MLM and warriors

11 years ago

I'm not Big Time, but I started out with Empower about a week and a half ago. As with any online marketing, theres a lot to learn but it's not a scam. My mentor has been great with all my questions and I have access to an even bigger team which gives us daily assignments to complete.

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DavidRozen 11 years ago

Yeah, I've heard some good things about that network. Haven't done anything with them personally, but seen some decent results.
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ronrule

11 years ago

Don't be "that guy".

Have you ever met an MLMer who has been involved with the same MLM for more than a year or two?

Probably not. And there's a reason you haven't - because MLM creates a cycle of deception. Someone buys in to the opportunity, thinking they will never sell the product but they can sell the opportunity it's based on. So they go out and give it a good effort, because the person who sold THEM on the opportunity went on and on about how much money they were making. They think "I must not be very good since I'm not making what that guy was". So they lie, and they tell others THEY are making a lot of money in an effort to sell the opportunity. They rationalize it because "Well, it was true for the guy who sold ME at least". And they still do poorly, but at this point they're just trying to get their initial investment back out of it and walk away from it. Eventually they'll get enough people to quit.

And then the cycle starts all over again with THOSE people, all of whom go through the exact same steps - give it a good honest try, get frustrated, lie and present the reported success of the guy they bought it from to make enough money to get out. Except the guy they bought it from never made any money either... this loop can continue for years, making the founders a ton of cash at the expense of the affiliates.

The only honest people who succeed with MLM are the ones who actually find a market for the product. Everyone else is just regurgitating the story that sold them on the opportunity.

The "chronic MLMers" that always seem to be involved in the "hot new MLM" are simply the ones who are savvy enough to get in early before everyone else becomes wise to the scheme. But if you think about it... if they were really that good, they'd have stuck with the first one. Unless it was shut down by the FTC ... which happens a lot.

I say forget it, man.

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Tsnyder

11 years ago

Originally Posted by ronrule

Don't be "that guy".

Have you ever met an MLMer who has been involved with the same MLM for more than a year or two?

Probably not. And there's a reason you haven't - because MLM creates a cycle of deception. Someone buys in to the opportunity, thinking they will never sell the product but they can sell the opportunity it's based on. So they go out and give it a good effort, because the person who sold THEM on the opportunity went on and on about how much money they were making. They think "I must not be very good since I'm not making what that guy was". So they lie, and they tell others THEY are making a lot of money in an effort to sell the opportunity. They rationalize it because "Well, it was true for the guy who sold ME at least". And they still do poorly, but at this point they're just trying to get their initial investment back out of it and walk away from it. Eventually they'll get enough people to quit.

And then the cycle starts all over again with THOSE people, all of whom go through the exact same steps - give it a good honest try, get frustrated, lie and present the reported success of the guy they bought it from to make enough money to get out. Except the guy they bought it from never made any money either... this loop can continue for years, making the founders a ton of cash at the expense of the affiliates.

The only honest people who succeed with MLM are the ones who actually find a market for the product. Everyone else is just regurgitating the story that sold them on the opportunity.

The "chronic MLMers" that always seem to be involved in the "hot new MLM" are simply the ones who are savvy enough to get in early before everyone else becomes wise to the scheme. But if you think about it... if they were really that good, they'd have stuck with the first one. Unless it was shut down by the FTC ... which happens a lot.

I say forget it, man.

Let me introduce you to "that guy" you think doesn't exist. Me.

Not only have I been with the company I represent for several years I still
receive residual income checks in amounts that are the current subject of most
IM rookies dreams... been receiving them nonstop... uninterrupted... since
the mid 90s.

I accomplished all that by doing the only thing that really matters in the MLM
world... or any business for that matter. Developing leaders.

What you've described is how rookies and folks who really know very little about
business operate. MLM is no different than any other business. It rises or falls
on a handful of very specific principles and activities. Those who are willing to
learn the skills necessary for success in any business will succeed in MLM as well.

Do we have a high attrition rate? Of course we do... but there's a perfectly good
reason why that most detractors fail to take into account.

