I recently became a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, so I find it a bit disappointing that the new Independent Demonstrator Agreement (IDA) will adversely affect the plans I had for my new business.
I've enjoyed using SU! products for many years, but never thought to become a demonstrator until recently. I learned that Stampin Up! would be providing their demonstrators with the ability to allow customers to purchase stamps and supplies online while still retaining the commission from such sales. In my opinion this was about time. I felt there were many opportunities to grow a business using online social networking, blogging and Web 2.0. I was curious to find out if SU's typical sales model could be transplanted to the internet, becoming a virtual platform for electronic commerce. My curiosity was peaked and I decided to give this a try.
With so many demonstrators, I realized the importance of differentiating myself from the competition. Using the typical SU! sales model, each demonstrator has a corner on their local market that they are physically located in. However, using the internet demonstrators compete with each other on a national level. Three ways of differentiation in this new paradigm are branding, technology and sales models.
My thought was to make Papers and Plums a personal, friendly, digital persona of myself. By sharing my craft and a bit of my personal side I had hoped to attract new friends in the same way I've been attracted to so many other friendly, open, creative people on various social networks. Through these new connections, which are analogous to new acquaintances made by holding workshops, I would differentiate my business by using an alternative sales model and technology.
That was my vision, and everything was going according to plan until the new IDA was announced on September 1. The statement effectively forbids me from using "e-mail, personal blog, web site, Twitter, Facebook, other social media and the like" in a way in which I could realize my vision. The reason this new agreement is causing me to close shop is because the only persona that I'm able to project that abides by this contract IMO is that of a pushy car salesman. It also restricts my ability to generate leads via interconnected linking from non-compliant sites. This limitation would prevent me from differentiating myself and successfully creating a strong brand.
If I was an employee of Stampin Up! this contract would be expected. But as an independent contractor, I pay my own taxes, operating expenses and capital investments. Therefore I see this as too restrictive of an agreement to continue being a demonstrator. My global online presence has more facets to it than just Stampin Up!
In my view, Stampin Up! won't survive if they continue to fight the internet.
Thank you for stopping by today. Please come back soon and check out my next project. A special gift for a special friend. =)
Sara
