Do You Have the Qualities of a Successful MK Director and Consultant?

Independence, freedom, family and Christian oriented, these are some of the top reasons why successful MK directors join and lead the MK community. But what are the qualities must you possess to be a successful MK director? Wonder no longer! Here are the six qualities you need to succeed!

1. Excellent Time Management

A successful MK director is constantly juggling family, career, and communication with their unit; so to succeed you must be able to manage your time wisely. MK is known to seek out busy people because they are already masters of prioritizing their time. Busy people simply get more done! In the MK community, you will not be required to devote enormous blocks of time to your career, but you will see a tremendous return on investment for managing your time wisely!

2. Goal Oriented

Most successful MK consultants start out dreaming of the executive income level or want to improve their current financial standing. Thankfully, the MK Starter Kit only costs $100 and equips you with everything you need to start building your business immediately!

Cleta Colson-Eyre is known to develop goals that help her achieve success. Being Goal oriented is the best way to succeed as a successful MK consultant and director.

3. Trainable and Teachable

MK values relationships, quality products, and services more than pushed sales. Your goal is to be informative, and the fantastic products supplied by MK will do the rest. Everyone within the MK community is constantly learning and training to help their clients further.

Succeed by building strong client relationships with guaranteed repeat orders. Show your clients how to use the variety of MK products and let them make an educated decision.

4. Actively Connecting with New People

We understand that the fastest way to kickstart your business is by reaching out to your circle of friends and family, but you should quickly grow that circle to include others as potential clients. Actively connect with new people outside of your normal circle of influence to become a successful MK director. If you are willing to expand past your comfort zone the path of success will become clear and easy.

5. Family Oriented

Mary Kay Ash founded her company based on the golden ideology of “God first, family second, career third.” This model is what makes MK so different from other organizations that put profit and success above all else.

Successful MK directors and consultants are motivated by the needs of their family more than themselves and don’t see their family as a reason for success.

6. Decision-Makers

Don’t limit yourself to only what you think you can achieve and aim for the stars. To be successful, you must be proactive in making your dreams a reality. What you achieve is solely reliant on the time and effort you put into your work.

Successful women take advantage of the opportunities presented them and are active decision makers. Don’t procrastinate because the only way to change your future is to act in the present.

“Don't limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, remember, you can achieve.”

-Mary Kay Ash

Make Your Dreams a Reality

The greatest sales holiday of the year is right around the corner, and it is imperative to take advantage of the opportunities presented to you! Start planning your holiday sales campaigns today and prepare for what is ahead. You can achieve anything you set your mind to!

Your determination combined with UnitWise makes is a perfect match. UnitWise was designed specifically for the MK community to help achieve your financial goals, manage communication with clients and unit members, simplify tax season and so much! Sign-up for a free trial today and see what a difference we can make in your success.

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How to Find the Perfect Eyeshadow to Enhance Your Eye Color

Finding the perfect eyeshadow to enhance your eye color is not easy, which is why your Heroes at UnitWise put together this guide for pairing the right makeup to your client's eye color. Think back to art class, more specifically the color wheel. Use contrasting shades to draw attention to the eyes and intensify the color. Finding the perfect eyeshadow to enhance your eye color does not have to be difficult with this easy guide.

Eyeshadows to Enhance Your Eye Color

Eyeshadows for Brown Eyes

One of the many fantastic qualities about brown eyes is their versatility. To make brown eyes pop reach for contrasting cooler shade like silver, gray, and charcoal. Clients can gain a lighter appearance by using select green tones. Lastly, try adding a touch of intensity by adding black in the crease.

                                                   Eyeshadow Colors for Brown Eyes

Do’s	Don’ts
Eyeliner: Purple, jade, bronze, & brown Eyeshadows: Monochromatic Brown, black, bronze & taupe Complementary Blue, green, violets, & lilac	Eyeliner: Blue Eyeshadows: Yellow and grey

Eyeshadows for Blue Eyes

For your clients with blue eyes, you might suggest neutral light tones because of their natural light. Soft shades like coral and champagne will catch the glint in the iris but will not distract. Any highly pigmented colors such as black or deep purple are generally too harsh and cause blue eyes to appear smaller. Instead consider shadows with orange undertones such as terra-cotta, gold and a light burnt sienna.

                                       Eyeshadow Colors for Blue Eyes

Do’s	Don’ts
Eyeliner: Brown, navy, & grey  Eyeshadows: Monochromatic Navy, grey & silver  Complementary  Coral, champagne, copper	Eyeliner: Black  Eyeshadows: Black, blue, dark brown, deep purple

Eyeshadows for Green Eyes

If your clients have green eyes, select violet liner, and shadows to add contrasting color. The shades of plum, amethyst, and violet help to bring out the natural brightness for a piercing look. Green is also complemented by reddish undertones because of its position on the color wheel.

                                           Eyeshadow Colors for Green Eyes

Do’s	Don’ts
Eyeliner: Brown  Eyeshadows: Monochromatic  Mossy green, gold  Complementary  Purple, rose, & pink	Eyeliner: Navy & silver  Eyeshadows: Silver, light blue, and midnight blue

Eyeshadows for Hazel Eyes

Hazel is a delightful mix of brown and green that works well with metallic golds and olive greens. Using yellow undertones will bring out the lighter flecks in their eyes. Lighter shades of purple like violet and lavender also look lovely with hazel eyes.

