Neora’s Amber Olson Rourke Offers a Vision of Growth and Innovation for the Direct Sales Industry

As someone who has spent her entire life immersed in direct sales, there are very few more equipped to discuss the industry’s current state than Neora’s Amber Olson Rourke.

The daughter of Jeff and Renee Olson, two proven leaders in direct sales, Amber grew up in conference rooms and taking notes from personal development legends, such as Jim Rohn. 

Co-Founder and President of Neora, she has seen and weathered many of the industry’s recent challenges, including economic downturns, rapidly evolving technologies, and even government overreach. Through it all, she has stayed committed to playing the game the right way while providing countless opportunities for people who are looking to better their lives. 

In her recently released video “State of the Union with Amber Olson Rourke: The Future of Direct Sales,” Amber gives an honest and optimistic account of the future of direct sales.

“When my parents started in this business, it changed the dynamic of our lives and future generations for our particular family,” Amber says. “But what I love is I also saw it do the same thing for so many other families. It provided them opportunities and gave a level playing field for everybody.”

Now, as a leader in the industry, Amber’s perspective is clear: Direct sales isn’t dying; it’s evolving. And those willing to adapt, innovate, and operate with integrity have a bright future ahead.

Here are a few takeaways from her latest message to Neora’s field about the exciting future ahead for direct sales.

Change Can Be Disruptive — and an Opportunity

Over the past few years, the direct sales industry has faced disruption, and Amber addresses it head-on. From economic shifts and changes in consumer behavior to stifling regulations, there is pressure from many sides. Even well-established companies have given in and pivoted to solely affiliate-based models, leaving many wondering, “What’s really going on in direct sales?”

Amber doesn’t sugarcoat it: “The decision of these companies to move directly to affiliate models is very short-sighted,” she says.

“The disruption has caused cracks to form in companies that lack commitment to their distributors and core values. Companies that prioritize integrity, transparency, and empowerment will rise to the top. Those that don’t? Well, they won’t last. The core promise of direct sales is about supporting people and, if you break your core promise, what do you have left?”

Unique Products and Personalized Service

According to Amber, the success of any direct sales company is bolstered by the reputation and performance of its products. In an age of too many options, consumers are looking for a few key things:

• Unique, high-value products. If a product can easily be replaced by something on Amazon or Sephora, it’s not going to succeed. Companies need to innovate, offering patented ingredients in their products that stand apart and deliver real results.
• A personalized experience. Consumers want someone to guide them—whether that’s through a sample, a demo, or a one-on-one conversation. Direct sales shines in this area, offering that human connection in an increasingly digital world.
• Premium customer service. With so much competition out there, customers not only want but are demanding a superior shopping experience—from how the product is shipped and loyalty rewards to efficient response times with any issues.

More than 80% of Neora’s revenue comes from true customers—people who love the products and have no interest in selling. This is a testament to consistently delivering real results that customers trust and believe in.

Fair, Flexible and Transparent Compensation Plans

The compensation model of the future must reflect today’s values: transparency, fairness, and simplicity. Amber paints a picture of a plan that works for everyone:

• Earn great commissions for selling products—without any requirement to recruit.
• Team building and mentorship are optional, allowing flexibility for individuals to build how they want, but also providing generous rewards for those that do want to build a sizeable business.
• Compensation plans should reward sales volume directly, without gimmicks or hoops to jump through.

This model empowers everyone—casual sellers, people who love the products, and serious entrepreneurs alike.

People Want What Direct Sales Offers

The global direct sales market is expected to grow by $100 billion in the next six years, and more people than ever are looking for supplemental income. Consumers’ favorable opinion of the direct sales industry has grown by 6% since 2019 and more are looking for a personalized buying experience from companies they can trust and that show integrity. Amber says Neora answers these needs. With quality products, a focus on customer experience, and a transparent and modern approach, the opportunity for growth is huge. 

Whether you’re an industry veteran or just trying to find a side hustle that fits your lifestyle, one thing’s for sure: this is an exciting time. And with leaders like Amber Olson Rourke championing the way forward, the future is brighter than ever. 

For the full download on where direct sales is headed, don’t miss Amber’s “State of the Union with Amber Olson Rourke: The Future of Direct Sales.”

About Neora

Neora is a pioneering social selling company that offers holistic beauty and wellness products developed through cutting-edge research and science. Founded in 2011, Neora has shattered industry sales records while building a strong customer base throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific. For more information, please visit neora.com.