The Daily Juice

Pssst. Want to Start a Fire?

2018-02-04T13:09:00.000-05:00

1. Write a new interesting email to a former customer/host about something you just learned about your product or service they can't live without.

2. End your email with a 'P.S.' about a special incentive, gift, promotion, extra credit etc that has an upcoming deadline. Ask for an action. Look at your calendar and propose a "this or that' date.

3. Copy and paste that email for another former customer/hostess, personalize and customize slightly, and then shoot that email off.

4. Repeat above steps.

5. Repeat above steps until you book at least one party, get an order or get a new prospect to join your team.

Action is the match! Nothing else starts the fire!

Strike the match, start the fire!

--Rina Valan

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Facebook LIVE: The Agony and The Ecstasy

2016-08-19T09:55:00.002-04:00

If you fancy yourself a pioneer, that means experiments don't always work out the way you expect them to

The good news is, if you can wipe the egg off your face you might be able to keep going and learn what NOT to do the next time! I'm still recovering from a LIVE Facebook broadcast a couple nights ago I held in a support group for my Wine Decadence sales team. For those of you unfamiliar, Facebook 'LIVE' is a feature where you can literally broadcast live anytime, anyplace, right from your phone. It's raw and genuine...and unpredictable. -The Background: I held a 2 month sales contest for my sales consultants. They earned fake $$, and then they could use it for bidding in a live auction for prizes and goodies. |-The Massive Boo-Boo: I thought I would be progressive and hold the Auction via LIVE on Facebook instead of the standard 'upload-the-photo-then you bid' static format
-Throw in: Murphy's Law, bad eyes, phone crapping out, a cat, and the not-so-obvious challenges of FB live.

Here are the few lessons I learned and pitfalls you can avoid:

1. After securing my phone with packing tape to a tri-pod, I went live and realized that I was broadcasting sideways. It wasn't going to landscape mode, even though I had an iPhone. Untape phone, insert mouth, oh God, please stop sweating! 2. LIVE doesn't mean exactly 'live.' There is usually a lag time, due either to your broadcast speed and/or the band speed of viewers. In some cases it was a minute or more lag. I was calling 'time up' and my lips were still flapping on a previous item for some. 3. Trying to read comments does not work when you're standing 3 or 4 feet from your phone. In fact, reading comments doesn't work if you can't read without reading glasses! I spent most of the time broadcasting with my nose to the phone. 4. If you have an iPhone, you might run out of power! Consider plugging in if you're going to be on for 15 minutes or more. I was still 5 items from finish when the all too familiar screen message popped up '10% power left.' I quickly became the world's fastest talker. 5. Secure your furbabies in another room. My cat decided he wanted to go out and would not stop meowing. I tried to shoo him away by kicking my legs and waving my hands beneath the camera, but he apparently ddidn't understand sign language. I had to excuse myself for a moment...$%^! So....other than all the above, it went great! LOL! My sales team are troopers and we do pride ourselves in being pioneers with trying new ways to reinvent old ways. Lesson learned? You can't be discouraged when you try something new and it isn't exactly right yet. Our business life is a cha-cha...couple steps forward, one back!
--Rina Valan ###

The Secret of Booking Parties at Parties

2016-03-10T07:42:00.004-05:00

The power of a private ordering room is not just about insuring someone's privacy regarding what they do or don't like to do or buy when it comes the products you may sell at home parties. That is just one part of it.

The power of the private ordering room is intensely about the power of future business---getting future bookings. Without getting future bookings at each party, your business will always feel like you're in the start up mode.

There is a secret technique to get more bookings in the 'confessional.'
I did not read about this technique, it is my tried and true method.
And everyone I have shared it with that has tried it, agrees that it works!

The secret technique involves:
-Touch
-Three questions from you that beg a 'yes' answer
-And then, the secret phrase

Here's how it goes:

When your customer comes into the confessional, she sits, she chats, you chat, you review her order, you check for completeness, you suggest or up sell, and then you take payment.
Right after that:

1. Look into her eyes, gently place your hand on the tip of her shoulder or fingers, and ask the first "yes" question: "Did you have a good time?"

2. Then you ask her 2 more questions that beg a "yes" answer, like
--"Mary Hostess is such a wonderful person, isn't she?"
--"I think everyone else had a good time, too, don't you think so?"

3. And then, you ask the magic phrase:
   "I would love to do a party for you"

Your guest will say one of three things: "Yes," "No," or "I don't...blank"
    "Yes" means get your datebook out and pencil in the date right then and there.
    "No" means politely acknowledge and say the door is always open should she change her mind.
     "I don't...know if my house is big enough," or "I know enough people" or " I don't know if people will come" ...or whatever. These are called sales objections.
Good news: objections are great!
Because objections mean "Yes, I'm interested, but I need a solution to my issue."

And there are only so many objections in our business, and you know how to answer them!

Always FIRST acknowledge her objection, and then help her out with a solution.
Critical: after acknowledging, offer the solution with "Let's pencil in a date!"

Can you imagine booking 2 or 3 shows from every show?

It works. And it will work for you!

--Rina Valan

P.S. Check out my personal social media company, if you're in a home party business, we specialize in you! Stand out from the noise, we'll show you how www.BrainsAndBeautyMedia.com

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What is your Elevator Speech?

2016-01-29T13:46:00.000-05:00

You need an elevator speech whenever someone asks you "So what do you do?"

And you should always have your elevator speech ready,
even when you're not in a elevator.

So what is an elevator speech anyway?

It is basically a very short, to the point, one or two finely crafted sentences that paints a complete picture of what you do.

After all, you're in an elevator and your time and their attention span is limited.

Once the door opens it's all over.

And conversely, when you're not in an elevator, people's attention span is about the same as that elevator ride...10 seconds or less.

So, how do you craft a great elevator speech? First, answer these 4 questions and then craft your speech consisting of just one or two impeccably designed sentences:

#1. Who do you work with?
#2. What is their biggest problem?
#3. What do you do to help them?
#4. What result do they end up with?

