Pick the Right Party!

How to Pick the Right Party Plan for You

There's so many new party plans out there that I thought it might be handy for me to put up a few questions for people to consider about how to pick the right party plan for you. Everyone has different needs and expectations, and there are so many party plans out there, how do you know what one is right for you?

What sort of hours do you like to work?

The first thing you should think about is how many hours, and which hours you wish to work in a week. Various party plans will say you can get away with as little as three hours per party, but what does those three hours entail? What parts will you enjoy? How much of it will be a drag and how much will be fun? And what sort of hours do you want to work? Three hours per party sounds fine, but then if you like to do adult parties, you will find prime time to be Friday and Saturday nights.

What are you good at?

Party plans need to be considered the same way a job interview is considered. What are you strengths and weaknesses? Who will help you overcome those issues? Is your manager or up-line supportive and competent? Do they already have supportive systems and structures in place to make your job easier? Is everything laid out and easy to follow?

How do you do the party?

What is expected of you? Are you expected to know your product inside and out beforehand. What is your prime directive within the party plan system? (And if you think it is to make sales, you are doing it wrong! Prime directive is to answer your customers' needs as best you can!)

Outlay and initial costs

You need to be very aware of how much your start up business is going to cost. Don't think for a second that your own party plan business is NOT a business - it is. You need to treat your business with the respect and attention it deserves. To be really successful, you need to do something every single day to develop your business further.

Financial issues

There is still every chance you will lose money. How much is an acceptable loss to you? How much investment is acceptable before you need to cut the losses? It is hard to lose money in party plan but it is not impossible. Consider how much you spend on new stock versus how much you are making. If your business is covering the costs and still leaving you with enough money as income, then well done!   If you are a low to medium sales demonstrator, then this may be a crucial piece of information. A spreadsheet detailing outgoings and incomings are crucial.

Is the product something you can believe in?

Party plan products should be of excellent quality and of excellent value for money. The first thing a customer does is examine the product for quality as soon it arrives, and if it is found lacking, you will be very lucky If they tell you. If they do tell you, this is a rare opportunity to put the customer first, and do everything in your power to turn that customer into a loyal customer by looking after their interests as best you can.

Party plan is a lot of work. Returns, exchanges and other minor problems will take up a surprising amount of time. It may be easier than a lot of other income streams, but it takes an amazing amount if dedication and self-motivation. You also need to have good people skills, and if you don't have then, then be open to learning them. Having clear and concise idea of your shortcomings is as important as knowing your strengths.

Having said all that, party plans can be so much fun! As well as making people happy, it's an excellent opportunity to make friends, meet other inspiring people and make a good income. Good luck with your party plan shopping!

Sarah P