I became an Independent Representative of Avon Products in June when my sister was trying to win a spot on a cruise. The idea was to just place a first order, then let it drop, but somewhere in the conversation, I realized that maybe this could be an opportunity for a fundraiser for our Aglow Lighthouse.
I reasoned that both Avon and Aglow, had been around long enough that this probably wouldn't be the first time it had been done, but have not been able to verify that any other Lighthouses had partnered with a representative to earn money by selling Avon.
First I checked with our Area President, it is important to me to always follow the rules, and to clarify what the rules are. My plan was to donate all the profit to the Lighthouse, because it wouldn't be allowed or right for me to be the President and profit from a fundraiser, the IRS has a name for that!
I also know because of my experience in the industry, that it wouldn't be right to expect any other representative to donate all the profit when the intent of having a business is to make profit.
So, with the start up benefit of a full 50% off the first several campaigns, and the blessing of our leadership, we proceeded to take orders.
We opted to use the full brochure, so that people could order products they wanted to benefit our Lighthouse instead of just buying something because that is what we were selling. We took orders for jewelry, foot care, underwear and shoes, and Aglow received the difference between the cost and the retail price.
We were even able to not charge sales tax on the order because Aglow is a 501c3 organization.
It was quite a learning experience, but it was great to be able to provide items that were actually wanted and have the Lighthouse be able to add to our feeble checking account.
As I re-learned how to be an Avon Representative in the Internet era, I decided it was such an easy thing to do, very low start up cost ($10!), no monthly quota, easy product recognition and satisfaction guarantee for customers, it would be silly to drop it now, especially when I love serving customers anyway.
Happily there were several ladies who wanted to order again and again, so why would I say no?
I am continuing to learn the best practices to build an avon business and will look forward to being a really great Avon Lady.
Anyone can browse or shop at my Avon website by clicking the highlighted text links. You can be assured that only I will get any contact information entered, and only Avon will collect payment information through the secure payment system.
