Anything offering an income AND freedom and flexibility is alluring in this day and age. After all, our generation was raised longing for exactly those things. With the rise of social media, it is no wonder that direct sales have boomed. Suddenly we can scroll our friends list and name at least a dozen of our peers that are selling makeup, clothing, candles, or health products. What are the chances that YOU are a direct sales consultant?
I’m sorry to tell you this, but this post is for those of us who aren’t consultants…and we are a little burnt out.
We (myself included) have finally gotten the memo that so-and-so from the mom’s group probably added us because she is an oil consultant. We no longer trust out-of-the-blue “Hi! How is your family?” messages from the person we used to be besties with in middle school. We might even be a little angry about it. We just want some friends or at least a real conversation without the motive of a sale.
But they do mean well.
They just want to make money for their family. They are hoping to be able to stay home with their kids. They are trying to tackle medical bills or student loans. Maybe they are trying to earn products for themselves or their family that they couldn’t afford otherwise. It is understandable and actually isn’t much different than any other sales job. They probably really do want to offer us something that they believe will HELP us.
Considering that, how can we deal with our direct sales burnout?
It is ok to *kindly* say “no thanks”. And just move on. It really isn’t a big deal to say no and you don’t have to be mean. There is also a way to maintain the relationship and not see posts that don’t interest you…unfollow. It’s ok!
If you need to speak up…
Don’t be afraid to *kindly* say something if you see direct sales marketing that is offensive or harmful. A kind private message can make more of a difference than a harsh public comment.
On the other hand, offer a compliment when you see someone’s marketing that is positive and uplifting or when you know that person is going outside of her comfort zone to try something new. You don’t have to be interested in the product to offer support and encouragement to the person.
Basically, it comes down to the golden rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Treat others with kindness and respect (even if you’re uninterested or even annoyed), offer support for their career, and chances are, you’ll get the same!