We're willing to give everyone a chance. Period. It doesn't matter if you're
highly educated or you never finished junior high school. We don't care if you're
black, white, brown, or purple... or if you're Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim
or Buddhist. We don't care if you run a major corporation or work at McDonald's.

We offer one thing... opportunity. What you do with that opportunity is up to you.

Of course we have a high attrition rate... but we also have some spectacular
success stories. The great thing is you get to decide which one you'll be.

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ronrule

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Tsnyder

Let me introduce you to "that guy" you think doesn't exist. Me.

Not only have I been with the company I represent for several years I still
receive residual income checks in amounts that are the current subject of most
IM rookies dreams... been receiving them nonstop... uninterrupted... since
the mid 90s.

I accomplished all that by doing the only thing that really matters in the MLM
world... or any business for that matter. Developing leaders.

What you've described is how rookies and folks who really know very little about
business operate. MLM is no different than any other business. It rises or falls
on a handful of very specific principles and activities. Those who are willing to
learn the skills necessary for success in any business will succeed in MLM as well.

Do we have a high attrition rate? Of course we do... but there's a perfectly good
reason why that most detractors fail to take into account.

We're willing to give everyone a chance. Period. It doesn't matter if you're
highly educated or you never finished junior high school. We don't care if you're
black, white, brown, or purple... or if you're Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim
or Buddhist. We don't care if you run a major corporation or work at McDonald's.

We offer one thing... opportunity. What you do with that opportunity is up to you.

Of course we have a high attrition rate... but we also have some spectacular
success stories. The great thing is you get to decide which one you'll be.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying "no one" is successful with MLM. But if you've been involved in this style of business as long as you say you have, then you know there are more people who fit my description than yours.

The problem with most MLMers is the same problem you see with low-level employees who think they would be a better CEO than the CEO of the company they work for; they don't see the "work" involved.

They see the nice houses and cars, they see the trips, they see the "public face". They see a guy who fly's in, makes a speech, shakes a few hands, and then fly's off to the next golf course. And they think "That guy doesn't do anything, I could do that." They don't see what's behind the scenes.

The difference is, the CEO doesn't fly in and sell you a dream of being the CEO, or tell you how "easy it is". But the MLMer does ... and people buy that dream, believing it will be a walk in the park and minimal effort. But, like most things, effort in = effort out. And when they learn that dream isn't as easy and work-free as they were lead to believe it was, the cycle I described in my earlier post begins and perpetuates throughout.

THAT - not the business model - is what gives MLM's a bad rap. And unfortunately it's why it also creates some of the most annoying sales people in human history.

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phmoisan 11 years ago

Originally Posted by ronrule

The difference is, the CEO doesn't fly in and sell you a dream of being the CEO, or tell you how "easy it is". But the MLMer does ...

Not all MLM people say it's easy. The serious ones do tell you it's a business, it takes dedication and hard work. I'd say the problem is, a lot of people don't want to hear that, so many MLMers do what you're saying here because they're afraid to lose a prospect, instead of acknowledging the cliché "some will, some won't, so what, next"
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Rob Whisonant

11 years ago

Originally Posted by ronrule

Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying "no one" is successful with MLM. But if you've been involved in this style of business as long as you say you have, then you know there are more people who fit my description than yours.

The problem with most MLMers is the same problem you see with low-level employees who think they would be a better CEO than the CEO of the company they work for; they don't see the "work" involved.

They see the nice houses and cars, they see the trips, they see the "public face". They see a guy who fly's in, makes a speech, shakes a few hands, and then fly's off to the next golf course. And they think "That guy doesn't do anything, I could do that." They don't see what's behind the scenes.

The difference is, the CEO doesn't fly in and sell you a dream of being the CEO, or tell you how "easy it is". But the MLMer does ... and people buy that dream, believing it will be a walk in the park and minimal effort. But, like most things, effort in = effort out. And when they learn that dream isn't as easy and work-free as they were lead to believe it was, the cycle I described in my earlier post begins and perpetuates throughout.

THAT - not the business model - is what gives MLM's a bad rap. And unfortunately it's why it also creates some of the most annoying sales people in human history.

