What's the Best Online MLM?

98 replies
Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's.

That said, are there any MLM's that are operated entirely online? If so, which one do you think is the best?
#mlm #online
  • Profile picture of the author Charles Harper
    Originally Posted by James Legacy View Post

    Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's.

    That said, are there any MLM's that are operated entirely online? If so, which one do you think is the best?
    I, think SendOutCards is the best, but if you follow Mike Dillard, etc. your MLM is not as important as the process you use in building leads and monetizing your list. Ultimately, MLM is about making money. The funnel process of using the internet to make money is the same regardless of what MLM you are involved in.

    PM me and I will show you the system that I am talking about.

    Charles
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    • Profile picture of the author oboi2121
      Originally Posted by Charles Harper View Post

      I, think SendOutCards is the best, but if you follow Mike Dillard, etc. your MLM is not as important as the process you use in building leads and monetizing your list. Ultimately, MLM is about making money. The funnel process of using the internet to make money is the same regardless of what MLM you are involved in.

      PM me and I will show you the system that I am talking about.

      Charles
      Hello Omari Taylor here,

      I haven't heard of SendOutCard but I do agree with Mike Dillards teachings. Traditional MLM businesses are washed up in my and Mike Dillards opinion. Top Tier Direct Marketing is where the money is. Big ticket items. I have Mike Dillard on DVD in the link below talking about it.

      In traditional MLM businesses you need a small army to reach your goal of financial freedom. Where in top tier Direct Marketing you can make $500- $10,000 off of one sale.

      Which is easier and would you rather do to make $1,000 dollars? Twenty $50 dollar sales or one $1,000 dollar sale? Mike Dillard agrees it is easier to make one $1,000 dollar sale. If you haven't heard of Top Teir Direct Marketing and don't know what I'm talking about click the link below.

      Work smarter not hard. Don't fall for MLM get rich quick sales pages. You need a small army to see any real money. Best Wishes to everyone.
      Signature

      Omari Taylor

      Learn How To Realistically Make $15,000 Per Month (or more) In Your Business, In Your First 90 Days With No Experience, Without Picking Up The Phone, Or Making A List Of Your Friends And Family...EVER Again**FREE** ==> http://www.InstantRoad2Riches.com

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  • Profile picture of the author WinsonYeung
    I love the author or rich dad poor dad, but i definitely will not recommend MLM, reason being ? I was a victim of a MLM and lost $10,000 USD as a result...
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    • Profile picture of the author MaskedMarketer
      Originally Posted by talfighel View Post

      Check my signature James.
      Tal
      I think thats against forum rules? You should just tell us what its about...

      I checked out your signature and it just brings me to a capture page with no info about MLM.


      Originally Posted by WinsonYeung View Post

      I love the author or rich dad poor dad, but i definitely will not recommend MLM, reason being ? I was a victim of a MLM and lost $10,000 USD as a result...
      I lost over 10k easily when I started in direct response advertising. You need to learn from your experience instead of referring to yourself as a victim. MLM and network marketing are good models if you're with a good company..
      Signature

      "One Man's Ceiling is Another Man's Floor
      "


      "I Pay Less Attention to What Men Say. I Just Watch What They Do."
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      • Profile picture of the author Charles Harper
        Originally Posted by MaskedMarketer View Post

        I think thats against forum rules? You should just tell us what its about...

        I checked out your signature and it just brings me to a capture page with no info about MLM.




        I lost over 10k easily when I started in direct response advertising. You need to learn from your experience instead of referring to yourself as a victim. MLM and network marketing are good models if you're with a good company..
        Yeah..what Masked Marketer said, plus you need to know how this works on the internet. If you don't want to hear from any of the marketers respond, just google Mike Dillard or Magnetic Sponsoring. That is the right system for the internet. It isn't free, but if you spend a couple hundred with Dillard, you will not lose the 10K that this gentleman did.

        Charles
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        • Profile picture of the author MaskedMarketer
          Hey Charles,

          I know Mike Dillard does and what he promotes. I haven;'t checked out the program fully, but its something I would considered. I would also like to get into the health market too, if I see good things to promote in the mlm area.

          I plan on joining a couple network marketing companies when i find the right one and then just starting my own.

          I know people in Amway that make a killing. I think they've been around for over 50+ years? Some people say its "saturated" and thats a lie.

          I know people who just got in 5-10 years ago who are doing quite well.
          Signature

          "One Man's Ceiling is Another Man's Floor
          "


          "I Pay Less Attention to What Men Say. I Just Watch What They Do."
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          • Profile picture of the author Loren Woirhaye
            promoting an MLM strictly online is a tricky process.

            Profits are low per payiing member in your downline.
            Attrition is significant. And costs mount up.

            If you want to build locally, do parties and meetings,
            go for it. Hard work but you have local bonds of
            friendship and loyalty working for you.

            Online people are not loyal. They are not your friends.
            They just want to make some money. If you can
            help them make some money in the window of time
            after they join and before they get discouraged
            you can have a few loyal followers.

            MLM pays you only after you have worked very hard.

            I prefer direct selling systems. You get paid on the
            front end. With MLM it's mostly on the back end but
            the COSTS to build it are sitting right there on the
            front.

            We can argue of course. Mostly people join MLMs because
            of "low barrier to entry" - and online that usually means
            they don't intend to spend any money on advertising -
            which usually means their efforts will peter out and they
            will quit when they find out the reality of marketing
            online - that' it's just a little competitive.
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            • Profile picture of the author jblack
              Originally Posted by Loren Woirhaye View Post

              promoting an MLM strictly online is a tricky process.

              Profits are low per payiing member in your downline.
              Attrition is significant. And costs mount up.

              If you want to build locally, do parties and meetings,
              go for it. Hard work but you have local bonds of
              friendship and loyalty working for you.

              Online people are not loyal. They are not your friends.
              They just want to make some money. If you can
              help them make some money in the window of time
              after they join and before they get discouraged
              you can have a few loyal followers.

              MLM pays you only after you have worked very hard.

              I prefer direct selling systems. You get paid on the
              front end. With MLM it's mostly on the back end but
              the COSTS to build it are sitting right there on the
              front.

              We can argue of course. Mostly people join MLMs because
              of "low barrier to entry" - and online that usually means
              they don't intend to spend any money on advertising -
              which usually means their efforts will peter out and they
              will quit when they find out the reality of marketing
              online - that' it's just a little competitive.
              Great Post. I agree with every word.

              I have done almost every MLM you can think of. Most were unsuccessful, but even in the successful ones, the attritionis so high that it is incredible.

              I think that if you must give it a try, but my feeling is that Affiliate Marketing or Internet Marketing is where it's at!
              Signature
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              • Profile picture of the author tessmac9708
                Having gone about setting up a new multi tier programme there are some pitfalls that most people are unaware of.

                Firstly the product that you are selling must be retailable. In other words you must have a product. It actually doesn't matter so much if your product is good or bad, the market will determine this for you..I.E a poor product wont sell.

                The key element is that multi level income opportunities CANNOT be sold. So what does this mean in real terms.

                It means that by by virtue of a customer purchasing your product, they CANNOT be confered automatic entry into the multi level income opportunity. The multi level income opportunity must be available to anyone, regardless of wether or not they have purchased your Primary Product.

                So the way ahead is to offer the multi level income opportunity free of charge, regardless of them purchasing your product.

                Therefore to participate there is no upfront purchase or costs involved, therefore no risk of losing money ( How you choose personally to promote the income opportunity may involve risking money on advertising, but this is down to the individual and is irrelevant from the point of view of the income opportunity, as long as it is not a requirement )

                Equally important howver is how the programme is marketed.

                Does the emphasis of the product being sold concentrate on just recruiting new oportunity seekers, or does it concentrate primarily on the sale of the key product itself. In other words has the product been created just as a front for the purpose of recruiting others and so on.

                In the real world, does the product fulfill a market need and is retailable.

                In the case of an income opportunity product, can people make money with the key product, without having to enroll in the multi level income opportunity. If the answer is YES..then no problems.

                If the answer is NO, and the only way you can make money is by enrolling in the multi level aspect of the plan..then the plan is fatally flawed.
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          • Profile picture of the author bandvbaird
            Hi !
            I am a 1st time newbie, but before coming to the Warrior site , I joined Melaleuca and I am just getting started after trying the products for 3 months and MAN...I CANNOT BELIEVE WHAT GREAT PRODUCTS THEY ARE !!! There are laundry, household, health and pet products, oh...and wellness products . Non toxic, environmentally friendly and they work and smell so good !! There is no delivery of products. The customer places their order directly online or via phone, no high pressure sales , nor party plans-YEAH !!! You become a preferred customer and get great savings on the products .You commit to purchasing 35 product points per month, which is the residual income for your upline and you also when you refer new customer's to Melaleuca . Purchasing Melaleuca is not hard to do as I have been doing this for 3 months now and I am actually saving at least $75.00 per month on my laundry and cleaning & household products AND THEY ARE TOXIC FREE-COOL !!! You are just replacing what you normally buy at the grocery store with Melaleuca toxic free products and getting your product delivered directly to your door !! I am just starting to train, but I know that Melaleuca can create a very profitable residual income for anyone who wants to try and build their business . Melaleuca is an A+ business certified by the Better Business Bureau and they are a member and have been in the business since the 80's, with considerable growth each and every year . I can stand behind this business because I love their plan and products AND THERE IS NO PARTY PLAN OR PURCHASING AN ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF PRODUCT TO RESELL !! Melaleuca is a great business and I cannot wait to train more so I can really get started .

