Whether you're part of a multi-level marketing (MLM) company or you craft and sell your own personal creations, you may be ready to take the next steps to grow your business. Once you've built up a steady customer base, you may feel that you'll earn more income by quitting your "day job" and focusing solely on your sales business. However, it can be a tough market -- you'll need to continue to evolve in order to remain competitive. Read on to learn more about a few ways to take your sales to the next level.

Look into trade shows or conventions

Trade shows are a great way to get your foot in the door with local merchants and retailers. Some trade shows are industry-themed (such as bridal or baby shows, with vendors from a variety of different fields all focusing on a single topic), while others involve a number of vendors from the same field marketing their wares. By renting a booth at a trade show -- and coming stocked with plenty of inventory and promotional materials -- you can help promote your product and network with retailers who might be willing to carry your product in exchange for a small cut of your profit.

Rent a storage or cargo container

If you're required to keep a large amount of inventory on hand to satisfy order demands, you may be running out of space in your home or garage. You might also be reluctant to keep your merchandise in the same area where your vehicle or lawn tools are stored. Renting a storage trailer or container can not only help you keep your inventory organized, clean, and safe, but can allow for easy transportation from one location to the next -- ensuring that you're never caught empty-handed when taking orders. The cost of this cargo container rental should also be deductible on your taxes as a business expense. For more information, contact a company like Mar-Rube Trailer Rental.

Keep analyzing your advertising

Have you ever wondered why some advertisements or coupons say to "mention this ad" in order to receive a discount? This is an easy and effective way for merchants to determine which of their advertising mediums are most popular (and most effective). You may want to include similar provisions in your advertisements on social media and elsewhere, or offer a referral discount for current customers. By simply asking new customers how they heard of you, you can get valuable insight into where you should target your advertising and outreach efforts.