Tara Burner recently wrote about the definition of an independent consultant in an article containing some excellent tips about what it takes to be successful as an direct sales party plan consultant. But there are a couple of points that seem to lean towards the opinion that consultants “work for” the company. I think it’s a mistake to think of the relationship between a direct sales company and its consultants with an employer/employee mindset.
The article proposes a definition of an independent consultant that includes the phrase, “……separate from main company, yet still under the authority of main company…” In my opinion, the company and consultant should think of themselves more as partners than as employer/employee with one having authority over the other. Each has something to offer the other, and thinking of it as a mutually beneficial relationship will help both succeed. Consultants are a huge asset to the company (they are the sales team) and companies offer expertise in the product and sales methods, and in most cases manage inventory and delivery. Both parties should take advantage of, and respect the other’s expertise, and work in a professional manner to fulfill their obligations to each other.
Later, the article mentions a consultant being surprised “when they’re let go from company.” Being “let go” is a term that I think is most associated with employers firing employees. Most companies have a consultant agreement that spells out how and when the company or the consultant can terminate the relationship, and there are times when it’s best to part ways. But I think it’s more in keeping with the spirit of the independent consultant relationship to think of it as terminating a contract rather than someone being fired.
And finally there’s a section that reads, “If you really want to make it with whatever company you work for, present yourself professionally and be active.” I completely agree that to be a success in direct sales a consultant needs to be professional and active. But consultants don’t work for the company; consultants and companies should work with each other.
Admittedly I singled out some specific terms in the article so I’d like to stress that I completely agree with the spirit and intention of the article. I think Tara’s point is that successful consultants are the ones who make the time and effort to participate in the company’s training, stay up-to-date on products, and take advantage of the company’s expertise and help. I’m sure she values her company’s consultants and wants them to succeed, and I think she’s more than willing to help consultants take advantage of the opportunity to do so.
For more information about Tara’s company, Affordable Mineral Makeup, please visit the company information page in our makeup directory or the company website.