Here's my Brains and Beauty Media elevator speech:

"I'm your personal marketing department! For business owners and professionals who don't have the time or resources to keep up with social marketing, I help them get noticed and stay competitive."

What's yours? Share it with the world, just comment below!

P.S. Here's a great article from Christian Mickelsen if you need a little more help in crafting your own elevator speech.

--Rina Valan

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The First Step

2016-01-18T16:15:00.001-05:00

Faith is taking the first step, even when you don't see the whole staircase.

--- Martin Luther King Jr.

The first step is the most important step - critical to anything you do!

It's no different with a goal in your business, because just thinking about a goal, or task, or 'making it' is not enough.
Even a positive attitude won't do it for you.What works?
Executing a first action, no matter how simple, is what creates and gives you the real motivation.
It isn't external, or someone, or something.
It is you and that first step.

-Rina Valan

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Feature Friday: Like Stealth in the Night

2015-12-11T06:30:00.000-05:00

Through the many years I've been in the direct selling industry, I've come across some amazing achievers and leaders. And they all come with a variety of personalities...

Some love to be in the limelight and share their success publically as often as possible. Then there are others like Gina Timothy, Senior Director with LOVEWINX who work quietly and seldom mention their achievements.
I didn't realize she was a rock star until I read about her eye-popping numbers last month. Not only did she produce over 5 figures personally, several of her downline team members produced just as much too.
Soft spoken, swift, going full speed ahead. If Gina were a country song it would be "Stealth in the Night."

When people ask you "what do you do?" how do you describe your business?

I say "I do romance home parties, you just get your girlfriends together and I come do a show for you and you get to shop for free and also get some great specials." I always take their information rather than just give them my business card.

What is the funniest story or situation you can think of involving your business/what you sell?

Well, I was pulled over for speeding once and at the time we were carrying naughty Halloween costumes. When the police officer came to my window, he asked me where I was going in such a hurry. I told him I was on my way to show some ladies my fun business products and I pulled the sexy female correctional officer outfit off my backseat and showed him. He went 10 shades of red and just told me to slow down. He was so flustered he didnt even ask for my license or registration. I gave him my card though!

Besides LOVEWWINX, do you have family and/or what else are you involved in?

I have been in the business since 2000. I am the mother of a 26 year old daughter, a 24 year old son, a 20 year old daughter and a 14 year old son. I also have two beautiful grandchildren. I recently got married to my amazing husband, John.

What personal goal is your LOVEWINX business helping you to achieve?

My goal is to purchase a piece of property and build a log house for our big family gatherings and of course my LOVEWINX meetings.

What's your favorite part of being a LOVEWINX Romance Consultant?

Its hard to just choose one thing! I love helping other women succeed. I love the amazing money and the fact that I do not have to work 9-5 and can take time off whenever I want.

What advice can you give to other women just getting started in the business?

Think big! Talk to everyone about your new exciting business. Never pre-judge on who will be interested. Most important tip: NEVER give up! I have had many down turns but I always pick myself back up.

--Rina Valan

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The Confession about the Confessional

2015-12-09T13:01:00.000-05:00

I just had an interesting conversation with an experienced romance consultant today about her frustration with a party she had recently.

There over 22 guests, it was a great presentation wise, the guests had a wonderful time, but....she got no bookings and the the sales were just 'ok.'

Her problem? Things were so hectic that she wound up taking orders in the corner of the living room. It was almost private. The guests and hostess insisted it was ok with them and instead of following her normal protocol to take orders privately in a seperate area/or room.

Result: the sales suffered, not as high as she had hoped or for 22 orders. She did not get any bookings that night, though many assured "I'll call" or "I'll let you know."

I have heard this same story from other consultants with the same dilemma and maybe this has even happened to you!

This all comes down to a matter of timing.

It's a rough thing to 'insist' on the private order taking room when a hostess has a house full and she's trying to tend to their drink and food needs. You insisting at that time for her to pull away and make decisions makes you come off as being pushy and not caring about her stress at the moment.

So what do you do instead?
Easy...once you arrive and determine where you are setting up your demo, the very next question to your hostess should be: "What room am I taking orders in?"

When you ask your hostess up front and arrange the order taking area UP FRONT, it never becomes an issue at the end.

And having a private room/area for taking order is JUST as important as where you are presenting from.

Why is taking orders in a private area CRITICAL to your business?
--Because your customer has no distractions and you can get HER to FOCUS on the products you just presented
---And because YOU can focus on HER.
---Because you can get her to talk
---And by her talking, you discover her, her needs and then make a CONNECTION.

CONNECTION = higher sales
CONNECTION = more probably of booking
CONNECTION = the start of building a relationship

There more, like connection phraseology during your order taking period, but that is another blog for the next day. In the meantime, no matter what product or service you present, set up your order taking aread BEFORE you start your presentation and make sure it is in a private area!

--Rina Valan

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3 Ways to Max Out your Holiday Sales Season

2015-11-07T18:24:00.001-05:00

It's the holiday season! You've been waiting for the busy season all year!

Here are 3 tips to make sure you and your business get the most from the opportunities that come along with the season!

Be Prepared!

Do you have enough catalogs, supplies, giveaways, samplers, and/or prizes? If not, get them ordered and on hand now. You may get a request for a last minute party, you want to make sure you are stocked! Plus, always have on hand samplers, giveaways, goodies, catalogs as everyday there may be an opportunity for you to sprinkle yours. Keep a 'Naughty Bag' or 'Nice Bag' in the car/on hand for last minute personal sales (stocking stuffers, lover's gift, New Year's Eve gifts etc) People are in the buying mood--you want to strike when the iron is hot!

Give Good Reasons!

People may be in a buying mood, but they are also in a busy mood. Give them a good reason why a get together with friends. Give them a good reason why they want to buy 'that what' from 'you.' Create desire, create fun. Stop for a moment and think reasons, script them in your mind. Then use them online, in emails, phone calls, with friends, walking and talking, and of course at parties.

Pre-Market Every Party!

