C'mon everybody, let's do the blog bebop now!

Tuesday, February 19, 2008  by Susan Julien-Willson
Category: sales, selling, blog

It's the happening thing to do when a blog has a birthday. And the Opportunity Zone bday already happened, so hurry and get in rhythm ... deliver the good word, not-so-good word, any word, but be sure it's your word and it has a beat ... I mean the truth. Be it good or bad, awesome or awful - even indiffferent or indecisive. Make your words dance across that little comment box and then click to send. We're all ears here on the other end!

What's this about? The OppZone bloggers want to know what you think, what you want, what you think you want. Seriously. (I know I am being silly, but it's my attempt at getting attention -- and maybe a smile!) The bloggers are meeting on Wednesday (tomorrow!) to look back and see how we began, check out how we've evolved, and then we'll look ahead to see how we can harmonize to make the blogs a more meaningful experience for Quixtar IBOs. I can attend this meeting and give my opinions ... or I can share yours ... or I can share 'em all. That's the beauty of  the blog bop--rhythm and harmony. So, as much as I'd like to see you in person and have you accompany me to the meeting, I know that's not possible. So send your feedback. I will share it. You can count on that!

We, the OppZone bloggers are waiting with anticipation for ideas, suggestions, opinions, and observations. Help us get in tune with you.

C'mon, folks. Be bold and bright and brave -- battle the winter doldrums. Be a part of the Opportunity Zone. Let your voice be heard!

(Have I sold you on particpating yet? :-))

 

Comments

# Tex said on February 19, 2008 9:24 AM:

You can start by getting a couple of your fellow bloggers (one on adatudes and the other on the alticor/amway blog) to post my recent submittals.

You can finish by getting rid of the tool scam. It is sucking the life out of this business you don't seem to know or care that your business model has been hijacked by the upline, especially those who sit on the IBOAI Board.

 

# YankeeIBO said on February 19, 2008 10:58 AM:

Susan,

One of the biggest challenges I know you all have is getting more of us to visit and participate. Your biggest hurdle in that department is support from the various systems--which would rather remain "closed" systems, and in control of the information that is disseminated. My group has their own blog, and I am sure others do, too. Even participation in that is weak among our system.

The issue at hand is that blogging (and spending time on the internet in general) is considered a waste of time that we should be using to STP. There is also the cross-lining issue to be dealt with--we might get ideas that aren't good for our business by being here!

Considering that we are an internet-based business in the Information Age, one would think that we all should want to be at least as informed as our customers and prospects. All successful businesses have to keep informed of what is happening in their fields so they can capitalize on it. I view my blog/internet time in that way, and just as necessary as reading, CD's, planning and execution.

One way to effect a culture change might be to create "The Diamond Mine"--a blog for Quixtar Diamonds to share their formulas for success, and the potholes in the road getting there. This could be included in an IBO-only part of the blog.

Maybe then the Diamonds might be more supportive of this treasure trove of information and ideas that has been created for ALL of us!!

Thank you very much for taking the time to share your thoughts on the blogs, time well spent vs. time wasted, and your Diamond Mine blog idea. Your input is appreciated.

# Tomasthanes said on February 19, 2008 11:27 AM:

Are any practical issues discussed on these blogs?  Like why shipping only happens once a week generally while real Internet retailers like Amazon can ship daily?  Just curious whether these were only "feel good" blogs...

No, Tomasthanes, to answer your question, I can't say these are only feel-good blogs. I know I have had some difficult questions/topics come up on  Sales Speak that haven't made me feel good and probably didn't make everyone participating feel good, but they sure made me think--and they were definitely honest! Are you suggesting Sales Speak or another blog writer do a blog post on delivery? sjw

# Chris said on February 19, 2008 12:14 PM:

I'm still working full time as I build my Quixtar business.  My wife stays home and mentioned all the ladies (when she worked several years ago) would pass around various catalogs, etc. while at work.  However, as a manager (and a male) I feel uncomfortable marketing at work even though I see potential customers who can benefit from our products all the time.  Help a brother out!  Any suggestions on how to sell in the workplace and maintain a healthy balance and integrity in the office?

Going Diamond--Chris!