                                               Eyeshadow Colors for Hazel Eyes

Do’s	Don’ts
Eyeliner: Brown Eyeshadows: Think of autumn fall colors Monochromatic  Navy, grey & silver  Complementary  Golds, greens, & violet	Eyeliner: Black  Eyeshadows: Light blue & grey

At UnitWise we understand the importance of recommending the perfect look for your client. We hope you found this blog informative for yourself and your customers as you guide them through all of the amazing #MK eyeshadows and other beauty products available! We suggest sharing this blog post with your customers and unit to help advise their clients

Our goal is to provide you with experts advice in order to successfully aid your client and boost your sales. Whether you are seeking beauty tips and tricks or business management advice, we are here to help you grow your MK business.

Click here for Halloween Makeup Tutorials

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UnitWise Heroes Support the Day of the Girl

Happy International Day of the Girl! In 2013, the United Nations’ Resolution 66/170 declared October 11th as the International Day of the Girl. This is to recognize the rights and unique challenges faced by girls around the world.

“The day aims to highlight and address the needs and challenges girls face while promoting girls’ empowerment and the fulfillment of their human right.”

Mary Kay Ash started her business to forge a path for women everywhere and spread the message of empowerment among women and young girls. So take some time to rally behind the cause of empowering young women around the world to improve education, survivals rates, protection from child marriages and sexual assault.

This year's theme is “EmPower girls: Before, during, and after conflict” in humanitarian emergencies. Over the past several years gender-based violence has increased drastically meaning girls are more likely to be the victims of sexual and physical violence, exploitation and trafficking.

While today's priority is awareness is it also a time to collect resources and volunteers to help young women and girls in need. Sign up today by clicking here to volunteer or donate to the Day of the Girl Organization.

“International Day of the Girl a 100% youth-led movement for gender justice and youth activism.”

At UnitWise we want women and girls of all ages everywhere to be seen as equals in the eyes of others and especially in their own eyes.

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50 Unique Ways to Promote your MK Business

With the holidays right around the corner, it is important to stay focused on your goals and with the All in With 8 Challenge officially underway it is your time to shine! But we understand that coming up with unique ways to promote your MK business can be difficult, so to help achieve your goals here are 50 sales promotion and marketing ideas.

Effective Marketing Ideas for MK Directors and Consultants:

1. Create an MK Business Website using UnitWise.
2. Enter current and prospective client information into UnitWise customer profile for your future records.
3. Ask local salons and hairdressers to place your business card at the desk or their station.
4. Place an MK catalog in the employee lounge.
5. Give a catalog to your child's school.
6. Give a catalog to the receptionist at your dentist or doctor's office.
7. For the holidays give free samples to your coworkers and teachers at your child’s school.
8. Advertise in your local newspaper.
9. Offer specials for prom season.
10. Contact local high school cheerleading squad coaches.
11. Host a party or brunch at your office.
12. Place flyers at local pre-schools for working mothers.
13. Set up a display or booth at craft fairs or festivals
14. Mail out business cards, catalogs, and samples to local areas.
15. Ask friends and family to promote your business at work.
16. Give samples to waitresses after eating dinner or lunch.
17. Hold a Christmas or Mother's Day shopping party for men.
18. Build a before and after portfolio.
19. Wear your MK Pin everywhere.
20. Record a professional business message on your voicemail
21. Give your business card to hard working service members you meet.

22. Open a booth at your local job fair to encourage other women to join MK.

23. Join your local Chamber of Commerce.
24. Create a specialized email marketing campaign.
25. Add your business card to local business bulletin boards.
26. Ask local restaurants to place your business card at the front desk.
27. Contact the local chapter of Girl Scouts. While the kids are in their meeting, Mom’s can have a quick makeover.
28. Visit local shopping outlet during slow hours and bring your favorite pallets plus discounts.
29. Offer a referral program.
30. Hold a raffle for a collection of MK products.
31. Offer free makeover and skincare consultations.
32. Let your current or prospective clients feel at ease with no pressure.
33. Consider offering free seminars or webinars for makeup tutorials.
34. Offer special promotions for those following your social media accounts.
35. Send out a monthly newsletter to clients.
36. Touch base with previous clients and interest them with new promotions or products.
37. Start a YouTube Channel. Feature yourself, new MK products, and any current promotions.
38. Consider reconnecting with all friends and colleagues.
39. Send out fliers to your neighborhood or apartment complex.
40. Use surveys to book appointments.
41. Offer an advanced class or glamour class for preferred clients at your home.
42. Offer a mini class for those who prefer a small party.
43. Offer special gifts for hostesses with more than five attendees.
44. Advertise wedding parties in the local newspaper and social media.
45. Contact local bridal shops, catering services, and photography studies.
46. Purchase advertising space in local theater brochures.
47. Bring coffee and donuts to your husband or significant others place of work and encourage them to take a sample and business back home.
48. Visit local nursing homes. They are the sweetest, and they will love the attention. Treat them right, and they will be your most loyal customers.
49. Offer your services as a makeup artist at local beauty pageants.
50. Add an element of fun in every encounter whether online or in person.

Do you want to make the most out of your holiday sales season or All in with 8 Challenge? Of course, you do! As always, your UnitWise Heroes are here to help you grow your MK Business. Learn how to set and achieve your sales goals at our free online webinar today at 2 EST. Click here to signup and join our Special guest, future executive senior director, Cleta Colson-Eyre.

*Content found in the UnitWise blog is for informational purposes only. UnitWise is an independent business with no affiliation to Mary Kay®.

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Introducing New Account Features for MK Software

Exciting news! You asked for it, so we built it. Your Heroes at UnitWise are proud to announce several new features. We aim to provide you with superior business management tools to help grow your MK business so using your suggestions we have added these new features and updates to help achieve your goals.

