The key to success

What a great world it would be if we all could be successful. Wait a minute we can all be successful! What? How is that possible?
Let me explain.....
Success in anything is in my opinion determined by only one thing - being determined! How does this work you ask? It's very simple - MOTIVATION .
There that stands out, that's all you need to know, the rest will fall into place. The fact that you are reading this information now indicates that you are somewhat motivated - right? So kick it up a notch - or several notches!
You may have noticed this blog is more about being motivated that anything else. Let me put it in very simple terms. Lets assume you are faced with some catastrophe - I don't want to seem gruesome, but I do want to make a point, so here we go. Someone is holding your family hostage! You have no idea where they are, you can't contact the authorities. You are told you must put 50 ladies in your downline before the kidnapper will release your family - unharmed.
Now you're motivated!!! Now you are empowered!!!! I bet you'll have those 50 ladies in a matter of hours!

It's all about the trigger, your family being kidnapped is naturally an extreme, but it was the trigger (reason). Find your trigger, every moment without your family motivated you - you got the job done - you got your family back safe and sound. That was your reward.
So there it is, find your trigger (your reason). It could be anything - dream and dream big! This is not about Avon, this is about life! Avon is just a product line, sell it, sell lots and teach others to do the same.
What rewards are you seeking - realize you can achieve your dreams and put them in front of you - stick them on the fridge if you must.
Simple - if your motivated!

Going The Extra Mile

There are lots of Avon Reps out there and the public deserves the best - right? Let me ask you this. How do you feel when you get crummy service? Are you likely to go back to that business? You would probably not recommend the business to your friends would you?
Here's the point - be the best! Provide the best service (you might even put some neatly wrapped candies in the bag along with your customers order). Be reliable, be honest, be helpful and be professional. Do the things others are not likely to do - it will be the difference, and it will be noticed! Don't be afraid to ask for referrals, your customers will want to share their wonderful Avon Lady with their friends!

The 80/20 Rule

This is a neat concept and one you should be familiar with.
Also known as the Pareto Principal.
Named after Vilfredo Pareto an Italian economist in 1906. Mr Pareto realized that 80% of the land was owned by 20% of the people, also 20% of his pea pods contained 80% of the peas!
Cool huh? But why is this important? Well if the same holds true for you it means that 20% of the Representatives are generating 80% of the revenue!
Now if you have a downline of 10 Ladies 2 of them are generating 80% of your unit sales - interesting?
Let's go further, if you have 300 in your district - 60 Representatives are generating 80% of the district revenue.
Your job is to be one of the 20% and then duplicate yourself (therein lies the cash)!
It's not as easy as you may think, which is why you're here!
Chew on that for a while.....



- Posted from my iPhone

Location:Somewhere in America!

Share The Wealth

Over the years we've had several thousand representatives from all over the world visit the blog and my website http://darcyevans.com/avon.htm .
I'm glad and I hope you've found the information helpful.
Since most of you are new to the business I'd like to ask those that are more experienced to become involved. You have ideas that may be beneficial to your fellow representatives. I'll be the first to admit I don't have all the answers, a fresh perspective would be welcome.

Here's what to do...
You can comment on any of the posts and offer your own opinions for others to read or if you really want to contribute email me at
me@darcyevans.com tell me about yourself and I'll arrange for you to be a contributor and you can post your own topics.
Remember, in order for you to get out of life what you want - you have to help someone else get what they want!


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Sell Through Craigslist

Many Avon Reps at times find themselves with a box or two of unopened products.
Try a free add with Craigslist, you may be able to liquidate some of your product as well as pick up some new customers. For those looking to recruit there is also the opportunity to build contacts!


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Why People Fail

I've talked about this before, but just recently I've come to understand how important it is to keep our "reasons" in front of us. I've titled this entry "Why People Fail" for a good reason. I believe there is really only one - that's right one reason that people fail. It has nothing to do with Avon, actually it applies to everything we aspire to in life.
Here's why I've come to realize the importance of this little secret. A couple of weeks ago my wife and I decided to relocate - to another country! We were so excited, we wrote down all the advantages to our move - we couldn't wait to get going! Naturally there is alot to do. We tucked away our list got busy and within a few days we started to get lazy. That's right LAZY. We were in stop mode, unless we got busy again we would be exactly where we started.!
So here is the point! Many people get started in their business, imagine doing well then simply get lazy! They forget the reason they started their business in the first place. It really doesn't matter what that reason is; it just wasn't that important after all.