That's a great question, Chris. Stay tuned ... hopefully other IBOs in the same situation as you will provide some advice and ideas of how they handle this. My first inclination is to state the obvious ... get out of the office for coffee or tea at break or for lunch at noon ... and then share info via your laptop at Quixtar.com or via catalogs, samples, brochures. Does that seem do-able? sjw

# Tomasthanes said on February 19, 2008 3:53 PM:

sjw, thank you for commenting so quickly.  You asked whether "Sales Speak or another blog writer do a blog post on delivery?".  I'm not sure what to suggest.

I've just started getting the RSS feeds for most of the Quixtar blogs and find them very high level and "rah rah!" rather than a forum where people can deal with practical issues which prevent me from building my business.

The shipping is as big issue for me.  I've been on the Internet for 25 years and when I compare Quixtar to Amazon (for example) just in the area of shipping, I'm sort of embarrassed by Quixtar.

I'm not sure of a forum (whether it's these blogs, or my upline person, or ...?) to air these issues.

I can speak for myself and Sales Speak. Yes, air your delivery complaints ... voice your concerns ... tell us what you like/don't like, etc. ... remember, this is a blog for IBOs to talk to each other and us. I see what you mean about our delivery compared to Amazon, but what is it about delivery from other internet retailers that you like? dislike? think is outstanding?  I have some delivery stories that are awesome from internet retailers and some that make Quixtar's delivery and customer service shine. I put delivery on my blog topic list, so watch for it in the coming weeks ... okay? Thanks again for commenting. sjw P.S. Sharing what you think with your upline is always a good idea, too.

# Jeff Namnum said on February 19, 2008 3:55 PM:

@ Chris

Your wife dude!!! One of the great things I learned from my upline is that 3rd party is always great when in the work environment, especially because of plausible deniabilty (real word? who knows).

In other words if you say to a co-worker "hey my wife has her own business at home now and I'm trying to help her get some customers, would you try (or look at)x for me?" you can get clients.  Of course the one thing we fear (that rarely happens in my experience)is that you have an issue where a superior gives you grief. You can reasonably explain you were trying to help out your wife and of course you'll stop immediately. Hope that helps.

@ Susan

Thanks for asking for our input. Here's a few for you, I hope they are useful to you.

1.

I think one of the first things is a reminder that the world doesn't exist only in the confines of the blogosphere.  

I appreciate that you posted tex's comment but didn't respond to him.  While I feel it would be wrong to ban his comments (never noticed him being rude to anyone) it annoys me that when I do check in to our companies blogs, it feels like he and folks that agree with him get a tremendous amount of air time. Sorry to single you out man, I'm not trying to be rude, just make a point.

The point I'm trying to make here is that the blogs are ONE channel of communication.  It works for those of us who are online alot, especially if we know what an RSS reader is ;)  For many people, this ain't it.  Traditional emails and mailers have to happen still.

2.

I still struggle with whether or not to promote these blogs universally to new people on my team because of the constant droning on in the comments about how all the tool systems are evil and they suck money out of people's products with a vacuum cleaner and they convert you to strange religious zombies worshipping at the altar of your upline diamond. Or something like that ;)

I have gotten so much great information from blogs like yours and Real Quixtar and Inside Quixtar and I would like to blanket promote them, especially because we want to train people to get more of their information online (cheaper and quicker to deliver) but right now I find I have to only promote it to the pockets of people who are blog readers and  understand that comment fights are not necessarily personal.

As someone who has been "in" the business for over 10 years but only just started operating my business this year it really is offensive that we have to hear over and over again  that you hate the diamond 'tool czars' or whatever.  We get it already.  These same people that you demonize have helped me through issue after issue in my life and even corporate career and never once turned their backs on me because I was not as active in the business as someone else.  These people are my friends and their tools that they sold me at a price I was happy to pay (especially compared to what executive coaching cost me for my job) helped me succeed in every area of my life.

We all know that they screwed up when the curtain was up over the system but nowadays every official tool I get to show the plan with clearly tell people that Plats and above make money. btw: my first and last name will be attached to this post and any others I make.  Just like I do all over the internet I have nothing to hide.

Sorry for the long-windedness on this one Susan, but just please take back the message that we poor, stupid souls in the clutches of the evil tool demons are building the business too and would like the opportunity to get this great info you put out without constantly having to see our mentors insulted, if that's possible.

3.

Last one's short I promise. Please no more mixed messages.  No more 'free sampling promotions to get customers for the IBOs where IBOs are not allowed to participate'.  Many of us are from the corporate world and we understand what concurrent testing is.  If this isn't clear, please, please email me.  

Thanks.

