What does it take to be successful with any business? Customers to buy and use your product(s)! Finding those customers, and keeping them returning while constantly finding new ones to add is what makes for a successful business, especially with Barefoot Books and other direct sales businesses.
I think the number one reason some folks are not successful with Barefoot Books is they never build their momentum with the business. They might have a Kick-Off party, or book a few events, but they don't hunt down more events to keep their calendars as full as they would like, then they give up. I had a friend who used to sell food products via home parties tell me just last week that she had given up because she was only busy for a few months. Later in the conversation, she told me she was starting a new direct sales food business. I wanted to ask her what as going to be different for her this time around?
There is no science or magic to finding events. Yes, it can be hard work. You have to be one part super sleuth, and one part networker. I've heard about new events talking to some of the other vendors at different events. I've also learned what events to avoid! You might hear of a great event going on in the community, but learn that they don't have vendors. Ask if they are willing to have one, or give it a try that year. Sometimes, all you have to do is ask.
First, you have to be really honest with yourself about the kind of events you would like to do. Consider how much inventory you have to sell, and how many people will be attending. What is the fee or requested percentage of sales donation? How much will you need to sell, at a minimum, at your current step level, to at least break even? How many times has this event been done? (First events are usually under-publicized and can be a little risky). What is your target audience? Will they be there?
In the beginning, craft fairs, community events and lower-priced events are what you might need to start with to get your feet wet. Be sure to collect email addresses at these events, and let people know if you do home parties, book fairs, etc. Sometimes an event can be successful because of the value of the contacts you made there, and not necessarily the sales that day.
Where to look? Craig's List is a place to start. As is EventLister.com. As is your local paper. If you want to break into the School Book Fair market, it's time to start talking to local preschools and schools about what you have to offer. Be sure to bring a sample bag of books with you to drop off with them for a week so they can use them in their circle times, etc.
Do a search online for local educational conferences in your area. Some of them have higher booth fees, but you might be able to share the booth with another Ambassador or team member. You might also be able to negotiate a lower booth fee just by...asking! ;)
Whatever you decide, it's probably a good time to sit down and think about how busy you would like to be with Barefoot, and how many events you would like to do each month. Good luck to you!