            I am looking for anyone who this also interests to replace their toxic home and laundry products and earn a residual income at the same time . Anyone interested ?? . New customer can be signed up over the phone, via, the website, in person, or by webinar , so there is no limit to whom you can sign up in the U.S , or where they live. You could sign up Aunt Bessie In Connecticut and live in California !! You can visit Melaleucas' website for more product information and to see all of the great prosucts they have !!!

            I am so excited as I believe in these products and I love their business plan !!!

            (I hope I am not writing anything wrong, but I jumped in to reply and haven't got the chance to read through all the req. of the site 1st - Am I bad? ) -Vicki.
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          • Profile picture of the author Hardy Usman
            You might want to check these two programs..

            1. Reverse Funnel System (GRN)
            2. Carbon Copy Pro (WMI)
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      • Profile picture of the author talfighel
        Originally Posted by MaskedMarketer View Post

        I think thats against forum rules? You should just tell us what its about...

        I checked out your signature and it just brings me to a capture page with no info about MLM.
        It is a marketing funnel for a new MLM opportunity:

        First Ever DNA customized nutrition Company

        Tal
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    • Profile picture of the author Floyd Fisher
      Originally Posted by WinsonYeung View Post

      I love the author or rich dad poor dad, but i definitely will not recommend MLM, reason being ? I was a victim of a MLM and lost $10,000 USD as a result...
      Would you mind giving me the details of this?

      I don't do MLM's myself, but I suspect you got into a scam, not a legitimate MLM per se.
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  • Profile picture of the author Michael Oksa
    Hi James,

    Well, those who have seen my posts on MLM know where I stand. I am firmly against them in almost all cases.

    However, I don't want to discourage you either.

    Instead, I'd like to point you to a link that offers a differing view of Robert Kiyosaki. I am sure Mr. K. would want people to open their minds to his advice, so all I ask is that you read the following analysis with the same open-mindedness.

    Here is the summary directly from the site...
    Rich Dad, Poor Dad is one of the dumbest financial advice books I have ever read. It contains many factual errors and numerous extremely unlikely accounts of events that supposedly occurred.

    Kiyosaki is a salesman and a motivational speaker. He has no financial expertise and won't disclose his supposed real estate or other investment success.

    Rich Dad, Poor Dad contains much wrong advice, much bad advice, some dangerous advice, and virtually no good advice.
    Not sure if it's covered on that page, but it's interesting to note that Robert's book sales dodn't take off until an MLM organization latched onto it (which may expalin why he recommends MLMs now).

    Anyway, the link is...

    John T. Reed's analysis of Robert T. Kiyosaki's book Rich Dad, Poor Dad

    I am not telling you what to decide, but just want to give you a chance to see an in-depth analysis of some info that may do more harm than good.

    As far as earning money online with an MLM company, some people will define afifliate programs as MLM because money may be paid at more than one level. However, when Kiyosaki and I talk about MLM that is not what we are talking about.

    In other words, I am for legitimate affiliate marketing (it can make you a lot of money), but anti-MLM (real money is made, but not where you think).

    Finally, I was in the MLM world for many years, and learned a few things along the way. I am not bitter, but do my best to warn others.

    Wishing you every success,
    Michael Oksa
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    "Ich bin en fuego!"
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    • Profile picture of the author MaskedMarketer
      Real estate and finance are not my thing- but he puts down "real estate gurus" when I know people personally, who have been successful with those programs. Russ Whitney, trump, ect. I heard bad things about Russ Whitney, but my friend went threw it and still talks to his mentor and he flies around the world doing real estate...

      He is obviously biased and wants to sell you his products
      Signature

      "One Man's Ceiling is Another Man's Floor
      "


      "I Pay Less Attention to What Men Say. I Just Watch What They Do."
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      • Profile picture of the author Michael Oksa
        Originally Posted by MaskedMarketer View Post

        Real estate and finance are not my thing- but he puts down "real estate gurus" when I know people personally, who have been successful with those programs. Russ Whitney, trump, ect. I heard bad things about Russ Whitney, but my friend went threw it and still talks to his mentor and he flies around the world doing real estate...

        He is obviously biased and wants to sell you his products
        And Kiyosaki doesn't want to sell you his products?

        Bias does not mean the information is false, it just means certain parts are highlighted.

        My point is that it is good to read a differing view to make a better decision.

        As for your point about MLMs you made in your earlier post...

        So what if Amway has been around for 50+ years? That doesn't mean you, or anyone else, will make money with them. Using that logic, then Google must be a lousy company because they haven't been around that long.

        Do you know what the average amount IBOs make is? I believe (from memory, but I know I'm close) is $68/month...and that's BEFORE expenses and not counting the high price you have to pay for products.

        And, how do you KNOW they're doing well? Have you seen their tax returns? If not, you can only go by what they tell you, what you see (which can and often is manipulated), or what they lead you to think.

        I'm not trying to cut you down in any way. I know how to play the game. If you would have known me when I was heavily involved in MLM you would have been convinced I was doing well. I was coached in posturing, how to avoid giving direct answers about my income, and how to make people think I was doing well - and these were close friends and family who I had convinced.

        Luckily, things startd becoming clear as I got more and more involved. I dumped the unethical BS for good. Even though the higher-ups were able to justify it, I stopped playing aong.

        I was trying to tone things down, because I don't want to tell James what to do, but I will answer any direct comments. Again, my goal is simply to teach, and warn others, but the choice is ultimately yours.

        All the best,
        Michael
        Signature

        "Ich bin en fuego!"
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  • Profile picture of the author Michael Oksa
    Originally Posted by James Legacy View Post

    Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's.

    That said, are there any MLM's that are operated entirely online? If so, which one do you think is the best?
    Sorry, I sort of hihjacked the thread in my previous post.

    Just in case you don't get a chance to read the info in the link I sent, you mention that "Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's". It also encourages them to commit felonies, so be careful.

    Which one do I think is best? One that has a free option to start (without high-pressure to buy in at a higher level), has truly competitive prices, focuses on products (as opposed to recruitment), has a product you would buy anyway (for example, if you normally wouldn't by the latest "exotic fruit elixir", then why do it now?). By the way, if anyone finds one that meets all of these criteria, let me know.

    All the best,
    Michael
    Signature

    "Ich bin en fuego!"
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    • Profile picture of the author Floyd Fisher
      Originally Posted by Michael Oksa View Post

      Sorry, I sort of hihjacked the thread in my previous post.

      Just in case you don't get a chance to read the info in the link I sent, you mention that "Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's". It also encourages them to commit felonies, so be careful.

      Which one do I think is best? One that has a free option to start (without high-pressure to buy in at a higher level), has truly competitive prices, focuses on products (as opposed to recruitment), has a product you would buy anyway (for example, if you normally wouldn't by the latest "exotic fruit elixir", then why do it now?). By the way, if anyone finds one that meets all of these criteria, let me know.

      All the best,
      Michael
      Not to cross swords, but you really should check out Amway just for kicks.

      -It's a soap company (you shower at least once a week, and wash clothes once a month, correct)
      -They have a retail sales requirement to be paid any comissions (it's called the 10 sales per month rule, just for your info)
      -Check out their products vs retail, you'll be amazed

      I'm not saying join by any means, just thought you might like to know.
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      • Profile picture of the author Michael Oksa
        Originally Posted by Floyd Fisher View Post

        Not to cross swords, but you really should check out Amway just for kicks.
        LOL

        I won't name any of the MLMs I've been involved with, but I don't have to now that you have. In fact, that's the exact type I'm thinking of when I refer to MLMs in these discussions.

        -It's a soap company (you shower at least once a week, and wash clothes once a month, correct)
        Correct. And, if you like to spend 2 to 5 times as much on showering and washing clothes, then by all means, go for it.

        Also, on the surface, "it's a soap company", but in reality you will have a very difficult time trying to get involved without going through one of the "motivational organizations".

        -They have a retail sales requirement to be paid any comissions (it's called the 10 sales per month rule, just for your info)
        LOL, again.
        Yes, the requirement is "official", but the upline quickly points out that this is SELF-REPORTED, so go ahead and say you made those 10 retail sales, after all, you just have to "fake it 'til you make it".

        So, in theory, it's a great rule. In practice, it's a huge loophole that's easy to jump through.

        -Check out their products vs retail, you'll be amazed
        You're right about that. I was always amazed at how expensive it all was. Anyone who tries to explain how it's actually cheaper, because it's concentrated is either a liar, scammer, huckster, or falling for some slick marketing.

        Look at any independent cost analysis and you will quickly see that the claims of lower prices are very weak.

        I'm not saying join by any means, just thought you might like to know.
        I know much more than you may realize, but I do appreciate you trying to steer me in the right direction. And for the record, I AM saying not to join, by any means.

        Just to be clear, I'm not trying to cross swords with you either, and I think it's a very worthwhile discussion.

        I was burnt, more than once and I did exactly as I was told. I've been involved in some of the biggest MLMs at least 4 separate times, and will continue to warn against them.

        I've seen it all, I know all the lines, and I also know the truth about where the big money comes from and how the higher ups manipulate people.

        All the best,
        Michael
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        "Ich bin en fuego!"
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  • Profile picture of the author Loren Woirhaye
    Micheal's comments lead to a good point:

    In MLM many of the big earners make their money
    selling books and CDs and coaching. The MLM is
    often a front-end to a "guru" business model.