 

Jeff,

Thank you for commenting. I think I get what you're saying but I am not entirely sure who you are speaking to on this one: Sorry for the long-windedness on this one Susan, but just please take back the message that we poor, stupid souls in the clutches of the evil tool demons are building the business too and would like the opportunity to get this great info you put out without constantly having to see our mentors insulted, if that's possible.  I sure hope I didn't do anything to offend or insult you, Jeff. I sure didn't mean to do so.  sjw

# Jeff Namnum said on February 19, 2008 5:00 PM:

Sorry, if I gave you that impression in any way Susan. You have not ever offended or insulted me.  In fact I feel your input on sales addresses a need we've had for quite some time and does it in an effective way. Thanks for asking and not just assuming.

Sometimes I get myself all agitated and lose a bit of the clarity. I was just hoping someone would carry forward the message that we are not ignoramuses duped unwittingly into buying tools at outrageous prices as is often suggested in many comments throughout the opportunity zone.

oops just noticed another place where I might have been unlear.  "...clearly tell people that Plats and above make money." I mean of course that Platinums and above make money from the tools; obviously they make money.

 Thanks for your clarification, Jeff. I try not to assume. It gets me in trouble! So does my honesty but I'd rather be in trouble for being direct and straightfoward (and maybe too blunt) than be in trouble for telling a lie. sjw

# rdknyvr said on February 19, 2008 5:44 PM:

Susan,

Often there is "exclusive" information given out in speeches, etc. at Achievers, Diamond Club and so on that would be of encouragement and benefit to those of us who are sub-Platinum, and the infor does not get passed on or passed on in its entirety. A great example where info was passed on was the Achievers' Webcast clips. If the OZ blogs could become THE source for this, that would help.

Is there a way for OZ to facilitate new product and sales training ideas? Where do the training people get their ideas and how do they test them out in the real environment of business building, when the managers and developers haven't the experience of building a business themselves? Not a knock on them, but could OZ have something more regular in this area? Whoever does the blog would have to stay on top of it, reply to comments, and 'trial balloon' real ideas.

Sometimes it would be great to get more 'inside scoop' on corporate developments, but by the very nature of these blogs you probably don't have access to that kind or level of info, nor could you post it if you did. In some ways, that's why IBOFightback's site is a complementary site to what you do: http://www.thetruthaboutamway.com/

He gets info from folks with inside contacts that you couldn't get, but are there things you can focus on that would build on your unique access and position?

The other area where you are already doing great things and changing the business building environment for the better -- and YankeeIBO has mentioned this above -- is providing an open info forum that gets around the closed and priviledged info approach that is kind of 'legacy' with many systems. It's not true 'cross-lining' (which is not against Q rules, just System rules), and that's so healthy.

Although I'm part of a healthy and balanced System/LOA, there is a lot of wonderful info and encouragement that comes through the posts of others on OZ that systems aren't always designed to distribute.

So I don't know how helpful this is... OZ is a work in progress, and influencing change around how info gets out, but it will take time -- years -- to fully accomplish that goal.

One other thing to recommend... I go back to a post I did last year about Quixtar and Alticor senior managers being required to buy through Quixtar first -- 100% utilization -- and do it at retail prices, or else sign up as IBOs themselves if only to get "wholesale" prices. More ought to do it to build a small business -- even up to 1000 PV -- which would go light years toward aligning their understanding with what really is going on at the interface of tire and pavement -- where the rubber hits the road. You've been an IBO yourself now for a few months... and I'll bet you understand a few things differently than from before.

How does this relate to the OZ blog? These same people should be posting more often, and I think their posts would be more insightful and profound if they were buying as IBOs and not at the Ada discount outlet, and even more so if they were trying to build even a 1000PV business. They don't have to go Platinum... just 1000PV. :)

Thank you, rdknyvr. You have some interesting suggestions, observations, and insights ... all of which I will share with my fellow OZ bloggers and all the Sales Speak readers. Probably the closest I get to giving you inside scoop is telling you what's coming in catalogs and other literature. You're right--Many of us do not have inside scoop on big changes -- and big changes are communicated from executive management to us and to IBOs. 

I could do more on Sales Speak on product and sales training ... what topics/ideas did you have in mind? Thanks, sjw

# Tomasthanes said on February 19, 2008 6:00 PM:

You asked "what is it about delivery from other internet retailers that you like? dislike? think is outstanding?".