With all the free tools we have at our disposal nowadays, along with your hostess, you can also be the key mover and shaker for every single party. You drive the bus! Make sure you:
-Customize a text invitation for every hostess/party and use it!
-Create a Facebook event to support every single live party (of course make your hostess the 'co-host and have her invite her friends.) You will be able to build relationships with every single invited guest before you even show up--even if they don't! In fact, you will be able to directly market to all invited guests before, during and AFTER a live party (gently, of course.) Think about how this truly maximizes your opportunity to grow your customer base!
-When you call and coach your host, generate enthusiasm by giving good reasons why her guests want to show up, including specials, drawings, games, prizes!

Ready, Merry, GO!!!!!!!

--Rina Valan

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Embracing a Spirit of Exploration

2015-10-12T08:51:00.000-04:00

Columbus was the world's
most amazing salesman.

-He only had one prospect to call on (Isabella and Ferdinand of Spain)

-He started out not knowing where he was going.

-When he got there, he didn't know where it was so...

-When he got back, he couldn't say where he'd been.

-And he did it all on a big cash advance...and he got a repeat order.

So instead of thinking how tough it may be in this 2015 new world, you can be glad you don't have to sail anywhere to make money!

You don't even have to leave your house..
.

You just have to embrace the spirit for new exploration, and you then you must sail!

Sail on!

--Rina Valan

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How to get your Host from Brew to Woohoo!

2015-09-21T12:19:00.002-04:00

When
The day after a home party.

The Place
In your hostess's mind.

The Problem
She's wondering:
-What the heck her party sales came out to be?
- What credits did she actually get?
- Did anyone really book a show?
...and all the while wishing she could had paid attention to you instead of being the ultimate hostess and taking care of her friends and guests.

The Dilemma
She wonders, worries.
And when her party orders do come in she is never really sure if she was treated properly or given what she actually earned...and she brews. And brews.

All the good will and coaching and relationship building you had done previously goes down the drain!

The Solution
The very next day after her party, you send her a nice thank-you email OR private facebook message AND it includes something like this:

"Oh, and by the way your party sales were BLANK, and that means you received BLANK in hostess credit. Plus you also chose/received BLANK for WHATEVER. And thank you so much! BLANK friends booked a show with me!"

Even better to include in your message:

"Don't worry, I'm going to call and email you as soon as I get notice your products are in or being shipped! That should be in about BLANK days or weeks."

Trust me on this one. They will love you. And they will tell their friends.

--Rina Valan

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Feature Friday: The Master Chef and her Perfect Cash Flow Recipes

2015-09-18T07:05:00.000-04:00

I remember the first time I listened to one of Deb Bixler's recorded taining calls. I said to myself:
"Wow, it's all content here, there's no fluff."

I was so impressed that I arranged a few weeks later to meet Deb in person so she could develop a training program for the members of CAHPA.org. Much to my surprise, I also learned that Deb is a master chef - well, maybe it shouldn't be such a big suprise! After all, her teaching, coaching, and methods are like fine crafted recipes, and she only uses the finest ingredients.

"Put systems into place, don't quit,
only way to fail is stop!" -Deb Bixler

How long have you been involved in the direct selling industry and how did you start?

I worked in the food service industry for 30 years and had come to a point in my life where I was getting sick and tired of being sick and tired. The stress was killing me!

I was looking for something new when I got invited to my very first home party. The consultant said: "Watch what I do here today and for those of you who would like to make money and have fun with MyFantasticCompany just get with me after the show and I will be glad to give you more information!" The seed was planted....

A couple of months later I took a reduced responsibility position that only required a 40 hour work week at my job and joined the company. I worked both, my full time job and my party plan business for 9 months with a mission to date one home party every day. (And I did!) After retiring from the corporate world entirely I went on to use my party plan business as my total household income for 7 years.

What is the funniest story or situation you can think of involving your business?

One time at a party the hostess's big giant parrot flew out of his cage and landed on the pizza that I just took out of the oven! Everyone (except me) ate it anyway!

What personal goal or dream has being in direct selling help you achieve?
I get to sleep as late as I want every day and I don't even have an alarm clock in my bedroom any more! Bixlers are not known to be early risers! Seriously though - if it was not for the direct selling industry I probably would have ended up having a heart attack by now. I can't imagine that I could have reduced my stress levels to almost nil and still support myself and family in any other endeavor!

What's your favorite part of being in the direct sales industry?
I have always loved to teach so as a leader the aspect of team building, teaching at parties and changing peoples lives was just as exciting as my previous career. I now teach others how treat their business like a professional and use the same best business practices and party plan systems that gave me success in the industry. Anyone can "Create A Cash Flow Show" party plan business! Get it? Create a cash flow party plan show schedule using systems!

Deb Bixler, left, speaking at
one of our Annual Conventions.

What’s next on your bucket list?

I plan to go to Japan within the next 2 years because I have a Japanese sister whom I want to visit. Sometime in the near future I intend to hike the other half of the Appalachian Trail. I hiked the first part (Georgia to Delaware Water Gap, PA) when I was 21 and have been saying all my life that I would do the rest when I retire so....not that I am retired but I guess it is time to get back into shape!

What advice can you give to other women just getting started in the business?
Professionalism is an attitude not a time commitment. Whether you want to work your party plan business part time, full-time or even less you WILL create a consistent cashflow show schedule when you have a professional attitude. Like a real job...there are not secrets to success! Just get up every day and go to work. Put systems in place to make things run smoothly. Use every lead generation system available too you! Don't quit! The only way to fail is to stop!

-Rina Valan

P.S. Deb is giving you the free version to her Cash Flow Show Bookings University - it's a gift!
www.CashFlowShowBookings.com

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Feature Friday: Kicking Goals and Taking Names!

2015-09-11T07:15:00.000-04:00

'Forwards' are commonly known as the players in soccer designated to score for their team by kicking the ball over the goal line.

A couple of weeks ago I watched a superstar in our LOVEWINX network take top honors as the #4 top selling consultant in the entire company. After the hub bub, I wanted to know what made her tick. Well, I was in for a surprise, she oozes goals and she loves to kick. If I had a soccer team, she would be our key'forward' for sure. JennRudd started her direct selling business in 2009, had never even done a party before. When her personal sales started to sky rocket, she became 'serious' about the business, and her dream to continue to stay home/for family could become a reality. So, she created a plan, and set monthly goals that included building a team around and through her personal sales. Score!

