A QVC agent is an independent person or group who can help you introduce your product or new invention to a QVC buyer very quickly. They are not QVC employees, but function in a similar way to the Traditional Manufacturer Representative in that they bring products to buyers for consideration.
What to look for in a QVC agent
Nick Romer, bestselling author of “Make Millions Selling on QVC,” says, “A good QVC agent generally meets the following guidelines:
1. They work on commission and only earn money when their product airs and sells.
2. Your main office should be near QVC, which is outside of Philadelphia.
3. They should not charge more than 10% commission.
4. They should be able to find you a demonstrator if you need one to present your product on air.
5. They must have a long-term relationship with QVC.
And they should have a primary focus on bringing products to QVC. “
Why use a QVC agent?
The old adage of “It’s who you know” has never held a greater truth than when it comes to marketing your product. If you have someone who is a phone call away from putting your product in front of a buyer, it is a much quicker path to a purchase order than if you were trying to attract a buyer by exhibiting at a trade show, for example.
QVC agents have relationships with buyers and understand what makes a product successful. And for this reason, buyers often rely on agents to examine products.
Buyer turnover is also a frequent occurrence at QVC and being able to reach a new buyer quickly is important to your success. QVC buyers can come and go, but a good agent is like a solid foundation – they’re always there.
Then there is the question of inner knowing. “The pricing structure at QVC is not Keystone, but it is close.” Romer says. “If your agent is astute, you can bet that they will know where to price their product to reach a certain air-price retail price. This means that the extra $ 1 or $ 2 they can get will essentially pay their commission. “
Another way that good QVC agents pay themselves is by knowing what programs QVC is planning. If a buyer has hundreds of products and yours is not the most important thing, they may overlook it. It is your agent’s responsibility to remind the buyer about your product and how perfectly it will fit the next lineup.
How to find a QVC agent
Attend an invention marketing event or contact a manufacturer representative in your industry. You can also exhibit at an invention convention that is often visited by buyers, agents, and manufacturer representatives. Lastly, many agents visit the big industry trade shows, so consider taking a booth at one that fits your category.