I like that Amazon ships 5-6 days a week, uses standard shippers (USPS, UPS, Fedex, etc.), and offers many speed of delivery options depending on how quickly you want your goods (including free shipping over a certain order $ amount).

The Quixtar shipping paradigm (of only shipping once a week to each area) just seems so 1980's...  I have a hard time accepting Quixtar as a "state of the art" Internet business.

Thank you, Susan.

Grateful to get your feedback, Tomasthanes. Keep it coming!

# Ben said on February 19, 2008 8:27 PM:

Susan, Tomasthanes brought up the subject of shipping. Yes, definitely I'd like to see the shipping more friendly for our customers. More than a once a week ship date would be much more convenient for them. Also, the shipping to AK/HI is much higher than a comparable order from Amazon.

Thanks for keeping the communication lines open, I appreciate all you and the other bloggers do. I know this is on top of your regular jobs!

Thanks for commenting, Ben. I love doing Sales Speak ... it's a PLUS for me to correspond with IBOs like you and get ideas and suggestions from people who are out there building a business. I am an IBO and I know firsthand that it is hard work. I admire IBOs who are successful. I know they got there from hard work, determination and a positive attitude. sjw

# Desiree said on February 20, 2008 2:21 AM:

RE: Jeff

First, I agree with Jeff wholeheartedly about the tools and system. I too have been part of the team for several years and am a totally different person for the better than I was when I started. In fact, had it not been for the tools and system, I would not be a part of this business and I shudder to think what I would be doing with my life right now. When I started I was single, angry, lost and going nowhere fast. Through the support system of the team, association, tools, etc. I am now happily married, have a 6 month old baby and my husband and I are building our business together. We look forward to the future and are excited about all the changes taking place with Quixtar. There is no mystery in the tools or the pricing. I know exactly how much they cost and how much I pay for them. I also am aware that at Platinum and above I would qualify for tools-related income. In the traditional business world, there are people whose entire income is derived from the motivation industry and major companies pay them big bucks to speak to their companies. It is very exciting to me that even though I am not a professional speaker, once I reach Platinum and above, I will get to participate in the rewards. It should be noted that anyone who is willing to build their business to that level and above has the opportunity to benefit as well. It makes sense then as you grow your business to larger levels you benefit more so - this opportunity is open to anyone willing to work for it.

Also, Jeff please clarify what you meant by "Please no more mixed messages.  No more 'free sampling promotions to get customers for the IBO's where IBO's are not allowed to participate'.  Many of us are from the corporate world and we understand what concurrent testing is." - I am curious as to your meaning (truly don't understand). Thank you! Sincerely, Desiree

# Desiree said on February 20, 2008 2:28 AM:

Hello! It's me again - I just wanted to say I only started checking out "Sales Speak" a couple of weeks ago. I woul dhave posted sooner but really had a hard time figuring out how I could post or even seeing others' comments. It's a neat blos but I wish it was more user friendly. As soon as the website come sup you see the bio but then you have to click on the Sales Speak pic to see the latest blog (took me a while to figure that out too). Just thought I'de give my feedback.

Also, I noticed the question about shipping and I think I understand the question but the answers to the question didn't seem to address it. If I understand correctly, the concern is that there is only 1 ship day per week (without paying extra for express shipping) for many areas (my area, too). Why is that so when major companies such as Amazon.com can ship any day? This has been a question of mine too but I never submitted it.

More on shipping: I have been wondering for years but never asked - why a preset shipping on paper products such as toilet paper? It really affects the competitiveness of the pricing and didn't know the reasoning behind it (if I order paper towels, toilet paper and another paper item, that's almost $20 in extra shipping in addition to the regular shipping for my other stuff)? I know there is a reason, just wondering what the reason is. Thanks for listening! Sincerely, Desiree

Thanks Desiree for all your comments. You're right. I didn't answer the shipping questions because I don't know the answer ... I am looking into it and will probably have more info later this week or early next week.

Also, the presets on paper products are going away. Meadowbrook paper products are in the new Home & More Catalog that launches March 1. And guess what? NO PRESET CHARGES on them. Good news!

I appreciate your comments on the OZ blogs being more user-friendly. I will pass that on to our IT department. They want your experience to be easy and enjoyable, I am certain of that.

