99%

My second essay for my English class. We had to write about a topic in pop culture.
I got a 99%. How awesome is that. I am so proud of myself! It is always nice to have something to smile about, and I am sure getting this grade will help me write my rough draft, today, for my next essay.

A Product Perfect for You


Direct sales is an ever-growing industry in today’s culture. As a Tastefully Simple consultant, I have first hand experience in direct sales. Many factors contribute to the success of direct sales, making it more popular than shopping on the Internet or TV. (“About Direct Selling” “Benefits of Direct Selling,” par.3) People take interest in direct sales because of the social experiences, income potential, and because it is one of the easiest ways to own your own business. Direct sales offers a personalized and hands on approach to selling, causing people to value the products they purchase.

Direct sales is defined as the sale of a consumer product or service, person-to-person, away from a fixed retail location. (“About Direct Selling,” par.1) There are a few different ways in which direct sales companies sell, the most popular being home parties.
Home parties are hosted in the home of an individual who already likes or is interested in the product a specific direct sales company offers. The host invites his/her friends and family over so a consultant from that company can give an in person presentation and hands on demonstration of the products they sell. These two factors are direct causes for the interest and popularity of direct sales versus retail sales. When a consumer goes into a retail store to purchase a product they are limited to the product packaging and maybe an uneducated opinion from a sales associate. I know that I have fallen victim to purchasing a product that had a convincing label, and later find out it was really too good to be true. I am sure I am not the only one. Doesn’t trying it before you buy it sound like a good idea? Direct sales offers that exact convenience. The consultants for these companies are trained, knowledgeable, and experienced in the product they are selling. Consultants have the time and environment to listen to the individual client’s needs and wants, and can then offer products appropriately. Compare this personal interaction to the interaction you get at a typical retail store, and you see why many prefer direct sales. Any consumer can appreciate the “try it before you buy it” approach to buying that is offered in this environment.

According to the Direct Selling Association website, there are more than 200 registered direct sales companies. (“About DSA,” par. 1) The Direct Selling Association ensures that member companies will make no statements or promises that might mislead either consumer or prospective sales people. (“Code of Ethics,” par. 2) Direct sales cover a wide range of products including: beauty products by Mary Kayâ, gourmet food products by Tastefully Simpleâ, cooking accessories by The Pampered Chefâ, jewelry by Silpadaâ, candles by PartyLiteâ and storage containers by Tupperwareâ. Products from these and other direct sales companies typically come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, as do many retail products. But because of the one-on-one relationship of direct sales consultants and their clients, trust is established, where as in a retail environment there isn’t that trust factor. Retail stores make you jump through hoops to get a replacement product or money back, but with direct sales, satisfaction is only a phone call away.

Direct sales can be the answer to an individual’s desire for more than the normal treatment and service. Direct sales consultants most often use the product they are selling, therefore can give a firsthand account of a products features and uses. Most consultants will be honest and tell you if a product isn’t what it seems, or any problems they personally had when using the product. Consultants also offer any help you may need with the product(s) you purchase. Unlike a retail store, many consultants will take the time to follow up with you after the party, making sure you got your products, know how to use them and to make sure that you are satisfied. As a client you are also given the consultants direct phone number and/or e-mail address in case you have any questions or concerns. Quality customer service, on a personal level, is just one more reason to trust direct sales.

Direct sales causes people value the products they buy from direct sales over retail bought products. Direct sales is a booming industry, and promises to be so in years to come. Today’s version of the direct selling industry reflects how the early peddlers and traders worked. In the 21st century, customers can still benefit from this personal and convenient way of purchasing products. (“About Direct Selling” “History,” par. 20) With quality, personalized products and service each direct sales company promises a product perfect for you.

769 words, spell-checked, specifics

Works Cited:

Matrix Group International, Ltd. Direct Selling Association. Home Page: About DSA, About Direct Selling, & Code of Ethics. 1996-2006. Sept 25, 2006