Actually you could easily replace "MLM" with any "business opportunity", "WSO", "IM" etc in your statement above.

All business models have black sheep. They key is to avoid them and do business with the ones that run things on the up and up.

The particular MLM that I do very well with sells their products both retail and through MLM channels. The MLM price is actually lower than the retail channel price. Hmmmm.

Just some things to think about.

Re's
Rob Whisonant

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Newbieee

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Rob Whisonant

Actually you could easily replace "MLM" with any "business opportunity", "WSO", "IM" etc in your statement above.

All business models have black sheep. They key is to avoid them and do business with the ones that run things on the up and up.

Hey Rob, actually i was gonna say the same for the following post.

Originally Posted by mobiussilver

I think MLM just selling dreams

sorry just my own opinion

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iwowwe4you 11 years ago

I am in MLM for 18 years. This always was my only source of income and any one can earn in MLM if you get a training.
MLM is not scam and I proved it.
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Happy to share 18 years experience in MLM/IM. Not doing any other work for over 7 years now. Accredited as a coach by 3 companies I worked with after completing a course of education and passing exams. HND in Business, Economics, Accounting, Market Research, Market Development, Management.
Love to Learn - Love to Teach!
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- CyberSuccess 11 years ago
  
  I was observing differnt MLM companies over the years, and checked out their plans, commisions etc.
  
  In my opinion, most oft the MLM systems are not worth to join. But sometimes there is a interesting one included.
  
  I basically joined one MLM system with good products, great price if you compare on the market and the quality was good. Even the system itself was interesting.
  
  I have seen by myself, that it can work, as I´ve seen my downline growing and becoming big one. especially if you sit in front of the computer and see your downline (the people down in your hierarchy) are bringing in other's to expand your downline for you is fun ;-)
  
  We had lots of orders and a great downline.
  
  So basically it was good. But then there happened something. Something bad.
  
  The heads of the company changed rules, so you can get the items via the company´s website directly for the same price you get it as promoter of them.
  This is the first thing which was bad, but it was not the worst thing.
  
  As the product, quality, price and so were great, we got lots of prepaid orders.
  The company got that much orders, they could not deliver anymore. They had not enough money to expand the production and the customers had to wait for their articles up to 6 month or more - IF the article was delivered at all.
  
  Well, a lot of people didn´t get what they already paid for. Guess who paid for it finally. Mostly the MLM workers.
  
  The company closed and there had been treats by law against them.
  
  Some time later, maybe some month to some years later, this company started something similar using a different company name. They also had their workers and a lot of them coninued where they stopped.
  
  Guess what. This time I learned from the existing experience as they have some similar head of the organisation. It was a good idea. In the last months I heared they have problems again and other MLMlers are leaving them. I am not sure how about they deliver. Its a pitty, because I liked their products, but I dont buy anything and prepay if there is a high chance they never deliver it.
  
  Well, what I want to tell you with this is, that MLM "can" work. At the same time I want to give you a warning, that in my opinion in most cases it´s not a good idea to join a MLM. There are some cases where it can make sense to think about it, and check the conditions very well.
  
  To me the most disadvantage to MLM ist that YOUR ARE ALWAYS DEPENDENT ON THE MLM - Oragnisation.
  
  By the way, there are lots of MLM compnaies with well working mindmanipulating techniques.
  
  I knew people, they made good money with MLM and had great downlines.
  But the MOST PEOPLE are loosing usually, as the masses are more struggling than succeeding...
  
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seosoldier

11 years ago

Originally Posted by ronrule

[edited]

The difference is, the CEO doesn't fly in and sell you a dream of being the CEO, or tell you how "easy it is". But the MLMer does ... and people buy that dream, believing it will be a walk in the park and minimal effort. But, like most things, effort in = effort out. And when they learn that dream isn't as easy and work-free as they were lead to believe it was, the cycle I described in my earlier post begins and perpetuates throughout.

THAT - not the business model - is what gives MLM's a bad rap. And unfortunately it's why it also creates some of the most annoying sales people in human history.

LOL! Sounds like the Special Offers Forum here, to me!