Sounds like you are doing quite well in the business and in life. BRAVO! It's always good to hear that IBOs are doing well. Makes my day! Please keep reading and commenting on Sales Speak and all the OZ blogs. sjw

# Canadian IBO 2 said on February 20, 2008 10:11 AM:

Susan,

If it wasn't for the OZ blogs, I believe that my wife and I would not be in the Quixtar business right now.  We gained information and insights that were a factor in our decision to stay.  As more information is revealed each day, we now know that we made the right decision.

This is wonderful to hear ... thanks for letting us know! sjw

# Desiree said on February 20, 2008 12:45 PM:

RE: Quixtar University

Awesome, awesome, awesome! I have learned so much from the Quixtar University classes and have actually applied it in retailing to customers. For instance, how Artistry is one of the 5 prestige brands and what that means (prestige) and that it is the ONLY direct sales prestige brand - that is huge! Those facts alone gave me so much posture and I was able to gain a former (other prestige brand) customer as an Artistry customer. I also like feeling "accomplished", like I completed a course and so now it is "official", know what I mean? I am so excited about retailing. I started with some No-Tox Parties and with following up have generated hundreds of dollars in customer volume, mostly at retail. The really exciting part is that if I can make $20 on an order, then I can make $100 on 5 orders, etc. - no limit! And then I will be able to teach those I sponsor the same. Just wanted to share my enthusiasm with adventures in retailing:)

# A Kline said on February 20, 2008 1:13 PM:

I completely agree with the shipping issue. The whole shipping day is too inconvenient and complicated ... two things that don't mix well with internet sales.

I buy my books from Amazon because it's so convenient (and good price). Time is definitely money to me, so I can't stand taking an hour to go buy a book somewhere.

That said, it really is pretty ridiculous to pay quite a bit for shipping AND scurry around to make sure I make my order by midnight on Tuesday. Again, that doesn't mix with internet sales.

Also,

On the price/value deal with the exclusive products. I'm starting a new rule for myself that if I can't successfully market a product well due to it's price/value than I'm not going to buy it myself.

One of the smartest things I've hear Tex allude to is that it's basically our (IBO's) fault that Q has some very overpriced products .. it just makes sense. If, in my other company, customers are willing to pay 3 times the value of my product, than I'm going to price it that way.

Same thing w/ Q, IBO's have been so willing to somewhat lemming-like purchase "all my products from my own business" ... and since IBO's are Q's largest customer-base, why wouldn't they over-charge for products?

Q's starting to put out some great products ... XS, Simply Nutrilite. The bars are a little too expensive comparably, but this is a good track.

I want products that are a little more expensive than competition because I don't want to just blend in with everything else ... I need a selling point ... they key is, a REASON for them to be a LITTLE more expensive.

-A Kline

# Jeff Namnum said on February 20, 2008 4:27 PM:

@ Desiree

Hey Desiree, I was just venting on an issue I had with the Simply Nutrilite sampling program.  It was unfriendly to IBOs and I was unhappy with my perceived intention of the program. I'd like to give it a more positive spin, but the truth is every time I'd ask someone in corporate about it, I'd get a brick wall of silence (I have to say though I never did bring up the issue with Susan).

I don't want to stir the pot on it too much, because the fact that Q* ended it shows me they understood the problem and took steps to address it.

Jeff, I can't answer what I don't know and I don't know why we did what we did with Simply Nutrilite. I can investigate further but I do know that sometimes we (Marketing, Sales, Communications) try new things on projects or product launches and then realize what we thought may have been a brilliant idea in concept didn't shine so bright in execution.  Know what I mean?

# Desiree said on February 20, 2008 6:25 PM:

RE: Blog Site user-friendliness - You know what, I realize now I must be an amateur when it comes to blogs (have never really participated before). After looking at some of the other Q blogs I see that that is just how blogs work - I just need to learn it a little better. I am so grateful we have connections to people in Quixtar (corporate and IBO's) through these blogs and a place to share and discuss - great job!

 

# rdknyvr said on February 20, 2008 7:31 PM:

Susan, regarding your reply to  Jeff just above, that's why it wouldn't hurt for Marketing to fly some of their ideas by IBOs on OZ... not speaking for myself, but there are some brilliant people who are IBOs and who are in marketing, advertising, sales, and management jobs out in a wide variety of industries besides their IBO businesses... as the saying goes wrt the 'mastermind' concept, 'Nobody is as smart as all of us.'