    Your MLM company will usually demand you buy from
    $50-200 per month of product to "qualify" to earn
    commissions... to prove your commitment to the
    program. In addition you will be asked to purchase
    training materials and maybe go to pep rallies in
    distant cities.

    Work out the numbers. Is MLM the best way to achieve
    your goals financially?

    Do you enjoy selling?

    Do you think you would enjoy/be good at training and
    motivating a sales team?

    You could enjoy it and be good at it. It's a matter of
    what type of person you are and how you want to
    earn your income. You could be pretty successful
    as an information publisher too, or even as a consultant
    with the same output of energy.
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    • Profile picture of the author Glenn Grundberg
      I absolutely LOATHE most MLM's and MLM'ers in general.

      But believe it or not, I've been turned on to one that's right at ground zero that I actually maybe could believe in

      I'm still doing my due dil on these cats, but early indicators look VERY good.

      It's a product for kids, has a HUGE market, and a LOT of parental appeal, and best of all, the guys setting it up understand the dangers of MLM.

      It's NOT open ended...5 levels only...

      There will be a CAP on total distributors to ensure against over-selling and dilution...

      Corporate will NOT compete for sales (I demanded this, and they agreed)...

      It's almost 100% online based and marketed, and although the flagship product is physical...It's MADE for an IM pro- tailor made.

      The product is VERY high quality and VERY attractive to both kids and PARENTS alike...with great video and graphic sales materials, as well as a personal web site, etc...

      Earnings from the product can stand alone...the margins are excellent, and there's NO need to sign up others for this to make you a very nice income just selling the product...

      Can you tell I'm excited? :p

      James, check your inbox...and anyone else wants a peek, PM me.

      Peace!

      Gman

      EDIT: PS - The company is Illinois based, and practically right in my backyard, so I get to keep a REAL close eye on these dudes as well
      Signature

      I'm Baaaaaack...
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      • Profile picture of the author 4morereferrals
        Russel Brunson, Willie Crawford, David Frey and a few others ... are in the game either full on or casually. Send Out Cards

        Disclaimer: my sig is a link to my newsletter about using Send Out Cards for business owners to get more referral business. That said.

        Endorsed by :

        Tom Hopkins - user
        Ivan Misner - BNI Founder - user
        several other heavyweight names in referal marketing and coaching that would likely bore you online guys.

        Its totally "onlineable" - its a software system / tool / that helps people and businesses keep and retain clients. Low cost and actully performs as promised. Its attractive to BUSINESS OWNERS as a tool they can use everyday for marketing.

        David Frey introduced me to Send Out Cards. I use it everyday in my Brick n Mortar business of insurance. Endless niche appeal to the product!

        Insurance / Dentistry / Dr Office / Salespeople of amm walks / Restaurants / Financial Advisors

        It a great way to market offline, it has an appeal to BUSINESS OWNERS as a tool they can use to grow their business.

        Cant illustrate to a contractor how vitamins or soap or juice are going to help him grow his current construction business by way of referrals - Send out Cards can.

        I cant send my clients exotic guava extract and make them fall in love with me and want to stay with me. Send out Cards can ...

        I can send unique and creative marketing pieces that get opened and looked at by prospects to get in the door and get my calls answered. Its a marketers dream.

        For once a mlm where the product is tangible and cost is far less than the rewards of using it.

        Strong affiliate commissions - fully automated sign up online - online business in a box with marketing videos and 52 week autoresponders drip system.
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        Rank Ascend Network - High PR Links / Guaranteed Rankings Increase
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    • Profile picture of the author OnlineMasterMind
      [DELETED]
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      • Profile picture of the author Michael Oksa
        Originally Posted by OnlineMasterMind View Post

        No actually it's the complete opposite - front end: generic how to - back end: MLM

        It's called a funded proposal, and yes they do make money selling shovels which is just plain smart.

        With MLM organizations (not the parent company, but the "teams" within them) the idea of front and and back end get confused - intentionally.

        They draw people in under the guise of being able to sell products for a steep profit. And bonuses get paid, and more money earned if you "teach people how to do the same thing".

        Once in, the recruits (yes, the best term is 'recruit') are told if they want success they

        1. MUST follow the system.
        2. Check with upline on everything.
        3. Give all they got to "building their business".

        What they don't tell you is that...

        1. MUST follow the system = Buying every book, tape, CD, DVD, and attending every meeting. Meetings will likely range from a once a week or two local event, then a bigger one every other month (perhaps a full day or two), then a regional or national up to 4 times a year (these may require airline travel) and typically last a weekend. The price for not following any part of this "success system" is that you're made to feel like you're garbage because "you're not serious" about building your business.

        2. Check with upline on everything = Upline will tell you to buy every book, tape, CD, DVD, and attend every meeting. Meetings will likely range from a once a week or two local event, then a bigger one every other month (perhaps a full day or two), then a regional or national up to 4 times a year (these may require airline travel) and typically last a weekend. The price for not following any part of this "success system" is that you're made to feel like you're garbage because "you're not serious" about building your business.

        3. Give all they got to "building their business" = Which means you better be buying every book, tape, CD, DVD, and attending every meeting. Meetings will likely range from a once a week or two local event, then a bigger one every other month (perhaps a full day or two), then a regional or national up to 4 times a year (these may require airline travel) and typically last a weekend. The price for not following any part of this "success system" is that you're made to feel like you're garbage because "you're not serious" about building your business.

        Oh, there are other methods they use too. But I can guarantee their focus is NOT on helping you, but on getting you "plugged into the foolproof success system".

        They will tell you they love you, how well you're doing, how much you're growing, etc. AS LONG AS you follow the system.

        Try missing a meeting, or skipping a tape or two, and see how much they "love" you.

        Then try quitting and see how many of the people you really thought were friends won't ever call you again because they've been told by their "caring" upline that you have become a "negative" influence.

        MLM dicitonary...

        negative influence (n.) - an open-minded indivdual who has found the flaws in our system and recognized the hypocrisy; to be avoided at all costs.

        MLM is garbage. Useless. Good luck, you'll need it.

        That being said, I suppose it's possible that there is one or two decent MLMs in the entire world, but no one has shown me one yet.

        NOTE: I'm referring to a specific type of MLM, and not talking about hings like affiliate marketing. There is a huge difference.

        And anyone who would listen to someone who actually takes the time to negatively criticize over 100 people extensively on their site and says, there is absolutely no value in Rich Dad Poor Dad... well, I guess it kinda depends on how YOU see the world and what kind of energy your attracted to doesn't it?
        You say "negatively criticize", I say "expose the truth". As to how I see the world...I think it's wrong to encourage people to commit felonies, but hey maybe I'm attracted to the "wrong" energy.


        All the best,
        Michael
        Signature

        "Ich bin en fuego!"
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  • Profile picture of the author Melkor
    I know what Gary Halbert thought of MLM as a concept. And what J.F. Straw thinks.

    Merchants of deception. Read it.

    MLM could be a good business model if you had good sales chops and there were no competing distribution channels with better logistics. As it stands though if you've got the sales chops you'll see greater returns if you get into one of Jim's suggestions - buy pallet closeouts/overstocked goods and resell them individually, for example.
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    • Profile picture of the author Glenn Grundberg
      Originally Posted by Melkor View Post

      I know what Gary Halbert thought of MLM as a concept. And what J.F. Straw thinks.

      Merchants of deception. Read it.

      MLM could be a good business model if you had good sales chops and there were no competing distribution channels with better logistics. As it stands though if you've got the sales chops you'll see greater returns if you get into one of Jim's suggestions - buy pallet closeouts/overstocked goods and resell them individually, for example.
      No argument from me, my friend!

      Every one of the references in your post make excellent points, and are one of the main reasons I hate MLM as a rule!

      But...there ARE exceptions to any rule ;-)

      The trick is doing your due dil thoroughly and looking at ANY opportunity MLM or NOT with a "gimlet eye".

      Peace!
      Signature

      I'm Baaaaaack...
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    • Profile picture of the author wolfmonk
      Originally Posted by Melkor View Post

      I know what Gary Halbert thought of MLM as a concept. Read it.
      Very interesting links, Melkor. Thanks a lot. Gary Halber's letter is brilliant
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      • Profile picture of the author Robert_Rand
        Originally Posted by wolfmonk View Post

        Very interesting links, Melkor. Thanks a lot. Gary Halber's letter is brilliant
        Definitely... that letter cracks me up!
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  • Profile picture of the author TLTheLiberator
    The worst thing to happen to people that want to earn another source of income. I thought MLM stuff was banned for this forum.

    99% of the people that will never make any money online are using mlm and other recruiting people crap.

    All the owners of the programs are doing is taking advantage of people's need for fast, easy, do nothing money - which never happens.

    You've been warned. Please acknowledge it.

    TL
    Signature

    "It's easier to fool people than to convince them that they have been fooled. -- Mark Twain

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    • Profile picture of the author Glenn Grundberg
      Originally Posted by TLTheLiberator View Post

      The worst thing to happen to people that want to earn another source of income. I thought MLM stuff was banned for this forum.

      99% of the people that will never make any money online are using mlm and other recruiting people crap.

      All the owners of the programs are doing is taking advantage of people's need for fast, easy, do nothing money - which never happens.

      You've been warned. Please acknowledge it.

