How to Choose a Party Plan Company
By Linda Hope Bradley
More and more people are looking to work from home these days. Party Plan businesses
are one way to do it. There are lots of party plan companies out there, so how do you
choose the right one for you? These are a few points to consider when looking at a party
plan business:
• Pick a well known company that has been in business for a long time
and has excellent quality control. You want to be proud of the products that you
represent, and be able to offer a money back guarantee to your customers.
• Be sure the hostess awards are plentiful. Some companies offer such
a small percentage free to the hostess, that it is not worth her time to host the party.
• Check out the management team that you will be joining. All
companies have a downline, which is the word they use for people in your group, or on your
team. The manager earns commission on the people in her downline. How helpful will she be
for your business? You will need lots of guidance, especially in your first few months.
What kind of training does the manager offer to you? Will she offer her time freely to
help you get started? Ask to sit in on a training session, or a meeting to get a feel for
the group. You can learn a lot from the other people in her downline.
• Find out how much money it costs to get started. Most companies will
offer a starter or sample kit that you will be taking to your parties. It is usually
discounted for new starts. Some companies will allow you to put a small deposit on this
kit, and pay off the balance with your first shows. Some may expect payment in full. It is
also important to find out what the kit includes. Will you also have to purchase catalogs,
order forms, or other supplies to start your business?
• Ask if there are there other fees involved. Most companies have
websites to showcase their products and streamline order entry. Some companies charge a
monthly fee to access their site, or a yearly fee. It's best to find out up front what
these fees are.
• Find out the delivery method. Some companies require you to stock
inventory and deliver the products to the customers. This will increase your time involved
and costs. Ideally, if the company delivers the products directly to the customers or
hostesses, you will not have to accept, pack or deliver them.
• Maybe the most important question is; how will you get paid? Some
companies require you to get credit or to open up a separate account where they
automatically debit your costs. Other companies allow you to send in your monies when the
order processes and keep your commission right away. Still other companies send you a
profit check weekly, or monthly. It's best to know this up front.
Do your homework and you will find the company that's best for you. It's definitely
worth a try. All companies have a requirement to get started, but you do not have to sign
a long term contract. If you try it and don't like it, you can stop. Look for a company
that belongs to the Direct Selling Association, and they will offer a money back guarantee
on your sample kit as well.
So, don't be afraid to check it out. It might just be what you are looking for.
Linda Hope Bradley is an Area Manager for Princess House Products. She has helped over
500 women achieve their goals and prosper. To learn more or ask any questions, please
visit bradleybears blog
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