New UnitWise Account Features are Live!

Beauty Profile:

We understand how many clients rely on you as their personal makeup guru but remembering their individual information can be challenging to say the least. The Beauty Profile will give you an in-depth description of your client's makeup and skincare preferences. Here you can also list your client's skin type, hair color, and any other valuable information. Plus, individual consultants and directors can specialize future client consultations based on their personal information.

Client Invoices and Sales Receipts:

Within your client's profile, you can now view all of their individual activity and see things such as their invoices and sales receipts all in one place. Your clients now have the option to also view invoices and receipts separately within their account.

Product Wishlist:

Consultants and Directors can now compile a wishlist based on products their clients wanted or mentioned. This wishlist is a terrific way to market to past clients who have not purchased in a while. You can use this tool to help MK loving friends and family buy the ideal gift.

Valuable UnitWise Account Enhancement

Website Theme:

You can now change your website themes with a few clicks. Quickly change your current theme to a previous version using your website editor - simply select Theme Versions under your Layout Settings and return to a previous theme.

Continued Support

Our founders created UnitWise as the ultimate business management solution designed specifically for NSDs, Directors, and independent beauty consultants. We continue to rely on feedback from the MK community to meet the needs of all those involved. Comment below or email us to make any further suggestions. We depend on Directors to ensure UnitWise meets all the needs of the MK community.

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Fall Makeup Trends of 2017: Do’s and Don’ts

Fall is a great time to try a new look and changing your makeup routine is the easiest way to do that! The power of makeup is endless with its ability to transform but then wash off completely. To help you find your new fall look we have separated the hits from the misses.

Fall Makeup Trends You Should Try or Leave Alone

As we enter a new season, a massive amount of new trends have left us in a state of awe. But also asking, “why?” From squiggle eyebrows to geo lips, the pretty but strange beauty trends don’t seem to be stopping anytime soon. To help in the pursuit of keeping your clients on trend here are four makeup trends of fall 2017.

Unique Eyebrows

Do

Don’t

Natural full brows

Unnatural shapes and designs

If the eyes are the window to your soul, then the eyebrows are the curtains. I am a huge fan of the fuller more natural eyebrows of 2017. From the catwalk to the office women are sporting more natural-looking arched brows. This trend is a welcomed transition. From the thin pencil brows of the early 2010’s and 2016’s exaggerated arches comes a more natural look.

Alongside these natural brows are the barbed wire, squiggle, and carved eyebrows. While I cannot claim to be a fan of this trend, there is no denying they are fascinating. If you have kept up with trends on Instagram, you have undoubtedly noticed the squiggle invasion.

Fall Inspired Eyeshadow

Do

Don’t

Fall Leaves Color scheme

Color blocks and floras

Incorporate autumnal colors into your makeup routine. Add burnt orange, burgundy, and warm chocolate brown shades into your eyeshadow routine. Smoky eyes with black shadow are beautiful. This fall try using a burnt orange in the crease of clients eyes and smudge it along the lash line. This trend is terrific for celebrating the transition to fall.

I can’t say I ever envisioned gluing dried flowers to eyes as a makeup trend. While this eye makeup looks like a work of art, I can’t say it was ever a good idea. Making this my number one trend never to recommend to clients. Blocked eyeshadow has swept the world of fashion and social media this fall. While we all love a good smokey eye, this trend looks bizarre and unblended.

Fresh Face of Fall

Do

Don’t

Light foundation, contouring and highlighting

Black contour and faux Freckles

Many women make the mistake of not adjusting their contour during the change of season. Summer is a great time to sport bright colors and darker contours. For a natural fall, look adjust your contour shade to two shades darker than your current skin tone. Create a light dimension and higher cheekbones by applying softer colors and even blending.

The faux freckles trend keeps growing. Not satisfied with regular freckles there are now rainbow, glitter, and metallic freckles. We are all for embracing natural beauty, but this trend is going too far. If you clients love freckles, suggest natural tone pencils or temporary tattoos. Freckles give off a fresh, natural, and youthful look. Unless considering black contouring for your Halloween makeup stay far far away. Black contouring and higher don’t go together. Three words: Silly putty highlighter--just stop.

Fall Lip Colors

Do

Don’t

Rich color and ombre lips

Geo and lollipop lips

The ombre style has been making a steady resurgence in the past few years. From hair, nail art and now lips. I am a huge fan of this looks because it naturally gives more dimension and pout to your lips. This fall try using different hues and merge colors once you are satisfied with the result. Fall is a perfect time to try using rich hues in place of bright colors.

I cannot believe lollipop lips are still a thing. Lollipop lips or the smudge look surfaced earlier this year during fashion week. Recreate this look by coloring outside the lines and smudging the lip color…. No, really I am serious. It might not be the look you want your clients walking out of your party with. In comparison to the lollipop lips, geo lips are more refined. This look is beautiful but impractical and a bit weird. Making your soft lips look rock hard is far from my ideal.

As an MK consultant or director, we understand how important it is to stay up-to-date on the latest makeup trends. During your next consultant meeting share these dos and don’ts of fall makeup trends. We hope you have enjoyed these new make trends of fall 2017. Share your thoughts below, and for more beauty blogs from UnitWise, click here!

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Best Sales Tips for MK Directors

Cleta Colson-Eyre Shares Her Best MK Sales Tips for MK Directors

With the MK world buzzing about it's All in with 8 challenge officially underway and the holidays just around the corner, it’s important to review the best sales tips for MK Directors. To help you prepare for the holiday season, the Heroes at Unitwise interviewed Future Executive Senior Director, Cleta Colson-Eyre, to learn her best sales tips for MK Directors to help you set and achieve your holiday sales goals.