      TL
      LOL...What do you think PIPS is, Einstein?

      Yeesh...:p
      Signature

      I'm Baaaaaack...
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  • Profile picture of the author Scott Ames
    MLM is a mine field of good and bad. The best one for you is not the best one for someone else.

    Its a bit harder than affiliate marketing in my opinion because of the various rules , compensation, and hard products. Some have found it really rewarding however. Some love the feeling of belonging and others make fantastic money. Many more make nothing. Just like anything else it is what you make of it.

    Realize that when you recruit online that you are in competition with everyone else in that company that recruits online too. That being said, many are not savvy so you probably have an edge.

    Check out various companies at http://www.onlinemlm.com in the directory there. There are many bad ones, but many good ones too.

    Consider doing affiliate marketing first, but if that is not your cup of tea, pick an MLM that at least has products that you believe in and have passion for. It helps a ton if the price point of the products is not sky high and the compensation plan for the company is realistic.

    Realize you are building somone else's business for them. You are as well with affilate marketing but are not so vested in it that you can't move quickly away. With MLM you build a downline and they are yours as long as you remain in the company and play by the rules. I've seen such strict rules in some companies that people have lost their entire downline by going on vacation.

    There is nothing except time and resources that says you must only do MLM. You can do that and create and sell your own info products too. Many here do that even some very well known people.
    Signature

    Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm. -Winston Churchill

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  • Profile picture of the author Fabian Tan
    The big problem is people confuse pyramid schemes with the real MLM opportunities.

    They can't seem to make a distinction between the two even after joining a company.

    Fabian
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    • Profile picture of the author affhelper
      Originally Posted by Fabian Tan View Post

      The big problem is people confuse pyramid schemes with the real MLM opportunities.

      They can't seem to make a distinction between the two even after joining a company.

      Fabian
      Agree with you on that one. There are some legitimate MLM businesses
      out there for sure.

      Pawel
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  • Profile picture of the author AMcNeil
    Hello James,

    As someone who has had a great deal of success in MLM. And as someone who has been involved with a variety of companies, I would simply advise you to do your homework.

    There are so many companies out there right now, that it can become over whelming trying to decide which route to go.

    I will tell you this, look for certain things when you're doing your evaluating:
    1. The product. Make sure there's a market for it.
    2. Make sure the product is something you believe in.
    3. Check the management of the company.
    4. Disect their comp plan and make sure you understand it fully!
    5. Check to see what kinds of complaints have been filed against the company. And when I say complaints, I don't mean the kind where the person signed up, didn't do a thing to build their business, but expected a million dollars simply because they signed up.
    These are a few things to take into consideration. If I can help you further please don't hesitant to ask.

    Much Success,

    Anthony McNeil
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    • Profile picture of the author Nathan Hangen
      Wow, I didn't realize that so many people on this forum were in to MLM...I'm going to have to rethink hanging out here.

      MLM makes me sick...been down that road and wouldn't do it ever again. Even if I made money, which I have in the past, watching your downline lose money is a sick feeling. MLM feeds off of its own.
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  • Profile picture of the author TheRichJerksNet
    What's the Best Online MLM ?

    Simple answer None of them.. Use your time and money wisely and create your own business and sell your own product and keep 100% of the profits (unless you have affiliates ofcourse).

    James
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  • Profile picture of the author Charles Harper
    I agree with you in principle, James. I still think Mike Dillard has created a good market for his affiliates. It is a different kind of affiliate marketing; but it is affiliate marketing, and I have made money from his system. What is more is it did not cheat, gyp or fool anyone on the front or backside. It puts all of the cards on the table.

    I think also, that if you can be your own Mike Dillard, you can create a good business. It is very possible to do just that.

    CTHarper
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  • Profile picture of the author cypherslock
    One of the better ones is LifePath Unlimited. Has a physical product. You get paid directly by your customer and forward one the wholesale price to the company. So you get paid first. And if the customer wants their money back at any time after the 72 hour grace period. (and there is a 56 day guarantee) the company gives it to them, but the commission YOU keep. They deal fairly from what I see. And the product is very very good.
    The key I think in ANY MLM is to look for those people who will use the product and continually advance themselves.

    That way, you've got real customers and not opportunity seekers.

    That's how I see it for that one anyway. I'm not involved, though I do have one of their products.
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    • Profile picture of the author Dean Perrone
      Originally Posted by cypherslock View Post

      One of the better ones is LifePath Unlimited. Has a physical product. You get paid directly by your customer and forward one the wholesale price to the company. So you get paid first. And if the customer wants their money back at any time after the 72 hour grace period. (and there is a 56 day guarantee) the company gives it to them, but the commission YOU keep. They deal fairly from what I see. And the product is very very good.
      The key I think in ANY MLM is to look for those people who will use the product and continually advance themselves.

      That way, you've got real customers and not opportunity seekers.

      That's how I see it for that one anyway. I'm not involved, though I do have one of their products.
      I agree with you cypherslock, I do believe LifePath Unlimited to be a solid company. A product that was created by 14 different Luminaries and does have a money back guarantee. Seems to provide value for the end user to better their lives and situation. It also seems to have a lot of Integrity and a good profit margin. And you hit the nail on the head about finding real customers and people who are serious about themselves and their own business instead of just the fly by night opportunity seeker.
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      • Profile picture of the author ShayB
        I have a local WAHM group and several online home biz groups, so I see lots of stuff - new companies, etc.

        I just saw a newer biz being advertised. The biz itself is okay, but the marketing is what really caught my eye.

        They are using SEO, article marketing, blogging, social media, etc., in their system to market the MLM.

        Their back office (so I have been told - I have not joined) is full of materials that are helpful to someone who has no clue about how to do Internet Marketing.

        No meetings; no books, tapes and functions to pay for (yes, I was in Amway :rolleyes; everything online. Giving free e-books and marketing tips as an incentive to sign up for the list.

        I was impressed with the marketing aspect of it. It was a long way from the "3-foot rule" and belly-to-belly marketing.
        Signature
        "Fate protects fools, little children, and ships called Enterprise." ~Commander Riker
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  • Profile picture of the author denniston
    A few things to look for when evaluating a MLM:

    1. Can you earn a living retailing the product/service without having to recruit others into the program?

    2. What is the customer-to-distributor ratio? (Look for companies which have at least TWICE as many customers as distributors.)

    3. How long has the company been in business and what is the background of the owner(s)?

    4. Does the product/service require someone to spend "new money" or is it something they are presently buying already in which case your customers will be using "old money"?

    5. Does the company train its distributors to lead with the product/service or the opportunity? (Ideally, the company's product/service should be "hot" enough in which case you should be taught to lead with it first.)

    6. Does the company have a system in place to make it duplicable to the masses without requiring a lot of manual mundane processes which are difficult to duplicate?

    7. Does the company offer unlimited levels of residual commission payout or an infinity bonus? (This is very important so you don't lose out on the volume your downline organization produces way down deep.)

    8. What % of the company's sales revenues for the past year represent sales to retail customers? (The FTC has stated publicly that they prefer to see 50% or more of a MLM company's revenues come from the sales of its product/service to people who are NOT in the compensation pay plan and are only end consumers of the product/service.)

    9. Will the company allow you to be involved in other MLM's? (A lot of MLM companies nowadays prohibit their distributors from participating in other MLM opportunities regardless of whether or not they are in direct competition with one another or not.)

    10. What % of distributors within the company earn at least $300 per month in residual commission? (A reputable MLM company will provide you with a document which breaks down the % of distributors at various levels of compensation within their compensation plan.)

    If in doubt, ask Rod "MLM Watch Dog" Cook: MLM* Watchdog+MLM IS Good - Scams BAD! MLM Consumer Protection* Network Marketing news - MLM Detectives (Rod is a personal friend of mine and someone who has personally earned $1M+ in MLM only to see his commissions stripped away when the company he was with chose to go public and eliminate their MLM marketing arm. He has written compensation plans for many MLM's, one of whom now has more than a million distributors, and he knows more about the industry than anyone else. Tell him Shannon sent you.)
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  • Profile picture of the author wilkyu
    Wow I never thought there was discussions about MLM here haha
    Well I've personally been in a few of them (Melaleuca, Nutronix just to name a few), now I personally stay away from any "monthly" commitments to get "paid" LOL..

    So I am interested in ones that are more passive with no monthly "autoships" and if you work at it you earn more.

    That is why I'm with this one called ICF world homes, its my 2nd month and I've already got some money direct deposited =P
    Of course if anyones interested in viewing my side of this business feel free to ask.
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  • Profile picture of the author trafficwave
    Originally Posted by James Legacy View Post

    Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's.

    That said, are there any MLM's that are operated entirely online? If so, which one do you think is the best?
    There are a number of companies that use MLM to present and sell their online services ranging from hosting companies, autoresponder companies, telecom services, internet service, lead generation, training, etc...

    As for which one is the "best", anyone involved in any MLM is going to tell you theirs is the best. That's why they joined it.

    The reality is that there is no "best".

    There is simply the one YOU will choose to put your effort in to.

    When you start getting those checks, that will be the best MLM for you.
    Signature

    -----------------------------
    Brian Rooney, CEO
    TrafficWave.net Email Marketing AutoResponders
    Email Marketing Blog

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  • Profile picture of the author Martha Richardson
    Originally Posted by James Legacy View Post

    Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's.