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Social App Zone 11 years ago

MLM the art of alienating your friends and irritating strangers with props.
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Nightengale

11 years ago

I haven't read all of the comments in this thread, but TSnyder and Alexa Smith are spot on.

I'm not in any MLM, but MLM is not a scam. There ARE a lot of scams in the MLM industry, but you can't tar all MLMs with the same brush.

Avon, Mary Kay, Herbalife, etc. have been around for a long time and aren't scams.

What people don't understand is that MLM is primarily a business model and distribution system, nothing more.

Although I'm not in MLM, I do loosely follow the industry. If you're in MLM and need some help/encouragement, I STRONGLY recommend you check out Dani Johnson of DaniJohnson.com and ABC's Secret Millionaire fame.

Dani made her millions in MLM and now trains other MLMers (in any MLM company) to be successful. She's not affiliated with any MLM company. I've gotten some of her stuff and it's top notch.

I also recommend Michelle and Bill Pescosolido of OnlineWealthPartner.com. They've been very successful in MLM (six figures plus) and what I like about them is their focus on using online marketing to build their MLM. They don't push you pester your family and friends.

They also use and recommend My Lead System Pro (MLSP), which is an online platform for building your MLM.

I hope this helps!

Michelle

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ScrooG

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Nightengale

I haven't read all of the comments in this thread, but TSnyder and Alexa Smith are spot on.

I'm not in any MLM, but MLM is not a scam. There ARE a lot of scams in the MLM industry, but you can't tar all MLMs with the same brush.

Avon, Mary Kay, Herbalife, etc. have been around for a long time and aren't scams.

What people don't understand is that MLM is primarily a business model and distribution system, nothing more.

Although I'm not in MLM, I do loosely follow the industry. If you're in MLM and need some help/encouragement, I STRONGLY recommend you check out Dani Johnson of DaniJohnson.com and ABC's Secret Millionaire fame.

Dani made her millions in MLM and now trains other MLMers (in any MLM company) to be successful. She's not affiliated with any MLM company. I've gotten some of her stuff and it's top notch.

I also recommend Michelle and Bill Pescosolido of OnlineWealthPartner.com. They've been very successful in MLM (six figures plus) and what I like about them is their focus on using online marketing to build their MLM. They don't push you pester your family and friends.

They also use and recommend My Lead System Pro (MLSP), which is an online platform for building your MLM.

I hope this helps!

Michelle

Thanks for clarifying that not all MLM's are bad, in fact some are quite good.

I looked up the people/sites you recommended and I saw that Dani Johnson's stuff is super expensive - we're talking $500-1000 for a set of cd's . Yowza. Which stuff did you get from her that is "top notch" and how much is it? Maybe I would recommend someone start with a book of hers or something, but I feel compelled to CAUTION newbies to get involved with a site like that. It seems too "make tons of money and quit your job - it's easy! Just buy my stuff and you too can be a millionaire!" Sorry folks, it doesn't work that way.

Of course one might say "Would you not pay $500-1000 for a system that would change your life, get you to making $10k+ a month?"
Well, yes. But ...

...the thing is, what information could anyone give at this point that hasn't been given time and time again, probably available FREE at this point. Probably available as PLR at this point. Really it's just a matter of her re-packaging info and marketing it to newbies and no doubt once you "buy in" you'll be told you really need to buy THIS system and THIS one, etc, ad infinitum.on and on. (Admittedly I'm guessing here, I don't know if she does that or not but I have a nose for this type of thing.) Her site is super slick and the videos for hooking you in are super-produced and all, which to me is a warning sign. A guy on the beach telling you that a short time ago he was working for a living and now he travels around and does little work, thanks to - you guessed it - [name of person whose system it is]!" So far every video I have ever watched that was "that type" ended up being a total con. Is her video or site a con? Well I suppose it might not be but all I can say is it LOOKS like that type of thing to me - promising riches beyond your dreams if only you sign up with me and send me $500... Um, no thank you.

I'm all for learning but not when it's so overpriced.

