Party plans vs. MLM

[AlisonMSmith]

Originally Posted by JoyfulHome

Not to belabor the point, but direct sales is not something that "all" companies do.

I apologize. I wasn't clear. What I meant by "all companies" was "all the mlm/party plan companies" that I am trying to include on the site.

The general definition of "direct sales" that I use is similar to DSA's only without the conditional "person-to-person." Such as "Themarketing and selling products, direct to consumers away from a fixed retail location."

Some of these companies could establish a fixed retail location, but most don't and I don't know of any that require it.

In a word... yes. Not many, but there are a few.

That is good to know. I will try to be aware of those that are single level so that I can properly classify them. Thanks!

You've all been very helpful. Thank you so much for your time and expertise.

[AlisonMSmith]

Originally Posted by Yulia

Hi Alison, your PM inbox is full ...

Ack. Fixed!
[img]smileys/smiley3.gif[/img]

[DeborahDeGrande]

Most today are a combination of "both"...there is no versus although party plan focuses more on retail sales than recruiting.

[LorettaA]

Those in party plan can make money strictly from selling product to customers. There are some people that have no interest in sponsoring others to join the company. Is this different from most mlm classified businesses?

Also, party plan has a hostess program. I don't think mlm classified companies have hostess programs, but I could be wrong.

[LoreneB]

Loretta,

That is a good point. I don't think that MLMs would have a hostess program, since they don't usually sell via home parties. Someone please correct me ifI am wrong.

This post has really been covered from all angles and is drawing a lot of attention. I congratulate all direct sellers for helping our industry to become so popular---especially with the current job market. People are looking for what we have to offer!

[DeborahDeGrande]

That is a good point. I don't think that MLMs would have a hostess program

Mine does.

[JoyfulHome]

Originally Posted by LorettaA

Those in party plan can make money strictly from selling product to customers. There are some people that have no interest in sponsoring others to join the company.

Excellent point, Loretta. While building a team often means potentially increased profits in many compensation plans,it also means the increased workload and stress that go hand-in-hand with management. It also takes a specialized skill set and personality type to be an effective leader. The ability to earn without being forced into the burden of leadership opens the business up to a much wider range of individuals.

Originally Posted by LorettaA

Also, party plan has a hostess program. I don't think mlm classified companies have hostess programs, but I could be wrong.

Another good point! I assume you're referring tocompany-sponsored hostess programs. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, but this does seem to be another clear distinction between party plan companies and non-party plan companies in general.

Blessings,
ChristyEdited by: JoyfulHome

[maryscandles]

Originally Posted by DeborahDeGrande

Mine does.

I'm curious - In most people's minds, a "hostess program" means there was a party of some kind with the host/hostess earning gifts based on sales. Is your company strictly MLM? How does the hostess program work?

[DeborahDeGrande]

I'm curious - In most people's minds, a "hostess program" means there was a party of some kind with the host/hostess earning gifts based on sales. Is your company strictly MLM? How does the hostess program work? MARYSCANDLES

That is correct!

The company is "multilevel" AND has the hostess plan as you described yes!
They have the best of both worlds. Most mlm companies do not. Mine does.

DebEdited by: DeborahDeGrande

[maryscandles]

Deb, I still don't understand how? Could you be a little more specific?