    That said, are there any MLM's that are operated entirely online? If so, which one do you think is the best?
    I'd say the best MLM's are any that one doesn't join.
    Signature

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  • Profile picture of the author blairezon blenn
    hey, got this article from ezine that you might be interested upon Choosing the Best MLM Opportunity for You:::

    There are two very important decisions to make in the life of every entrepreneur: is it time to go into business for myself, and what business will be best for me and best for my future clients? The decision to go into business for you is one of timing and of commitment. To be your own boss, you must be comfortable with your own work ethic, driven to succeed, and knowledgeable about what it takes to run a business. Self-reflection and research will enable you to determine if you are ready to take the kind of career risk that can pay off in a wealthy salary and time enough left over to enjoy it. When you have decided that the corporate world of making someone else money is no longer for you, you must then consider which business venture best suits your personality and style. Multilevel Network Marketing businesses, or MLMs, are often top choices for individuals who want to utilize their personality to enable them to be their own boss. There are many interesting and unique assets to owning an online MLM, and there are many factors to consider when choosing the best MLM opportunity for you.
    An online MLM is the perfect venue for the self-directed and motivated business enthusiast. An online MLM challenges you to be as dynamic as possible with the added challenge that you will seldom be face to face with your customers. For this reason, it is up to you to make the most of your communications with them, to optimize your web site for maximum appeal to potential customers, and to get as much internet exposure as you can. An online MLM allows you to be your own boss and set your own schedule. Many aspects of the work associated with an online MLM can be completed in your time frame - if you work better at three a.m., you can update your site at three a.m. This freedom allows you to live your life, the life that does not begin and end with your job, to its fullest. With an online MLM, you can travel with your work. A Laptop and an internet connection plug you in to the innermost workings of your company from literally any destination. An online MLM is your ticket to financial success and the freedom to enjoy
    it.
    While an online MLM sounds very romantic and freeing, it is necessary to choose the best online MLM to invest your time and energy into. The best online MLM will have several qualities that set it apart from the rest of the pack. First, the best online MLM will be soundly established, with more than five years of MLM business success to speak for its experience. A company that has been around for five years has met with its share of tough times and challenges, but has worked through them to have made the five year mark. A company with five years or more of experience has an ear for market trends and obviously can stay afloat no matter where the winds of commerce shift to. Associating your MLM with an web hosting service such as those offered by Kiosk affords you piece of mind that you are working with a company with experience and success, but also with a company that has products people are interested in. MLM businesses only work if you are actually marketing something people would be interested in. With web hosting services, you are offering your clients the opportunity to launch their own internet businesses, while also benefiting from their success.


    cheers!
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  • Profile picture of the author doughboi
    I would have to say the best one is The Infinity 800

    www (dot) forcedintoprofit.com
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    • Profile picture of the author BrashImpact
      James,
      here is a cut and post thread i wrote yesterday or the day be4, i just went and copied it so u could read it.... Hope it helps u out.. No matter what, if u follow these guidelines for picking and choosing company,mentor, and the others, MLM can be a great thing.

      Regards,
      Robert

      Jay,
      Steven hit on some great points. Having been in MLM or network marketing for 10 ys plus myself, i will share some thoughts for u that i share with potential newbies. Btw, i have been out for 4 ys, and am getting back in as we speak sometime in the next week. I stayed out because like steven said, if there isn't a real product , its a pozi scheme. I will go one past that, it really needs to be a product that is highly consumable, that everyone is already using everday. A product u dont have too convice people too try. If someone ever does MILK i am in. Heres some bullet points to think about, my last Team i built had in Excess of 10,000 distributors in it, and my sponsor had 49k on his team, so here is the inside track.

      1) You have too know why you are joining network Marketing and what u expect too get out of it. a business , learn sales skills, perhaps learning how too present in front of the room to 50-1000 people. Residual income/ u must have a real product here , direct mentorship by proven leader in the industry-- This can be priceless, many things i was taught by my sponsor early on i have applied to Real estate Investing, my seminar trainings and to my Offline Gold business. So first identify what u want out of your business.

      2) Picking a company--
      There are a lot of good compaines out there, you need a real product,

      A strong Compensation plan/ some form of Binary Hybrid is the best, u get paid on everything that sells on your team and from Spillover, spillover is something i always take into account.

      A company with massive integrity-- your gonna wanna make sure your sponsor has direct contact with the Corporate side of the company, this is a huge asset, thats why--not just anyone should be your sponsor.

      A Sponsor with a Proven Track Record, links to the company, and someone who can mentor you, someone who is qualified to mentor you. About 20 sponsors in each company really fit this mold. Lastly your sponsor needs to be available for you, not at your beckon call, but ready willing and able to coach you. So you have to have access to your Sponsors phone # and let them know u expect them too answer or at least return your calls in a timely manner.

      Price point to get started- how much does it cost, 99.00-299.00 with product coming too your door for that price is perfect. Less than 99 u cant make money, over 299 in this economy most people cant afford to get started.

      I could keep going on and on, theres a lot too look at, remember this is a business.

      If u have any questions, feel free to shoot me a Pm, and u can call me if u like. Happy to help out fellow warriors any way i can. Hope this helps in your decision, it can be a fantastic business if approached correctly. Approached Wrong, and it will be a nitemare.

      Regards,
      Robert nelson
      Signature

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  • Profile picture of the author williamcook
    Hello everyone...

    Please go easy on me, this is my first post. I have been involved in mlm for about 7 years. Personally, I find that mlm is far more time consuming than what the average person is willing to commit. You need a huge customer base to make any real money. And, the commissions are low.
    The flip side of the coin are "top-tier" companies. For the most part, these companies offer high commissions, residual income, all the training you'll ever need to be successful, and an automated sales process. In my opinion, the best companies are the ones that use the funded proposal sales process. A couple that come to mind are Carbon Copy Pro and The Reverse Funnel System.

    William Cook
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    Walmart should start an MLM.

    Sell a discount member card and distribute tiny commissions down 10 levels of an unlimited width matrix.

    I'd rather earn pennies per purchase on all levels from an established company than big dollars from a start up.

    Hand out free trial membership cards that offer discounts on already low prices and watch the money ladder climb in a year.

    I'm already salivating....

    And dreaming...

    I'll wake up in a minute...

    Mo
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  • Profile picture of the author chusky4life
    Banned
    [DELETED]
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    • Profile picture of the author jatchue
      Banned
      I've been involved with a few MLM companies and had limited success in all. It doesn't matter which company you join, you need a certain skill set in MLM and it's the same for everyone no matter what company. Connect, Present and Close.

      There is one trainer I would recommend if you are serious about getting involved his website is called Priority Team, cant post the link, too few posts but that's the web address too.

      Not an affiliate or paid to say so but this gut recruited 500 people in 1 year and grew his business to 40,000 in 3 years. Not a bad coach if you're looking for the right way to build a real business.

      PS I'm not in MLM anymore but good luck.
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      • Profile picture of the author VegasVince
        The fundamental flaw behind any MLM program...remains lack of control and exclusivity.

        You basically at the mercy of the company and those below you. That's a tough nut to crack off the jumpstreet...even if what their pimping is good...which in most cases it aint.

        If The Rich Dad is really pushing MLM as a viable option for newbies to make money...shame on him! If that's the truth..Then Robert K is a big friggin' sell out! Sue me.

        Any business model....that takes the ultimate power out of your hands...and puts it in the control of those above you...and those below you...where your ultimate success is very much dependent on what others do---- aint nothing Vegas Vince would ever want anything to do with.

        Sell that to sheep....cuz that's who they push MLM to anyway. Believe it.

        I'm sorry...but I know a lot of Internet Marketing Gurus with more money then they can spend. They created stuff of their own...controlled it...sold it...and got rich.

        I do NOT know ONE single MLM dude or chick....who is sitting under a palm tree, rich, happy and free. Not a single one...other then the broad who drives the pink caddy.


        xxx Vegas Vince
        I aint no whore.
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  • Profile picture of the author eniven
    Originally Posted by James Legacy View Post

    Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's.

    That said, are there any MLM's that are operated entirely online? If so, which one do you think is the best?
    The best one is one where you get in close to the ground level and which becomes very popular shortly thereafter. Shouldn't be too hard to find! :-/
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  • Profile picture of the author ShayB
    Originally Posted by James Legacy View Post

    Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's.
    I have been reading a LOT of financial books lately.

    While all of them are different, they still have a few common themes running through them.

    The RD/PD books are radically different, IMHO, and while I loved them in the past, I am not getting the same fuzzy feeling I used to from them.

    I have not found any MLM I am 100% comfortable with. I would rather create and develop my own IM biz and get 100% of the profits instead of working my a$$ off to promote and sell someone else's products.

    That is just me. Sorry to not be of more help in your MLM search.
    Signature
    "Fate protects fools, little children, and ships called Enterprise." ~Commander Riker
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  • Profile picture of the author Big Mike75
    The concept of multi level marketing is in fact an ingenious one, the problem with the concept is that it can also be manipulated and twisted. Which is why you've seen thousands of companies come and go over it's long history.

    I have a long and heated history in MLM, worked hard and went into big time debt trying to build a business. I never built a monthly commission check bigger than $1500, that's not purely an indictment on the industry, but it's also a reality check for those that get sucked into the get rich quick hype.

    I simply burnt out on the industry, but I learned so much about marketing and relationship building that I would not erase the experiences. But I wouldn't touch the industry again, unless I was blown away by an unbelievable product or service of great value.