When an IMer charges that kind of money for an info product I have to wonder, are they making money just by selling info products about how to get rich, or are they offering real-world "how to" blueprints that work NOW? Do they really know how to teach you to make $ or is their game just to make money off you? Looks to me like she's the Tony Robbins of IM. I guess that's not a terrible thing but I know so many people who bought all Tony Robbins' stuff, listened to the tapes/cd's, read the books, and yet they are still working at a j.o.b..

What works is being motivated, yes, but also learning the necessary skills and applying them. I think most people need to be told "This takes work but you can do it, you just have to apply yourself!" Not: "This is easy, just buy my book and you'll be rich". They're selling a dream, not reality.

It's the same with WSO's except that at least WSO's are a whole helluva lot cheaper and at least they are presented in a forum where people can ask pointed and skeptical questions and real users can give real reviews. Call me critical, but when I see someone charging $500-1,000 for a few cd's and a book

I caution people to be very VERY careful and ask a lot of questions, look for REAL testimonials, and real feedback, do your "due diligence" before buying anything in IM that costs more than $30-40.

I know on the WF for example I am currently taking a private training course that cost me $200 and the guy knows a ton about marketing, works with me personally and helps motivate me to do the work. I would recommend someone find someone like that rather than pay $500-1k for a book and a few cd's. You can probably join the WarRoom which is a very small amount of money, read the info there and come away with a lot more useful information! Just my 2 cents.

As for MLSP it looks very interesting and I'm looking for a good internet-based lead system. But it's one of those companies, as far as I can see, that don't tell you anywhere on their site how much it costs. It's like walking into a restaurant without prices on the menu. If you are concerned about price you shouldn't eat there. I feel the same, I won't sign up for a system if they can't put the price(s) clearly on their web site. If it is there, all I can say is it is not easy to find.

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TTGSteve

11 years ago

I Cancelled My Empower Network Account - Extremely Negative Experience - Not a Bullshit Typical Empower Network Sales Pitch | The Trend Guys

My experience with the Empower Network.

TL;DR

It's utter bull^%$# and I brought people in that actually got harassed by EN staff members. Don't waste your time or sacrifice your morals / business ethics. Focus your time, effort and energy on something legit.

Oh, and member retention is VERY low.

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Seemore25101

11 years ago

... Lots of negative energy towards Empower.. I think I might cancel because of the negativity I've been hearing about it..

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Alex Blades

11 years ago

I never got into MLM but have been recruited before, and there was alot of deception behind it. You hear 100% commission everywhere, but they never tell you that alot of that commissions goes to the person who referred you, or it's only 100% for the first month.

Another big deception people that recruit use is, they never tell you that once you pay and sign up, you have pay another fee to be a reseller. The admins panels are set up where you can click a couple buttons to set up squeeze pages and what not, but the commissions go to the person who refer you because they never told you you had to become a reseller to actually get some of the commissions.

They have been preaching about 100% commissions and told you all you had to do was sign up, but conveniently left out that once you sign up, you have to pay another monthly fee to become a reseller or he will collect 100% of your commissions. Every time you make a sale, he is sitting in the background thinking "when will he ask me why I am getting all his commissions" Once you catch on and ask your team leader why he didn't tell you had to pay another fee or he would get all your commissions, he will then hit you with the biggest lie in MLM "I thought I told you, my bad"

Funny thing is, that you can refer 10 new people and your team leader will never tell you a thing about having to pay another fee to become a reseller because that is how the program is set up, and he is collecting 100% of your commissions

MOTOR CLUB OF AMERICA MCA/TVC MATRIX CHECK PROOF-...

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iwowwe4you

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Alex Blades

I never got into MLM but have been recruited before, and there was alot of deception behind it. You hear 100% commission everywhere, but they never tell you that alot of that commissions goes to the person who referred you, or it's only 100% for the first month.

Another big deception people that recruit use is, they never tell you that once you pay and sign up, you have pay another fee to be a reseller. The admins panels are set up where you can click a couple buttons to set up squeeze pages and what not, but the commissions go to the person who refer you because they never told you you had to become a reseller to actually get some of the commissions.