I totally agree and BTW, consider you one of those challenging and insightful IBOs-I've discovered we have many through this blog and I am learning SO much. Just to clarify: we have used the blog to get ideas (that we're implementing) on Ribbon, Choices, and Personal Accents. In fact, a brand manager asked me last week to print out my blogs on Personal Accents and all the comments I received regarding the program, party, catalog, and merch. I was thrilled about that. Let's hope what she started will catch on with other marketers ... I know many of them read the OppZone comments from IBOs since they remark on them to me in meetings and ask me for IBO input I've received on my blogs when we're considering communication content, vehicles, etc.  How cool is that? sjw

# rdknyvr said on February 20, 2008 7:50 PM:

Susan,

Here's a great idea for a blog topic for IBOs to reply to... "tell us what's been going great for you recently." Ask your friend who is Health Editor to read this too. It's a story directly from IBOFightBack and his fiancee's Optimal Health "home party/presentation." http://www.thetruthaboutamway.com/index.php/component/option,com_fireboard/Itemid,91/func,view/id,11320/catid,14/

With appreciation,

# megan smith said on February 20, 2008 8:55 PM:

hahahahaha wow........ blog "bebop"?? lol. sry u can tell im 17 huh? well i just got into Quixtar, but all my friends think it's a scam, how can i convince them? (they love to argue about it too, it makes me so mad!!) and also, how can i have my business just take off right away with no job to finance it??

 

# Jeff Namnum said on February 20, 2008 10:49 PM:

Hey Susan, I do know what you mean. I just didn't want to get all mysterious and not answer Desiree.  

And btw, many of my brilliant ideas turned out less than stellar too.  We're all human, as long as we communicate, like we're doing here, anything can be worked out. Thanks for the back and forth.

You are welcome. I made a joke in our blog meeting about loving writing my blog ... and loving the receipt of "mail" from IBOs ... so keep it coming! sjw

# Ben said on February 21, 2008 5:56 AM:

Tex

While I appreciate what you have written here and in other blogs in defending this biz to those self proclaimed "experts", I would like to ask you to please stop making those blanket "tool scam" comments. When you do that it makes it seem like anyone who has ever bought a tool has been ripped off, which is simply not true.

I've been involved for years with an organization that has priced their tools below the market value and the function prices are also extremely competitve. I believe I get more than my monies worth when I purchase these tools and I agree with Desiree as it has also changed my life immensely.

Once again, I appreciate all the blogging you do but would you consider doing this?

# Susan Julien-Willson said on February 21, 2008 8:00 AM:

Megan,

Sounds like you're asking IBOs to respond. I am an IBO, but not exactly one that's done a stellar job of taking off right away with my biz. How bout those of you out there sponsoring and selling? Can you help Megan out?

sjw

# Jeff Namnum said on February 21, 2008 10:54 AM:

@ Bridgett

thanks for the podcasts, will check them out.  Believe it or not, I only read Code Review for the first time last night.  Kind of a shame considering tech is a lot of what I do outside of this biz.  I will go back and find your posts thanks.

Also thanks for the podcasts idea, I'll be putting them on my phone to listen to over the next few days and start promoting them upline if appropriate.

@ Susan

Doesn't matter how long it takes you, just don't quit. You'll make it.

@ Megan

17 huh?  Here's my opinion. Check upline and with your parents on anything I'm writing to you by the way.

First if you're in school, think about what all your friends all around you are spending money on every day. Cell phones, energy drinks, snacks, makeup, something.  Then if it's needed (ie cell phones you don't need inventory) pitch your parents to finance your first product investment.  Show them how you plan to sell x amount of products and need x amount of inventory and offer them a rate of return on their investment within a set amount of time.  Do not fail to pay them back.

Not in school or in college already? Get a job.

Fighting with your friends? Cut it out.  Laugh at whatever they say and then stick an XS in their hands, open and cold and make them try it. Then ask for an order and laugh some more at their jokes.  Laugh again at their jokes when you deposit the money in your account. You only need 8-10 good customers on ditto to be making more than any of them will in their part time jobs at the mall.

btw, I know you're broke, but if you're not using your products (the ones you're selling) neither are they.  Work it out, you can be making more money while you're in college than they'll make on their first job when they graduate, but you will have to bust your butt now and learn a lot of different thinking. Good luck, I know you can do it.

First if you're in school, think about what all your friends all around you are spending money on every day. Cell phones, energy drinks, snacks, makeup, something.  Then if it's needed (ie cell phones you don't need inventory) pitch your parents to finance your first product investment.  Show them how you plan to sell x amount of products and need x amount of inventory and offer them a rate of return on their investment within a set amount of time.  Do not fail to pay them back.

