Avon has a global reach and generates sales revenues in excess of $8 billion annually in over 144 countries. In existence since 1886, the firm is the largest direct sales company in the world. Avon products include the Avon cosmetics, Avon jewelry and other products targeted at its female customer base.



It is fairly easy to become an Avon representative if you have a little start-up money and the motivation to work the business. The first representatives began in business over 120 years ago and there are some five million of them today. Avon is is recognized as having empowered its female representatives with an income generating opportunity that they could pursue from home without disrupting their family life.

"Avon Ladies" are self-employed and are trained as beauty consultants or representatives. There marketing activities are typically geographically oriented as they work their neighborhood door to door speaking with friends, family or professional contacts. Catalogs have long been part of the Avon business and now the internet is being used as well. Reps may post an Avon store online.

Those interested in becoming an Avon representative will need to be at least eighteen years old, have spare time to dedicate to their business, like to meet people and be self starters. The company recommends that you contact any active representative to inquire. You may be referred to a District Manager if the person you first contacted is not a Leadership representative. During your initial encounters you will learn about the company procedures and business opportunity. If you choose to join, you then buy your initial kit which cost about twenty dollars and includes some supplies to get you started on your marketing.

Most people tend to think of Avon cosmetics when they hear the name but the product line is much more diverse these days and includes jewelry, accessories, apparel items, gifts, candles and seasonal products. Even the cosmetic line is diversified with numerous lines within it. Popular names include Anew, Advance Techniques, Mark and Skin-So-Soft.

Selling Avon is commission based business where you receive 20 to 25 percent. Repeat sales can help create a stable base but you must keep adding new customers in order to grow your business and replace those customers who drop off. Avon is a multi level marketing system so recruiting new reps is part of the game. Having some sales ability will help you succeed.

If you are considering Avon because you want to market cosmetics, you might want to look into Mary Kay. If you are open to considering product lines other than cosmetics, I suggest you take a look at Xocai Healthy Chocolate. Their products are actually a health food because they are made from specially processed cocoa with extra antioxidants such as acai berry and without the bad stuff. Healthy chocolate can be an easy sale because most people love it.

As in any other MLM or home based business, the only limitations on your earning potential are those you put in place. Your goals and your business plan and your desire to be a successful, self-employed individual can make the Avon business work for you.