I found a link for

The Fix

You didn't start your business with the intention of failing, just like I didn't decide to relocate just to stay where I am - that's dumb.
In order to get out of life what you want you simply must realize what it is you want (be specific), and put that desire in front of you every day - the fridge is a good place.
You could list the advantages of your new life as a Advanced Unit Leader or dream big and go for Senior Executive Unit Leader. The key point is to realize that your life will unfold in whatever direction you decide.
A good book or movie to see is "The Secret".  This concept is fully explained and will change your life!

I found a link to "The Secret" enjoy!

How do you say "Thanks"

You don't see this much anymore, but it works! Buy a bunch of thank you cards, write a short note and thank everyone that deserves being thanked - everyone. The butcher who cuts your meat the way you like, the lady who cuts your hair and does a good job - everyone! It's simple write a quick thanks (handwritten)
and drop it in the mail - add a business card if you like, just make a point of doing it. You'll be amazed at the result the seeds you've planted will bring! Think of it this way, how would you feel if someone were to thank you with a hand written card? Besides it's nice to get something in the mail besides bills!

www.darcyevans.com

Brand Yourself

Ok we all know the
Avon brand (logo,name,products and such). The company has worked hard to protect that brand. It is after all their reputation. For those that are unclear about what branding is - think Pepsi, Coke, Burger King. Get the idea?
Did you know that you can actually brand yourself? Yup, sure can. If you now have se customers you already have branded yourself. These folks know you as the Avon lady - your face, your service and your personality all work to create your brand.
Now your job is to have others become familiar with your brand - you over the other Avon Representatives in the area. So how do you do this? Come up with something catchy, some little slogan including your name that identifies - you.
Example:
Sally Smith
Avon Representative
Because you deserve the BEST!

Once you've come up with your "brand" include it on all your emails along with your web-store,
Phone number, twitter account, facebook contact etc.
(this is the signature at the bottom of every email you send.
Put it on brochures flyers - anything! Folks will begin to associate your brand with you!

www.darcyevans.com

Power In Your Hands! - Your PDA

My son just bought stock in Apple. It's no wonder, he has virtually everything Apple makes. He was "going on about the iPhone for ages and last year I finally broke down and bought one!
The power of this little baby is amazing, as usual he was right. I currently run multiple business right off my phone. I can collect credit card payments, invoice customers and communicate through social networks right off the phone. Business in the 21st century means being ahead of the competition, being well connected is a must.
For now I want to discuss an app (program downloaded to your cell phone for a specific purpose). I have been wanting to accept credit card payments on the fly but didn't want to be burdened with a separate machine and a costly monthly fee (been there done that). One morning over breakfast we heard on "Good Morning America" about an app that does just what we wanted - accept credit cards via my iPhone. I quickly searched it out and have been using it with great success! I love it - no monthly fees (you get free this little square card reader that plugs into your earphone jack so you can swipe cards and the money goes right into your bank account. We're still waiting for the free card reader but you can key in the info into the phone to complete the transaction. In about 3-4 business days we've been paid and the cost is actually less than conventional card readers. The app we use.
So why would I mention this - well you can accept credit cards for your Avon business by filling out a credit card slip and calling for approval, but this is not possible for items you currently have on hand ie. flea market.
This simply is an opportunity for you to receive cash to your bank account via someones credit card (not everyone carries cash and who wants to accept a check?
I'll be posting other great uses for your iPhone (android etc) as time goes on but they are certainly a viable business tool! Yup my boy was right - I needed one!




Note:
I suppose the pilot program is over, I didn't have to enter all the information regarding the phone just an email address and bank information. Square will verify your account, once done you're off!
For those that are wondering I offer this information freely as a satisfied customer and I receive no financial compensation for posting.

Learning The Biz

How much time do you spend learning about you business? Do you frequent Avon learning tools "beauty of knowledge" (found on the Avon site map)?
Chances are you do, after all you're here right? Avon will teach you what you need to know about their products and how how to run your business but that is not the only place to learn. Remember, knowledge is power - the more power you have the faster you'll go!
Dedicate time each day to educating yourself about your business, you decide how much time, you'll spend and where you'll spend it. The internet is a magnificent tool, you can find virtually anything you want to know, so surf away!

