Is it common for corporations to have policies against direct sales companies?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread explores participants' experiences and observations regarding corporate policies on direct sales activities, particularly in relation to Pampered Chef. Many participants share anecdotes about their spouses' workplaces and the restrictions they face regarding solicitation and advertising direct sales products.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions that her husband is discouraged from leaving Pampered Chef catalogs at work due to company policy against solicitation.
  • Another participant shares that while their workplace has a "no solicitation" policy, management's attitude can vary, with some being more lenient than others.
  • Several users note that their spouses work for large companies that enforce strict policies against any form of solicitation, including fundraising activities.
  • One participant recounts that their husband is allowed to carry catalogs but cannot leave them in common areas, relying instead on word of mouth.
  • Another participant describes how their husband avoids advertising their business at work to prevent making colleagues feel obligated to purchase.
  • Some participants express frustration over the limitations imposed by corporate policies, while others acknowledge the necessity of such rules to maintain a professional environment.
  • One participant mentions that their husband is actively taking catalogs to work as there seems to be interest among coworkers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ significantly among participants regarding the strictness and enforcement of solicitation policies at their spouses' workplaces. Some participants agree that such policies are common, while others highlight varying levels of enforcement based on management attitudes.

Contextual Notes

Participants' experiences reflect a range of corporate environments, from large banks to government agencies, indicating that policies on direct sales can vary widely across different industries and companies.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to Pampered Chef consultants navigating similar challenges with their spouses' workplaces and seeking to understand the landscape of corporate solicitation policies.

augmommychef
augmommychef
Silver Member
Messages
33
Let me preface this by saying that I have a super supportive husband who encourages me in all of my PC endeavors. He helps me prep for my shows and makes sure to come home early to take care of the kiddo so I can get to my shows on time. However, I have asked him nicely several times to leave a catalog in his break room just for his coworkers to browse through during lunch time. He refuses to do so because he doesn't think it is "kosher" and he says it is against company policy to advertise these types of direct sales companies. He works for a very large software company. My question is: is this common for corporations? When I worked at a corporation, I was never familiar with direct sales companies so I never really knew the policies surrounding it. What has your experience been? I can't quite tell if he is telling the truth...
 
I work at Staples and we have a "no solicitation" on the front door/window. Although that is there, I think it is really up to the management of the store or company because my boss thinks Pampered Chef is great and could care less if I sold it to my coworkers.I've even recruited one of my coworkers. His theory is: as long as work gets done he doesn't care. On the other hand the manager before him was so into company policy that we couldn't do anything of the sort nor would we have EVEN asked him. (I didn't like him much...I was glad to see him fired)I'm supposing that your husband's work may just be picky about that kind of stuff...
 
Last edited:
My DH is absolutely not allowed to leave a catalog in his break room, either (also a large company). The employees get e-mails regularly saying it is against policy, as is any fundraising (Girl Scout cookies, pizzas, etc.). So I think he's telling the truth.;)
 
My hubby worked for a huge worldwide known company for years and there was a big policy against that. I think he's telling the truth.
 
He told me it was because they didn't want the union soliciting, so no one can solicite anything.
 
Most companies I have worked for have a no-solicitation policy. Currently my day job (a large corporation) revisted the policy, and continued it. For both labor and management, it is a relief not to feel obligated to support the many requests and 'opportunities' presented.
 
Last edited:
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Thank you very much for your input! I guess I've heard so many stories of husbands helping their wives out by spreading the word at their work that I thought it wouldn't hurt if he did too! Ok, off to let husband out of the doghouse!
 
I have asked my DH to leave a catalog in the communications office of the sheriff's department (he's a road deputy). I know there are some very nice people who work there, and basically the way I see it is that if they're interested, they'll contact me via the info on the back. If they aren't interested, I'm only out one catalog. He still won't do it...doesn't want to make people think we're "out for their money" or whatever (which is funny, because I'm possibly the lowest-pressure salesperson out there!). I haven't pushed him on it because it's his job, and I don't want to put him in an awkward position with the people he works so closely with. It's funny though...he's mentioned my consultant status to several of them in conversation, he just won't take a catalog with him.
 
The company I used to work for had to put a policy into place because so many people were passing around catalogs for parties, selling Avon during non break times, etc. Noboby really still followed it but if he doesn't want to get in trouble or be the straw that broke the camel's back, I don't blame him.
 
My dh is supportive too but he will not take a catalog into work or even keep one in his car. If someone asks him for a catalog he will take it in the next day for them but he will not let ME follow up. "If they want something they will call." lol So far no calls. He absolutely does not want my business to mix with his - they do have the no solicition policy there too.

One thing he did do was take one of our new Pastry Mats in for a desk pad (he said it's a great surface to write on). Problem is people kept telling him it looked like a target so he turned it over and now you can't see the logo - but there is the chance someone would say "where'd you get the mat".
 