Cleta joined the world of MK in 1985 right after graduating college while she was working as an Administrative Computer Center Operator. What started as a way to make extra money on the side and purchasing discounted products turned into a 6-figure income! She has held the title of Director for almost 29 years, currently, drives a 2017 pink Cadillac and possesses numerous MK achievements. Here are Cleta’s 3 best sales tips for MK Directors!

Cleta Colson-Eyre 3 Best Sales Tips for MK Directors

MK Sales Tip 1: Stay Motivated and Never Giving Up

Like every MK consultant at the beginning of her journey she often did not see the fruits of her labor and questioned if this was the path the Lord intended for her, however, she “just knew that if there was a will there was a way!” She continued to tell people she had made a non-negotiable plan of action and had to make it a reality. “I always reached up to my mentor who was my adoptive Director when I started to doubt or get discouraged, and she would build my belief. And I found that action cured disbelief almost every time! I also spent time with the Lord daily, prayed for His wisdom and for Him to lead me to the people I needed to work with and be on my team!”

MK Sales Tip 2: Do it Quick and Build it Big

When asked if she had any advice for her younger self or new consultants she responded with “Do it quickly and build it big! I would have jumped on team building earlier in my career. I would show Consultant Cleta, the difference in a Director income vs. a Consultant income at the get-go! It is so worth the effort and even the struggles along the way!”

MK Sales Tip 3: Short-Term Sacrifices for Long-Term Gain

As Cleta began to climb in the MK world, she had to prioritize her schedule and make changes in her daily routine to continue her growth. After reaching her Directors in Qualification status, she began holding three to five parties a week in order to find interested personnel. “At the time we had to finish with 30 active team members. So my goals were to recruit five individuals a month. So to reach this lofty goal she “put down all other outside hobbies and activities for four months”, besides her full-time career, to focus solely on MK.

Are you All In?

In celebration of MK’s 54th Anniversary, the company is offering a limited edition opportunity for all future Independent Sales Directors to continue their MK journey through upward mobility quickly. So we asked Cleta if she had any advice for those of you who are taking advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity.

While this special event does not end until December 1st, she encourages you to focus solely on this opportunity until midnight on the deadline. “If you are working every day and making it your business to be reaching out and sharing the opportunity with everyone you meet all month - miracles can happen at the last hour! Focus on the number of new faces and the number of people you are sharing with. Be intentional about who you are talking to and make a daily plan of exactly how you will reach your goals. Winging it does not work!”

More MK Career Advice

Join us, your Heroes at UnitWise and special guest Future Executive Senior Director, Cleta Colson-Eyre, Tuesday, October 10 at 2 pm EST, to learn how to plan for success and reach your goals. During our next webinar “Powerful Ways to Set and Achieve Your Goals” Cleta will share her personal business experiences in reaching her goals and provide information on how you can do the same.

Sign up today and learn expert techniques for conquering your goals and growing your holiday sales. Remember the All In Challenge is a limited opportunity that will be ending Dec 1st, so take this time to invest in yourself. This is a free webinar hosted by one of the best. Click the button below to reserve your place today!

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MK Products and Makeup Secrets to Look Younger

    

You have nothing to hide and everything to accentuate, if you are are looking for a few tips to help you and your MK clients look their best and slay at every stage of life here is the blog for you.

Skincare should always be priority number one in their beauty routine. Consider offering them MK’s TimeWise® Miracle Set® which physically reduces the appearance of aging and help even out skin tone. However, all the brightening peels, face and lifting creams in the world will not solve the eternal quest for a youthful look if the makeup application sabotages the effort.

Once you have recommended a daily skin care treatment to your client, you can now turn to the details of their makeup application. How your clients are applying their makeup can make a huge difference in their quest to look younger. Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks for looking younger:

Prime for Perfection:

Prepping your skin is non-negotiable for every makeup wearer no matter the age. By prepping the skin you are ensuring the skin is ready to be the perfect canvas, your makeup will last longer and look better throughout the day.

Personally, I love using MK’s ®Foundation Primer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15*. Everything from its silky smooth moisturizing, even application, and lightweight feel makes this a beauty must for every makeup bag.

A Little Goes a Long Way:

Concealer the crown jewel in my beauty bag. It is a cruel fact that no matter the age you will need concealer. As a teenager, it was used to cover up acne, late night movie binges in college, and now it’s time again to reach for a handy-dandy concealer for fine lines.

My pick for concealer is MK’s® Undereye Corrector because it helps to lighten dark circles and spots while also working as a highlighter to brighten up my undereye area. However, a little goes a long way, and if you add too much concealer, it will leave you looking cakey and oily by the end of the day. When helping you client apply their concealer recommend they blend properly to ensure that the concealer doesn't settle into lines, which can cause them to be accented.

Also, by highlighting your clients are helping to bring dimension to their face, plus highlighting the corners and under the eyes will make the client appear younger and more awake.

Defying Gravity:

As we age, everything seems to start pointing down, and it is our job to force things to go up. By this, of course, I mean your eyelashes. Our lashes as we age stop naturally curling up and start laying flat making it appear that we have no lashes. So tell your clients to unearth their long-forgotten eyelash curler from their makeup bag. Rule of thumb if they are over 35 they need to start curling and curling every day. Even if you or your client decide not to wear mascara, it is important to make your eyes appear as big as possible.

If your clients do choose to wear massacre then I recommend Lash Intensity® Mascara this is of course only my personal preference, but this mascara is to die for. I am not a fan of mascaras that only focus on either lengthening or thickening my lashes I want both. This product opens up my eyes and makes my lashes look full and voluptuous.

