The direct sales industry is a business that more individuals are choosing for a career path. With the Internet interest as high as it is today, many are choosing to get into network marketing as part of the direct sales industry. Regardless of what kind of job you find in direct sales, you’re going to have to generate some good direct mail sales leads to be able to recruit customers and sales people, unless you’re working alone. Many valuable lead generation tips are available to ensure you a steady flow of customers and clients.

Originally, most direct salespeople work in the home party plan. They encourage an individual to host a party to present their products and get commission in money and merchandise off the sales made. They also get credit for any future party bookings made because of this party. Some of the parties are for food products, candles, home interior decorations and Tupperware to name a few. Often gifts or bonuses are given to people that agree to host a party. The direct sales representative is not only generating an income but also meeting new potential customers at every party attended. Home party plans are still very active in the direct sales industry.

Many lead generation opportunities are available for the representative at these hostess parties. While the direct sales rep is giving a demonstration of the products, they are also encouraging the guests to take an interest in the business opportunity of becoming a representative or hosting a party. After the demonstration is over, many guests will browse through the catalogues, giving the direct sales rep the perfect opportunity to try to “sell the product” once more.

The current customers of the direct sales rep can also be a great source for referrals, new recruits or more parties. Often a hostess will invite family members and friends to their parties. Many of the family members or friends agree to host parties as a favor to the host. They also invite their family and friends so the direct sales rep is getting credit for these bookings plus a commission for any sales.
There are often specials for parties booked on a certain date. The hostess can call past customers that she knows are interested in the product to encourage them to book during these dates.
Another way to generate and recruit new clients and sales people is to invite regulars to work with them as a consultant. They may not want to be a representative, but can get discounts from being a consultant. As a consultant, this person can bring with them many new customers.

Setting up a display in a booth is a great way for a direct sales rep to meet new people that may become customers. With the Internet being such a large part of our lives, many direct sales reps offer their merchandise all over the country via chat rooms, blogs or their own webpage. Between the excellent product demands and many ways of publicity, a direct sales rep can generate many new leads.