But just because you know how to open, write and send an e-mail doesn't mean you are making most of this incredible tool. In fact direct sellers who fail to follow simple e-mail etiquette may be doing more harm than good. Check these Ten Commandments of Proper E-mailing to see how you measure up.

1. E-mail netiquette: > Thou shall not SHOUT (all caps) > Thou shall not flame (profanity) > Thou shall not SPAM (unsolicited junk e-mail) > Thou shall not attach large files (or more than one at a time)

2. Be Brief And To The Point - Messages should be concise and to point. Think of it as a telephone conversation, except you are typing instead of speaking. Nobody has ever won a Pulitzer Prize for a telephone conversation nor will they win one for an e-mail message.

3. Always Use The Subject Line - The subject line of your e-mail determines whether it will be read or not, so make it compelling. Including an appropriate description in subject line is a courtesy that will be much appreciated by clients who need to store and easily reference previous e-mails.

4. Include a Signature - A custom signature, automatically added to your outgoing e-mail is one more opportunity to promote your business and invite people to your website. (In Outlook, you must first open a blank e-mail and then select Tools, Options and General tab. At bottom right corner you'll see a button that will allow you to create as many signatures as you want).

·Put yourself in a positive frame of mind before you make call and transfer your enthusiasm to person you are calling.

·The first fifteen seconds sets tone for your entire call. Your most effective introduction is one with professionalism and warmth.

·Be polite and show respect by asking "Is this a good time for you?"

·Everyone wants to feel special, so in beginning build rapport by offering a sincere compliment or asking about her family or a special interest.

·Use recommended scripts and dialogue provided by your company. They are included in your training material because they have worked well! Set a goal to use script as is for at least six calls and only after trying it as is change it to suite your personal style.

·Go for it! You made call - now make most of opportunity by offering to:

1) Save them money by mentioning a special offer or suggesting they hold a show/party and earn free products and discounts.

2) Earn additional income by helping them start a home-based business with your company.

3) Share product or business opportunity with a friend. Offer a referral incentive for any leads they provide who end up joining your team.

·No matter what result always ask for a referral by saying, "Who do you know who needs to do some gift holiday shopping or who would like to have some additional cash?"