Highlighting to Look Younger:

Don’t shy away from using a highlighter in moderation. A dab of soft highlighter can be a wonderful highlight as you get older. Most women begin to lose their natural youthful glow in their mid-40s, so I recommend using a creamy neutral shadow that is no more than two shades lighter than your natural skin tone. This can also be dabbed in the corner of your eyes to wake up your eyes and face.

Confidence is Always in Style:

No matter if clients want to go out for a night on the town or freshen up their daily route you are ready for anything. With the fabulous tools brought to you by MK, you can never go wrong.

At UnitWise we hope that you found this blog informative for yourself and your customers as you guide them through all of the amazing #MK beauty and skincare products available! We suggest sharing this blog post with your customers and unit to help advise their clients.

Our goal is to provide you with expert advice in or order to successful aid your client and boost your sales. Whether you are seeking beauty tips and tricks or business management advice, we are always here to help you grow your MK business.

UnitWise is All In! Are you?

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Are You Filing the Right Taxes for your MK Business?

Did you know that Ii you have employed an assistant or two for your MK business, you will be required to file IRS Form 941? That’s right! As an employer, you are responsible for withholding federal income tax, social security tax, and Medicare tax from your employee's paycheck and you must report this to the IRS with Form 941. This form is also used to calculate your portion of social security and Medicare tax. As an MK director or NSD, we understand you did not start your business to be consistently filing IRS form which is why we are sharing a quick IRS Form 941 overview.

Do you Need to File IRS Form 941? When is it due?

If you pay employment wages to your assistant, you are required to file quarterly and must continue to do so even if there are periods without employees. The form that is used to report this information to the IRS is Form 941 and for the 3rd quarter tax period, this form is due no later than October 31st.

What is the 94x Series?

So, the traditional 941 Form is used to report employment taxes for workers within the United States. The 94x Series is comprised of three separate forms which must be filed by employers based on the location of the business within the United States.

Form 941-SS is the US Territories Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return for wage paying employers in Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and the US Virgin Islands.

IRS Form 941-PR is Puerto Rico's Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return that must be file by wage paying employers. Both IRS Form 941-SS and Form 941-PR follow the same deadlines and penalties as the traditional Quarterly Report. So for third quarter filing, the appropriate form must be filed by October 31st.

What if I Fail to File?

If you are an employer and fail to file on time, it will initially result in a 5% penalty based on the amount of the tax return each month it remains unsubmitted. This penalty will thankfully be capped at 25%.

If you fail to pay your owed taxes or submit only a partial payment, you will be heavily penalized and, as a result, be charged 2 - 15% of the unpaid tax owed based on the number of days it remains unpaid.

Where Can I File?

You can easily take care of your quarterly tax obligations online using our sister product, ExpressTaxFilings. ExpressTaxFilings is trusted by thousands of small business owners (like yourself) as an IRS-authorized integrated solution for generating and transmitting tax Forms. If you need to e-file any 94x Series Forms, ExpressTaxFilings provides you with a step-by-step, interview-style process with built-in error checking. Sign-up for a free account and see how easy it is to file the right tax forms for your MK business!

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Back to MK Basics: God, Family, and Career

Mary Kay Ash founded her company based on the golden ideology of “God first, family second, career third.” This model is what makes MK so different from other organization that put profit and success above all else. However, as the holiday season comes barreling around the corner, it is important to come back to MK basics and not get swept away by the mad rush of buying and selling. Traditionally, this season is to celebrate the birth of Christ and share experiences with friends and family. This autumn take the time to align yourself with the MK basics, God Family, and Career.

“God first, family second, career third.”

- Mary Kay Ash

As an Independent Beauty Consultant, your holiday season is a mad dash juggling your roles as wife, mother, possibly grandmother, and businesswoman. Take the time this season to care for your relationship with God, your family, and yourself. Here are four ways to make the most out of autumn and prepare for the upcoming Christmas sales season. 

1. Put God first

Mary Kay Ash believed that when you have your life in proper perspective, everything always seems to work out. At the core of MK is built a testament to God and serves to help each consultant in their pursuit of a stronger relationship with God and career freedom. Mary Kay Ash sincerely believed that the growth and success of her business could be attributed to her partnership with God. When you let go and let God guide you, everything in life goes the way he has planned. If you try to do everything on your on and rely solely on yourself, you will make mistakes and find yourself struggling. The MK opportunity attracts strong Christian women that believe God and family should be their priorities and success will come later according to God’s plan as along we remain faithful. This season take time to remember why we celebrate this glorious season and praise His name. Start planning this fall and set aside a specific time each day for devotion. No matter how busy, you need to find time with God!

"God didn't have time to make a nobody, only a somebody. I believe that each of us has God-given talents within us waiting to be brought to fruition." -Mary Kay Ash

2. Prioritize time with your family

The Fall season offers many opportunities to enjoy time as a family! Bundle up your family and go for a walk or drive up into the mountains. Just get out in nature and enjoy the season. Take the time to make memories that will last a lifetime. Literally, the possibilities are endless: go to a local festive, hiking, apple picking, hayrides, go wander a cornfield, or simply take everyone for a walk around the local park.

3. Prioritize your work schedule

With the holiday Sales Season around the corner, take this time to make goals and a schedule for your upcoming season.

Mary Kay Ash recommends making a list each night to prioritize what you need to complete the next day. Write the most unappealing and hardest task at the top of the list. This way, you tackle the most difficult item first and once that is out of your way you know your day is already on the right track.

