Hi There!
Choosing the Best Company Partner
I have been a direct seller since 1984. Although I left the direct-sales industry for around 10 years since 1991, I think I have some valuable experiences to share. For example, I believe that choosing the best company to partner with is extremely important. In 2001, I joined with Natasha, one of the most popular direct sales companies in the Philippines, which helped me build my own direct-selling business. Then, a few years later, with MSE, its sister company. So far, I am also with Tupperware Brands, and with Splash Direct Sales.
Have a Good Family Relationship
The second important tip I learned is good family relationship, since direct sales (the traditional type) involves credit extension. Without the support of one's spouse, it is impossible to build a robust network of agents or dealers.Prayer is the Ultimate Strength of the True Direct Seller
Third, I believe in Mary Kay's "God first, family second, career (or business) third." This philosophy is simply Bible in a nutshell. Without faith in God, direct sales is quite demanding compared with other types of business. Credit extension business after all is always tough business! The strength of a successful direct seller rests on prayer, since "we know that all things work together for good to them that love God..." Romans 8:28a.
We Need a System
Fourth, I believe in system. I have a computer system, and it makes my life easier with it.
Maintain a Good Credit Record
Fifth, I believe in maintaining a good credit record with the company.
Love Your Receivables
Sixth, I believe that I am in the business of collecting my receivables and of taking the risk associated with credit extension. Many direct sales companies have closed shop in the Philippines today, because of their failure to understand the ecosystem and the dynamics of direct selling. Start to hate your tons of receivables, if you want to start to turn your back on the industry.
It is All a Matter of Time
Seventh, I believe that God requires a hundred years to grow a rock-solid oak tree. It took me years to understand, for example, that a trust receipt agreement (TRA) is more powerful legally than a post-dated check.
Proper Selection of Employees
Eight, I believe that I am in business, risking my neck so to speak by issuing checks daily to few company-partners, and that I am not a "charitable institution." I demand employee-partnership first, before employee-friendship. I won't hire an employee-applicant who will not appreciate my job opportunity. Bremer once asked, "What is $200 to a horse?" No appreciation, no work!
Be Always Excited
Ninth, I believe in excitement. Be always excited with your direct-sales business. I always want to see the sunshine, not the storms, in what I am doing.
The More Successful, The More Godly
Tenth, I believe in old age and death and the futility of it all; therefore, I don't believe in success without complete dependence on God's mercy and grace.
