John and All:
Since the class, I have attended a trade show and am talking to two sales reps
on representing my gift bags. Both of the companies express interest and said
they really like our designs. Please provide some advices on the following
situation:
I provided samples and had a meeting with the first sales rep company. Then
they became very quiet and did not return my follow-up calls. I started to
think they did not intend to represent my gift bags, and have started talking to
the second rep. Then all of a sudden, the first company called me back and
explained that they have been on the road and have started selling our gift
bags. They said they have received a few orders, but I have not gotten them
yet.
I was surprised since they have not given me any confirmation nor any contract
to sign for this partnership. During the meantime, I feel that I need to slow
down going into the partnership with the second sales rep so I can better weigh
my options. The first rep is asking for 15% commission while the second rep is
asking for 18%. The first rep is not very reponsive so far, but the second rep
seems to be better in this area. On the other hand, I know the second rep knows
that I am green to this industry and is trying to push her limit on me. Who
should I consider as the sales rep? How could I make the first rep more
responsive? What do I have to be careful about here?....
Many thanks for your thoughts!
Regards,
Shirley
Thursday, October 14, 2004
choosing the sales reps
Re: Independent Sales Reps
Re: [spiers] Re: Independent Sales Reps
In a message dated 10/14/04 9:53:53 AM, b4chance@aol.com writes:
I am ready to bring on some independent sales reps. I wow that we
have covered this, but I am not sure where to get started.
***Go back to the stores that said your shoes were a good idea and don't
exist yet, and ask them for the best rep. If that won't work... try asking
retailers you like to see selling your shoes if they's name good reps... if not;
then you just have to serach shoe trade magazines for the names of reps...***
In addition,
how can I check the going commission rate for the industry. I will
be selling to High end women's shoes to specialty stores/botq. to start.
***Wild guess is 8%, but check by reading the footwear trade mags for
articles on this point...***
John
Re: Independent Sales Reps
John,
I am ready to bring on some independent sales reps. I wow that we
have covered this, but I am not sure where to get started. In addition,
how can I check the going commission rate for the industry. I will
be selling to High end women's shoes to specialty stores/botq. to start.
Frank