distINKtive designs Stampers Team Newsletter - May 2009Well here we are, some of the distINKtive designs team members lucky enough to attend the 3rd annual Convention last weekend -exhausted, exhilarated and fully enthused after a fab 2 days of learning stamping techniques, workshop wows and good business practices. I felt Convention had lots for everyone, but the theme that was carried through very strongly by Shelli Gardner and other members of the US team was that all hobby demonstrators are just as important to the company as the "career" demonstrators. We were admonished for using the terminology "just a hobby demo" and told repeatedly how valued we all are. It was very nice and I think very sincere. 
It was quite thrilling for me to go on stage and receive 2 free stamp sets for reaching the 2nd award level for sales ($30K - $39K) All up I came home with 5 free sets - 2 in our satchels that we received at registration, 2 for the sales award and 1 at the Managers reception, where we had the best mocktails served with delicious nibbles, and had the chance to mingle with other demos who have reached the Manager and above level. Shelli and the rest of the US team were there and it was nice to be able to relax and enjoy everyone in a less crowded area. I was able to give Shelli the card I'd made for one of her blog challenges - one that she'd chosen as a winner (yes another free stamp set), and to top it off Sue brought along the Australian Cardmaking Stamping and Papercraft with my very first published card in it. I'm certainly enthused to aim higher again this year. I'll share some photos of the practical demonstrations later in this article. I'm sure Kari, Kylie, Shelley and Sue learned plenty and came way renewed with enthusiasm. Next year Convention is in Sydney on the 21st and 22nd of May.
That information indicates to me that we need to perhaps look at the way we present the content of our Catalogue at workshops.
Perhaps using the concept of "Adding On" more often. By this I mean perhaps demo an easy card and have a sample of the card with accessories and other extras added. Indicate you'd like to show others how to do this to get repeat workshops. Obviously this will be more than just adding a button or a bit of glitter - most people will know how to do that themselves. If we pace ourselves with sharing the knowledge we won't run out of techniques and new ideas to give to our customers.
Scrapbooking Demonstrator Starter KitHopefully everyone is taking the time to advise their current customers about this wonderful opportunity to join Stampin Up at a reduced cost. I worked out that the Kit is worth at least $320, so they are getting it for less than half price. I'd like to share with you what I have done so far.
First I emailed everyone on my customer list with a fairly detailed letter about the Starter Kit Opportunity. I picked out a few customers who I thought would really benefit from this offer and individualized a letter to their particular circumstance. I tried to make it very personal. Results so far - 2 interested from the generic email, 4 interested from the personalised email approach.(I only sent out 8 of these so am quite stoked at the response) I've made up information packs with my part of the Application form already signed, I carry them everywhere with me, so when someone shows interest I have a pack there to give them straight away. Hopefully most of these girls will join us. I know that others of you in the team have sourced some leads and wish you lots of luck in your recruiting efforts.
Leading on from that I did some re reading of the Demonstrator Manual.I found lots of information that I wasn't really aware of, and I think this might inspire some of you to aim for some of these goals. Did you know there are cash bonuses paid throughout the year for reaching certain sales totals within a quarter $15K in one quarter = $500.00 cash bonus. If you happen to get close to this at any time it might be worth adding a little to an order to make sure you get the reward.
Each demonstrator who has 12 members in her first level downline promote to Senior Associate in one year will receive $2,000.00 cash bonus. (I like this one - one down (thanks Sharon) and 11 to go!! These are just a couple of the incentives- if you'd like to learn more take a look at the demonstrator manual on the website, set your goals and see how you go.
Still looking at the Canberra Craft and Quilt FairWe have renewed interest in participating in this venture. I have to re-contact the organizers to make sure there are still some booths , but will let everyone know later this week. So far 4 of you have indicated your willingness to participate - thanks very much. Dates are August 6 - 9 and participation will require a couple of meetings, plenty of preparation and some financial contribution. Details coming as soon as I confirm availability. Very exciting and a great opportunity for those of you who wish to develop more of a business. People (who are already very interested in craft) come from as far away as the coast and central NSW, to attend this show, so the possibility of new customers and recruits is quite high.
The other promotion for this month - Buy 3 Get 1 Free in the DS Papers I am just promoting at workshops. I felt it was more beneficial to be concentrating on the recruiting for the first half of the month - too much information just overwhelms customers, so I didn't do anything other than mention it in an email. However customers who come to my Scrapbook classes are interested, as are some customers in workshops when I demonstrate a variety of ways to use these papers. I've also purchased most of them myself as I want to make up sample packs for workshops and variety packs that I can sell on my website. I'm considering the benefit of purchasing now at a discount in preparation for the Craft Fair. Too many ideas - not enough time! Here's a photo of me and the gorgeous Shelli Gardner at the Convention Dinner- that's one inspiring lady!
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Other news is that our current Idea Book and Catalogue will remain current until September 2010. This will bring us more in line with US releases. There will be 3 Mini Catalogues released between now and then, and the times for Saleabration are changing slightly, to start later in January and go through to March. I'll find the details and let you know exact dates, but it should be on the SU website. 
