5 Common Mistakes Brand Partners Make When Recommending Products (and How to Fix Them)

You’ve been there. A friend, family member, or new contact messages you: “I’m looking for something to help me relax after a long day. What oil should I get?”

This is the moment where a sale is made or lost. It’s the moment where you either become a trusted consultant or just another person selling something. And all too often, well-meaning Brand Partners make one of a few common mistakes that undermine their credibility and halt their business growth.

But here’s the good news: these mistakes are easy to fix. By shifting your approach, you can transform your recommendations from simple transactions into powerful relationship-building opportunities.

Let’s dive into the five most common mistakes and how you can start correcting them today.

Mistake #1: The “One-Size-Fits-All” Recommendation

What it looks like: Someone asks for a sleep oil, and you immediately say, “Lavender.”

Why it’s a problem: While Lavender is a great oil, it’s not the only one, and it doesn’t work for everyone. This kind of generic answer makes the customer feel unheard. It also misses a huge opportunity to learn more about their specific needs. Do they have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep? Is their mind racing, or is their body restless? Are they already using other products?

The Fix: Ask Clarifying Questions. Before you recommend anything, become a detective. Ask questions like:

• “Tell me more about what’s going on.”
• “What have you tried in the past?”
• “How do you want to feel?”

This shows you care about them as an individual, not just as a sale. It also gives you the information you need to make a truly personalized and effective recommendation.

Mistake #2: The “Fire Hose” of Information

What it looks like: You get so excited that you send them a novel-length message with 12 different product ideas, 5 DIY recipes, and a link to the income disclosure statement.

Why it’s a problem: Overwhelm leads to inaction. When a customer is faced with too many choices, they are likely to make no choice at all. You’ve created work for them, forcing them to sift through a mountain of information to find what’s relevant.

The Fix: Recommend a Simple Routine. Instead of listing individual products, suggest a simple, 2-3 step routine. For example:

“Based on what you told me, I’d suggest a simple evening wind-down routine. Start by diffusing Cedarwood and Orange about 30 minutes before bed to create a calming atmosphere. Then, just before you get into bed, apply a roller with Lavender and Frankincense to your wrists and the bottoms of your feet. This combination is fantastic for quieting both the mind and body.”

This is actionable, easy to understand, and provides immense value.

Mistake #3: The Compliance Catastrophe

What it looks like: Using words like “treats,” “cures,” “heals,” or “prevents” when talking about a product. For example, “This oil will cure your headaches.”

Why it’s a problem: This is a major compliance violation that can put your business at risk. It’s also medically irresponsible and erodes trust. Our role is to support the body’s natural systems and promote overall wellness, not to practice medicine.

The Fix: Use Compliant Language. Always talk about products in terms of how they can support a healthy lifestyle. Focus on structure/function claims.

• Instead of: “It cures anxiety.”

• Try: “It promotes feelings of calm and relaxation.”

• Instead of: “It will get rid of your cold.”

• Try: “It supports a healthy immune system.”

When in doubt, check the product guide or official Young Living resources.

Mistake #4: The Research Rabbit Hole

What it looks like: A customer asks a question, and you say, “Great question! Let me do some research and get back to you.” Then, you spend two hours digging through resources to find the perfect answer.

Why it’s a problem: This kills momentum. In a fast-paced world, a delay of a few hours can mean a lost sale. It also subtly communicates a lack of confidence. While diligence is good, speed and confidence are what close sales.

The Fix: Use a “Quick-Reference” Tool. You can’t be expected to know everything about every product. That’s why having a trusted, fast resource is critical. This could be a well-organized notebook, a specific reference guide, or a dedicated app.

This is precisely why we built Essentialist . It’s an AI-powered assistant that allows you to get instant, personalized, and compliant recommendations in seconds. You type in the need, and it generates a detailed routine you can send to your customer immediately. It turns the “research rabbit hole” into a 30-second task.

Mistake #5: The “Sale and Ghost”

What it looks like: You successfully help a customer place an order… and then you disappear until it’s time for them to order again.

Why it’s a problem: This is a transactional approach, and it’s the fastest way to lose a customer. The real work begins after the sale. Your goal is to create a loyal customer who feels supported and educated.

The Fix: Create a Follow-Up System. A simple follow-up plan can dramatically increase customer retention.

• When they order: “I’m so excited for you to get your products! Let me know when they arrive.”
• A few days after delivery: “Have you had a chance to open your diffuser yet? I’d love to hear your first impressions!”
• Two weeks later: “Just checking in! How are you enjoying the evening routine we talked about?”

This shows you’re invested in their wellness journey, not just their wallet.

From Seller to Consultant

Avoiding these five mistakes is the first step in transitioning from someone who simply sells oils to a trusted wellness consultant. When you prioritize personalization, provide value, and build relationships, your business will grow naturally and sustainably.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned when making product recommendations? Share your experience in the comments below!