My DH won't "advertise" my business at work, either. He is in management and even though I don't think they have a policy AGAINST it, he doesn't want to ever make others feel like they are obligated. I totally understand where he is coming from. He is in a professional position and his actions need to reflect that. Now, people DO know me in there...so some approach HIM for my info or a new catty! When that happens, he has no problem taking them a catty...
 
My DH works for a huge cabinet company called Kraftmaid. He is not allowed to leave my cattys anywhere but he carries them with him and then he has them when someone asks for one. In those types of settings word of mouth is your best friend. People see others looking at them and ask to look to or ask where they got it. I've had quite a bit of business this way... Now if only I could get him to carry a catalog tote! LOL!
 
My husband would not take a catalog to work either! Your doing better then me my husband doesn't think this will last more then six months. Not because I'm doing it just the whole "home show thing". Like I told him even if it does only work for six months its six months of paying down bills!!! Heck I made back the money for my kit in my first show. I have faith in myself and feel its going to last as long as I want it to!!!! :love:
 
dianevill said:
My DH is absolutely not allowed to leave a catalog in his break room, either (also a large company). The employees get e-mails regularly saying it is against policy, as is any fundraising (Girl Scout cookies, pizzas, etc.). So I think he's telling the truth.;)
Click to expand...

Same deal at the hospital I used to work at. Not even funraisers for the kids.
 
KellyTheChef said:
My DH won't "advertise" my business at work, either. He is in management and even though I don't think they have a policy AGAINST it, he doesn't want to ever make others feel like they are obligated. I totally understand where he is coming from. He is in a professional position and his actions need to reflect that. has no problem ...
Click to expand...

Same thing here. My husband let people know, took a couple of catalogues, but said that if I contacted anyone, it would be like "coersion" because he is a superior to several peole. I even did a fundraiser there (or tried) and was not allowed to follow up with anyone. What a disaster! So even though several of the women there are getting married, I don't even bother. They know I do it and if anyone is interested they will let me know.
Jessica
 
My hubby works for a large bank and I don't know if they have this policy or not but he is working on his 2nd catty show right now! I wonder if it is against policy and he just doesn't know about it. He came home one night and said... I think it is time for me to take more catty's to work and get orders - people are asking for books. :)
 
My mother did a catalog show at her work (federal gov't) and since they have sent out an email stating that none of that is allowed even on their break time.
 
Both my wife and I work for large companys and both of them have "no solicitation rules". In general it is a good rule because before they had it in place it sort of got out of hand. Every week someone was hitting you up for a fundraiser or something.
When I recently "re-activated" my status I send out some emails to my co-workers who had purchased in the past or felt would appreciate it. I ended up getting called into the Compliance Officer's office and given a thorough explanation of the policy. Since I had sent the emails from an outside source and not from my work source it was deemed I was safe, but barely! Yikes!!
Anyway, I would believe him.
 
In today's culture of corporate layoffs, I could understand him being a bit cautious, policy or no policy.Send a veggie tray on the chilzanne server to the next company picnic, and if they ask where it came from, tell him, "Well, my wife got it from this Pampered Chef stuff she sells ..."
 
My significant other has taken catties into work and has passed the catties out to the workers. He even has taken it one more step in helping me and went to the business next to his and provided them one in their break room. His son who is seven lives with us and he has told his friends' parents as well as his mother about Pampered Chef. He is so willing to ask if he could give his mom a scraper even though it is used because he quotes "My mom loves Pampered Chef!"
It must depend on the company and their policies. I know my previous job, he could bring a catalog in however you couldn't go around asking anyone but if i was talking to them about other things, i just let them know where the catalog was.
Sorry for the babbling..
 
I agree with your hubby. It's really not the best way to "sell", anyway, by laying out catalogs. The best bet is to have your Supportive Spouse brag about how great you're doing with your Pampered Chef business when he's at lunch with his co-workers (or whenever they're chatting about non-business stuff - yes, people do that!) ;) My DH took one of his clients skiing last weekend, and they were chatting about what their wives do. When DH told him I sold PC, he said, "OMG, I need a new PC consultant - our old one quit and we LOVE PC!" So, I put together a packet with catalog, order form, specials, etc. and a personal note to him that I'd love to be his new PC consultant. So, the best ways to get new business is by word of mouth - even your hubby's mouth! :D
 
augmommychef said:
Let me preface this by saying that I have a super supportive husband who encourages me in all of my PC endeavors. He helps me prep for my shows and makes sure to come home early to take care of the kiddo so I can get to my shows on time. However, I have asked him nicely several times to leave a catalog in his break room just for his coworkers to browse through during lunch time. He refuses to do so because he doesn't think it is "kosher" and he says it is against company policy to advertise these types of direct sales companies. He works for a very large software company. My question is: is this common for corporations? When I worked at a corporation, I was never familiar with direct sales companies so I never really knew the policies surrounding it. What has your experience been? I can't quite tell if he is telling the truth...
Click to expand...