Not in school or in college already? Get a job.

Fighting with your friends? Cut it out.  Laugh at whatever they say and then stick an XS in their hands, open and cold and make them try it. Then ask for an order and laugh some more at their jokes.  Laugh again at their jokes when you deposit the money in your account. You only need 8-10 good customers on ditto to be making more than any of them will in their part time jobs at the mall.

btw, I know you're broke, but if you're not using your products (the ones you're selling) neither are they.  Work it out, you can be making more money while you're in college than they'll make on their first job when they graduate, but you will have to bust your butt now and learn a lot of different thinking. Good luck, I know you can do it.

# A Kline said on February 21, 2008 11:33 AM:

Ben,

I'm curious what prices you do pay for tools, etc.

 

# YankeeIBO said on February 21, 2008 12:35 PM:

Bridgett,

Thanks for the podcast ideas! However, my point was not that I was looking to hear from more Diamonds (although hearing from a cross-system, cross-section could actually be pretty awesome). My point is that getting the Diamonds involved in this blog would be the best way to get their support, and drive their downlines here to learn from this open and diverse community that is our business.

Yes, I can see your--and others'--points about not wanting the new IBO to be exposed to some of this haggling, but if they get the Achieve magazine and access the online archives, they will find out about it anyway. You can't hide it, and if you try, it looks like you HAVE something to hide--n'est ce pas?

Yes, we have people here say things that we would rather not hear, but the wonderful thing about this place is two-fold. One is the preponderance of positive voices supporting and loving this business--even as they recognize that it isn't perfect and share what needs improvement. Two is that the company has stuck their chin out, knowing they will take some hits, and willing to LISTEN to all of us and do what it takes to improve.

In this place, WE ALL HAVE A VOICE--one that is not dependent on being passed on from upline to upline, with no knowledge that our voice was ever heard (not a commentary on our uplines, just the realities of running things through a chain of command--some of the best ideas never make it to the top because someone further down decided it was not worth passing on). In this place, we also get to hear from others with like thoughts and needs that validate our own.

These blogs empower every one of us who participate. THAT is why the Diamonds need to support these blogs, because it will ultimately put new life into all our business, as we grow in our sense of global community as a result.

# Susan Julien-Willson said on February 21, 2008 1:10 PM:

To Yankee IBO,

SO TRUE! In OZ, WE ALL HAVE A VOICE. Writing this blog has been one of the highlights of my job this past 6 months. Yes, I love to write and chat and all that, but the best thing about this is that IBOs can comment in general, to others at Q. corp, and to each other. I have learned so much--I've become an IBO and have done some selling and sponsoring--I've read books and articles and watched videos on selling--I've passed your ideas along to marketers and designers and editors--and have seen your feedback make a difference in what we do and how we do it here.

I'm all about making a difference on the job and in my life. I'd say most of you are, too. Thank you for participating. sjw

# Desiree said on February 21, 2008 2:07 PM:

RE: Megan - congratulations and welcome to an awesome business! I started out as a young single girl as well. Jeff is right in his advice. The best thing you can do with your friends (and others) is keep a great attitude, love on them, absolutely do not get defensive, show your sense of humor and keep on going! Your friends just might not understand but if they didn't have some interest they wouldn't say anything at all. Show them it works by doing it and they may be some of your strongest supporters (and IBO's) down the road. They need to see that you're serious and they want to see how you do. Focus on getting positive people in your business, both customers and IBO's and in turn you will have even more friends and a richer life. Have fun with it! Also, about the products, find something you really like product-wise. Become an expert on it and sell it at retail to customers. That will be instant profit for you. Of course, check upline on all this but definitely tap into your upline as well for ideas and support - that's what they're there for. Most of all, you can do it! Best of blessings - Desiree:)

# CJ said on February 22, 2008 6:32 PM:

Sorry for coming so late into the mix on this, but on the issue of delivery-I too have a similar complaint. I live very close to one of the largest cities in Texas (Houston) and for some reason we have only one day to ship. In a small town not 1.5 hours away (Beaumont), I've noticed they have multiple delivery days-almost every day of the week barring Monday I think. What's up with that?

More to come...CJ.