When people ask you "what do you do?" how do you describe your business?

I knew the only option was to set my goals every month and that's when I became successful...when I started to plan my goals and work it. -Jenn Rudd :

When people ask me what it is that I do, I share with them that I empower women. I own my own Lingerie and Romance Business. When it is questioned deeper, I share that I enhance the lives of women and their partners with education, excitement and enticement within them selves and their relationships all while sharing the opportunity of financial freedom and living their life with passion, purpose and pleasure.

What is the funniest story or situation you can think of involving your business/what you sell?Last year I was heading to a networking meeting with my Heart Link Group, as I was driving on the highway to get there, I had been rear-ended from the car behind me. Needless to say this scared the wits right out of me. I couldn’t focus properly and with a torrential rain pour, I couldn’t get my vehicle off to the side. Anyhow, the wonderful officer who assisted me was such a pleasure to talk to. I told him I was on my way to a networking meeting and literally 5 minutes away from it, he asked what did I do. I told him and of course I gave him my card and a catalogue. I get to my meeting to see that I had a new ‘like’ on my Facebook Fan Page. That’s so cool! You just never know who you are going to meet, and you just never know who may take the opportunity you have given. So even though I was scared out of my wits, the situation was literally “by accident” as he stated. He is now my customer of mine, whether by ‘accident’ or not.
|

Besides LOVEWINX, do you have family and/or what else are you involved in?

LOVEWINX is the income that contributes to my family. I used to work a full-time “JOB”. Five years ago, my “JOB” downsized when returning from maternity leave. At that time, I was doing the romance business only part-time. I LOVE that my ‘JOB’ downsized, why? Because it has given me to the opportunity to grow as an individual, to step out of my comfort zone and to truly build financial success for my family. I replaced my full-time income with the romance business and then some. I am a mother of 3 boys, 15, 5 and 3 and a step mother to an 18 year old boy and 21 year old girl. My life is busy, staying at home with the children, and working this business gives me the opportunity to do just that. I can work when I want to and take the time when needed to take care of my family, the flexibility gives me the chance to spend more time doing the important things in life and that’s building memories with my pride and joys.

What's your favorite part of being a LOVEWINX Romance Consultant?

My favorite part of being a LOVEWINX consultant is knowing that no matter who is in living room of any party I do, there is always at least one person’s life I’m changing, whether it be financially, sensually or by education, there is always a change being made. I love the ‘sisterhood’ of support you receive from other consultants, too. The motivation, tips and tricks we share, the cheerleader who is wanting more for you, the empowerment, just simply the relationships we form! I love that no matter where you are in North America we are all in this together as a family. We all are doing the same thing and that is to change lives. You just don’t get that in the corporate world! There’s a saying that goes ‘girls compete with each other, women empower each other’ and it’s so very true. Our consultants are empowering! The compensation and rewards are amazing too, I mean, where else can you make an average $500 in two hours legally.

What advice can you give to other women just getting started in the business?My advice would be: take advantage of all the trainings that are offered to you, attend your monthly meetings or weekly calls (those who do, are much greater at success than those who don’t.) Get out there and make money NOW while you learn, and use your sponsor to help guide you in making your dreams come true. And most importantly, one simple rule ‘believe in yourself’ that you can do this and that you will!

--Rina Valan

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3 Ways to Ruin a Sales Follow-up Call

2015-09-10T19:38:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite phone boo-boo's is:
"Hi, it's just Joe Salesman, I want to follow up on..."

Click.

Here are 3 phrases you should stay away when you call a prospect and/or leave a voice mail:

1. Just. Whenever we use the word "just," we are lowering the value of our offer when compared to whatever is occupying their attention at that moment. When I call "Mary" and say, "Mary, it's just Rina Valan." I have effectively said that I'm second to whatever she has going on at the moment, and in effect you become minor.

When you call your hostess or prospect, tell them why you are calling. But, take the word "just" out of your initial conversation and your voice-mails.

2. I want to.
You're in essence telling someone what you want is more important than what they want. This sounds like a demand and pretty soon their mindset turns back to their problems and their needs. So when you call them, don't talk about what you want, and refrain from saying anything with, "I want to..." in it.

3. Minute of time.
It's good to make sure that your hostess/prospect can actually speak on the phone at the moment, not running to the emergency room or in the middle of a heated debate with their mate. Here's the catch: ask for a moment instead of a minute. A minute has a well-defined length, and they are focused on the length instead of what you are saying. "Do you have a moment?" you will typically get as much time as you need to get your message across. Try it!

--Rina Valan

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Have you checked your Hopper lately?

2015-09-08T18:23:00.000-04:00

I have this really cool old fashioned popcorn cart in my living room.
I bought it a few years ago when I was thumbing through a Sky Mall catalog on a red-eye flight home from Vegas. It's gorgeous, big and red, stands on its own, and makes really good popcorn.

There's only one thing wrong with it:
It doesn't make any popcorn unless you put popcorn kernels into the hopper.
Plus, you have to keep buying popcorn.
The nerve.

So, tell me, how's your hopper doing?

If you have a business, all business' have the proverbial hopper. And maybe you're making the same assumption when it comes to wondering why business is slow, or nothing is happening. Hey, that's not right! After all, you put all this time into it, invested in samples, bought even more samples, perhaps you were a top seller, had a great past season, and/or a long list of reasons justifying why you got a cart and nothing is popping.

If you don't keep loading your hopper with prospective business leads, nothing is going to pop no matter how bright and shiny your products are, and no matter what your past sales history!

The Bad News: kernels don't jump into the hopper by themselves, no matter how much you think they "should."

The Good News: business leads don't all have to be new! Business is all around you, people you know, the people they know, people you've done business with, old hostesses, old customers, home party cancellations, postponements...stop waiting for the kernels to jump in by themselves and gather them up and put them back into your hopper instead.

Bottom line:
Concentrate on filling up your hopper, and keeping it full. The more you have in there, the more likely something will pop!