My husband wasn't able to do that either, and neither was I able to bring a catalog to work once I started working as well.

Your hubby seems to do more than most would in helping their wives with PC...I know it is a bummer that he can't bring a catty to work, or feels strange about doing it but before my hubby switched jobs, he took one into his old work, and his boss bought from me, and it has been an on going nightmare with her!!!, and a couple other people that ordered, and so maybe count your blessings. :)
 
My dh works for himself and by himself. He's so busy, I doubt he even thinks abuot PC when he's working with customers. He wouldn't talk to anyone if it wasn't required to get business and make money!:)
 
DH doesn't solicite orders for me at work - and he works with mostly women at a large Assisted Living Center. (nurses, aides, cooks, and housekeepers). His boss doesn't think it's appropriate. She has had a PC show with me in her home, but didn't invite co-workers, and didn't get orders from any of them. They all know I sell though, and will often place individual orders. When they want a catalog, I send a couple to work with some orders forms - but it is all initiated by them.
I have lots of other ways and places to get bookings and orders, so I don't worry about it too much. DH is very supportive, and has no qualms about telling people he meets about what I do. Often, when we are out, he will speak up before I do and tell people, and ask them if they'd like to have a show!
 
My DH has not been as EXCITED as I have been about me selling PC. He grumbles when he sees a PC box or product. We have had the arguments about him not being very supportive. I have seen so many people say "Oh My DH is so wonderful...he does this and that" I was starting to think I had made a bad decision about selling! I don't want this to come between the 2 of us. The good thing about him is he will take my catalogs to work and I think he is a little surprised of how many people actually love PC! I thanked him profusely for taking them in and getting orders. Well...I think we had a break through last night! YIPPPPPEEE I was closing an open house I had and was choosing my free product and I asked him to be involved in the process. He started flipping through and asking about different products. We stopped at the cookware and he said "Why is it so expensive?" I asked him if he had ever priced "good" cookware? Of course he had not. So I saw an opportunity and ran with it! I explained to him just like I would have at a party and he was sold! He even suggested I spend a little more on my 1/2 priced item and get the Stainless bowls! I was shocked, but very happy! Sorry so long....I am just so happy :p
 
That's great, Cookin Kristen!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it common for corporations to have policies against direct sales companies?

Yes, it is relatively common for corporations to have policies against direct sales companies. Many organizations implement these policies to maintain a professional work environment and avoid potential conflicts of interest.

What are the reasons corporations might prohibit direct sales activities?

Corporations may prohibit direct sales activities to prevent distractions among employees, protect company reputation, and avoid any potential legal issues that could arise from employees engaging in outside business activities.

How can employees find out if their company has a policy against direct sales?

Employees can typically find out if their company has a policy against direct sales by reviewing the employee handbook, company policies, or by consulting with the human resources department for clarification.

Are there specific industries more likely to have restrictions on direct sales?

Yes, industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology often have stricter policies regarding direct sales due to regulatory compliance and the need to maintain confidentiality and trust with clients.

What should someone do if they want to participate in direct sales while employed?

If someone wishes to participate in direct sales while employed, they should first review their company's policies and, if necessary, seek permission from their employer or human resources to ensure compliance with company guidelines.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

Comparing Direct Sales Companies: Help Needed!
  • PCMelissa
    • Recruiting and Team Leaders
Replies
2
Views
2K
lauradahl
Is it time to switch direct sales companies?
  • lt1jane
    • General Pampered Chef Chat
Replies
28
Views
5K
lt1jane
Are Direct Sales Companies Really Giving Themselves a Bad Name?
  • NooraK
    • Pampered Chef Sales
Replies
20
Views
3K
Intrepid_Chef
Join the PC Family: Overcoming the Fear of Direct Sales with Support and Tips
  • kitchenmom
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
11
Views
3K
luvbeingachef
Is This Magazine Mostly About Direct Sales Companies?
  • sillylittlechef
    • Recruiting and Team Leaders
Replies
2
Views
1K
soccermama
What are Think About It Packets and How Can They Boost Your Direct Sales?
  • esavvymom
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
2
Replies
39
Views
7K
emiscookin
"Jamie at Home"- Direct Sales Co
  • chefsteph07
    • Pampered Chef Sales
Replies
5
Views
2K
chefsteph07
Is having a supportive husband the key to successful direct sales?
  • Gina M
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
13
Views
2K
mrssyvo
Is Our Shipping Cost-Effective Compared to Other Direct Sales Companies?
  • AJPratt
    • Business, Marketing and Customer Service
Replies
16
Views
3K
Stampaholic1961
Has anyone successfully submitted a press release for a direct sales job?
  • krackley
    • Pampered Chef Bookings
Replies
6
Views
2K
Intrepid_Chef
Back
Top