4. Make yourself a priority

Ever find yourself thinking or saying the following? “I need more hours in the day” or “ I am so busy, I don’t have time to breath.” Trust us when we say you're not alone, the one thing we never seem to have is time for ourselves. In order to devote your time and attention to God, family, and your career you must take the time to take care of yourself. We all know that when we take time to care for ourselves and relax we perform better, and this downtime is essential for our health. Keep in mind that no matter what we do, there are only 24 hours in one day and you can only do so much. Moreover, cutting into your 8 hours of sleep is never a good idea.

Again perspectively is key. Reevaluate your priorities and consider saying “no” more often and write down a schedule to practice smart time management. When we take time to relax and take care of ourselves, we are happier, healthier and feel better. Take time each day to de-stress and unwind to allow yourself restore your energy levels and positivity. This fall considers taking a walk to view the leaves, drink a hot cup of cider, or simply sit on your porch as the cool wind swirls around you as you read a good book.

Prepare for the Holiday Season and Start Prioritizing this Fall!

As of Friday we are officially in the fall season. You know what that means! Pumpkin spice everything! Oh wait is that just me? It is easy to get caught in the hustle and bustle of the sales holiday and lose track of your priorities. Start prioritizing according to the MK basics today so you will be prepared for what is ahead. Comment below with how you prioritize your life to keep the MK mission alive by placing God first, your family second, and your career third!

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Whiteheads, Blackheads and the Pursuit of Healthy Skin

Provide your Clients with the Tools Needed to Combat Adult Acne

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When I was a teenager, my skin was far from great, but I always found solace in the idea that when I was an adult, my skin would be beautiful and clear. Now as an adult still struggling with acne instead of them being on the surface they have burrowed down as if to proclaim “I am here to stay.”

Like many of your clients, my feelings can be surmised by just stating that I feel the universe is simply unjust or my skin missed the memo. I can never stray far from my concealer, and I have spent a small fortune on skincare and makeup. Unlike my teenage counterpart, I eat healthy and exercise but continue to break out!

As it turns out I am not alone in my adult acne struggle. One of the most common skin complaints is about adult acne so you can be sure many of your current and prospective clients struggle with acne problems. So in order to help your clients in their pursuit to healthier and happier skin let me share my research and then five tips and tricks for managing adult acne. First, you must know and understand their skin problems, whiteheads & blackheads.

Get to Know Your Skin:

Whiteheads:
Think of how you sometimes put off doing laundry a day or two. Well, your skin is the same way and doesn’t always get around to its chores as often as it should, your skin and its interior lining are designed to shed the dead cells.

So when the surface of your skin slacks off your pores get backed up and this can result in blocking the opening. So without an escape hatch, all the oil and leftover makeup products left inside your pores end up just hanging out until it develops into a whitehead.

Blackheads:
Probably the most common adult acne problem blackheads like to develop on your nose and chin. They happen by the same process as whiteheads, but instead of sealing off the opening of your pores they are caused by leftover skin and other junk oxidizing inside your pore and turning black.

5 Tips & Tricks for Managing Your Adult Acne: Treatment:

Now that you know what causes your clients adult acne let’s take a look at five highly effective treatments to banish acne to memories of high school.

Wash Your Face:
This probably goes without saying but unless your clients are going out after work they should immediately remove their makeup. Suggest a facial cleanser with charcoal or other acne fighting ingredients. Moreover, they need to wash their face thoroughly before going to bed. If they have severe acne recommend washing their face any chance they have so they can get their skin cells in gear cleaning out their pores.

Salicylic Acid:
Recommended by most dermatologists salicylic acid is a classic for purging pores of leftover gunk and dead skin. Glycolic acid is probably more widespread, but salicylic acid gets deeper into pores to remove as much as possible. Depending on the product’s potency and how their skin reacts they should aim for a facial peel every 4 to 6 weeks.

Hot Water and Lemon:
In order to help with your client's pursuit of healthy skin arm them with this nifty little trick. As soon as they wake up in the morning they should fix themselves a hot cup of water and add a few drops of lemon juice (just enough to taste.) This helps clean out any bacteria left in their small intestine- this bacteria has been linked to acne.

Spot Treatment:
If they feel a breakout coming reach for your handy dandy MK acne spot treatment, Clear Proof® Acne Treatment Gel. The best MK products to use are those containing retinol which is a derivative of vitamin A that is absorbed through the skin and converted as retinoic acid.

Vitamin C:
While we are all in love with MK’s Timewise® Vitamin C Activating Squares™ for its anti-aging qualities, did you know that it also helps reduce the size of pores as well as prevent breakouts! No wonder the beauty community cannot get enough. This is a great way to push this product and become a real competitor in the power square dare!

Use this blog post to educate yourself and your customers as you guide them through all of the great #MK skincare choices available! We’d suggest sharing this blog post with your customers along with links to the products you suggest they use to manage their adult acne. 

Our goal is to provide you with expert advice in order to successfully aid your clients and boost your sales. Whether you are seeking skincare information, makeup tips, or business management advice we are here to help you grow your MK business. For more tips and tricks please visit blog.unitwise.com.

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The Directors Guide to Building Stronger MK Units

As a successful Unit Leader, you need enthusiasm, passion, and confidence, but you already have those things so what else does it take to recruit, manage, and motivate a strong MK Unit?! Since you have worked hard to hit and exceeded your monthly goals consistently, now it is time to continue your journey by climbing the MK ladder. Achieving camaraderie and building a strong MK Unit is hard work, but one you can achieve! You must have a vision, focus on recruiting, constantly generate leads, prepare your Unit for success, acknowledge your Unit’s achievements, and build on forward momentum.

