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Today I had the honor of interviewing Michelle, a direct sales consultant with At Home America.

Why did you choose to become an At Home America consultant?
I had recently quit my "forever job" and knew I needed to help with our family finances by bringing in some kind of income; after all, we had just built a new home.

Then I held a “home show” with At Home America in my home and I was so pleased with the products and the reputation of the company that I knew I could go out and sell this stuff, too. After speaking with my sister, also in direct sales, she gave me the inspiration to give At Home America a try. I discussed it with my husband and he thought it would be a great opportunity. He has been super supportive every step of the way.

When did you start your career as a consultant for At Home America?
I began my career with At Home America in January of 2002. Since then I won $20,000 and have earned many awards and recognitions. Vacations! The trips that I have earned for myself and my family have been fantastic. They've been vacations I never would have been able to afford, if it wasn't for AHA.

How long did it take you to start earning a profit?
I earned a profit immediately. That is the beauty of At Home America.

A new person beginning with At Home America can begin earning a profit almost immediately. For a limited time - October 31st, you can begin your At Home business for FREE, (just paying for shipping and handling and tax) You'll receive your FREEStart HomeStudio a $600.00 value FREE when you qualify!!!! Our homeshow average is $565.00. At Home offers a generous 25% commission minimum your first two months.

How has the business worked around your family?
It's a terrific business opportunity for people with families. I sit down with my calendar and schedule all family events first, then I schedule date nights with my husband. From there I schedule my “home shows”.

When scheduling dates for my hostesses I can open up my calendar and show them the dates I have available. It makes it easier for them to pick their show dates, also.

What was the most difficult thing about starting your business?
The hardest thing was making phone calls to friends and family asking them to help me start my career by hosting a home show. I was afraid of the word, “NO”, but everyone was so supportive. At Home America has really taught me that each no is just one step closer to a yes!

What do you do to make your business successful, while still meeting your mom duties?
I have set office hours, same as I would at a full-time job. My family understands that I must have this time to help grow my business if I am going to stay in business.

Where do you find your clientele for At Home America parties?
I find my clientele everywhere: at home shows, salons, clinics, and supermarkets. Absolutely everywhere! Just strike up a conversation, bring up your business, and ask.

What have you found to be your best form of advertising?
The best form of advertising is definitely the home shows. People get to see the products up close and personal. They get to touch them, ask questions, and get immediate answers. They also get to see just how much fun this job is; after all I get "Paid to Party".

How do you help your At Home America downline promote their businesses?
I help my downline by answering questions, guiding them in new directions, and helping them keep to their goals. I am so excited when new and established girls call to share their good news, and I love to help them through hard times.

Is there ever a time you call it quits with a downline?
No - I will never write someone off until they tell me to. We all go through a spell where our businesses get put on the back burner. With At Home America you really feel a sense of family; to walk away from someone would be letting us both down.

If a mom were to say to you, "I want to work from home, but I just cannot sell. What would you say?
I know exactly how you feel! I felt the same way when I made the decision to start my business. But I found that with determination and a true love of this company anything is possible. Our homewares sell themselves because of their quality. I just have to present them. What do you have to lose? Give it a try!

Thank you very much for allowing me to interview you.

Visit her consultant site at: At Home America