# CJ said on February 22, 2008 6:53 PM:

Chris,

As a manager I understand where you are coming from. One thing that is key is understanding your work environment. If you work in an environment where the atmosphere is laid back casual, then the stage may already be set for you to market products to them in a non-threatning way. The age group of folks I work with are between 24-50+ with a heavy distribution on the 24-36 year old crowd. Plus, we are contractors for the goverment so it's a different dynamic. But, there a lot of people who have networking businesses or they attend direct sales "parties" and invite folks to them. Most of the folks in my group and our area know I have a business and that we sell stuff so the the fruit most of the time is free for the picking. What I've learned to do for the most part is become a product of my product and make sure I have things in the office that people will see me with, that anyone can use, or I can give as a sample. For instance, I have the lotion on my desk-people always ask to use some and in the end they may ask more about it (like, who is Access Business Group?-LOL). I also have the energy drinks at my desk or I'm walking around drinking them because most folks who work for the government need something to get them going-LOL. I also keep the LOC Towelettes as well. Why? Because when someone has a stain on their shirt or something and need something to get it out-I make sure they know the effectiveness of our towelettes before they ask somebody for a Tide Pen. I don't make a big commericial out of it, but I just hand it to them and the packaging and everything else kicks in the questions. Like Jeff said, use your wife/third party which works well when you don't much about the folks you are interacting with. Best thing I can tell you if you hear someone with serious need and we have a product that can solve it, use the wife phrase and say I'll see if she has any samples of that and then get them samples-it works!

# CJ said on February 22, 2008 7:39 PM:

Ok two more I just thought of....

11) Fix Activa Travel-somehow, please or delete it. It has never been competitive at all with anyone for anything. Maybe we should partner with other travel companies such as travelocity or expedia. Of other partner stores that need to be fixed: Driver's Elite-terrible program and service. Parnter with Allstate (as we did in the past) or AAA. What all of these type of businesses such as netflix, travelocity, etc need is someone not only to drive traffic to their sites, but buying customers and that's what we do from the IBO level down to promoting it to our customers.

12) Bring back the Travel Ribbon Program for 2008-Soon, PLEASE!!!

# Susan Julien-Willson said on February 23, 2008 2:06 PM:

To CJ,

Thanks for your comments. I actually asked in my silly bebop blog post how we can make the blog better for IBOs, but as you know, I welcome ideas and suggestions for the business, especially the product side of the business. But, if you want let us know what you think of OZ blogs, please do. :-) In case your comment gets missed on the blog, I will forward it to the Partner Stores & Services marketers and QU Training Department. As for Ribbon, I thank you. I am on the Ribbon team and plan to share your ideas at our next team meeting--some we are in the process of doing, some we won't be doing due to a variety of reasons that I will speak of in an upcoming blog post. I am going to ask for some Ribbon feedback on a few things we're pondering for Ordermygift site. BTW, the 2008-09 Ribbon Program is currently in development and we incorporated many ideas shared in Sales Speak comments and also via email to RibbonRetailer@quixtar.com So, keep your ideas coming. It helps us plan. But remember, there are times budget/time constraints/availability matters prevent us from carrying out all your wishes! Best wishes, sjw

# Susan Julien-Willson said on February 23, 2008 2:06 PM:

To CJ,

Thanks for your comments. I actually asked in my silly bebop blog post how we can make the blog better for IBOs, but as you know, I welcome ideas and suggestions for the business, especially the product side of the business. But, if you want let us know what you think of OZ blogs, please do. :-) In case your comment gets missed on the blog, I will forward it to the Partner Stores & Services marketers and QU Training Department. As for Ribbon, I thank you. I am on the Ribbon team and plan to share your ideas at our next team meeting--some we are in the process of doing, some we won't be doing due to a variety of reasons that I will speak of in an upcoming blog post. I am going to ask for some Ribbon feedback on a few things we're pondering for Ordermygift site. BTW, the 2008-09 Ribbon Program is currently in development and we incorporated many ideas shared in Sales Speak comments and also via email to RibbonRetailer@quixtar.com So, keep your ideas coming. It helps us plan. But remember, there are times budget/time constraints/availability matters prevent us from carrying out all your wishes! Best wishes, sjw

# CJ said on February 27, 2008 11:57 AM:

Whoops! I'm sorry. I completely misread the intent of the blog. Overall, Just keep OZ going-it's a great tool for IBOs to come together with corporate and express our happiness and sometimes not so happy sentiments with the products/corporation so that in the end we can have the best business opportunity to offer to others.

The OZ team thanks you, CJ!

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