    The problem with most online based MLM's is there based on overpriced quasi products that have zero value, and create zero demand. What's sold is the comp plans, and people simply sell the opportunity with no emphasis on the product or service. These programs mostly fizzle out and eventually go away, until the next great opportunity pops up and the pack movers can make more commissions for another 1-2 years.

    MLM can work, there are plenty of people that are proof of that. But it has to be based on high value products or services that are priced competitively with comparable products and services in the marketplace. And the compensation plan has to be lucrative enough to reward the part timer immediately. Part timers make up 95% of the industry, and if someone can't make a commission their first month, guess what, their gone. You also have to be an expert in lead generation and marketing, it's just not gonna work if your riding the edges.

    For the enterprising individual that wants to create their own venture from home there are much easier ways to do it than MLM.
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  • Profile picture of the author cypherslock
    Whats the "best" online MLM? Simple: The one that has a product you are drawn to and USE. If the company is in an area that you feel passionate about and you USE the product, then GO FOR IT. I am big on personal development and use among other things a program called Holosync. Have been doing so for about a year and have noticed definite positive change. I LOVE the product and recommend it whenever I can. Am I an affiliate? No. I just love the product and use it consistently. If you have that, then that is half the battle.

    The other half is when first starting out, look for product users. Those that the product fixes a problem for. Those are the ones that will ultimately help you build the business side of it as (if the product is good) they will use it and recommend it.
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  • Profile picture of the author Bigsofty
    The sheer negativity of the above posts demonstrate why MLM doesn't work for most people - because most people are so damn negative.

    How would you like an MLM company/system that:

    Does NOT involve selling directly to other people

    But you DO sell products, very regularly

    You DO NOT have to ask people to join, they ask you.

    Where almost any idiot willing to put the work in CAN and WILL make money

    Is perfectly legal

    Well-established, over 30 years I think.

    Many people have retired from it as they made enough to quit.

    Sound good?


    As far as I know it is only available in the UK and it's not online.

    It's not for everybody though and I repeat it's not online. You have to actually get out there and do the work.

    I would LOVE to start either a franchise or my own company here in Malaysia but you know what? So many dumb goatloving morons have

    A. ripped people off with scammy MLM
    B. been such negative nellies that they slur the entire concept without even looking

    that the entire MLM industry is actually illegal here, meaning I couldn't start my own company or anything else like it. Bummer eh?

    Paypal me $5 and I'll spill my guts with the hidden secrets that.. etc etc.

    Or just PM me nicely



    B.
    Signature

    This man is living his dream. Are you...?
    www.copywriter-ac.com

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    • Profile picture of the author nhynes57
      Originally Posted by Bigsofty View Post

      The sheer negativity of the above posts demonstrate why MLM doesn't work for most people - because most people are so damn negative.
      While I agree that you need to be positive and outgoing to make MLM work offline I think most online MLMs are scams.

      I was involved in 2 some years ago, making about $1000 / month in one when the company decide to update it's commission structure so "we could all make more money", my income dropped overnight to $300 / month. The second company decide to limit the operation to the US only which left all international distributors out on a limb.

      Just my 2 cents...

      Noel
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  • Profile picture of the author taylordstuff
    I just don't how people make money from MLMs unless you are at the top. I know some people who are doing GDI. But, I don't think that they are making much money from it.
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  • Profile picture of the author Bigsofty
    you need to be positive and outgoing to make MLM work offline
    Nope, the one I'm thinking of doesn't require you to have an outgoing personality.

    You can be positively shy and it still works.

    Hey I should start a new niche - How To Make Money Offline


    I've had no PMs, proving my point really. When offered the real thing peeps assume a scam or 'doesn't work', hence my comment about negativity.

    If I were back in the UK I'd certainly look this company up and probably get back with them.

    My "upline" has been doing it for a few years and had already retired from his job as a teacher, because he was earning more money from this.

    A genuine UK MLM, offline, real products, no sales skills required, serious earning potential, make money in your first week, repeat customers.. what more do you want?

    $5 and I'll spill my guts etc.



    Hey have I been here long enough to do a WSO?



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  • Profile picture of the author Tsnyder
    Bigsofty...

    Are you referring to Klene-eze? (or something like that name)

    Tsnyder
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  • Profile picture of the author Bigsofty
    *sigh* there go my dreams of WSO riches..

    Yeps

    You just stick catalogues out in a couple of streets, return the next day or so and pick em back up.

    It takes awhile to develop a good system for yourself, such as just how many can you carry at a time before you get shoulder ache, best spots to park the car for next time and so on. You'll also lose quite a few catalogues at first (you have to buy them, it's a business after all) but again if targetting a regular area you get to know the houses or even entire streets where people will bin it instead of leaving it out for you to collect.

    Take a notepad or voice recorder and makes notes, very important.

    Once you're convinced it works, buy more catalogues and expand your area. Tip - don't just make it larger, try completely new areas. Why? Because on the back of the catalogue is the little advert - "Want to make some part time cash delivering and collecting catalogues?"

    Yep, those who do are your downline. You don't even need to mention the MLM element - but boy it's fun to watch their eyes widen when you explain you're making 140 and the guy above you is on 600 a week...

    It was a loong time ago I was into it. I dropped out because having moved up North to be with some silly bint who turned out to be an abusive fruitcake I moved back down south. I easily landed my old job again and just didn't get back into it but I know Terry, the guy above me, ended up on over 3000 a week by the time I left the UK. Nice guy and he deserved it.

    I can't remember all the figures but they reckoned for every 100 catalogues you put out you'd make some figure in commission, 20 quid or something. I was pretty sceptical but sure enough, you get a lovely warm feeling when you pick up a catalogue and there's a pink order slip in the plastic sleeve... and another... and here's another one..

    They have all sorts of stuff in the catalogues, mostly fairly cheap impulse purchases but good quality.

    100 catalogues sounds real easy but remember you have to:

    Pay for them and the order forms etc etc

    Stuff em with order forms, in a little sleeve, throwing out any that are noticably damaged

    Deliver em, checking your notes as you go

    Pick em up again, losing a few in the process. Don't be shy to knock on the door and ask - if they don't want you doing this, make a note.

    Send the order through to the company

    Take delivery, arrange items by customer then go deliver em


    100 catalogues is a lot more work than it sounds - but 500 is nothing like 5 times the work.

    If you stay indoors because of the weather you won't make any money - and it's strangley true to say that being regular in an area improves your earnings. If they know you'll be back every month they're more likely to order.

    Does it work and make money, after expenses? Absolutely, IF you do the work.

    Will you grow a network? Yep, people ask you if they can join - your mags do the recruiting.

    As I say I'd deeply LOVE to start something like that here as there are so many little villages without much in the way of shops - but alas it's forbidden, because you know, that MLM thing is a scam...


    Not always.


    As for any online MLM, dunno. Any multi-tier affiliate program comes under that heading I guess.



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  • Profile picture of the author Bigsofty
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  • Profile picture of the author ArthurRose
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    • Profile picture of the author sugarloaf21
      Originally Posted by ArthurRose View Post

      I think all MLM's are pretty much scams.
      Your 9 to 5 job is a scam,you are doing all the work while your boss is getting paid.look at it this way
      You are at the bottom of the pyrmid while your boss is at the top.
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  • Profile picture of the author Bigsofty
    Doncha just love it when people read closely?


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  • Profile picture of the author Brent_W
    My simple opinion...

    There are no real "online" MLMs.
    Some offer online products, but
    none of them can be effectively
    run behind a computer only.

    The question you should ask
    yourself is, "What MLM's are IM
    friendly?"
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    • Profile picture of the author trafficwave
      Originally Posted by Brent_W View Post

      My simple opinion...

      There are no real "online" MLMs.
      Some offer online products, but
      none of them can be effectively
      run behind a computer only.

      The question you should ask
      yourself is, "What MLM's are IM
      friendly?"
      Whatever you do, don't tell my affiliates that!

      They keep getting paid for referring customers from .... behind their computers!

      There may be exceptions but I'm not aware of a single member that does any face to face presentations.
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      • Profile picture of the author BrashImpact
        Originally Posted by trafficwave View Post

        Whatever you do, don't tell my affiliates that!

        They keep getting paid for referring customers from .... behind their computers!

        There may be exceptions but I'm not aware of a single member that does any face to face presentations.
        Thats only because you have a killer product, that every IM'er needs, and priced so competively only a moron wouldnt use it. Its great.
        Regards,
        Robert nelson
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        • Profile picture of the author trafficwave
          Originally Posted by RobertNelsoninc View Post

          Thats only because you have a killer product, that every IM'er needs, and priced so competively only a moron wouldnt use it. Its great.
          Regards,
          Robert nelson
          Well... there is that to consider!


          Thanks, Robert. We feel the same way. (Maybe not so much the "moron" part. Some folks just haven't caught on yet).
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      • Profile picture of the author Brent_W
        Originally Posted by trafficwave View Post

        Whatever you do, don't tell my affiliates that!

        They keep getting paid for referring customers from .... behind their computers!

        There may be exceptions but I'm not aware of a single member that does any face to face presentations.
        So do you meant to tell me that 100%
        of your organization never speaks to
        anyone on the phone?

        I'm not talking about "just" face-to-face
        but rather personal contact outside of
        email/websites/etc.

