Susan's Jewellery Health and Beauty One Stop Shop

susansbeautyshop.promastore.com.au

1. Tell us about your business

I offer a mobile shopping service (includes party plan, and one on one consultations). I retail skin care products, designer jewellery, nutritional supplements, home care products and products for the car/boat. I provide skin analysis and facials. My business is about helping others to look and feel good.

2. When and why did you start your business?

I joined the company that I now work with as an independent distributor two years ago. I was looking for a change in my life, wanting to balance the demands being made on me, and wanted to be working hard at something that directly benefited me and my family. Most importantly, this business offered me the opportunity to begin the develop long term prosperity with the aim of being able to move into retirement without financial concerns, and knowing that I was in a position to be able to help out my children.

3. On a personal level, what have you achieved with of your business?

Over the last two years I have been able to establish a regular customer base, who have remained loyal (I believe as result of quality customer service). I have been passionate in what I do, and so have attracted others to join the company and this has allowed me to facilitate their training and personal development. I gain great satisfaction from what I do, principally because I absolutely believe in the products I am retailing, and also because I am doing it for me.

4. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in growing your business?

As I am self employed, maintaining momentum has sometimes been a problem, as has overcoming other people's natural cynicism or direct selling. I have had to move out of my comfort zone in order to achieve the outcomes I desire. I do find this a constant challenge. However, because I use the products, I find that I have a great need to share what I have gained by the business with others.

5. What activities have been successful in promoting your business?

I have held sales meetings in my home. Letter box advertising yields some results. I have an online shopping facility which is a valuable adjunct to face to face selling. My personal testimony is a very powerful tool in achieving success - it is there for all to see.

6. What activities were less successful for marketing your business?

I found advertising in the local media expensive and yielded no results. I have also found that what is delivered into letter boxes needs to stand out. I have developed numerous flyers, brochures and pamphlets - many were unsuccessful in attracting a response.

7. Name your favourite thing about your business

The products - the skin care range is absolutely fabulous. I love using the products and feel like I am pampered every day.

8. Who or what other businesses or business people inspire you?

The man who is the CEO of the company (Pro-Ma Systems) is a most remarkable individual. Both him and his wife inspire me with their social conscience and genuine desire to inspire others and improve their lives.

9. What are your plans for the future of your business?

I aim to market to a wider audience, develop my contacts at several overseas locations, and hope to progressively ensure that every household moves to using the products from this Australian owned family company.

10. Share your best business tip with our readers.

Never give up - even when facing the scepticism of others who expect you to fail, or rejection of your products by hoped for clients, or when the inevitable negative inner talk causes high levels of self doubt.

Visit us at: susansbeautyshop.promastore.com.au