How to Sell Your Product on TV

Want to give your credit card a breather and, instead, sell something on the Home Shopping Network or QVC? It can be a long shot, but one that can pay off if you have the right product.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Pictures
• Catalogs
• Brochures
• Samples
• Application

1. Think about the benefits your product offers. Can it be demonstrated on television? Does it solve a problem? Is it topical or timely in some way? Watch QVC and Home Shopping Network (HSN) to see what features they tout for products they represent.
2. Go to HSN.com and click on Vendor Information for an application. For QVC, go to QVC.com and click on the Frequently Asked Questions section, then on Vendor Information.
3. Complete the application and then mail it along with a catalog, brochure, picture and/or a sample of your product.
4. Wait. It may be weeks or months before you hear back from the companies about their interest level in your product. And if you do, they may need more information. For its second round of evaluation, QVC asks for a sample. HSN says to give its staff at least 45 days to evaluate your product. If the merchandising specialists from HSN want you, they'll contact you to set up an appointment to meet with a representative.
5. Look for an opportunity to attend a local qualifying meeting with QVC officials. The company frequently sends representatives to major cities to investigate local products, which gives you the opportunity to dazzle them with your product and personality.
6. Be prepared to pay to get your product on the air. This will vary based on feedback from HSN staff, although QVC does not require such payments.
7. Gather estimates from vendors on how quickly you can ramp up production. With large volume orders the rule at HSN and QVC, you'll need to demonstrate you can meet supply needs.

What to Look For:

• A unique product
• A demonstrable product

Tips & Warnings

• The most appealing products to HSN are unique, are of limited availability or something that can be easily demonstrated on television.
• Know the audience demographics when matching a product. HSN's viewers are primarily women age 40 and up; QVC claims a broader audience, depending on the product.