        Brent
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  • Profile picture of the author RedMatrix
    I hear list-building MLM are pretty popular now. They remind me of the old snail-mail chain letter MLMs. Sign up, pay $2 to 5 people, get your name on that list, and then send some traffic to your affiliate page. Hopefully, someone will pay YOU $2 and so forth.

    But not only that, you now have a downline to email to. I don't know about that though. Listlotto comes to mind. *shivers*
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    • Profile picture of the author trafficwave
      Originally Posted by RedMatrix View Post

      I hear list-building MLM are pretty popular now. They remind me of the old snail-mail chain letter MLMs. Sign up, pay $2 to 5 people, get your name on that list, and then send some traffic to your affiliate page. Hopefully, someone will pay YOU $2 and so forth.

      But not only that, you now have a downline to email to. I don't know about that though. Listlotto comes to mind. *shivers*
      There is a profound difference between chain letters (which are illegal) and actual legitimate list building and lead generation.

      The two should not be confused for one another.
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  • Profile picture of the author trafficwave
    No .... I don't mean to tell you that 100% of my organization never speaks to anyone on the phone.

    You said:

    There are no real "online" MLMs.
    Some offer online products, but
    none of them can be effectively
    run behind a computer only.
    I said:

    There may be exceptions but I'm not aware of a single member that does any face to face presentations.

    As for being on the phone, I would lump that in under the category of "behind the computer".

    Perhaps we simply have a difference in how we are interpreting "behind the computer."

    I think it's safe to say that a phone call could also be considered as "online" and can certainly be done from behind a computer with programs like Skype and others.

    I'm not making an argument for method being better than another. I prefer working online. My system can be operated 100% online via email, web site, etc... (and I'm including phone calls).

    That being said, we're getting ready to move in to doing live seminars and presentations to show offline businesses how they can benefit from email marketing, list building, etc...

    There will still be those Affiliates of ours who operate 100% online and we'll gladly continue to pay them commissions for the sales they refer.
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    • Profile picture of the author PaulLivingston
      Originally Posted by trafficwave View Post

      That being said, we're getting ready to move in to doing live seminars and presentations to show offline businesses how they can benefit from email marketing, list building, etc...

      There will still be those Affiliates of ours who operate 100% online and we'll gladly continue to pay them commissions for the sales they refer.
      Sorry to interrupt the thread but about Traffic Wave...

      I used to be a member but dropped it because I was getting no responses. I was later told it was because Traffic Wave has a poor delivery rate.

      I asked how does one find that out? They said there are costly services out there that will tell you. I didn't learn much more.

      So I'd like to know:

      What is Traffic Wave's delivery rate, and...
      How/where can I go to find out for myself?

      Thank you.
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      • Profile picture of the author trafficwave
        Originally Posted by PaulLivingston View Post

        Sorry to interrupt the thread but about Traffic Wave...

        I used to be a member but dropped it because I was getting no responses. I was later told it was because Traffic Wave has a poor delivery rate.

        I asked how does one find that out? They said there are costly services out there that will tell you. I didn't learn much more.

        So I'd like to know:

        What is Traffic Wave's delivery rate, and...
        How/where can I go to find out for myself?

        Thank you.
        And I'm willing to bet that the person who told you you're getting no response because TrafficWave.net has a poor delivery rate was able to
        'recommend' a competing service that has a 'better' rate but wasn't able to prove or document anything about their claim, right?

        There are a number of factors that affect deliverability of any message. How the company itself monitors and manages its relationships with email service providers is certainly one side of that equation and we take that very seriously.

        The other side is how you create and manage your messages. There are techniques and strategies you can use to improve and assure your deliverability but the most logical approach is to use good business sense and common sense to create professional and clean messages.
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  • Profile picture of the author Eirik Ringstad
    Hello James,

    GREAT question. You know, what I believe is important is that you look at specific critical factors before you go into any MLM company.

    1. How long have the company operated online?

    2. Does the product add true value to there affiliates?

    3. Company mission statement and vision statement. ( Long term strategic planning )

    4. Management experience and background.

    5. Compensation plan.

    What I beleieve is the most important element is that you identify and implement a plan for yourself to develop your skill set to become a professional online marketer.

    As there are a number of mediums to drive quality traffic, my recommendation is to identify a specific marketing medium you want to fully master. Once you have mastered one marketing medium, then you move on. The reason I say this, is that is is easy to become overwhelmed and paralyzed with information overload. One step at a time is always the best approach.

    Once you know how to professionally market online and once you have a proven system in place to funnel your traffic and build relationship with your leads, you can make money no matter what company you choose to be part of.

    Personally, I am passionate about personal development and how self development can help you to develop your character and mindset. Most importantly, is that you find a fit between your current desire and the right team to work with.

    Teamwork makes the dream work.

    Keep on going. The more you seek, the more you shall find.

    Eirik.
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  • Profile picture of the author Lightning96
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  • Profile picture of the author Mark Dulisse
    My experience with MLM.

    You sign up, the opportunity gets old on the market, and your upline switches to a new opportunity, and emails you to follow him and spend more money. The problem is, you have not made any real money with the old one.

    There is a very successful MLM online marketer that I have been following, and making a ton of money. He's almost at cult status. The problem is, if you look at his history for the last 16 months, he's switched from one MLM (where he made his true infamous start), to 5 others now. People buy into his process, but still, you are still getting your list and downline to spend more money, and the guy at the top makes it all because the biz opp ceases to have staying power.

    That is my summary.

    Mark
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  • Profile picture of the author tainguyen
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    • Profile picture of the author ShayB
      BTW - I am not a rep with Send Out Cards, but I am a retail customer.

      IMHO, if you have a company where you can get retail customers for your product or service who have no desire to join as a rep, you have a good product.

      I don't know of anyone who would pay retail for Amway products. LOL:rolleyes:
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  • Profile picture of the author sugarloaf21
    How would you like to save hundreds of dollars each month on items that you already use? If you said yes then "my world plus" would be one of the best mlm companies on the internet.
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  • Profile picture of the author loot
    I would concur with the idea that a MLM must have a good product.

    Is it not illegal to have a MLM without a product?
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    • Profile picture of the author Rod Cortez
      Originally Posted by loot View Post

      I would concur with the idea that a MLM must have a good product.

      Is it not illegal to have a MLM without a product?
      Yes, you cannot establish a network marketing company in the US without a product or service.

      RoD
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      • Profile picture of the author ShayB
        Originally Posted by Rod Cortez View Post

        Yes, you cannot establish a network marketing company in the US without a product or service.

        RoD
        Yes and no.

        You need to have a legitimate product or service that is priced in such a way that people other than reps will buy it. (Not sure of the technical jargon, but that is the gist of it.)

        In other words, if I want to start an MLM selling paper clips for $300 each, that is an illegal pyramid because the fair market value of a paper clip is nowhere near $300, and the only reason you would buy a $300 paper clip is because of the "business opportunity" attached.
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        • Profile picture of the author cncbuss
          Originally Posted by ShayRockhold View Post

          Yes and no.

          You need to have a legitimate product or service that is priced in such a way that people other than reps will buy it. (Not sure of the technical jargon, but that is the gist of it.)

          In other words, if I want to start an MLM selling paper clips for $300 each, that is an illegal pyramid because the fair market value of a paper clip is nowhere near $300, and the only reason you would buy a $300 paper clip is because of the "business opportunity" attached.

          I think you can market any product you like for the price you like. Even if it is $300 paper clips. Setting your price too high is not illegal, but at that price, they better come with some pretty neat features if you hope to sell any.
          I believe any MLM system must have a re-sellable product or service included with it or it becomes a cause for legal intervention.

          And for my two cents on what the best MLM is; I think there are many good MLM systems out there. But you cannot expect to achieve outstanding results right oiut of the gate if you're not familiar with the rules of the game (jargon, approaches, etc...)
          What really sets good systems apart is the customer service or technical support you are able to get once you have joined.
          I'm presently enrolled with Paul Jenkins in eCurrency Arbitrage and although I'm still new at it, feel that he genuinely knows and stands behind his product.

          That's my 2cents

          CBuss
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  • Profile picture of the author oneempowered
    The BEST MLM is the one that YOU launch.

    I would NOT join an MLM unless:
    1) They focus on selling a product to people and do not focus on selling people (friends and family) to the company
    2) The product has a huge ready-to-buy market
    3) The price and quality of the product is better than what customers can get anywhere else

    I haven't found any that meet this criteria.

    This one DOES look interesting with no recruiting or investment required: ezspiderweb.ws
    (looks like some small investment is optional) Maybe it's too good to be true?
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  • Profile picture of the author Thomsbiz
    I have just recently found a company that just started a new product line 7 months ago to their already 15 year old company. They have great online store that seems high quality and lots of good information about the business, company and products, easy to navigate and a great business plan.
    Yes I may be a little on the prejudice side toward them as I just joined the company just last month but see really great things possible in the future with the program that they offer.
    I am not sure why so many people are against MLM / Network Marketing. I know that I use to think the same, until I realized that corporate America operates on the same premise, that is, the people on the bottom make less money and must do more for each customer as do the supervisors, asst managers, managers and as do the district people have less to do with the customers in front line sales and in some cases do absolutely nothing toward the actual sales process.
    Now, I ask how is that different than the MLM or Network Marketing?
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  • Profile picture of the author cmmlmm
    MLM is a business...plain and simple. You will get out of it what you put into it. There is no magic to it. The reason, in my opinion, that it gets a bad rap is because of the way the independent distributors try to sell the product and then the distributorship. For the most part they are so desperate and scared that they say anything to make a sale or get someone to join them. When that does'nt happen people get upset.