P.S. You have a WHOLE world of warm prospects sitting right behind this screen, free for the finding, free for the taking. Again, they are former customers, former hostesses, cancelled hostesses, friends, relatives, friends of friends, your Facebook friends and their friends (that's a biggie), plus all the new friends you make while finding them on new friends social sites. Stop waiting. Start writing!

--Rina Valan

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Do you have empty tank syndrome?

2015-08-31T14:01:00.000-04:00

Your car has no gas, what do you do?

You'd never think of throwing away

your car when you're out of gas, right?

Well, so goes the same goes for your business! If you have no bookings and/or sales are low, walking away is not your only choice. You're just out of GAS!

Here's the dilemma: worrying, finding others to validate your fears, whining, or complaining can make you feel like you're working hard and that you are marketing, but it isn't. Yet so many invest in a home party business and do walk away when they have little or no business.

KEY: without 5 or 6 future bookings, you run the risk of this EMPTY TANK SYNDROME.
How to put gas in your tank? You make a conscious daily investment in time to market your business and get at least 5 or 6 future bookings!

4 ways to put gas in your tank

1. Assemble your prospect list.
What's a prospect list? That's everyone you know: family, friends, people you work or used to work with, neighbors, customers, former customers, etc. It is also people you know online through your social media (like Facebook, Lindedin, etc.) With this list, you start or restart conversation about something that connects you and may be able to connect more with a service or product you provide. Use this list to feed #3 and #4 below.

2. Turn and reach out to previous customers that you've ignored, and turn them back into warm leads using Facebook.
--Look them up from previous home parties or from a direct sale. Do NOT friend them immediately at first. Message them with a brief hello and a question that connected you and begs a response back ("How's that Rash Free Shave Cream working for you?")
--Once you get a response, continue to message one more time, and then friend request.
Once you have them into your social circle, you get to show up on their desktop every day...and you may continue to grow them as a customer, future hostess, or even a Rep. This is the secret of growing your business in today's world. Invite them to #3 or #4 below.

3. Create an 'event' on Facebook around a special promotion/gift/ incentive for hosting a party.
Provide an end date. Make it fun and creative. Why? Because this event shows up on all your friends or your Fans desktop everyday! Engage anyone who comments or responds. You can even send updates. It's a free commercial! Do not invite more than 50 people, and invite those especially from #1 and #2 above. Message them individually when you invite them to the event.

4. Book your own party, and especially invite those that said no to a booking. Make sure to invite those from your list #1 above! Your goal is not so much to to sell-but to expose yourself and business, and get a couple of future bookings!

5. Repeat all of the above. Every single day...until you fill up your tank!

--Rina Valan

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The Art of Sowing and Growing

2015-08-06T11:50:00.000-04:00

Business today is like farming.

You collect seeds for sowing.

Some may even call it 'marketing.'

Collect them, sow them and grow them.

Essentially, it means making a connection, and continuing to build a relationship.

Tip: it's easy when you utilize a greenhouse, like Facebook.

Some may even call this 'social marketing.'

Because, you never know when one will grow up to be a prospect or customer.

Or one that likes to share your seeds with others.

Some say it's very efficient through social farming, oops! I meant social marketing!

And every now and then you nuture some into a glorious plants that are now friends.

These are the ones you and maintain strong connections with, almost on a daily basis.

And I say it's so simple, and easy!

But one must fully understand, embrace and

utilize social marketing as an essential tool.

Sow, and grow.

--Rina Valan

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Are you an Info-Dumper?

2015-07-29T07:46:00.000-04:00

Psst.
Let me ask you one little question.

When you call or email someone about your business, do you give them so much information at one time that it resembles a dump truck?

I thought of a good name for that.
It's called Info-Dumping.

Info-dumping is one of the fastest ways to completely overwhelm someone to the point of turning them away from you.
And sometimes, it can be forever.

Info dumping can be very costly whether you're booking a home party, hostess coaching, responding to someone who's interested in your business opportunity, responding to a question or inquiry.

And this is also true when it comes to those hostess packs for your home parties. Pack them with so much paper, forms, stickers, and it will be thrown into the pile of stuff that never gets looked at again.

And Info-dumping is the surest way to have a down-line NOT call you back!
This especially includes training, and coaching your new consultants.
You think because you give them all the information at once, they 'get' it.
Nothing could be farther from the truth.

And emails? People just stop reading the first few lines, especially if you got lots of attachments and paragraphs. Keep them brief, you can always send more emails! And besides, if gives you another reason to write, to connect. Give them everything up front-and then you have nothing to pique their interest in a follow up!

Yes, I'm really talking to you.

Teeny bits of information. Frequently.

Get it?
Got it?
Good ; )

--Rina Valan

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Tips for Fairs and Expos

2015-07-23T18:15:00.001-04:00

Last week some of our Lovewinx party consultants got a booth and exhibited at a women's expo.

I attended and spent the afternoon casually observing how attendees behaved at our booth. I also spent a lot of time observing how attendees behaved with other exhibitors! Amazing what you learn and "remember" when you step back and just listen!

Things that worked the best:

Experiential is the way to go! People like to poke, prod, touch, taste. Put the product in their hands and let them get excited about it as you give them ideas, features. Draw them into what the experience/outcome would be if they were the consumer. Those who worked their booths by drawing in the attendees by putting product literally in their hands were always crowded.

Things that didn't work:

No samples, or samples that said "I'm display, don't touch me." Attendees just walked by, took information that was handed to them to be polite.

More things that worked:

Freebies (samplers, samples, small tastes), little giveaways, gimmicks (advertising specialties like pens, key chains, funny things, edible things) Heck give them SOMEthing! What worked especially well? A free entry for a raffle prize. Those booths got the greatest amount of entries (other wise known as leads!)

More things that didn't work:

Just pictures of product, no catalogs, handing a postcard or sheet of paper, a bunch of single sheets, too little on the table, too much on the table. The worst thing I observed? Standing behind the table, not engaging attendees in conversation, not asking attendees questions or not asking something about them.

Bottom line?