More On Tossing

I just read a post on another Blog regarding tossing. There are many views so I think I'll address it again for those that care to read.
If you were the only Avon Representative on the planet I'd say Toss away - then it becomes a numbers thing. However look at it this way, you are in competition with other representatives after the same thing you are - that customer! If I'm out in the front yard and you toss a book - I'll toss it right back at you! Personally I don't care what your reasons are for tossing; as a customer I know that you simply couldn't be bothered to properly place the brochure (which is by the way your storefront) in a bag and place it on the door knob.
You must look at the big picture, doing what's easy is not always what's best. If you're in this for the long haul the money you waste tossing could be spent on other advertising means.
Personally I believe the best way to canvass a neighborhood is door to door. Introduce yourself and your business, after all that's how this whole thing got started right? Ask yourself this: As a customer are you more likely to buy from the representative that tosses or the one that takes the time to actually introduces herself?

Important Considerations

• Make sure you're not breaking any ordnance's regarding going door to door.
• For safety reasons (there are lots of nuts out there), don't go along, take hubby or another Representative or an adult family member), DON'T GO ALONE!
• Pick a safe neighborhood 
• Pick an appropriate time of day (diner time is annoying - Saturday works best)
• Don't be long winded - introduce your self - hand them your brochure and GET THEIR PHONE NUMBER - you'll need it to follow up.

This gives you an idea as to how to present your business not just a brochure to a prospective customer, be a little giving of your self and you will see results.

NOTE:
Avon representatives are a dime a dozen, here today and gone tomorrow, many customers have ordered products from another representative and never got the item. New customers assume you'll be no different - it's up to you to be persistent. Go back, and be sure to follow up with a phone call.
Think of it this way, if you only saw one ad for Geiko you'd probably give them little credit - it's because they keeping hammering away at you that many Americans have switched their insurance carrier. Be like Geiko - keep going back. 

Dealing With Problem Customers

Sending Items Back

Now that you are an Avon Representative, you have customers, most will be easy to deal with, but not all. You will run into customers that will want to return everything (it's the wrong size, color you name it there is something wrong with an item). It seems as though these people get a charge out of this kind of behaviour: granted sometimes items need to go back, that's life, but the customer that uses a bottle of Anew (the entire bottle) and then says "it made my face break out" is up to no good. Here's what we do. If a customer has a legitimate excuse - no problem replace the item or give them a credit, Avon has a 100% guarantee so you will be reimbursed. If they insist on a cash refund give it (give her a receipt that you have given her the money back and have her sign it). If your customer is playing games as mentioned above - tell her you'll be glad to take the item back but she'll need to pay for shipping (chances are she'll think twice, this time and certainly next).
The more you do this (sell Avon) the better you'll get at spotting problem customers, remember this is a business, you will try to satisfy everyone, but you can't. Develop your own rules as to how you will deal your customers,try to put yourself in their position, most times they will have a legitimate complaint but don't be bullied by those that waste both your time and money.

Business Hours

Set your own hours of business. Many people stay up late at night and some feel that if they're up you must be too. We're up early, generally around 4:00 am, however we're in bed by 9:00 pm (it's the whole early bird thing I suppose). Our phone gets shut off at bed time, if someone wants to get in touch with us they can leave a message (on the rare occasion my wife forgets and the phone rings at midnight, my wife will promptly call back when she gets up - 4:00am!
I must say that rarely do we receive calls from customers at all hours, generally it's from representatives, those are told to leave a detailed message and we'll get back with them (when the sun it up!)

Not Having The Money

I'll pay you on Friday when my check comes in. Chances are you have heard this one before, dealing with this one is simple (have your rules). "NO MONEY NO PRODUCT". You don't go into Walmart pick something off the shelf and tell the clerk you'll pay them on payday do you? Then why would you offer this to anyone. If they want it give them the item when they pay for it, don't offer credit - you will get burned. If they don't pay you for the item - send it back or try to resell it! Remember if you give the customer the item and don't get paid for it - you're still responsible for the bill to Avon.

Social Networking and Your Business

If I were to talk to 100 representatives and were to ask them which ones were involved in a social network I wonder how many would say they do? I wonder of that group would say they belong to one,two, three or more? I would bet those that belong (and are activly promoting their business would be the ones that are doing the best with their business. For example personally I have multiple blogs,twitter,myspace and facebook page.
I also have a personal website. darcyevans.com.
Social networking is the free marketing trend of our time. It will take you a little time to set up, but it's actually fun and you can connect with both customers and the platform community to promote your business.

