How to Become a Bath & Body Consultant

Wooden bucket with bath and body accessories.

The entrepreneurial spirit is tugging at you and becoming a bath and body consultant occupies the top spot on the short list of possibilities. Embrace the excitement and conduct in-depth research. The Internet provides a convenient way to compare companies with which to sign up as an independent contractor. As a small business owner, which you can operate from home, your rewards are aplenty such as tax write-offs, supplemental income and meeting clients. More importantly, you will have freedom and control of your time promoting products you value.

Things You'll Need

• Business license or permit
• Business plan
• Bank loan (if needed)
• Computer
• Company with independent consultation opportunity

Instructions

1. Research your options online for established bath and body companies that offer independent consultant opportunities. The benefits of doing so include low start-up costs, sample kits, your own website for online product ordering with order shipment tracking capability, a proprietary e-mail address, marketing collateral and drop shipping to clients (no inventory to maintain). Analyze product/service offerings, contract or license agreements, shipping details, refund policies and warranties. As an independent consultant with an established company, you will receive support via training programs, e-mail responses and phone calls when you require assistance. You're not totally alone.

2. Draw up a business plan. The process of creating it encourages you to define your business, list and recognize your competition, enumerate marketing strategies to differentiate yourself from competitors, assume income projections, plus come up with a break-even analysis. You'll need a business plan to approach banks for funding. Bank representatives give serious consideration to applicants with a well-written business plan.

3. Obtain the necessary paperwork and credentials to operate your business. Visit the website for the Internal Revenue Service for information on obtaining a business operating license and/or permit and details on starting a business. The IRS website includes a link for the state wherein you reside for particulars including small business events in your area, plus taxation laws and regulations. Particulars may differ for each state. Read the sections that discuss each business structure type, namely sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC), corporation or partnership. Consult your tax preparer since individual situations vary, so one type is not recommended for everyone.

4. Actively promote the business to increase product awareness. Ask friends, relatives or co-workers for referrals. Ask if they want to host home parties where they will receive hostess gifts or a portion of event sales (choose hostess reward beforehand). Expand business reach and seek other opportunities. Sign up as a vendor at fundraising events for schools, churches or non-profit organizations. Donate a portion (25 to 30 percent) of sales to the event. Charitable contributions are tax benefits.

5. Cross-promote with other business owners who are not your direct competitors. This method benefits both businesses and increases your possible clientele. Hosting parties together is a great way to familiarize attendees with your business offerings.

6. Keep abreast of your parent company's supplemental training materials, newsletters or online courses (if any) when you sign up. Always check for any updated information. Attend local area workshops focusing on small business tips, or personal care business strategies to increase general industry knowledge.

7. Attend trade shows to keep up with industry trends. Some trade shows are open to the public, which gives you the chance to study the major competition. Observe product displays, products and services offered, presentation skills of exhibitors, plus collateral materials or souvenirs distributed. Improve upon them and replicate as an exhibitor when you deem appropriate.

Tips & Warnings

• Speak to your spouse, children, caregiver, and individuals involved in running the home. Your time will be limited, especially at the onset of your business launching. Set aside quality time with family, especially offspring.

• Decide if you prefer to carry only all-natural products and search for appropriate companies. If you do, scan the website for preservatives such as methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, or butylparabens and fragrance or parfum. These ingredients are chemicals, meaning the company is not offering purely all-natural items.

• Choosing not to sign up with established companies entails additional tasks such as researching vendors and manufacturers of products, agreeing upon product labeling and packaging options, hiring a website designer or building one yourself, designing collateral including brochures and business cards, invoicing clients, and perhaps packaging and shipping items sold.

• Product awareness is vital. But avoid constant marketing to friends, co-workers, and family members, which can become annoying. Unless asked, keep it to a minimum or don't discuss it. A positive energy and enthusiasm are evidence of success.

References

• Internal Revenue Service
• Internal Revenue Service
• Small Business Administration

Resources

• Internal Revenue Service for recommended reading for small businesses
• Business.gov is the official site of the U.S. Government