Fairly And Ethically Traded Jewellery & Accessories
How often do you work?
That really depends on what is going on with family life! Because there are no sales targets to meet, I get to work when I want to, which is a real plus.
How does the job fit around your family life?
The FunkiJunk Jewellery Company is a really flexible business, so it's easy to fit in around my children (who are still small) and not the other way round! I used to work part-time and found it difficult to juggle everything, especially when one of the children fell ill. Now I don't have to ask for time off if either of them are poorly, or if I want to go to to a nativity play or sports day.
How much time do you commit?
As much as I want to! There are people on the team who do two shows a month, there are some who do 10!
Where do you carry out your work?
The FunkiJunk Jewellery company is a direct sales company selling unique and invidual jewellery and accessories by holding shows in 'hosts' homes. We demonstrate how to accessorise a wardrobe, including how to colour match accessories to your skin tone, and how to match accessories to your body type. The great thing is all the guests get to take away their very own colour and accessory matching booklet to use at home! It's a wonderful experience, and it's great to watch the confidence of people grow when they realise and then choose the colours and styles that suit them. On top of that, the fact that a large portion of the stock is either Fair Trade or ethically traded means that not only am I doing good by making people feel good, but I'm also giving back to poorer countries, and so are my clients! There are no set regions or areas to work from so you can travel wherever you like. Most people tend to stick to within an hours drive of their home.
How much space do you need for your kit/stock?
Just one box, it takes up no space at all.
Do you need a car?
It's not essential, but it does make life easier!
Do you advertise?
Most of it is done by word of mouth, and I have also placed ads in shop windows and at our local pre-school. The company also puts together a press release for you to put in your local paper, and I've been in two newspapers so far!
How did you hear about the job?
I found out about it on the Gumtree website.
Do you get support/training?
Yes. We have our own private page on the website which is continually updated with everything you've ever needed to know! We have newsletters, and sales training. Also the really nice thing is there's always someone on the end of the phone if you ever need a question answering!
Are there any downsides to the role?
Apart from wanting to own all the jewellery yourself? No. I thoroughly enjoy it because it means I can set my own pace. The targets and bonuses are there for me if I want them. We get guest at shows to have a go at colour and body matching each other. It's nice to be part of that bonding experience between friends. My entire circle of family and friends are all crazy about the colour and body style matching. They'll often ring me and say 'I'm out shopping. Check your colour guides, will baby blue go with my skin-tone?'
Would you recommend this opportunity to other Mums?
Absolutely! I've become some sort of 'fashion icon' amongst my friends! We all think it's great. I really enjoy meeting new people and many party hosts have become good friends of mine. Above and beyond doing the shows, I might also get calls from people who've attended previous shows asking if they can pop in and have a look through the latest catalogues for an upcoming birthday or event.