Engage, pull in, draw in, ask them questions, put product in their hands, get them excited about your product or service FIRST. It doesn't matter if you're at a trade show, home party, at a soccer game or PTA meeting.

The rest will follow.

--Rina Valan

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Feature Friday: For the Leah Love of It

2015-06-26T09:59:00.000-04:00

The first time I met Leah Love in person was when she was new to the romance party industry. She was one of our newest consultants, and it was at a Fantasia Home Parties sales rally over 13 years ago. She was dressed in a black shirt, long black skirt and black mile high clogs. And it was obvious after a brief conversation, that she is a woman of living color. Bright and sometimes blinding, her educational style at her romance parties has earned her a following of super hosts and die hard loyal customers. And they come back, season after season for get a little more 'love' from their one and only Leah.

When people ask you "what do you do?" how do you describe your business?

First and foremost I always say "I'm in the Romance Business," because I think it gets people's interest up in a non-threatening way. I want to gauge reactions so I don't scare them by hitting them right in the face with "I'm a sexpert" or "toy purveyor," although I do appreciate bluntness (how can one be elbow deep in the this industry and not?) My experience has led me to stagger the information which leads to a more comfortable conversation and acceptance. Once they cock their eye and say, "Really?" and it's in an appreciative tone, I know I can move forward with more details and eventually hand over a business card.

What is the funniest story or situation you can think of involving your business/what you sell?

Gosh! I used to keep notes so I could put together a book (or these days, a blog)...so many funny comments and situations related to being in this business! One that stands out comes from very early in my career, a guest was yack yack yacking through my entire presentation so she missed an explanation of an odd shaped toy. It was phallic sized with a T shaped attachment with wheels for the top which could be used as a massaging roller for one's back. Clearly not an implement to be inserted into any orifice. Somewhere toward the end of the presentation she picked up this toy and said, "How the heck is this supposed to fit inside?" and I replied, "Do you think you'll have any trouble?" Obviously, not the most professional response! LOL! I learned to keep my tongue slightly more in check since ;)

Besides LOVEWINX, do you have family and/or what else are you involved in?

I'm very lucky to have a mother and sister who are extremely supportive of my business in that both have hosted parties for me and will continue to, and my husband, father and brother all have a sense of humor about it, thankfully! At my day job, I am an Academic Administrator for the S.T.E.M. school at a local college, and I'm heavily involved in community beach clean-ups, women's rights, as well as animal welfare.

What personal goal is your LOVEWINX business helping you to achieve?

I am a frustrated actress/comedian is what I always say--so putting on these presentations certainly allows me to achieve the goal of putting on a show for people! Yes, ultimately I want to enlighten the masses about these amazing products, but I REALLY want to entertain them, too. To be honest, I often wonder how many people truly have a career where they get positive feedback, accolades and thank you's every single time they simply just DO THE JOB. It's very life-affirming. Also, since I don't have any children of my own, LOVEWINX helps me to achieve a life legacy of some sort: helping women accept their beautiful bodies no matter what their color, shape or sexuality; encouraging them to enjoy sex more (and/or again); or maybe even helping some get pregnant as a result of using our products often!

What's your favorite part of being a LOVEWINX Romance Consultant?

I just love meeting all sorts of women and helping them to capitalize on their inherent sexiness and sexuality. Life is short, why not let go and enjoy every single bit our bodies allow?

What advice can you give to other women just getting started in the business?

Be patient. It takes time to build a business. Never act shameful, embarrassed, or judgmental about any sex toy or sex act between two or more consenting adults; learn every single thing you can about sex and the body, even if it's something you personally don't care for. Your job is to introduce your customers to what's out there and let them choose for themselves what is best for them.

--Rina Valan

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Feature Friday: Slow Brew and True

2015-06-12T07:24:00.000-04:00

I met Mary Pratt for the first time in person at a Lovewinx meeting a couple of months ago in Superman's home town of Metropolis IL. I'm pretty sure she had a cape tucked into the back of her shirt... modern day super heroes are modest that way.

Superman didn't become super overnight. He is a slow brew kind of hero, home grown, good heart, and throws himself in front of trains for others. Mary is like that in my eyes, a home grown hero for her family and friends, and she brings that right into her business. She is notorious to a fault for going out of her way to help others, especially when they are trying to launch their own business like hers. I've watched her over the past couple of years navigate merges, difficult situations, and uncertainties of change. She could have thrown in the hat. But she didn't.

When people ask you "what do you do?" how do you describe your business? I tell them I'm a romance consultant for Lovewinx, and I get to help women and couples learn more about communication and intimacy through home parties. It's amazing how people transform from the beginning of a party to the end with me in the order room. I love being able to put people at ease about such personal and private issues, simply by being informative, fun, and sincere. I know that I have helped many couples strengthen their relationships, and rekindle that spark of romance through my business. That's the best part of my job.

What is the funniest story or situation you can think of involving your business/what you sell?I had a party and was running a little behind. Car loaded and running in the driveway, I jumped in and realized I had left an item in the house. Already in a hurry, I jump out of the car and almost get to the house when I realized I had just locked the keys in my running car! My husband wasn't home with the spare set. My only option was a local police officer that had a slim-jim set. Every minute waiting for him, was another minute not on the road to my party. But, he arrived fairly lquickly, and had my car unlocked in no time! To show my appreciation, I gave him a men's sleeve and a rather large bottle of lube. His reaction? Priceless! I explained that I was a romance consultant, now late for a party and really appreciated his help!

Besides Lovewinx, do you have family and/or what else are you involved in? Yes, I'm happily married, and have four children; Tisha 26, Jacob 23, Noah 5, and Ava 3. With the supplemental income from parties, I was able to quit my day job at the local hospital to be a stay at home mom! In my spare time, I love to work on home improvement projects. Recently, I just tiled my shower surround, and a back splash for the bathroom sink.

What personal goal is your Lovewinx business helping you to achieve? Loovewinx has given me more family time, and keep the ability to contribute financially. With my oldest, I worked full time, went to college, and didn't have the opportunity to be a stay at home mom. Now, I get the best of both worlds, and I can help others in the process.

