It seems that everyday on my Facebook page are posts from friends who are involved with a variety of multi-level marketing (MLM, network marketing, direct selling, etc.) businesses. Whether it’s Amway, Herbalife, BeachBody, LegalShield and more, I don’t remember a time when more people I know have been involved in a MLM business! If you’re new to the MLM industry or a seasoned vet, I’m writing directly to you!
My Experience
Before I go any further, you should know that I was affiliated with a very large and well-known MLM for many years. I have many positive experiences related to being connected with this company and this industry, and as long as a company and its people are reputable and ethical, I am all for this model of doing business.
Before I go any further, you should know that I was affiliated with a very large and well-known MLM for many years. I have many positive experiences related to being connected with this company and this industry, and as long as a company and its people are reputable and ethical, I am all for this model of doing business.
Yet, if you’ve been in MLM for even a short time, you know there is often a stigma to being in this industry; and unfortunately, while the stigma has often been “earned” by people who came before you, it still affects you and your business. So, here are some things I think you should consider…
Whatever your product line, service, or niche, you are primarily in the people business
So I don’t care if your product will cure everything from adenoids to hemorrhoids, you won’t have people buying from you or wanting to partner with you if they don’t want to be around you! Learn all you can about how we connect, communicate and engage with each other. In other words, become a people expert!
Your friends and family are NOT just prospects!
One of the big fears that people have about their friends and family members who have started an MLM business is that they will be sold to and invited to attend a business presentation at every opportunity you have with them. So, offer the products and opportunity, and if your F/Fs like what they see, great! But, remember they were your friends and family before, they can still be your F/F’s during your MLM career, even if they don’t partner with you.
If people (especially your friends and family) don’t join the business with you, it doesn’t make them a “loser!”
About ten years ago I made the decision to end my MLM business to pursue other interests, one of which ultimately ended up being The Relationship Difference; my current training, speaking and consulting business, which is truly a dream come true for me!
Just as not everyone is a doctor or lawyer or a vegan or a hunter, an MLM business is not for everyone. If the people in your life don’t have an MLM business in their future, encourage them in whatever they’re doing now, because it's just the right thing to do, isn't it? Besides, you never know when they may change their minds and come to you about checking out your business.
Be your best customer…but don’t be obnoxious about it
Obviously, to be credible in your new venture, you need to use your own products and services! However, what people around you don’t want to experience is feeling that being around you is like being in a full-time infomercial for your business.
“Wow, my lips are really dry today, but with new Rust-Eze medicated lip balm, available through my business, my lips feel like new! Would you like to buy a case??"
Have a life outside of your business!
As a business owner myself, this is one of the hardest things for me to practice, but it’s imperative that you have a life outside of your business; especially if you’re also working a full time job, are a full time parent or student and trying to juggle a full schedule.
Of course, this isn't to be used as an excuse to not do what is needed to build your business ... but quite frankly, if you catch a movie once a month with your spouse, or enjoy hanging out with the guys, that's not a bad thing. But you do need to find consistent time to reset, recharge, renew and refresh your mind, spirit and body; then you’ll be better prepared to pursue your dream!
Whatever your product line, service, or niche, you are primarily in the people business
So I don’t care if your product will cure everything from adenoids to hemorrhoids, you won’t have people buying from you or wanting to partner with you if they don’t want to be around you! Learn all you can about how we connect, communicate and engage with each other. In other words, become a people expert!
Your friends and family are NOT just prospects!
One of the big fears that people have about their friends and family members who have started an MLM business is that they will be sold to and invited to attend a business presentation at every opportunity you have with them. So, offer the products and opportunity, and if your F/Fs like what they see, great! But, remember they were your friends and family before, they can still be your F/F’s during your MLM career, even if they don’t partner with you.
If people (especially your friends and family) don’t join the business with you, it doesn’t make them a “loser!”
About ten years ago I made the decision to end my MLM business to pursue other interests, one of which ultimately ended up being The Relationship Difference; my current training, speaking and consulting business, which is truly a dream come true for me!
Just as not everyone is a doctor or lawyer or a vegan or a hunter, an MLM business is not for everyone. If the people in your life don’t have an MLM business in their future, encourage them in whatever they’re doing now, because it's just the right thing to do, isn't it? Besides, you never know when they may change their minds and come to you about checking out your business.
Be your best customer…but don’t be obnoxious about it
Obviously, to be credible in your new venture, you need to use your own products and services! However, what people around you don’t want to experience is feeling that being around you is like being in a full-time infomercial for your business.
“Wow, my lips are really dry today, but with new Rust-Eze medicated lip balm, available through my business, my lips feel like new! Would you like to buy a case??"
Have a life outside of your business!
As a business owner myself, this is one of the hardest things for me to practice, but it’s imperative that you have a life outside of your business; especially if you’re also working a full time job, are a full time parent or student and trying to juggle a full schedule.
Of course, this isn't to be used as an excuse to not do what is needed to build your business ... but quite frankly, if you catch a movie once a month with your spouse, or enjoy hanging out with the guys, that's not a bad thing. But you do need to find consistent time to reset, recharge, renew and refresh your mind, spirit and body; then you’ll be better prepared to pursue your dream!
Keywords: multilevel marketing, network marketing, MLM, multi-level marketing, affiliate marketing, IBO, distributor, amway, nuskin, herbalife, shaklee, beachbody, pyramid scheme, sales, recruiting, success, training, sponsorship, upline, downline
