Everything you need to know about VDI status
Choosing your direct sales company. Simple words that sound like a privilege these days. But be careful that this privilege doesn’t turn into a poisoned gift. From the jungle of offers to the alluring promises of less scrupulous companies, you can quickly find yourself lost in this unknown ocean. To make sure this crucial step doesn’t sap your motivation, here are a few tips that will be your first tools in this new adventure that is direct sales.
BEFORE SIGNING A VDI CONTRACT
Check the balance of the contract
More than just an administrative formality, this step marks the creation of new obligations between the seller and their company. So, make sure that this VDI contract is balanced and precise. All conditions and scenarios (joining, termination, ceasing activity, etc.) must be mentioned and taken into account.
What is the company committing to?
The company commits to providing technical and practical support to the new seller, notably by clearly presenting the VDI status as well as their rights in commercial, tax, and social matters. This necessarily includes a detailed presentation of their status and their rights in commercial, tax, and social matters. An initial training may also be offered, before or after signing the contract, to introduce the company’s products and/or services and its organization in more detail. The status can vary: some choose the buyer-reseller model, others prefer the VDI mandataire model, which works on a commission system.
What is the VDI committing to?
The direct seller is required to follow the rules established by the company to protect its image as well as that of its products or services, and to avoid disrupting its proper functioning.
WHERE TO FIND INFORMATION?
Go through the documentation
To help you make your choice, take the time to gather all documents about direct sales companies and their products. Check their website, look for press articles, etc. Any information that helps you assess a company’s reputation and quality is a plus.
Collect testimonials
Don’t hesitate to ask your friends and family, who might be able to point you toward one direct sales company over another. The internet is also a great resource for forming your opinion through testimonials from future, new, or former VDIs. Our advice: look at everything with a critical eye. Competition is fierce between direct sales companies... and some don’t hesitate to spread negative publicity about their competitors on blogs and forums! So, pay close attention to the quality of the arguments you hear, read, and see.
The FVD reference
If you still have doubts about a company’s reliability, make it a habit to refer to the Fédération de la Vente Directe (FVD). Member companies commit to following rules that reinforce the legislative measures in place. If the company you’re interested in is a member of the FVD, you’re in good hands. If not, contact the FVD to share your questions.
Learn more about the role of Fashion Consultant at Elora (fashion advisor).
PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM SCAMS
"Earn €3,000 doing nothing", "Get rich with this miracle product", etc. Behind these catchy slogans that flood your inbox are often organized scams, more commonly known as pyramid schemes. These organizations, which are illegal, still try to sneak into your home by presenting themselves as direct sales companies.
FVD’s recommendations for joining a network of independent distributors with confidence
- The regular sale of quality products to an end consumer is the company’s main activity.
- There is no obligation to build up a minimum stock when joining.
- There is no obligation to make repeated purchases of various materials and services, nor to participate in paid training sessions or meetings.
- There is no compensation solely for recruiting or recommending new members.
- There is no possibility to acquire products or services for free or at reduced prices based on recruiting new buyers.
- A contract sets out the essential terms of collaboration with the company, within a direct relationship without intermediaries.
- The company complies with current laws regarding Direct Sales.
- The company is a member of the Fédération de la Vente Directe.
- The company follows the Direct Sales Code.
