I just finished reading a great article in USAToday: “Direct sales (like Avon, Mary Kay) offer recession-proof jobs”

Articles like this, only reiterate what I’ve tried to tell others about having a home business or at least trying a direct sales business. For some, there is this huge fear. Many women I talk to have a real hang up about approaching ANYONE about a home business or products they might be selling.

I don’t think there’s anybody out there that’s a huge fan of cold calling people. But I don’t look at a direct sales business as a cold calling type business. It’s a warm business. And if it’s products you really believe in and stand by…..your enthusiasm will show. That’s the biggest asset you’ve got going for you if you decide to do a home business – your pure excitement about what you’re selling.

And even if you kinda “fall” into a home business….you can still see HUGE success.

Perfect example is Craig Lapp, quoted in the USAToday article:

Not long ago, Craig Lapp made his living driving a truck that helped carve Southern California’s soil into new developments. But then housing sales slumped, and in November 2007 Lapp’s construction company let him go.

While he searched for another job, Lapp began working alongside his wife, Lynne, in a business based in their Temecula home, selling nutritional supplements made by the direct-sales company Isagenix. Nearly two years later and with no construction job in sight, Lapp says a one-time sideline has become the couple’s bread and butter.

“It’s paying our mortgage, our car payments … putting food on the table,” says Lapp, 55, who adds that he and his wife are earning a six-figure income. “It was our ‘Plan B’ that turned into our ‘Plan A.’ “

With so many losing their jobs these days, and many wondering how they will make ends meet – it’s hard to imagine supporting your family with an at home job like direct sales. I understand that.

But truly – it is possible.

I started selling Avon years ago. I gave up after a few months….it was “too hard”, “too expensive”, “too time consuming”……..too too too.

Well…a few years ago I got back in it. I was buying many of their Anew Anti-Aging products anyway….so why not sell it myself?

What changed? Why am I successful at it now? I think it has to do with my shift in perspective….my age and just really wanting my own “gig”. Selling Avon now for me isn’t hard at all. As a matter of fact it’s effortless at times.

I can’t believe how many people want an Avon brochure. They love the convenience, the variety of products. And lets face it – literally – Avon has cutting edge facial products. Their Anew line is incredible. And with the addition of their new Anew Clinical for Crows Feet – sales will only climb.

Thank goodness that I have this income. My husband works in manufacturing…and that’s not a real secure business to be in right now. I’m very thankful he’s still got a job – but right now, in this economy – you just don’t know.

There are 100′s of great direct sales companies out there too. It’s not all make-up and toys. There is everything from purses to scrapbooking to pets.

MoneyMakingMommy.com has a wonderful direct sales directory for those looking for a home business to browse.

If you’ve really got the ambition, the drive….then you don’t need to worry. It’s people with those personality traits and perspectives that see huge successes.

About the Author of this Article:
Kelly Land –>> Follow her on Twitter! http://www.twitter.com/HBBM
Work at Home Mom for 8 years. Owner of the popular and top rated work at home resource site, http://www.MoneyMakingMommy.com .
MoneyMakingMommy.com is a free resource for those looking for work at home jobs, ideas, tips, suggestions, articles and more. There is also a free weekly “work at home” newsletter. Subscribe easily at the following link: http://www.MoneyMakingMommy.com/popup.htm

Direct sales can be a rewarding, life changing experience for someone looking to own their own business and determine their own financial destiny. You can set your own schedule, be your own boss, set your earning potential as high as you want, earn some fancy jewelry to wear or a fancy car to drive. Not every company is created equally and there are some things you should consider before spending money on something that turns out to be nothing more than a scam.

Let’s discuss a few things you should consider prior to signing your name on the dotted line for any direct sales company.

Try Before You Buy

A person should make certain their money will be well invested on any business venture. If you’ve tried the product you’ll be selling and like it then you’re off to a good start. If not, determine why you are even thinking about selling the company’s products or services. Make sure someone is not trying to coerce you into signing up just so they can make money themselves. Never join just to help a friend or family member out if that’s your only reason for doing so.

Is Your Recruiter Actually Successful?

If your up line is successful and can prove it, the better your chances of your business being profitable increases. Always look more than just one level up too. Even if the person recruiting you isn’t making great money yet, there could be a reason, so don’t be afraid to ask the person who signed them up for information too.

Research the Company Itself

You want to know the company you’ll be working for has been around and can make it the long haul. New companies can be successful, but with direct sales companies constantly opening and closing, you want to be sure you’re with a company that can withstand any hardships that come with being the new kid on the block. Learn as much as you can about the company, the owners and the sales reps before making your decision.

Show Me the Product

There are tons of direct sales companies who claim to sell products, but in all actuality they are only selling an idea to make money owning your own business. Some of these companies do sell a service, but the service itself is not worth selling, is simply a cover to hide the fact they are actually just making money from the down lines, and honestly are just looking to make money from those who don’t know any better.

Not every direct sales opportunity is right for everyone. You have to make sure you are joining the right direct sales opportunity for your needs. It’s also important to make certain you aren’t being swindled by some clever scheme where you’ll never make the money they promise. These are just four of the most important things you’ll need to determine before you actually sign up as a representative for a direct sales company. Learn as much as you can about every part of the business before you commit to anything.