1. Visualize your MK Unit growing!

Before you contact anyone, you need to create a vision for what you want to achieve. Having a clear and concise vision is imperative for setting goals for your unit and yourself. For obvious reasons you need to know where you are going before you get started. As a leader, it is your responsibility to call people to action by your vision of the future.

2. Constantly recruit new members into your MK Unit!

I understand that getting your first recruit can feel like an uphill battle, but the key to obtaining your first unit member is to openly share the opportunity and point out how MK can benefit them. The best way to get someone to consider the opportunity seriously is to address them as an individual. What would peak their interest? The product discounts, work flexibility, or MK’s Christian message?

The keyword for recruiting: Patience. The unspoken truth is that it could take up to 12 separate conversations for someone to take the leap and sign up. Remember to answer any and all questions honestly without applying pressure and always remain patient.

3. Continuously generate leads for your MK Unit!

Seek out talented people you wish to work with and invite them to learn more by attending a virtual party or by joining your next MK party. Have your attendees play a game that encourages them to ask you questions about your job instead of reciting a well-rehearsed pitch. As I have stated in the previous step to find fun, talented, motivated people you wish to work with will require a focused strategy of continued asking and following-up.

4. Prepare your MK Unit for success!

Growing your team and ensuring everyone is on the same page is an essential part of your daily schedule. Having a private Facebook group set for your team is one way to achieve this or use MyUnitBuzz to manage, track sales, and provide encouragement or aid unit members in distress. Alternatively, you can post messages to recognize the achievements of your unit members. Whichever method you decide to implement always remain approachable, engaging, helpful, and provide training tools that will help them succeed.

Also, consider scheduling a monthly conference call. Every UnitWise account member has access to our free conference calling feature. Connecting with your team over a call helps to further your relation, and it is an opportunity to bounce ideas off each other. Find what works and what doesn’t when it comes to setting up parties and selling in general.

5. Acknowledge your MK Units’ achievements!

Acknowledge the achievement, efforts, and progress of your unit members. Use MyUnitBuzz to post a shout out to your unit or create a fun graphics to post on Facebook. Supplying various training materials or publish a video of you explaining how to boost your confidence and sales. When you unit members are happy and feel they are well trained they are more likely to share their experience and encourage their friends and family to join in.

Also, focus on what your unit members do well and not on the negative. This way they will take your advice as constructive criticism and not an attack on their performance. Successful leaders are caring and empathetic you are an influencer in the lives of your unit members, and it is important to act as such.

6. Build your MK Unit on forward momentum!

Challenge your team with monthly sales goals, sent cute letters with motivational quotes or a small gift. Think about what brings a smile to your face and make it your mission to pay it forward and you will receive everything you gave tenfold from your growing unit.

As your unit members work hard throughout the month in pursuit of their monthly goals be sure to recognize and celebrate their achievements. No matter if it is a significant or minor achievement be sure to take the time each month to post a shout out to every member of your unit.

Start Recruiting Today!

As you grow your MK Unit, we know that UnitWise will be a great asset to your business! Designed specifically for NSDs and Directors, UnitWise is an all-inclusive MK business management solution featuring everything from sales and inventory reporting to unit management. If you want to grow your business, take the first step and sign-up for your free 15 day trial with UnitWise today!

*Content found in the UnitWise blog is for informational purposes only. UnitWise is an independent business with no affiliation to Mary Kay®.

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How to Apply Crease-Free Under Eye Concealer

Undereye concealer always seems to possess a particular challenge no matter the season. During the summer it practically melts off your face and in winter it settles into lines looking dry and flaky. But keeping your dark circles from your late night Netflix binge under wraps doesn’t have to be a constant battle. You just need the right tricks and equipment in your beauty arsenal to maintain a fresh appearance. Follow these few steps to get the most from your concealer.

Step 1: Prep your Skin

The first step to keeping your concealer looking flawless all-day is, of course, skin care. The skin under your eyes is very delicate and prone to dehydration. To maintain ideal hydration levels prep your skin with an eye cream. Use each night before bed and 15 minutes before applying your makeup. During the summer use a lightweight hydrating eye cream and when the temperatures drop switch your nightly cream to a heavier version. (But continue to use the light moisturizer in the mornings.)

Step 2: Choosing the Right Concealer

After waiting 15 minutes for your eye cream to fully absorb gently apply your concealer. I suggest using a light formula (instead of a thick putty) that is slightly lighter than your natural skin tone. If you use a concealer more than one or two shades light will leave you looking like a reverse raccoon.

Try a concealer with a touch of soft peach tones to help balance your dark circles and achieve a well-rested flawless look.

Step 3: Apply Concealer

When applying your concealer think of your eye as the sun and lightly paint concealer sun rays under your eyes. Then use your ring finger or blending sponge to gently blend and smooth out the dashes in taps to avoid an unattractive streaky effect.

If you suffer from oily skin like me, you probably find your concealer hanging on for dear life by midday (or in my case mid-morning), try setting the concealer with a touch of loose translucent powder. Or try applying eyeshadow primer before applying your concealer.

Step 4: Concealer Insurance

If you know you're in for a longer than usual day substitute your morning eye cream for eyeshadow primer. (word to the wise: a little goes a llooooonnnngggg way) No matter what your age if you are using too much powder under your eyes it will accent the fine lines and make you appear older. But when your use eyeshadow primer your product will stay put and create a smooth, youthful texture. Try and apply 15 minutes before concealer, so it has time to set.

