I’ve always been wary of different kinds of consultants. Whether they were beauty consultants or financial advisors. For a long time, I avoided these services, even though I don’t actually have to pay for them directly. It wasn’t until I found out that my friend is a financial advisor that I became interested in what she actually does and how she does it. I realized that financial advisors actually have to know the products they offer very well.

• Financial Advisor

My financial advisor is great. Not only has she never pushed anything on me—she actually waits until I ask for something—but she also understands her work. She knows exactly what I need, in what amount, or rather, at what value. She knows my financial situation, my future prospects, and my job.

So, when I need something, I just ask, and she sets it up for me. Likewise, when she senses that something needs to be changed or addressed, we get to work and figure out the best solution. I’ve never paid her for this advice because she’s paid through commissions on the services or products she signs me up for.

I know, you might say that it’s not really free. But should I pay a stranger just as much or even more, since a stranger wouldn’t do as much for me as she does, or should I just be satisfied? Sure, I’ll take the expert advice and the indirect payment.

• Beauty Consultant

Not long after I found out that my friend was a financial advisor, my sister started working as an independent beauty consultant. Sure, “independent” is a bit misleading in the sense that she works for one company.

However, “independent” probably means she isn’t an employee of that company, but rather a freelance business owner backed by that brand. This is likely the case with all beauty companies that operate on a direct-sales basis.

But back to the point. My sister does her job by inviting potential clients to her salon for an “hour of beauty.” There, she gives them a full skin treatment, recommends the right skincare routine, and, of course, offers products from the brand she represents. They may or may not buy the products from her. However, that “hour of beauty” is completely free, even if you don’t buy anything from her. However, my sister is so attractive and uses their products herself that I doubt there’s anyone who wouldn’t buy something. So

I can conclude that both of these consultants provide advice as part of their business activities for free. The sale of services and products then depends on the quality of this advice. Both are paid from these sales. Ultimately, it seems to me like a very fair approach and a very fair offer. No one will pressure you into anything without you having any idea what they actually want from you.