Choosing the MLM That\\\'s Right for You

Jul 17
19:16

2007

Lisa Reynoso

Lisa Reynoso

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You might wonder if there is an MLM that fits you. There probably is--and this article will give you the tools you need to evaluate each opportunity that comes your way and help you know which one is the one for you.

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How can you find the MLM that's right for you? If you're like me,Choosing the MLM That\\\'s Right for You Articles you've tried one or two and decided that it's not for you.

The concept of multi-level marketing, however, really is sound. If you are a Christian, you can see that sharing the gospel is kind of like multi-level marketing: Go make disciples means go teach people how to reach other people. It's a one-on-one, face-to-face, here's what I have to offer you approach. It has worked for thousands. So why didn't it work for you? Why didn't it work for me?

There are several reasons why your last MLM attempt failed:
  • You don't really believe in the product
  • You think your product is over-priced
  • You're afraid other people might not be interested
  • You aren't motivated to get out and share

Let's look at those briefly:

You Don't Really Believe in the Product

If you don't believe in the product, you might as well quit before you start. You need to project confidence in your product to convince people. A lot of how well you do has to do, not with what you say, but with what you don't say—that is, your body language. You've got to be either a very good actor or an excellent liar to promote a product you don't believe in.

You Think the Product Is Over-Priced

Sure, MLM products are more expensive than their in-store counterparts. But keep in mind that up to half of the sale price is returned to those in the business in the form of commissions and bonuses. Also keep in mind that people are willing to pay more for a better product. If that wasn't the case, Wal-Mart would always sell their Great Value version of Cherrios and no one would buy the name brand that's right along side it.

You're Afraid Other People Might Not Be Interested

When I found out who in my church was interested in a certain product produced by an MLM company, I was surprised at how many there were. You never know until you try. Try to focus on people that might actually be interested in your product (don't try to sell kids multi-vitamins to single bachelors, for example). And don't take rejection personally. If they are your friends, offer it in a take-it-or-leave-it fashion; make sure they know that you're still friends if they say no.

You Aren't Motivated to Get Out and Share

This means one of two things. Either you have the wrong product (aren't excited enough about it) or you shouldn't be in MLM. Take a good look at yourself. What do you get excited about? What makes you enthusiastic? Then find a company offering products in that area.

Now let us look at a few things to look at when you find an MLM company:
  • The products—would you use them regularly?
  • The minimum qualifying order
  • Will their business model work for you?
  • Are they a member of the BBB?
  • What free tools are available?
  • Share, share share

Let's discuss these areas:

The Products—would you use them regularly?

Most MLM companies have a product that they promote at the outset, but then they have a host of other products that you can get. Are any of their products something you would use regularly? If not, then it's probably not the MLM for you. Users make the best dealers. That's why Paul Harvey's commercials are so effective.

The Minimum Qualifying Order

What is the minimum qualifying order amount? Can you see yourself spending that every month until you get your order paid for? What will it take to get your order paid for? Is it feasible for you? How about for your friend? This is something you should know and understand before you get started.

Will Their Business Model Work for You?

I don't care if there are a million people making thousands each month in this business. If I can't make it work for me, it's not for me. A few years ago I was introduced to an MLM that focused on health products. I tried twice to get people under me, but it was just too hard and I gave up twice. Find out how many people you have to tell to get your product paid for. And figure that you're going to have to get that many people all by yourself. It's going to be hard to train those people until you can show results.

Also, do you get any kind of commission before your product is paid for? Suppose you have to spend $100 every month, and it takes five people to get your product paid for. If you get two people, do you get $20 each, or do you only get something like 2% or 3% of the payout (the portion of the purchase price that is paid out in commissions) until you get all five people? Do they have to be personally enrolled or can your upline put them in for you? If you are in the business to make money, study the business model carefully and ask your potential upline all the questions you need to before making a decision—and don't let anyone pressure you into a decision you might regret later. You want it to be your decision, not someone else's.

Are They a Member of the BBB?

This might seem obvious, but it's worth checking out. Just go to www.bbb.com and search for their name. Even if they aren't a member, you can usually check on the BBB's opinion of them anyway. It will help you feel better about it, at the very least.

What Free Tools Are Available?

Every MLM company has tons of tools that you can buy (most for probably more than they're worth) to help you promote your product. The trouble is, not all are effective. So instead of investing in a little of everything and trying it out to see what works for you, check to find out if the company has any free products resources (a 24/7 recorded phone message with testimonies, for example) that you can use to promote the business. If you can get samples as part of your minimum required order amount, that is even better. People are much more likely to try something they have to buy, and if you have to spend the money anyway, then spend some of it on samples.

Share, share, share

The only wrong way to promote an MLM is to not promote it. If you just sit on the information and hope someone will ask you about it, you will never make it in the business. Of course, that's fine if you like the products and want to use them for yourself. But if you want to make money, you've got to share.

Well, there you have it. If you will use these tools to evaluate each MLM that you are introduced to, you should eventually find a company that will work for you.