The COVID19 pandemic has forced businesses to shut operations due to lack of revenue. Direct selling, which employs a customer centric approach is a field-oriented experience. Distributors and individual direct sellers build relationships by meeting customers for a personalized experience. Acknowledging consumer feedback contributes to productive analysis and effective product delivery.
With the lockdown in effect to curb the spread of the virus, organizations are finding it difficult to match demands created by customers spread over a diverse product portfolio. Prior to the pandemic, the direct selling industry raised revenue that empowered independent entrepreneurs to use direct selling as a platform to grow their business. Leading organizations like QNET are now proactively providing opportunities for women who aspire for a flexible career in terms of compensation, decision making and strategy implementation.
On the contrary, the lockdown has instilled a sense of fear among the public who are reluctant to work with direct selling firms pertaining to individual requirements. However, on the flipside, moving operations online and employing technological advancements has in fact redefined the sector. Here are some indications on how the direct selling industry is set to recover and transform post COVID19.
Getting your business online- Invest in a strong social media presence
Be it any industry, it is crucial to have alternatives for a broader perspective. Direct selling, traditionally relies on meeting customers personally in terms of product demonstration and data management. However, with the power of the internet, companies can formulate strategies, incorporate technology, and focus on different customers/product variables at the same time. Having an official website can help firms attract customers via engaging content and exclusive offers pertaining to products that stand out. A strong online presence on platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn can help distributors connect and expand their network . Also, digitally optimized tools can promote flexibility in setting tasks, analyze current trends and enhance customer-product experience.
Content Management and Delivery
Getting operations online at the initial phase is vital because it helps organizations expand their portfolio. Apart from setting up an online presence, direct selling firms need to invest more resources into content, which is interactive and engaging at the same time. The success of a direct selling firm depends on how you portray a message of social harmony and promote your product at the same time. With conscious consumerism on the rise, people demand information regarding manufacturing process, the raw materials used and how they affect the environment. Being transparent in terms of company policy, product knowledge and engagement into CSR initiatives builds brand awareness and contributes to necessary goodwill from customers. It is also important to make your content as relevant as possible. For instance, meaningful content about the world which has gone stagnant because of the virus and corelating that with investing in direct selling is a good way to attract customers and effectively retain them. As far as your downlines are concerned, provide them with information that helps them adapt with ease, study market trends and how to ultimately drive their will in the current scenario.
Segmentation Drives Results
It is vital that we study and analyse the intent of individual distributors before welcoming them on board. There are some that partner with direct selling organizations for a side hustle that transitions into a robust career. There are others who look for exclusive products that they could buy and discounts to avail. Last but not the least, there are others who are inclined towards participating in community development or being a part of a group. Organizations, therefore need to identify their priorities and align them with seller capability.
Collaboration for Real-Time Data Management
Technological advancements has enabled direct selling companies to maintain and manage huge sums of data in real time. The impact of AI and Machine Learning on the direct selling sector has been prominent. This is a win-win situation because tools that provide seamless access regarding training modules, code of conduct and product demonstration details can help distributors in the field to interact and focus on products that are trending. Management of data on the go is certain to help firms monitor on-field progress and formulate strategies that increase the level of scope in terms of new product launches and deliverables.
Ethical Selling Practices
By far the most important aspect is authenticity and transparency in terms of selling practices. Devising a set of norms that focuses on Ethical Selling enhances seller-customer relationships and paves the way for positive consumer feedback.
In conclusion, the future of direct selling post the COVID19 pandemic looks bright and with resources in hand, independent entrepreneurs can feel empowered and eventually capitalize on an alternate source of income.
