Sunday, January 23, 2011

Owning a Home-Based Business

As some of you already know, I am very passionate about home-based businesses; Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simply, Inspiranza, Thirty-One, etc., etc. Being in charge of when you work and when you don't, is such a luxury. Unfortunately, I'm not sure most people fully understand the advantages of working from home.
Some stay-at-home moms and dads are looking for a way to make some extra cash without having to apply and accept a full-time job. Some folks who are currently working full-time, would like to do something on the side as a fun hobby and earn a commission at the same time.

I thought I would do a FAQ blog about some of my favorite home-based businesses. If you're reading this and you would like me to highlight YOUR business, I'd be happy to do so.

This particular blog will be answering some questions you might have about signing up with Thirty-One Gifts. Their mission:

Thirty-One is more than just a company. We are people who believe in encouraging, recognizing and rewarding others for who they are. Through God's strength, we've built a family of individuals who feel women deserve to treat themselves to something special. Our commitment is to provide women with a fulfilling, enjoyable and rewarding experience.


FAQ's:


Q: How much does it cost to join?


A: Just $99 plus shipping and tax. You will receive your kit in about a week.


Q: What comes in the Thirty-One starter kit?


A: Currently you'll receive the following items: Large Utility Tote, Zipper Pouch, Picnic Thermal Tote, All-in-One Organizer, Little's Carry-All Caddy, Thermal Tote, Wristlet Wallet, About Town Blanket, Square Utility Tote, Scarf, Key Fob, Icon Coin Purse, Stationery Sample Set, Wristlet Key Fob, Fabric Swatches and the catalogs, order forms and other paperwork you need to get started - that's a $300+ value!   


(Kit contents are subject to change without notice.)


Q: What commission do you earn?


A: All consultants earn a 25% commission/discount from day 1 of joining. You have the potential to earn more (up to 34%) if you choose to build a team.


Q: Is there a bonus program for new consultants?


A: YES! Thirty-One Gifts has a 45-day Start Swell program for all new consultants, which gives you the opportunity to earn seven free products (valued at $300) and business credits in your first 45 days. 


Q: What commission do you earn on your downline if you build a team?


A: Thirty-One generously rewards those who choose to share this opportunity with others. In addition to your increased commission and overrides, you can also earn $1000-$7500 cash bonuses!


Q: Does the company provide a website for the consultants? If so, how much does it cost?


A: Yes. The website and e-newsletter are FREE your first 90 days of business. After your first 90 days, the website is $9.95/month and the e-newsletter is $2.95/month. These are both optional. If you do not want to continue with either, you simply contact Home Office to let them know.


Q: Do you keep your earnings upfront?


A: No. You submit all monies from shows, parties or sales to Thirty-One. The company issues commission checks twice a month, and offers free direct deposit.


Q: Are there any monthly quotas?


A: There are no monthly minimum quotas. There are quarterly quotas. An "active" consultant is a consultant who submits commissionable product sales of at least $200 in three (3) consecutive months. The $200 can be from a combination of personal purchases, retail orders, party orders, fundraiser orders, etc., and does not have to be from one individual $200 order.


Q: Does the company pay for the host program/specials?


A: Yes, Thirty-One pays for all of the host rewards and the customer and host specials each month. Host items are not commissionable.


Q: Is there any kind of training for consultants?


A: Yes! Thirty-One provides all consultants with a consultant-one website where you will find special announcements, updates, etc., as well as many tools and training documents. You will also find recorded calls and video trainings.


Q: How many Thirty-One consultants are there? Are there TOO many?


A: Thirty-One is a young company and they need more consultants! Thirty-One started in 2003 and has just recently been experiencing rapid growth (400% last year!). It's a great time to sign up and ride the wave of momentum.


Q: How much do business supplies cost?


A: Business supply costs are low, because Thirty-One wants you to keep your money in your pocket! Catalogs are 50 cents, order forms 8 cents, host and recruiting flyers are 20 cents and show invitations are $1.50 for a pack of 40. All in all, I spend less than $5 per show on paperwork and that includes freely giving my catalogs away!


(Paperwork prices are subject to change.)


Q: What are the shipping costs?


A: When a customer orders, and has their order shipped to the host, the shipping is 8% of the total order. If the customer chooses to have the order directly shipped to them, the shipping 8% of the total order, plus $4. The host can receive free shipping when her show total is $500 or more, otherwise, it is 8% of her total order. For all consultant supply orders and personal orders, the shipping is 8% of the total order plus $4.


Q: Does the company allow consultants to sell cash and carry items?


A: Yes this is allowed, but not required. And, to help with the cost of fairs, booths and trade shows, Thirty-One consultants can submit a form to the company to receive free catalogs. If the cost of the trade show is under $150, the consultant will receive a $25 gift certificate toward catalogs; if the cost of the show is over $150, the consultant will receive a $50 gift certificate toward catalogs. 


Q: Do consultants ever get to purchase products at a bigger discount than 25%?


A:  Consultants are given a 40% discount during special times of the year on specific products. The 25% discount can be taken in addition to monthly sale prices and specials.


Q: Does Thirty-One offer other incentives such as trips, cash bonus, cars, etc.?


A: YES! Thirty-One has a fantastic Dream Rewards program that allows consultants to earn trips, computers, cash, etc. In addition to the Dream Rewards program, throughout the year, consultants are given the ability to earn extra free products (including the new products each season), electronics and other merchandise. Plus, when you promote to Director, you can earn $1000-$7500 cash bonus as well!


Q: Do I have to carry a lot of inventory?


A: No. There is no requirement for inventory. You may decide that you want to have items on hand, but that's entirely up to you.


Q:  Can I only sell Thirty-One products at home shows?


A: No. In addition to home shows, you can have catalog shows, a Show-On-The-Go, online shows, fairs, trade shows, bazaars, fundraisers...the list is endless!


Q: What types of payments can I accept from customers?


A: Personal or business checks made payable to you or your hostess, cash or major credit cards. Thirty-One takes care of the credit card processing fees.


If you have further questions, please feel free to email me at: beautyandfaith@yahoo.com
Or visit my website: www.mythirtyone.com/kristieboyd





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