    MLM is a good business model but, it has to be treated as a business. If you can do that you will have some success.

    There are some good ones out there. Go to npros dot com to search through some of the MLM's out there. Might be a good place to start. If you find one the 'resonates' with you get involved and put some effort into it...you will make it happen...if you want it bad enough
    Just my 2cents
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  • Profile picture of the author earlkohn
    I would have to say Mike Dillard's Magnetic Sponsoring would be one of the best. That is perfect for brand new marketers and teaches the law of attraction marketing. Good stuff.


    -Earl
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  • Profile picture of the author ruimartinho
    Originally Posted by James Legacy View Post

    Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad encourages people to get involved with MLM's.

    That said, are there any MLM's that are operated entirely online? If so, which one do you think is the best?
    For me the best mlm, is the one i am involved with. Most mlm products and/or services, are overpriced, and have no outstanding quality, or no quality at all. People get in, for the money, and after a few month´s the mlm business usually go down. The one i am involved with, is about a products millions already use, in a weekly basis, and the service allows to do it better, for a reasonable price. It is about playing lottery with syndicates, allowing the player to have better winning chances, and when the sysdicate wins, always wins multiple prizes. A quality mlm, should have this characteristics:
    - reasonable price
    - quality product/service
    - used by many people, in a regular basis.

    If you want to know more about my mlm, check my sig.
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  • Profile picture of the author Loren Woirhaye
    I think what attracts people to MLM is one of two factors:

    -low barrier to entry
    -leverage potential

    People who don't have much money to start a business
    like MLM because they also tend to assume other people
    won't have much money to get started. This isn't true
    of course, but we all tend to operate within our comfort
    zones. If you only believe you can get people in who will
    pay less than $100 you wouldn't ask for more, would you?

    The problem there is a lot of people would actually be
    more committed if they had more skin in the game -
    so you get a lot of attrition with a $100 MLM because
    it wasn't a committed decision anyway. The average
    recruit is quickly distracted and moves on to another
    opportunity.

    Thus duplication is rare... because commitment is as
    well.

    SO - the problem is?

    Not enough commitment.

    Solution? Make sure your team members have more
    skin in the game. I suggest a minimum of $1000 to
    keep them interested.

    Of course many people who don't have $1000 will go away
    because they don't have the discipline to save up the
    money to start with such an investment. The lead-pool
    shrinks.... but as a sponsor you will spend a lot less time
    and energy trying to motivate people who aren't invested.


    This dovetails into leverage potential too - because
    leverage comes from people going out and building there
    own group - not from the payplan. MLM and direct selling
    compensation models make leverage possible, but it is
    only a possibility. For most people it does not happen.

    The problem here is that with MLM you can usually only
    make real money if leverage DOES happen... ie. "duplication" -
    which is very rare unless you have business builders.

    How do you get a business builder? One solution is to
    position what you do as having a higher perceived value
    and prestige than just another MLM bizop.

    I've figured most of this stuff out in my own business.
    I don't do MLM right now. I think it has merit but if
    you want to do it with IM the best strategy is to build
    a large list of people who LOVE you and then promote
    the MLM to them.

    It is not frequently said, but MLMs are just continuity
    programs - and the average continuity subscriber quits
    after 3-4 months.

    So much for lifetime residual income.


    Solution? Get more power behind what you do with network
    marketing.
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  • Profile picture of the author Scott Ames
    If you want to make big money in MLM ... start your own company. Not easy, but that's what will build wealth and you have something to sell in the end.
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  • Profile picture of the author koolwarrior
    Banned
    The best MLM online...is the one that DOESN'T EXIST.

    Any product that's reliant on other people promoting its compensation plan to help sell it, is probably CRAP.

    And when people get bored with it, and move on to the next MLM...the product falls, and so does everyone who was reliant on it for their income.

    Seriously MLMs suck. They're programs from the Devil if you ask me.
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  • Profile picture of the author Loren Woirhaye
    Whoa! Now we have a lot of negativity here about it.

    Do you guys despise Frank Kern too? No, I doubt it. He's
    cool. Did you know he likes network marketing and does it?

    Halbert didn't like scams. Halbert was funny but not always
    accurate in his thinking. He treated many people with
    disrespect. He had a lot to give and I respect him, but
    his name-calling was not an endearing quality.

    Some MLMs are crooked. I don't even think the MLM model
    is particularly useful for the internet market anymore.
    That doesn't mean network marketing isn't - it just means
    that there are so many Multi-level programs promoting
    on the internet makes it a challenge to develop a committed
    salesforce because there are so many distractions for them.

    Network marketing can be worked into a bigger business
    building strategy for online marketers. If you have skills and
    can teach them, why not establish a position where you can
    earn in partnership with the people you teach?

    Of course mlm isn't the only way to do such a thing, but it
    is one way.

    Personally I don't care for health product mlms, which is most
    of them I think. I don't care to promote any product in general
    that pays only a 5-10% profit on personal sales. I like
    the 50%-100% profit model. I like to get paid for what I
    produce.

    The big myth is that a dumb guy can get lucky and recruit
    some heavy hitters. While the dumb guy stays dumb and
    clueless the go-getters "under" him make him rich.

    Dream on, dumb guy.

    Success in sales comes with professional skills development.
    If you can learn sales skills network marketing is a viable
    choice, as is selling yachts, cars, houses, vacuum cleaners,
    ebooks, services... the list goes on.

    People who don't learn to sell anything will suck wind and
    lose money in any business. Duh!

    Admittedly there is hype and deception in the industry. Products
    are sold at vastly inflated prices to support the commission needs
    of several layers of distributors.

    I prefer the uni-level model. It is used in the insurance and mortgage
    industries too. With some network marketing companies the
    sponsor serves as a sales manager and earns over-rides on sales
    made by people he or she trains. In some this goes on for as
    long as people are active, in others it's a certain number of sales
    are passed-on to the manager and after that the new person
    is trained and begins to operate as a sales manager in his or
    her own right. Kinda cool. It can be lucrative too.

    I don't think MLMs are bad. Just mostly not profitable. Some
    unilevel programs can be worked effectively however and
    create good results for people who have what it takes to
    run a business.
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  • Profile picture of the author tush
    I've been involved with a few MLM companies and had limited success in all. It doesn't matter which company you join, you need a certain skill set in MLM and it's the same for everyone no matter what company. Connect, Present and Close.
    I agree. Most people fail in network marketing because they were not the right ones for this business in the first place. MLM is not for every one as most companies would like us to believe. This is because of the way most companies recruit. They excite people, promise them all the nice things but never mention how to get there.... once Pepe get started, they wait for what they were promised in vain.

    That said, I believe that mlm is a wonderful model. I agree with Robert that mlm is one of the best options for the average person. You just have to have the right training, right mindset, good company, good mentor. With the Internet today, it is very easy to set up systems that will attract qualified prospects.
    PS: This is his video from
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  • Profile picture of the author Simple Marketing
    I regularly see people posting videos on Youtube promoting MLM companies where there doesnt seem to be any actual product. Its just all about paying a one time fee, usually anywhere from $10 to $50, and promoting it and getting others to sign up. There seems to be a huge amount of these type of companies out there.

    Has anyone any experience with these type of companies?

    Are they scams?
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  • Profile picture of the author lburkeau
    Many of these comments confirm why I don't use MLM...too many negatives although I know there are some legit ones...find what works for you and do it...

    There are so many ways to make money online...you will know when you find what you feel comfortable with..
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    • Profile picture of the author esericsu
      I like direct sales a lot cuz you don't have to worry about downline attrition as much as traditional mlm companies.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mr McDonald
    I guess it would depend on what you are looking to get out of it personally. I have never gone down that road so cant give an informed opinion.

    Best wishes
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  • Profile picture of the author Mo Goulet
    The last time I was involved with a MLM opportunity was in 1997 - 2001 and I owned the company. I can tell you that for the last 20 plus years, the one that makes the most money in any company is the owner. I have not found anything worth looking at in the last 8 years until 2 weeks ago and even though I am pretty established with my own stuff, I could not resist this simply because they are bringing too much money to the table. Do you want to have very small piece of a wanna be ("oh no not another so & so company) or do you want to have a small piece of a company that is catering to what 40% of internet surfers are looking for but 99% of people are too afraid to touch? I joined and set up a splash page that is converting about 8% in the last 2 weeks and I haven't even gone to my back office yet or even looked at the the companies products. All I can say is what do you need and how hard do you want to work competing with hundreds and thousands of others in the same industry?
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  • Profile picture of the author 7figurehelper
    I am extremely amazed at ALL the people that think MLM is bad. Not trying to offend anyone but did everybody that put down MLM have a bad experience? I mean was it really that bad?

    The truth of the matter is this (just like in anything) you will have legit companies and some bad ones.

    Most MLM companies are legit BUT they just may not appeal to you for whatever reason.

    A lot of distributors from these companies are looking to go online to generate leads. However they run into issues with their company not providing the right internet marketing training. Hence you have a bunch of distributors SPAMMING their biz.

    With that happening that can make MLM'ers seem like used car salesman which turn people off and say I hate MLM (lol).

    Anyway I would suggest a Direct Sales company. You get paid more upfront and you don't have to worry about building a huge downline. Just make sure whatever company you get involved with provides EXCELLENT online marketing training.
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