Keisha Sumner hates working for the man... or woman for that matter. So the 34-year-old embarked on the endeavor of a lifetime: financial independence. She left traditional corporate America cold turkey. No mandatory office hours. No boss. No chain of command. No consistent paycheck. "I love my lifestyle," she says. "Entrepreneurship allows me to take control. It's fun." Over the last seven years Sumner, who holds a BA in chemical engineering from Howard University, has made the lion's share of her income working as a real estate agent in Maryland. Still, even before the housing bust, most nights she was also working her side hustle. Sumner supplements her income with a side business many of us have tried, considered or have at least been the target of an attempted recruitment -- working as an independent representative.

We all know the companies: Tahitian Noni International, Mary Kay Inc., Amway Global. These organizations utilize a business model that maximizes profits by cutting out the middleman, i.e. a store. The concept is simple: bring the products to the consumer. Why go to Target if you can set up an automatic delivery online? Why go to Macy's when you can have all of your make-up needs addressed in your living room by a beauty consultant. Such companies boast superior merchandise quality, convenient service and most importantly, great financial opportunities for those who sign up to sell their goods. As an independent representative, or distributor, you receive a commission for everything you sell -- and so does the person who recruited you. In addition, many companies offer bonuses for reaching sales goals. It's a colossal opportunity for focused salespeople.

But it isn't all fun and shopping. Naysayers contend that these types of business setups are comparable to pyramid schemes (illegal business structures where underlings give money to the individuals who've recruited them). But Sumner -- like many others -- isn't buying it. "Everyone else works for a pyramid. There's only one CEO and CFO and you'll never make more money then they do as long as you work for them," she says. "If someone works under me they can earn more than I do. You can determine your own income."



Even with the onus on personal accountability, there are many challenges in the world of independent distribution. Finding a perfect business fit after one information session is sort of like going on a date with someone you've only spoken to over the phone. No matter how great the conversations are, you don't know what you're getting until you're face-to-face. By then your time and moola are already on the line. Sumner's had that awkward moment at least three times. She courted The Body Shop, Mona Vie and Five Linx before finding true love with her current company, Ardyss International. After seeing a presentation of the company's highly coveted Body Magic line (figure shaping undergarments), Sumner was hooked. "The results are instant and the looks on women's faces after using the shaper is priceless. I'm really excited about what I do," she says. "The products change lives." Obviously, Sumner isn't just selling; she's sold.

We got the entrepreneurial pro to share her tips on what anyone interested in independent distributor work should know:

1. Only join a company that you feel passionate about. You really have to believe in the product -- and be willing to shout about it. Your business volume will depend on your ability to talk to everyone you meet.

2. Find a supportive team. Sadly, 97% of people who attempt to work as an independent distributor fail. It's important to be part of a business network of people who are encouraging and will give you suggestions and tools to help you grow.

3. Be ready to work. Many people are under the assumption that business will just magically appear. Even if you have great products you'll have to network and host showcases, so expect to work at least 5-10 hours per week.

4. Use the Internet. Internet marketing is a great way to connect with people who have common interests and you can also use it to create visibility about your products. With tools such as Facebook and MySpace you can begin building your reputation.

5. Don't fall for the hype. It's easy to be swayed into coming aboard an organization during a meeting while emotions are running high. Make sure you're willing to make a long-term commitment before joining, or be prepared to lose steam and your money.

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