What Is Direct Selling?
Very simply, direct selling is a way to sell products or services directly to customers, away from a retail location. A direct sales business allows you to connect with customers one-on-one, in groups, through online sales, catalog sales or by phone. People in the direct selling industry are often known as independent consultants, distributors or representatives.

A direct selling opportunity is a viable option for people of all ages, genders and income levels. It is an especially good opportunity for women who want more flexibility and control over their lives, and who:

	Have an entrepreneurial spirit.
	Like working with people.
	Desire a less structured working environment.
	Are looking to supplement their income without making a large investment.
	Want an opportunity to earn an unlimited income.

Mary Kay and the DSA
The Direct Selling Association (DSA) is a highly regarded U.S. national trade association of firms that manufacture and distribute goods and services sold directly to consumers through an independent sales force. Mary Kay Inc. has been a member of the DSA since 1970, and Mary Kay executives have a history of involvement with the organization. Several have served or currently serve on the governing board and have been instrumental in shaping policies for the industry, particularly the Code of Ethics.

The Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics is the cornerstone of the DSA’s commitment to ethical business practices and consumer services. It ensures that statements made by member companies are honest and forthright. In the 1990s, Mary Kay executives led the way and played a key role in strengthening the code to further protect consumers and independent sales force members in the industry. Every member company pledges to abide by the Code’s standards and procedures as a condition of admission and continuing membership. The Code assures the independent sales force and consumers that they are dealing with a company serious about providing quality and service at the highest levels.

World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA)
The World Federation of Direct Selling Associations pursues the highest level of ethical conduct in the global marketplace, fosters advocacy by partnering with government, consumer and academic leaders, and strengthens management of national and regional Direct Selling Associations. In an effort to promote the highest ethical standards possible around the world, the WFDSA created World Codes of Conduct for Direct Selling. Every national DSA pledges to require each member to comply.

The DSA Internet Council’s Guidelines for Internet Use was created as a complement to the DSA Code. The Guidelines are voluntary and encourage proper, responsible and professional use of all electronic communication for commercial purposes. At Mary Kay, we are committed to conducting business with the utmost integrity. We encourage Mary Kay Inc. employees, independent sales force members and customers to become familiar with and be proud of Mary Kay’s affiliation with the DSA, its Code and voluntary Guidelines for Internet Use. If you have questions or concerns regarding your experience with Mary Kay or an independent sales force member, we encourage you to contact us at 1-800-MARY KAY (1-800-627-9529) or e-mail us at webmaster@marykayinc.com. We welcome the opportunity to assist with the resolution of any concerns you may have. For further information about the DSA Code of Ethics, click here, or contact the Association at (202) 452-8866.

Direct Selling Association:
Facts and Figures

Worldwide, annual sales from the direct selling industry currently exceed $100 billion. A direct selling business is:
	A business opportunity based on the sales of a product or service direct to a consumer.
	An exciting opportunity to own your own business with a small start up investment.
	An excellent opportunity for women. About 75 percent of those working in direct sales are women.
	A growing industry: More than $100 billion worth of goods and services are sold annually through direct sales.
	A way to achieve balance in your life. You can set your own hours, become your own boss and earn according to your own ambition and efforts.

Direct Selling Association:
Industry Awards

Mary Kay Inc. has been honored with several DSA awards over the years:
	The Direct Selling Association awarded Mary Kay Inc. with its Vision for Tomorrow Award in 2002, 2006, and 2007 for the company's community service efforts.
	In 2006, the Company also earned the "Education for Life Award" from the DSA for its investment in independent sales force education and the "Success Award" for its 2005 Fall In Love advertising campaign.
	In 2002, Mary Kay Inc. received the Vision for Tomorrow Award for underwriting a groundbreaking television documentary, "Breaking the Silence: Journeys of Hope," which raised awareness about the issue of domestic violence and the resources available to the brave survivors.
	In 2001, the Company received the DSA Industry Innovation Award for its groundbreaking Personal Web Site program, which assists the independent sales force with conducting their businesses.
	In 1989 Mary Kay Ash received the Circle of Honor Award from the Direct Selling Education Foundation, and in 2003, Mary Kay Vice President Michael Lunceford joined her in this honor.
	In 1976 Mary Kay Ash was inducted into the DSA Hall of Fame.