The Ups and Downs of being an Avon Representative
So, you've been given your "territory" (the houses that Avon's
Area Sales Manager says are exclusively yours to canvas), a
supply of Avon brochures, and you're ready to venture out and
earn some money as an Avon representative. Avon will give you
predictions of the number of customers and likely sales your
territory will produce but you would be unwise to use these
figures to try to predict how much commission you will earn,
especially from your first few rounds. Some customers will buy
on a regular basis, but place quite small orders each time.
Others will place a few, large orders and some will buy
sporadically. Until you get to know your area you really can't
predict the level of sales. Bear in mind too, that orders will
increase as the people get to know you and you build up trust.
Most people start direct selling via catalogues like Avon's on a
part-time basis and many reps expect to earn reasonable money
for just a few hours of work a week. Avon agents with a large
'family and friends' customer base may find that this is so, but
those relying just on delivering catalogues could find it more
time consuming. How much time you take to get round your
territory will depend on the type of houses: some have long
paths, others are close together. If you find you have to walk
further than expected, don't worry; the exercise is very good
for you! Be positive!
In any area there will be people who welcome your Avon brochures
with enthusiasm; those who will look through and perhaps buy
occasionally; those who will return the brochure unopened; and
those who seem to take it as a personal insult that you put one
in their post box. The latter should be dismissed without
another thought. These people will not be customers so be
positive, don't waste any more time on them and cut them out of
your round. The enthusiasts will become regular customers and
are therefore worth spending some time with. The more people who
can be persuaded to buy necessities such as shampoo and
deodorant on a regular basis the better as they will get into
the habit of ordering and will soon find other things of
interest in the catalogue.
You will need to make sure that you don't stop giving Avon
catalogues to houses that don't place an order after your first
few visits. As people get used to you leaving a brochure some
will become more interested and look through it. Each campaign
you will pick up a few more customers, widening your customer
base. This is essential for long -term success because you don't
want to be relying just on orders from a few regulars who may
not order in a particular campaign.
Many orders will be quite small, but some people could be just
trying out the products. Hopefully they will like what they buy
and become increasingly enthusiastic.
Once you have got to grips with the ordering system that part of
the job shouldn't take up too much of your time. Sorting the
products between your customers once they have been delivered to
you could be more time-consuming. However, delivering orders to
customers can be the most enjoyable part of the job. You will
soon get to know your customers and will see that they like the
products. And, of course, that's when you get paid! Above all,
enjoy yourself as an Avon representative, the money can be good
and meeting new people can brighten your life.