They have been preaching about 100% commissions and told you all you had to do was sign up, but conveniently left out that once you sign up, you have to pay another monthly fee to become a reseller or he will collect 100% of your commissions. Every time you make a sale, he is sitting in the background thinking "when will he ask me why I am getting all his commissions" Once you catch on and ask your team leader why he didn't tell you had to pay another fee or he would get all your commissions, he will then hit you with the biggest lie in MLM "I thought I told you, my bad"

Funny thing is, that you can refer 10 new people and your team leader will never tell you a thing about having to pay another fee to become a reseller because that is how the program is set up, and he is collecting 100% of your commissions

MOTOR CLUB OF AMERICA MCA/TVC MATRIX CHECK PROOF- SPOOF - YouTube

In my 18 years in MLM never saw any thing like this. In fact every time a newbie joins my team I spend a lot of time and effort to teach him every thing he needs to know including how to sell and how to offer and what ever else it is involved. In MLM every one earns from helping people in his down-line to earn good money.
I never heard that sponsor would get any thing from your income, lol
You get 100% and company may pay him extra % on top, because he personally invited you.

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Alexa Smith

Banned 11 years ago

Originally Posted by iwowwe4you

You get 100% and company may pay him extra % on top, because he personally invited you.

Exactly the sort of claim from which many people will run a mile, wondering how long the company itself is going to survive, if that illustrates the commission payments, and/or being concerned about the legality of "payment for sponsoring", for which so many soi-disant MLM's have been closed down by the courts.

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iwowwe4you

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Alexa Smith

Exactly the sort of claim from which many people will run a mile, wondering how long the company itself is going to survive, if that illustrates the commission payments, and/or being concerned about the legality of "payment for sponsoring", for which so many soi-disant MLM's have been closed down by the courts.

100% does not mean you sell for $10 and you get $10 out of it. Company should be very clear on how much you will earn from each sale and if they say you get $6 you have to get $6 or get out if there as soon as possible, before you lost every thing.
When you consider joining you need to know how you will be paid and that it would look realistically and not amounts taken from the air.
There are so many traps out there and I understand why people are refusing MLM as well. Without right knowledge on how real MLM works any one can fall in to one of those traps. I know people who was honestly believing in Zig (or what ever it was called). Now they face millions claims in courts. However company owners moved to Spain and started a new trap. Few days someone offered me to join. And in fact I would be able to get a lot of money fast out of it, but the problem is, that the people who I would earn from would lost every thing. How I will look in to their eyes then?
That is why I would in real MLM business for 18 years and never get involved in any traps schemes where, after they crash, I will not be able to look in to the peoples eyes. The most important thing for me in not giving false promises. I spend as much time as needed to train each one in my team and work with them until they earn $1000 a month.
If you find something wrong about helping people then you are the one who will not be helped by me.

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Alexa Smith

Banned 11 years ago

Originally Posted by Chuck Burke

I've come to realize that there are some "big name" warriors doing mlm stuff.

Yes, there are - and some very long-term successful ones.

Originally Posted by Chuck Burke

I had been taught that mlm was a scam, pyramid and just plain bad.

I think that perception's quite widespread, because of all the things that aren't really MLM at all, but are scams and pyramids, which pretend to be MLM and often fool suprisingly large numbers of people for surprisingly long periods of time. Many of them do get closed down eventually by regulators/courts, but they certainly blacken the reputation of the genuine, honest, ethical, well-regulated MLM companies. And there are a lot of them.

Originally Posted by Chuck Burke

How many of you warriors do mlm ?

I did it for nearly a year, before switching to internet affiliate marketing (which I prefer because I'm a writer and affiliate marketing suits my skill-set better). However, I'd happily recommend the company I was in to anyone interested in MLM - it was one of the longest-standing and most successful ones.

Originally Posted by Chuck Burke

Please share your opinions, yay or nay on multi-level marketing.

It's pretty difficult to discuss it productively in forums, partly because (although this is also true of some other subjects) many people have fiercely held prejudices based largely or even entirely on misinformation. A lot of the things that people criticize "about MLM" aren't actually about MLM at all: they're about scams/pyramids pretending to be MLM's. And a lot of the disadvantages claimed of MLM are equally true of many other business models, too.

