Written by Crystal Holtzendorff. Crystal is VP of Global Sales at PayQuicker, an innovative financial technology leader in the global payouts market. With 20+ years of industry experience, she is a masterful sales professional with a background in technology, healthcare and marketing. Prior to PayQuicker, Crystal served as a Sales Operations Manager for Global Access and a Sales Manager for Elsevier.
Navigating the Blurring Lines Between Direct Selling and Affiliate Models
Direct selling companies have long succeeded by creating personal connections and brand loyalty, but as digital sales channels and gig economy trends reshape the market, new approaches are emerging. Some direct sellers may benefit from exploring affiliate-inspired strategies – such as “influence training,” flexible payout options, and enhanced digital experiences – as potential tools to attract and retain talent.
While research projects affiliate networks will grow nearly 10% annually through 2030, outpacing direct selling’s 6.4% CAGR, technology-driven solutions are not a necessity but can help broaden a salesforce’s appeal, particularly to a digitally savvy base. Adopting select tactics from affiliate networks could help direct-selling companies enhance support, increase engagement, and retain a motivated, future-ready workforce.
Empowering Reps as Influencers with Flexible Payouts
Direct selling companies have a unique opportunity to support reps in evolving as influential brand advocates by providing tools and resources often associated with affiliates and influencers. Offering high-quality content templates, social media training, and even access to influencer-led workshops empowers reps to build authentic online brands and connect more deeply with their audiences.
Reps can also benefit from a balanced mix of traditional and digital approaches, like real-time, on-demand payouts, without mandating full tech adoption. Introducing flexible, faster payout models can be a valuable enhancement for those looking to modernize their operations, and for reps, it means more control over their earnings—a flexibility that many affiliates already enjoy. This option, combined with optional technology tools, helps direct-selling companies cater to varied seller needs and stay relevant amid evolving industry expectations.
Building a Seller-Centric Experience
In the affiliate world, top networks prioritize their affiliates’ needs, creating an enriching experience with customizable payout options and financial tools. Direct selling companies can adopt this mindset selectively, offering seller-centric perks like real-time payments and digital wallet options, along with resources that help sellers manage their earnings. According to affiliate Shaylee Beatty-Morehouse, “Timely payouts are a huge factor. I’m more loyal to programs that pay more regularly.” Direct selling companies can draw from this insight to improve their own practices, attracting quality reps who value flexibility and financial autonomy.
Leveraging Technology as a Strategic Advantage
For direct selling companies interested in expanding digital capabilities, technology offers an opportunity to create an edge in a competitive landscape. Real-time payouts, wider currency options, varied payment methods, and streamlined processes reduce wait times and enhance the overall seller experience, empowering reps with greater financial flexibility. As competition for top sellers intensifies, companies willing to experiment with tech-driven solutions may find themselves better positioned to attract and retain a talented, engaged salesforce that values efficiency.
Incentivizing Loyalty Through Added Perks
Direct selling companies may also look to affiliate networks for inspiration in creating loyalty-boosting benefits. Options like spend-back programs or exclusive offers for sellers can enhance brand engagement. Financial wellness perks, such as discounts on travel or access to financial planning, could also add significant value.
By introducing these elements, direct sellers can foster loyalty among reps who are accustomed to such perks in the affiliate world, creating a distinctive proposition that sets them apart.
Blending Traditional and Digital Strategies
As direct selling companies explore affiliate models and digital opportunities, balancing traditional and digital strategies allows them to transition at a pace that suits their business. Whether adopting real-time, on-demand payout models or sticking with tried-and-true methods, companies can customize their approaches based on the unique needs of their sellers. With the right tools, technology and payment partners, and payout flexibility, direct-selling companies can successfully navigate an evolving landscape while appealing to a new generation of reps who seek both stability and innovation.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE:
Leave a Reply