According to Direct Selling Association statistics, 85 percent of direct sales people spend fewer than 30 hours per week working their business. Working part-time is the reason many people go into the business of direct sales in the first place. But what are some proven methods that will help you work smarter, not longer?



A top-level producer with one company has worked with her company for over seven years. A mother of three and an elementary school teacher, she's taking time off from teaching to work her direct sales business while her children are small.

“Touch your business every day,” she advises. “It is easy, being at home, to let things slide. I make sure, even on lazy days, to do something productive toward my goals.”

Another top seller home schools her four children, manages a successful career with a skincare direct sales company, is an author and a motivational speaker, and owns a company that provides recognition gifts and ideas to support direct sales uplines. Financial freedom and flexibility are what she likes best about direct selling. She says perseverance and determination are keys to success.

“Take one baby step at a time,” she cautions. “When you're faithful and consistent in the little things, your business will grow beyond belief.”

When asked what she likes best about direct sales, a Senior Director with another popular direct sales company replied, “I love the flexibility it affords me. I am able to decide when I want to work and how much. I am able to have my toddler at home with me while I work, and I am able to take a break at any time I wish and for any reason, whether I have a doctor's appointment, a play date for my daughter, or even if I just want to enjoy a nice day outside.”

She recommends treating your direct sales business like…well, a business!

“Most people who are in the business are in it to make money, and to make money you have to work. The difference between a business and a hobby is that in a business you make money; in a hobby you spend money.”

All three top producers agree that goals are a major key to success in direct sales.

“Set clear goals,” one says. “I make sure to do what it takes to work toward that goal every day.

“Dreams are essential,” agrees another. “Whatever you talk about and are most passionate about, that's what you'll sell the most of.”

“I strongly feel that if you know where you are heading,” one says, “and you are determined to get there, that you can achieve it.”

Research cited by the Direct Selling Association underscores the validity of these three direct sales professionals' statements. Of the many reasons people choose direct selling, flexible work schedules and the fact that earnings are in proportion to efforts are among those highest on the list.