The amount of commission you can make with Mary Kay varies significantly depending on your role within the independent sales force and your sales activity. Commission earnings are typically structured to reward both individual sales efforts and team building.
Understanding Mary Kay Commissions
Earnings as a Mary Kay independent sales force member are not a fixed percentage across the board; rather, they are dependent on your specific role and performance. It's important to note that the figures below represent average annual commissions and individual results will vary based on effort, skill, and market conditions.
Average Annual Commissions for Mary Kay Independent Sales Force Members
Based on available data, the average annual commissions for different tiers within the independent sales force illustrate the range of earning potential:
| Role | Average Annual Commissions | % of Independent Sales Force |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Sales Director | $20,137 | 1.675% |
| Commission Eligible Independent Beauty Consultant | $206 | 15.138% |
| Independent Beauty Consultants (not commission eligible) | $0 | 83.137% |
These figures represent average annual commissions and do not reflect the profits earned from selling products directly to customers, which is a primary source of income for many consultants.
Different Pathways to Earning Commissions
Mary Kay offers two primary avenues through which independent sales force members can generate income:
- As an Independent Beauty Consultant: When you first become an Independent Beauty Consultant, your earnings primarily come from the retail sale of products to your customers. You purchase products at a wholesale price and sell them at the suggested retail price, keeping the difference as your profit. While a significant portion of Independent Beauty Consultants do not earn commissions, those who are commission-eligible have, on average, earned a modest annual commission. This often relates to specific program participation or sales thresholds.
- As an Independent Sales Director: This role represents a more advanced stage within the Mary Kay career path. Independent Sales Directors are leaders who not only sell products but also build, train, and mentor their own teams of Independent Beauty Consultants. Their commissions are significantly higher, reflecting their leadership responsibilities and the sales volume of their entire unit, in addition to their personal sales. On average, Independent Sales Directors earn a substantially higher annual commission.
In summary, while the potential for commission earnings exists, it varies greatly, with the most significant commissions typically reserved for those who achieve the Independent Sales Director role by building and leading a successful team.
