Many people know why I began working my business as a business but don’t know why I decided to begin originally. This was a hobby turned into business almost overnight so I thought I’d share how my little hobby began.

Why did I start?

Let’s start with why I started. I was looking for something to do in my spare time that would be productive yet fun. I wanted the opportunity to meet others and have fun doing so. I also wanted the opportunity that would allow me to reconnect with family and friends and feel like I had something to offer. Since getting married, I’ve distanced myself from family and friends. I’ve heard it’s normal but that didn’t stop it from taking a  toll on me when I realized I hadn’t seen favorite cousins and best friends in months. Each day  I went to work and felt something missing. I spoke to my coworker each day about wanting to get out the house and have good fun. I had the perfect image in my head that just wouldn’t fade. I saw myself hosting events where everyone was happy, smiling and laughing. I yearned to make this dream become reality. It would eat me alive each day so I had to act on it. I needed a purpose.

Why Avon?

I won’t lie. Avon was not my first, second or even third choice. I originally looked up wine companies. In my dream, I imagined pouring glasses of champagne and wine while enjoying girls’ night. I even saw my best friend’s mother in this dream and believed my new direct sales business would actually draw us closer. That was it! I made up my mind. I was going to be a wine sales consultant. I reached out to multiple companies. One lady wasn’t in Chicago so we couldn’t meet up to sign the contract. She took weeks to respond to my request about meeting her half-way as she states I “must’ve fell through the cracks.” The other company never responded. I was discouraged but still determined. I had researched for weeks and was finally ready to take the leap. Nothing would stand in my way. I was going to join direct sales.

Once again, I set out on my journey to research direct sales companies. My two interests are beauty and wine (judge all you want). I looked up companies such as Perfectly Posh, Mary Kay, Tyra, Arbonne, JAFRA, other beauty companies and then decided to research all of the companies listed in the Direct Selling Association. I looked at products offered and the start-up investment. Then it hit me. I sold Avon while in college and had so much fun doing it. My uncle’s wife would have me over to throw book parties with food and beverages. I didn’t know her prior to Avon but we became so close.

I still continued to look at other companies before coming to the conclusion that it was the least expensive to join, I didn’t have to purchase a home party kit, I didn’t have to purchase inventory or required to host parties. Did I host parties? Yes, but there’s a difference between doing something at your leisure and being forced to keep up with a certain schedule. Avon not only offered the most flexibility, but it is truly an independent opportunity. I didn’t want to feel as though I was working for someone else with sales quotas and the possibility of losing my promotion. This was it! I was looking for something I already knew, it was familiar and affordable for family and friends.

How did I sign up to sell Avon?

When I originally sold, we had to meet with the District Sales Manager. It felt like an interview almost. She asked questions about my motivation and ambition. It was a little intimidating; however, I am pleased that Avon now offers the ability to sign up online. That’s right! You don’t have to speak to anyone if you don’t want. I was able to join online in about 5 minutes and received a prompt e-mail with information to access my online account. I began taking the training courses on Avon University and then began promoting my online store. I was informed that my books would arrive within the next few business days. I eagerly awaited.

Who are my customers?

I did things in the reverse. Avon and many other direct sales companies instruct you to make a list of all contacts to inform of your new business venture. I didn’t want to bother my family and friends so I began with strangers. If a stranger didn’t like it, that’s ok. At least I didn’t have to worry about them talking about me at the next family reunion 🙂 I went to the local restaurant to introduce myself to the employees and offered to leave books. They were pleasantly surprised to have an Avon lady. As my confidence built, I met more business owners and customers. People then began targeting me and asking for Avon brochures.

My first customers were strangers. I must say, I truly love my customers. I’ve met some truly remarkable women. We actually learn from each other. One of my customers works for the IRS, another works for Chicago Public Schools, some work at a local rehab and I’ve even found customers at Dunkin Donuts! She let me taste one and it was delicious! Once my business proved to be beneficial, I then told my family and to my surprise, they loved Avon! My dad said he loved the bubble bath and ClearSkin was the only thing that worked for his blackheads. My grandfather loved the Footworks.

My customers are now like family. I love making deliveries. Not only do I visit to take and make deliveries, we chat periodically to make sure everything is fine. One customer texted just yesterday to check in on me. We’ve also watched Scandal together and the Walking Dead. She has truly become a friend.

Why I love the Avon opportunity?

As mentioned earlier, I truly love my customers and downline members. The Avon Opportunity is very unique and it allows me to build new friendships. Think about some of my customers. They didn’t have anything in common but yet, Avon connected them. From the IRS to Dunkin Donuts, it didn’t matter their profession. I recently hosted an Avon Facebook party and none of the ladies had met before but they actually conversed with each other and even helped each other during the challenge. It was completely amazing and refreshing. I couldn’t believe it but I loved the sense of unity. Avon truly brings out the positivity in any person or situation. I’ve yet to see someone frown when I deliver their order. I’m just glad that I’m able to put a smile on their faces. It gives me such joy and I now see my purpose.

How did I turn hobby into business?

Many people want to know how am I doing so well. Of course, I stated that I began with strangers but my business has taken off on it’s own. Even if I wanted to quit or slow down, I wouldn’t be able to do so. My customers continue to refer their friends which is great! I have a little Avon bag and whenever someone sees it, they immediately stop me for a brochure. I guess this is the benefit of partnering with a company that has real name recognition. Avon is a household favorite for women, men and children.

I always give a special gift for my online customers as well as send brochures and samples so though they’re not physically near me, they still feel my touch 🙂

Interested in shopping online?

If you’re interested in shopping online, click here to visit my online store and feel free to sign up to receive e-mail updates about special online offers.

Interested in joining?

To join us, follow these simple steps:

1. Go to http://www.startavon.com
2. Use reference code: chicagosnatalie
3. That’s it! You’re now officially an Avon rep.

For $15, you’ll receive your starter kit which contains 20 brochures, 2 full-size products, access to your own Avon-branded website and training materials.

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