Creative Advertising Tools By Other Representatives

Have you ever heard the saying "Abusiness with no sign is a sign of no business." I think this is really a no brainer. It's obvious what your sign is - your brochure, but what other signs could you use? These inventive representatives have the right idea. Ask yourself this: What if that little button that says I sell Avon was to generate me $X.XX in sales, what would the X be to you? Design your own, put your thinking cap on, use your imagineation that alone will get you started and leading the pack!



Promote yourself at Zazzle.

Creating A Winning Attitude

Whether you are successful or not in this business is dependant I believe primarily on your attitude. I don't know too many people in business that became successful because they believed they were going to fail.
Have you heard the saying "garbage in garbage out"? What do you fill your mind with? How positive are you? Are you a doom and gloom kind of person or do wake up each day realizing the fabulous opportunities afford to you? It doesn't matter whether you live in the United States, Canada, Spain or Britain, chances are you have the chance to "live the dream".
This of coarse does not pertain only to your Avon business, it involves any venture, any relationship, and the interactions you have with others.
Jeffrey's comments below are very relevant to this topic and well worth a listen....



If you don't believe this works, go find you an Amway Representative and ask them about the business. Chances are they'll end up recruiting you!
For what it's worth in Amway they call it posture.

Kick Your Own Ass

I spoke witn our District sales Manager yesterday (at the supermarket actually). Thinking about it now it must have seemed strange for those shopping and overhearing our conversation...
I'm sure it must have seemed rather odd, a man becoming so involved in a conversation regarding AVON.
Thing is I'm not about "selling Avon" I'm about winning! In other words, if there are 100 Avon Representatives in our area my wife will be among the top if not the top. My job is to simply do all I can to help her. I get valuable information from our District Sales Manager. I take this information and get a snap shot of what's going on in our district, division and the entire country.
I was amazed to discover (I figured this out for myself) that apx 95% of the Ladies my wife had signed up had left the business! I thought, how is this possible? What are we doing wrong? Fact of the matter is this is common, only a few will rise to the top, most Ladies don't want to work at it, or spend their Avon money collected on other things instead of paying their Avon bill and they get removed.
So for those very few out there that want to make a go of it I've included the silver bullet, that little bit of information that, if you internalize it will make all the difference in the world.
Remember there are no gimmicks, no slick tricks to boost your sales. If you want to make gobs of money in this business, here's the formula....

* Get the brochures out there (lots of brochures)
* Get names of those that got the brochures (and phone number)
* FOLLOW-UP
* Teach others to do the same (lots of others)
* Be patient! Rome wasn't built in a day - you need more money - sell more stuff
When you get lazy and want to quit...

A New Look

Change is good right? For those that have been here before I hope you like the new format. I've noticed the polls are not coming up, I'll give it a few days and either remove them or reinstall them. You will notice I've added links over there to the right. The idea behind this blog and anything I do is to provide opinion, advice and I hope inspiration to those representatives that care to drop by. Having said that I'll be the first to admit that I don't know everything. Some of the links are mine but as time passes I'll be adding more as I surf the web in search of knowledge :)
I hope you'll drop by often and if you like share this site with others in your business.

Your Hot Button!

Everyone is motivated by something - at least the ones that succeed! Know in what gets you moving is perhaps the most important aspect in any venture.
You can't simply say "I want to be rich", that's too general. What does rich look like to you? Are you driving the car of your dreams or the one you can afford? how about vacations, the home you live in, your child's college fund.
In order for you to get out of this what you want - you must first know what you want, you must write it down, you must be patient and yes you must work toward your goals (dreams).
I know what you're saying "well I know that" - fair enough, where do you have it written down - both short and long term goals.

Association - Rubbing Shoulders With The Movers And Shakers

If you serious about your business - and you must be you're reading this blog :) you are probably attending sales meetings offered by your District Sales Manager or upline Leadership.
If you don't go, here's a few things to consider...

• You will be introduced to new products


• You will get freebies that you can either keep or sell


• You will associate with the leaders in your district - ask and learn from them


• If you're a Unit Leader you'll be setting an example for your downline (association with them is also important)


• You will become more motivated - motivation = more money in your pocket


• It's a nice distraction from the everyday grind of life (hubby, the kids, laundry etc)

I think you get the idea, it may be a pain to get ready to go out for a couple of hours in the evening, especially if you've had a tough day, but making it a priority will benefit your business in the long run.