From time to time, you'll be asked to provide your social security number or employer ID to clients or governmental agencies. Once you do that you have no control over which client employees and others can view your number.

With identity theft an ever increasing problem, reducing need to give out your social security numer can only be a good idea.

The best way to do that is to have an employer identification number.

In fact, having an EIN is mandatory for almost any business that is set up as something other than a sole-proprietorship.

This is IRS checklist for businesses that are required to have an Employer Identification Number.

Coaching Host Plan to spend some time with your Host soon after setting up a show date in order to review their guest list. Explain that goal is between 10 and 20 guests. Give your Host an Open House Host Guide (Most Party Plans have these or make your own) and let them know how easy it can be to find guests among co-workers, friends, neighbors, relatives and many other places. Help with guest list and urge Host to ask each guest to bring at least one friend.

The Guest List 1. A couple days before party, have your Host send confirming invitations and be sure to enter names of definite guests in spaces provided. 2. Describe Free Gift system to your Host by showing pictures of gifts they can qualify for. 3. Review order form, so your Host can help guests place orders 4. Explain how deliveries are made. 5. Discuss plans for refreshments. 6. Remind host that it's important to be upbeat and enthusiastic with guests.

Arranging Furniture There are a few basic requirements that your Host needs to take into consideration:

1. Enough seating facing a central point in room. 2. A table large enough to hold your display samples. 3. Good lighting.

Preparing Your Samples Samples are perhaps best sales tools you've got. Be sure you have a large selection on hand to display. Also:

1. Have a sufficient supply of catalogs on hand. 2. Make sure each sample item is in excellent shape and is sparkling clean.

Before Guests Arrive Arrive at Host's home an hour or so before party and provide a last-minute briefing. Divide necessary chores between two of you and make a final review of guest list. During this review, get your Host's opinion as to which guests might be strongest prospects for future party bookings.

Greeting Guests As guests arrive, have Host introduce you and greet them warmly and cordially. Chat with them a minute while filling out a nametag to make them feel at home.

The Presentation Begin your presentation simply and make guests comfortable by welcoming them and chatting a bit. 1. This is a perfect time to present free gifts to each guest as a thank you for coming. This will help focus their attention on items you have brought. 2. Present your first item by using descriptions you've worked on before party. Notes and note cards are fine to use.