What's your favorite part of being a Lovewinx Romance Consultant?
Helping people is my favorite part. Growing up, my mother gave me pamphlets on becoming a woman, and sexuality. By educating myself on current sexual health issues, techniques, and products, I can help someone else that may not have someone to turn to for answers. I've actually received thank you notes, birth announcements, and wedding invitations from customers. Knowing that I have made a difference in someones life makes it all worth while!

What advice can you give to other women just getting started in the business? Go at your own pace. Don't measure your success/failures by others. Set goals for yourself, and then aim higher and surpass them. Celebrate your success in reaching them. One of my favorite quotes is Henry Ford's "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't--you're right!"

--Rina Valan

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Waiting for Fish to Jump into Your Boat?

2015-06-09T11:07:00.000-04:00

The Scene:

Phone conversation with an experienced home party sales representative.

The Pain:
When asked how her sales were this month: "I did a fantastic $1500 party last week. There were over 15 people there, but no one booked! I feel discouraged, and can't seem to find new people to book one of my shows."

Thump to Side of Her Head:
Wait a minute! She had found LOTS of new people! She just didn't find fish that jumped into her boat!

And fishing isn't just about throwing a line into the water! You have to:
---find the right spot
---bait the hook or something interesting for them to nibble on
---cast the line, and not just once, but a lot
---and most importantly: you have to PULL the fish out of the water!

She was suffering from a spear fishing mentality! That's a very hit-or-miss and tough way to stay in business. The odds of getting them on the first shot can be dim.

Our home party business is all about building relationships and having 15 people actually see and be with you for a couple hours is an incredible opportunity. It starts when you walk in the door and continues when you walk out the door IF you choose to. That's right! If YOU choose to!

How?
1. A simple email letting them know you appreciated them coming. Tell them to look for another email from you when their orders are about to be delivered.
2. Then, another email when their order/product is about to be delivered. The mention of a tip or product suggestion is a way to engage them in feedback/conversation. Best? Email them on Facebook!
3. You respond, they respond.
4. Repeat.

Because:
---they can continue to be a regular buying customer
---you eventually friend them on Facebook, and never 'lose' them again

---eventually, you might get them to book
---they can turn into a Fan who tells their friends and gets you referrals
---they may even turn out to be you next new recruit

Chuck the spear.
Pay attention to your fishies.
You know what to do.

--Rina Valan

###

Manner, Manners, Matters Part 2

2015-05-27T07:26:00.000-04:00

By guest blogger direct sales expert and coach Deb Bixler

Part 2 of 2

This is part 2 of guest blog post from Deb Bixler of Manner, Manners, Matters

Miss part 1? Click here

Are you offering your hostesses, guests and clients the best possible service you can?

Business etiquette is not all that different than personal etiquette.

Treat your customers, hosts and business relationships to the finest customer care possible and it will be returned to you in multiples!

Top Notch Customer Service

From time to time you may run into an issue or complaint which is normal.

Provide great service by addressing the issue right away. An unhappy customer will become unhappier by the hour so always act quickly.

If a customer comes to you with a return and you want to refer her to the website or to the phone number on the receipt you should just deal with it - NOW!

Remember that there are only 2 rules when dealing with customer complaints:

1. The customer is always right.

2. When the customer is wrong – refer to rule #1!

It may cost you time or even money upfront but your customer will remember the great top notch and will recommend you to their friends.

The Golden Rule Of Business

In business and in life remember to follow the Golden Rule:

Treat others as you would like to be treated.

Today it is customer service.... business manners that separate direct sellers from retail and online stores!

What you put out will be returned to you ten times over. Have excellent business manners and let the special people in your life know how much you appreciate them.

--Deb Bixler

P.S. Deb is right on spot if you get a complaint or run into an issue. The faster you resolve it, can turn an unhappy customer into a raving fan! --Rina Valan

Deb Bixler AKA the Bookings Queen teaches party plan consultants how to keep their calendars full!

Visit her website, http://www.CreateACashFlowShow.com to learn how to take your business to the next level! .

Manner, Manners, Matters!

2015-05-26T10:10:00.000-04:00

By guest blogger direct sales expert and coach Deb Bixler

Part 1 of 2

Which type of meal would you prefer:

a fast food lunch or a fine dining experience?

A fine dining experience I’m sure!

Other than cost, what is the main difference between these two experiences?

If you said service then you are absolutely right!

When you provide 5-star customer service in your home business you will keep your customer returning to you time and time again!

Become Personal – All About The Party

Arrive to every home party early so you have enough time to set up your display and then you can offer to help the hostess in the kitchen.

This will also give you the opportunity to greet each guest at the door.

Just as when you arrive at a fine dining establishment you are greeted by name, when you greet the guest, introduce yourself and provide them with a name tag.

Try to use their name at least 3 times throughout the evening. This will also help you get a mental picture of the guest should you ever need to give them a call after the party.

Thanking Guests, Hostesses, Customers

After each party or booking send a personal thank you note right away. This can be done in the form of a postcard or an actual thank you note.

You can even prepare them ahead of time and just drop in my mailbox after returning home from the party. This ensures it will go out on the very next mail day and s/he will receive it right away.

Good customer service means remembering your customers all year.

Send a card to any hostess who books in the same month as a major holiday such as Easter and Mother’s Day. Send a Christmas card to all of your top hostesses and guests as a reminder of how special they are to you.

Proper Etiquette

Etiquette books teach us to always bring a gift when you visit someone’s home for the first time so you may want to consider bringing a small gift with you.

It could be part of your product line but does not have to be. Other ideas may include note cards, candles ,potpourri, lotion or moisturizer.

These are all very inexpensive things you can get from the dollar store that look very cute in a bag with tissue paper.

Ben Franklin said that house guests and dead fish smell after 3 days! We know you are not staying over night but do not overstay your welcome!

Once the party has come to an end and you have finished taking orders, be sure to pack up quickly, explain the benefit package and leave promptly.

Without our hostesses and customers, we would not have a business. Make sure they know how special they are to you and give them that “fine dining experience” that they deserve.

