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Open culture

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There aren’t many companies that can boast of growth during the current recession. And that’s not just growth in financial terms, but in the talents and development of its distributors. However, direct selling company Forever Living Products continues to expand both globally and nationally in the UK, thanks to its 21st century approach to developing people and the ongoing boom in the natural health market.

Research

John Curtis and his wife Jayne Leach have been with the company since it came to the UK from the US 19 years ago. They researched the direct selling/ network marketing sector for several years and were disappointed by the greedy approach adopted by many companies at the time.

John explains what attracted them to Forever Living Products: “The genius of Forever’s founder Rex Maugham is that he has found the perfect balance - the exact line for the company to remain healthily in profit, without being greedy. Every independent distributor has an opportunity to share in the success of the company and the harder they work, the more profit is shared.

“The company is built on solid and completely ethical principles. The marketing and career plan has stood the test of time for over 33 years - any modifications have been minimal, but yielding increased benefit to the distributors.”

John adds that what sets the company apart is an open culture, which supports and embraces everyone - whether they want to build a big business or are happy with a part-time income and modest goals. He adds: “It isn’t a testosterone-led, brutal business. There is no big whip; people are with this company because they want to be there to improve their work/life balance and material security.”

The sense of balance extends into the working environment at Forever, as not only money, but also care, support and training are invested in every distributor. The products, which range from Aloe Vera gel drinks and supplements, to skincare and beauty products, are designed for men and women.

The balance of power between men and women in the business is also equal. Its equal opportunities policy ensures everyone is welcome, whatever their background. Equally, men and women run some of the most successful businesses, many being partners in life and in business.

John explains: “The difference in this company is that people are allowed to show weakness and make mistakes without a hammer coming down on their heads. In the corporate world, if you show emotion it’s considered a weakness. The pressure of that situation can develop a great deal of internal mental strife and stress. At Forever, you would be supported, so you could continue to grow.”

All distributors benefit from an extensive training and mentoring programme and last year Forever Living Products won the highest Investor in People accolade - championship status. It is the only organisation in the Direct Selling Association and fast moving goods sector to have achieved this.

John says: “Unless you participate in a growth programme, you can’t reach your potential.

Eventually, this business stops being about the money. You gain the material security you have been looking for and the best feeling then is in seeing a person that you are mentoring grow and develop.”

He adds: “The culture of the company is key. The Americans haven’t imposed their culture internationally, but have allowed a national culture within the UK to develop. Each of the 150 countries develop in the way they want - then there is crosspollination as they share experience and success stories.”

Be yourself

Ashley Riley, based in Nottingham, is 60 and has been with Forever for 17 years, running his company The Infinet Group with his wife Louise, 46.

He says: “Because of the sponsorship and mentoring system, you have a team of people supporting you, all with their own experience, skills and financial nous to share and pass on. All you have to do in this business is work hard, be honest and, above all, be yourself. That’s how to succeed. Everyone has different talents to share, which we all benefit from. The financial incentives are important, but they aren’t the only thing.

“I have become a much more understanding and patient person since joining Forever. I used to just look after number one, but I changed through being coached. Before Forever, I had my own business and you get bigheaded when you earn a lot of money. Then when it crashes it’s a great leveller.

“With Forever, the products are top quality, ethically produced and the business opportunity is solid. Now I have the income I wanted, but in a much better, healthier and happier working environment.

All you need to do is work hard, set goals, follow the system and success will come your way.”