One of the best ways to become a distributor without an investment is through a direct sales company. Direct sales companies recruit sales representatives to sell products or services through party plans, at flea markets or directly to businesses. Examples of direct selling opportunities include perfume, makeup, vitamin and advertising distributorships. Most direct sales companies will charge an initial fee for a sales kit. The company will usually deduct the initial investment when you place your first order; therefore, your distributorship is completely free.
Look for various direct selling companies that offer the products you want to promote, and decide which products you want to sell. Read through business opportunity magazines such as "Entrepreneur" or "Small Business Opportunities." Contact the Direct Selling Association (DSA) through its website at dsa.org.
Call several direct sales companies to find out the available products or services. Ask the representative if the company offers drop-shipping, meaning the company will ship products for you. Select a company that will, so you can avoid carrying a large inventory, and one that will allow you to get started for free, except for the initial sales kit.
Apply for a vendor's license for your distributorship business through your county or city administration office. If you use a fictitious name, obtain a doing business as (DBA) name, according to Business.gov.
Establish a marketing plan, whether direct selling, party plan, mail order or Internet — whichever best suits your personality. Sell your wares via the Internet, for example, if you are relatively shy or have experience with online marketing.
Use catalogs and product samples, if you are selling directly to businesses. Present owners with samples of promotional products, for example, if you are selling key chains, T-shirts and calendars in quantity.
Order your products according to the guidelines of your direct sales company. Use the Internet to order products, for example, if that is your supplier's primary ordering method.
Provide a contact number for customers to call you with any questions. Leave business cards, so customers can call for any reason.
