Pet Product Independent Sales Agent
(Manufacturer’s Representative)
Growing numbers of businesses in the pet industry are willing to pay commissions for representatives to promote their products or services. If you’re using a product that you like for your own pets, it’s certainly worth contacting the manufacturer to see if they have a dealership program.
What a Business as an Independent Sales Agent Involves:
Your job is to find vendors for the product(s) of the manufacturer you represent. This will probably require travel to visit suitable stores in your area (limit your geographical area if you want to spend SOME time at home playing with your own pets). Most Independent Sales Agents work on commission.
Knowledge or Skills Required: Nothing specific – an aptitude for sales, a passion for the product, good people skills, and patience! And a reliable vehicle.
Advantages:
Minimal start-up costs. Many of your sales aids will be furnished by the manufacturer, although this is by no means certain. Great way to spread your passion for a wonderful new product Growing demand; more and more manufacturers are outsourcing this function
Disadvantages:
Many try but few succeed in this business. You may have to wait several months before getting any payment from the manufacturer. May require extensive traveling
Resources for More Information on Finding Independent Sales Agent positions:
Manufacturers’ Agents National Association (MANA)
http://www.manaonline.org (annual membership fee)
American Pet Products Manufacturer’s Association: check the Manufacturer Representatives Wanted listings http://www.appma.org/referral/reps_wanted.asp
Comments/Ideas:
You’ll need to be meticulous about record keeping (including mileage) in this business. And try to work with companies within your own state, or in a neighboring state, especially if the company is new or you don’t know much about it. It’s much easier to work out any problems if you’re not two time zones away.
Like the idea of sales, but this seems too difficult? Try being a Direct Sales Representative – there are several pet-related businesses in that field, too!
|
