Project You Managing Editor Jeanne Muchnick Attends a Once in a Lifetime Event with Avon
Women empowerment. Belief in yourself. Surviving and thriving. That was the message this week at The New York Stock Exchange when Andrea Jung, the Chairman & CEO of Avon Products rang the closing bell at The New York Stock Exchange. And I have to say I couldn’t help getting a little teary-eyed. Especially since Jim Clark, the grandson of Avon’s Founder David H. McConnell, was there, along with numerous Avon representatives – everyday “RoleMommies” like you and me. Women who took on the job of selling Avon products as a sideline to help support the family. I was also impressed with the number of women who followed their moms into the business, establishing Avon as a generational company built on a deep dedication to improving one’s status.
Yesterday was the company’s 125th year in business – and though it is widely successful and global – and filled with male execs – it is still, at its heart, a company built on the power of its female sales representative. (I was most impressed by the fact that the company was founded in 1886, 34 years before women earned the right to vote.)
Today, there are 6.5 million reps worldwide – smart, savvy, professional women who are a far cry from the famous “ding dong” Avon Ladies of years past. These women are passionate, entrepreneurial, and fiercely loyal. I met people yesterday – all moms — who have been with the company 25 years, 14 years, 40 years – even one women who has been selling Avon products for more than 60 years. No wonder they call it the company for women. And no wonder, after a few minutes speaking with Haizel McIntyre, one of the reps, I was seriously thinking of joining the sales force (you can make a decent salary!!!). I was also – truth be told — eager to leave the festivities and try the various lipsticks (I’m officially “in love” with the superSHOCK liquid lip shine) and lotions (hello Skin So Soft body wash) in my goodie bag. The piece d’resistance, however, is Anew Genics, a new line (just out this month) with patented YouthGen ™ Technology that helps stimulate the Youth Gene to help women look up to ten years younger. At only $38 a jar, how can you say no?
To locate an Avon rep near you, call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visit www.avon.com.
Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post but received a gift bag in conjunction with my attendance at the event.
Role Mommy 3.0