off of their sales, in addition to her own. “It really is a good incentive to build your team,” Belyski said.
In business since October, Belyski has been pleased with the results. “I’ve been doing excellent. It seems I chose the right business to get into at the right time.” Her initial goal was to hold two shows a month, but she’s been averaging about five instead.
Although things have worked out with her husband’s job, the additional money definitely came in handy. “At the time, when we needed it the most, it really helped,” Belyski said.
Photo by jenny downing