The goal of every direct sales associate is to make the most sales in the shortest amount of time. A strong marketing plan involves time effective methods in core selling and the best mode of fulfillment. Let’s start with marketing techniques that will lead to product sales and the much-needed best fulfillment practices, including the use of third-party logistics (3PL).
Regardless of your direct selling style and activities, product fulfillment is the one step in the process that needs expert attention. When it comes to direct selling, product fulfillment can create loyal customers or repel new clients.
Core Selling Activities
There are direct sales leaders that believe that core selling activities are the only activities that should be focused on. If this is your preference as a direct seller, it is crucial that you determine the actual core selling activities you want to handle. For example, the core selling activities you may want to take on include:
- Prospecting and meeting with prospects and customers
- Planning for meetings and follow-ups
- Responses to proposals
- Orchestration of internal resources
- Quotes/configuration
- Communications with prospects currently in the sales pipeline
- Account planning, contracts and reviews
- Training
- Product fulfillment
On the other hand, some direct sales leaders believe that a sales rep should own everything, including non-core selling activities that may include:
- Expense reports
- Communications with loyal customers
- Responding to administrative requests
- Searching for content and product fulfillment
The point is that the lists be developed. At that point you can decide which tasks you will take, and which will need to be delegated. Clearly, as your business grows, you need to re-evaluate what tasks you want to continue on your own or delegate.
Delegating Direct Sales Product Fulfillment
Direct sales product fulfillment can be rewarding yet challenging. When it comes to direct selling fulfillment, presentation is key. As a direct seller you need that ‘wow’ factor to keep your loyal customers and attract new ones. As you can imagine, it takes a lot of time and effort to complete this very important last step of a customer’s journey.
Many direct sales associates are finding that they need help in delivering products. A third-party logistics provider (3PL) can help with:
- Kitting and packaging
- Handling complex order profiles
- Customize packing slips and gift messages
- Growing your business
- Consolidating parcel discount programs
Additionally, a 3PL can greatly reduce your time and efforts with item returns and exchanges. They can give you and your customers real time tracking so that you can avoid endless emails from customers inquiries regarding the status of their items.
When it comes to product fulfillment, the goal for direct sellers is the same as for an ecommerce seller. You want to make a great impression in every step of the customer’s journey. This includes careful marketing, organizational skills and reliable fulfillment. Once you recognize what to personally tackle or delegate, you will see your direct sales business grow by leaps and bounds.
