Many years ago (more than I care to admit!) I was a young stay-at-home mom looking for a way to contribute to the family finances. This was long before the internet, of course, and for someone raising young children and trying to steer clear of the 9-to-5 rat race, my options were somewhat limited.

During that time I was desperately searching the classifieds, hoping to find some type of work to do at home. I stumbled across an ad for a work at home opportunity involving direct sales, and even though I never considered myself much of a salesperson I decided to check it out.

The young woman who placed the ad didn't even live in the same state; she just happened to be visiting her parents at the time and was trying to develop a group of people where I lived. I went out to see her and I discovered a product which was at the time almost unheard of - educational toys for children. I fell in love with the product and saw a unique opportunity to earn some extra income while also giving my children an advantage they might not otherwise have had - access to incredible products designed to help them learn.

Well, if you haven't figured it out by now, the company was Discovery Toys - and it was in its infancy. In fact, I was the very first person to sell the toys in my state. And I was successful with it, primarily because I believed in the products and was able to share their value with others.

I've spent the last seven years operating an online business, which at first blush seems so different from direct sales marketing, but in reality it isn't. The reason is because - like direct sales - internet marketing is all about developing relationships.

Today's direct sales companies have recognized the incredible impact that the internet has had on marketing and have adapted their techniques to mesh nicely with those who wish to use this medium to market both their products as well as their business opportunity. Most direct sales companies now provide their representatives with a ready-made website where they can send their customers to purchase products. Some, who in the past have marketed their products primarily through home shows, have now recognized the need to meet the demands of an ever-busier customer base. Now "virtual shows" as well as an increase of one-on-one sales have begun to replace the traditional "party plan" format.

After many years of working strictly online, I've discovered a dynamic direct sales company whose values compliment my own and whose products provide very high quality at a reasonable price. For this reason I have once again - after all these years - decided to add direct sales to my multiple stream of income approach to marketing. I can market these products, as well as the opportunity, both online and offline, and I can teach others how to do the same.

If you are interested in learning more about this particular company and how it can help you to develop a home-based income, you can visit my website to learn more. Take a look around, read about the company and its products, and then contact me either by phone or email (both are on the website) and I'll be happy to provide you with more details.

Cathy Bryant