--Deb Bixler

P.S. Watch for another guest post tomorrow from Deb as she shares more about offering the fine dining experience to your party plan business clients. -Rina Valan

Deb Bixler specializes teaching direct sellers systems that work in all party plan businesses.

Visit her website, http://www.CreateACashFlowShow.com to learn how to take your business to the next level! .

How to Turn Yourself into a People Magnet 101

2015-05-20T10:40:00.000-04:00

Are you pushing a business card into the palm of every person you meet?

Stop. Right. Now.

Pushing a card, or catalog into a stranger's hand automatically gives you the same effect of 'like' magnets poles repelling one another. You push them away instead!

Want to be a people magnet?

When you try to attract new customers or prospects to your business, your goal should be to build a relationship, not book or sell to them (at least, not right away.)

People want to do business with people they know, like, and trust.

So, investing in building a relationship by using these 4 tried and true little tips that will help you make connections and attract even more people to you:

1. Be interested in others. Ask questions.

People naturally want to answer questions, especially about themselves or what they do! So learn how to ask questions that people will want to answer. The information you get will enable you to help that person and plus position yourself as a lively conversationalist.

2. Be an active listener.

Reflect the words you hear back to the person with whom you are talking. "So, did I hear that right? You graduated from a high school in my home state?"

This technique not only insures you understand what is being said, but it reinforces that you really are listening. That makes people want to talk more with you!

3. Take/Make notes.

Maybe you're on the phone, maybe you're at a home party taking an order, or at a networking event.When you talk with a lot of different people, it's easy to forget details or what your connection is to that person. Always discreetly take notes afterwards.Your next conversation with them will make the connection even more solid...they become your friend.

4. Follow up.

Know what people care about? That you care.

And your follow up should be something they can use. Position yourself as a resource.

--Rina Valan

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10 No-Fail Body Language Tips for your Home Parties

2015-05-08T09:52:00.000-04:00

You're ready to start your home party demonstration. Wait!

Is your body sending them right message?

What is Body Language?
It's you as the whole package:
-how you stand
-whether or not you make eye contact with your audience
-the gestures you make
-and how you dress.

Body Language includes perceptions that come through whether consciously or subconsciously.
(like being overly-confident/coming off as a lion or fearful/meek pussycat.)

So, what can you do to make sure your audience pays attention to you while communicating the right message?

10 Never Fail Body Language Tips:

1. Look your best and you’ll be more confident. You only need a couple pre-thought out outfits, and switch them out. Important: wear something you like, in a flattering color that looks good on you! This is not the time to try something trendy and out of your realm of comfort. Never dress suggestively.

2. Stop fidgeting. See #1 and this should not be a problem, especially if you have comfortable shoes.

3. Don't overdue makeup. Keep a well maintained look, neat is preferable. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be standing for awhile.

4. SMILE! Do it a lot! Answer questions with a smile, chuckle, laugh, do it as often as possible without being fake.

5. Use hand and body gestures, just be careful not to overdo it.

6. Don't whisper. Do emphasize phrases and key words.

7. Don't point at someone.
    Don't shake your fist. Don't cross your arms. Don't put your hands on your hip.

8. Do light non-suggestive touch, like a pat on the shoulder, finger to hand. Do shake hands.

9. Never stand behind a table. Do your presentation in front of the group, center.

10. Do keep a high energy level:
   ---An energetic walk and movements, passing of samples, and manner of talk can convey enthusiasm, love of product/service, and encourage your audience to pay attention.
   ---If you talk very slowly, or spew canned pitches, you will lose them. Worse? No future bookings.

Got any other suggestions? Come back to the Home Party Plan Advisor and post your comments and suggestions!

---Rina Valan

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The Daily Juice

Pssst. Want to Start a Fire?

Facebook LIVE: The Agony and The Ecstasy

The Secret of Booking Parties at Parties

What is your Elevator Speech?

You need an elevator speech whenever someone asks you "So what do you do?"

And you should always have your elevator speech ready, even when you're not in a elevator.

The First Step

Faith is taking the first step, even when you don't see the whole staircase.

The first step is the most important step - critical to anything you do!

Feature Friday: Like Stealth in the Night

Through the many years I've been in the direct selling industry, I've come across some amazing achievers and leaders. And they all come with a variety of personalities...

The Confession about the Confessional

I just had an interesting conversation with an experienced romance consultant today about her frustration with a party she had recently.There over 22 guests, it was a great presentation wise, the guests had a wonderful time, but....she got no bookings and the the sales were just 'ok.'

3 Ways to Max Out your Holiday Sales Season

It's the holiday season! You've been waiting for the busy season all year!

Here are 3 tips to make sure you and your business get the most from the opportunities that come along with the season!

Be Prepared!

Give Good Reasons!

Pre-Market Every Party!

Embracing a Spirit of Exploration

How to get your Host from Brew to Woohoo!

Feature Friday: The Master Chef and her Perfect Cash Flow Recipes

I remember the first time I listened to one of Deb Bixler's recorded taining calls. I said to myself: "Wow, it's all content here, there's no fluff."

Feature Friday: Kicking Goals and Taking Names!

'Forwards' are commonly known as the players in soccer designated to score for their team by kicking the ball over the goal line.

3 Ways to Ruin a Sales Follow-up Call

Have you checked your Hopper lately?

Do you have empty tank syndrome?

The Art of Sowing and Growing

Are you an Info-Dumper?

Tips for Fairs and Expos

Feature Friday: For the Leah Love of It

Feature Friday: Slow Brew and True

Waiting for Fish to Jump into Your Boat?

Manner, Manners, Matters Part 2

Manner, Manners, Matters!

How to Turn Yourself into a People Magnet 101

10 No-Fail Body Language Tips for your Home Parties

And you should always have your elevator speech ready,
even when you're not in a elevator.

I just had an interesting conversation with an experienced romance consultant today about her frustration with a party she had recently.

There over 22 guests, it was a great presentation wise, the guests had a wonderful time, but....she got no bookings and the the sales were just 'ok.'

I remember the first time I listened to one of Deb Bixler's recorded taining calls. I said to myself:
"Wow, it's all content here, there's no fluff."