What Not to Do:

During the day if you find your concealer trying to make a break for it don’t layer on more makeup it will leave you looking cakey and accent your undereye bags in a poor light. Instead, try using blotting paper to soak up the excess makeup and oil.

What are your best concealer tips?

Your clients consider you their personal guiding light into the convoluted world of makeup. Impress even your long time makeup wearers with these nifty tricks and be sure to read our past beauty blogs for more tools of the trade.

Did you enjoy this blog or find it helpful for combatting the eternal battle against creasing concealer? Comment below with your best concealer tips and tricks! For more beauty tips, visit UnitWise.com. Are you a consultant, director, or NSD’s, who wants to expand her brand, email us today at heroes (at) unitwise.com, subject line: “Makeup Guru” for a chance to collaborate! We look forward to hearing from you!

To the Fabulous Ladies of MK:

Your clients consider you their personal guiding light into the convoluted world of makeup. Impress even your long time makeup wearers with these nifty tricks and be sure to read our past beauty blogs for more tools of the trade.

*Content found in the UnitWise blog is for informational purposes only. UnitWise is an independent business with no affiliation to Mary Kay®.

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10 Amazing Facts About MK

10 Amazing Facts About MK

Today all around the world MK consultants and brand lovers everywhere mark the 54th anniversary and founding day of the iconic beauty. It's hard to imagine the billion dollar organization today starting as a far 500 square feet shop in Dallas, Texas featuring only five beauty products.

MK has come such a long way since then and now features more than 200 products and spans 37 countries employing more than 3 million Independent Beauty Consultants. Here are 10 amazing facts about MK.

10 Amazing MK Facts:

1. Mary Kay Ash was born in 1918 in Hot Wells, Texas, and grew up watching her mother work 14-hour days to support the family. Here she learned her “can do” spirited!
2. Her father suffered from tuberculosis. At age three her father was sent away for three years for treatment but remained ill the remainder of his life.
3. Mary Kay Ash was the youngest of three: Two sisters, Dealia Koch and Daisy Wagner, and
   brother Cecil Dewitt Wagner. 
4. In 1952 after 13 years at Stanley Home Products; Mary Kay Ash earned a promotion but did not receive it due to gender discrimination.
5. She began her employment with World Gift in Dallas where she increased the company's turnover by more than 50% in less than a year and quickly rose to become a national training director. However, again she fell victim to gender discrimination and was passed over for a man she trained.
6. Disgusted by this repetition, she left with the intention of writing a book to help career women.
7. While writing her book, she realized that she had created the foundation for a successful business that would finally give women equal opportunities to achieve personal well being and financial success.
8. Mary Kay Ash started her venture with only $5,000 of life savings.
9. In 1964, Mary Kay Ash held her first sale convention which she called “Seminar” (Sound familiar?!?)
10. However, back then Seminar was held in a warehouse decorated with balloons, and she served Chicken and Jello Salad. 

Mary Kay Ash was truly an inspirational woman, and her story should be told more often. In a time when women were not given equal opportunities, she did the impossible because of her grit, determination, and devotion to God.

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Expand your Customer Base by Using Samples

Being able to entice your future clients to sign-up for your email list or to become a customer with a free gift is a remarkable strategy many businesses have been using to expand and quickly grow. When Mary Kay Ash started her beauty line in 1963, she would supply her agents with enough products to start their venture, and it would be up to them to find clients and succeed. Now Mary Kay is a billion dollar operation employing over 2 million consultants in several countries.

Just as Mary Kay Ash knew, the key to success is gaining a steady stream of clients. Successfully using #MK samples in your business relies on a good strategy. You need to consider why samples work, how to present free samples, and how to effectively use samples to grow your business when you pair this with email marketing.

Why MK Samples Work:

There is no better way to connect with new customers than putting Mary Kay product samples in their hands. Samples allow your customers an opportunity to try the products at home and see the result for themselves with no pressure to purchase the full-size product.

How to Present a Free Sample:

Cute bags, wrapping, and boxes are overrated, and often results in your prospective clients never getting to the goodies. You should present them unwrapped and ready to use. For example, how many gift bags or plastic baggie have you never taken the time to unwrap? If you're like me likely it sat in your purse for a few weeks then you threw it away. Just give them your product without any extra fluff. Mary Kay has amazing products, and they speak for themselves. But over all, you need to give out samples as a gift with no string attached and make sure your prospective customers understand that.

How to Effectively Use Samples to Grow Your Business

Your overall strategy is to use a free gift to entice a new user! Give a gift without strings attached whenever possible. In business, you’d like to be able to follow-up with the person, so try to get their information so you can send an email in 24 hours asking how they liked their sample. If this is not possible, attach a business card directly to the sample using a glue-dot so they know how to contact you to order!

Bonus Marketing Ideas:

Use these opportunities to “sample bomb” and collect new leads!

Research Festivals and Events in your area. Once you sign-up for a table or booth and setup your display, you’ll be ready to start gathering leads! Be sure to dress appropriately, make eye contact, stand in front of your table, and see who is genuinely interested when approaching your table. A common idea is to run a giveaway for a premium product and collect emails, and then give samples to those who are interested. Don’t forget to take pictures of your table and you handing out free samples to post on your social media and tag the event to spread the love.

Turn running errands into an everyday opportunity to spread your love your Mary Kay by giving out samples. Show your appreciation to your restaurant server or congratulate your cashier at the supermarket for a job well done. This will make their day so do it at every opportunity! Don’t forget to ask for their contact information.

The best way to succeed at using samples in your business is by pairing it with email marketing! Join our webinar at 2pm today, September 12th, 2017 and learn how to effectively use email marketing for your #MK business! Sign-up now.

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