Bear in mind that most people - including some people who've been involved in it - don't actually have a very clear perception of what "MLM" is. (For a start, many believe that it's exactly the same thing as "network marketing", but that's actually not so).

Call me a skepchick, but with obvious exceptions such as occasional posts from Tsnyder (above), I often feel that forum discussions about MLM are about as informative and educational as discussions about "article marketing" in which the participants don't actually understand what an "article directory" is and why they exist. And on the subject of MLM, one could sometimes be forgiven for imagining that the more forcefully people express their opinions, the less likely they are to know what they're talking about.

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Newbieee

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Alexa Smith

Bear in mind that most people - including some people who've been involved in it - don't actually have a very clear perception of what "MLM" is. (For a start, many believe that it's exactly the same thing as "network marketing", but that's actually not so).

Yea i agree with your points.

MLM is multi-level marketing.
Network marketing besically means you go out, network and market your products/service. It may not be a multi level one. It may just be a single level.

So i would say MLM is a subset of Network marketing.

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Tsnyder

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Newbieee

Yea i agree with your points.

MLM is multi-level marketing.
Network marketing besically means you go out, network and market your products/service. It may not be a multi level one. It may just be a single level.

So i would say MLM is a subset of Network marketing.

I've always said that network marketing is what we do while
MLM is how we get paid to do it.

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Newbieee 11 years ago

Originally Posted by Tsnyder

I've always said that network marketing is what we do while
MLM is how we get paid to do it.

Yea it works that way too.
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Alexa Smith Banned 11 years ago

Originally Posted by Newbieee

i would say MLM is a subset of Network marketing.

I agree completely.

So do courts, regulators and various governmental and quasi-governmental enforcement agencies, on both sides of the Atlantic and in many other countries, too: not all network marketing companies divide the commissions (on products/services sold) between multiple levels of distributors.
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phmoisan

11 years ago

I have a friend, I've known for almost 3 years, although she has tried a couple of different things, her main business has always been a MLM company, for real tangible products, not digital stuff. She worked hard at the SEO part for her MLM biz. She just bought a very nice house a few weeks ago.

Her dedication is inspiring. The MLM company has been around for a long time.

Unfortunately, people are always in a hurry to try new things, they follow the hype and excitement. I like what TSnyder said in his comment: "Developing leaders".

What bothers me the most about MLM is the price of products. How can the companies justify it, since they don't need a big marketing budget,with all the distributors doing it for them?

Also, many people don't really look at the product itself, all they see is the compensation plan, which helps them justify their reason for joining and blinds the high price of the products.

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Tsnyder

11 years ago

Originally Posted by phmoisan

What bothers me the most about MLM is the price of products. How can the companies justify it, since they don't need a big marketing budget,with all the distributors doing it for them?

As a long time MLMer that bothers me to some extent, as well. I most often see
the price disparities in products that are consumed internally... supplements and
drinks. They tell me they use proprietary formulas and ingredients that are superior
to those found in mass market products. I'm willing to believe them... I'm just not
willing to base my business success on having to educate potential customers on
those issues.

I market a product that is simple and obvious and competes in a well established
market with comparable quality at less than half the price you'll find in the retail
space.

Also, many people don't really look at the product itself, all they see is the compensation plan, which helps them justify their reason for joining and blinds the high price of the products.

Precisely... and those who perpetuate that nonsense do no service to anyone.

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phmoisan

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Tsnyder

As a long time MLMer that bothers me to some extent, as well. I most often see
the price disparities in products that are consumed internally... supplements and
drinks. They tell me they use proprietary formulas and ingredients that are superior
to those found in mass market products. I'm willing to believe them... I'm just not
willing to base my business success on having to educate potential customers on
those issues.

I market a product that is simple and obvious and competes in a well established
market with comparable quality at less than half the price you'll find in the retail
space.

Precisely... and those who perpetuate that nonsense do no service to anyone.

Thanks for this response, I appreciate it, and I'm about to download the report we see in your signature, looks very interesting

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ziubzia

11 years ago

I know quite a few people involved in MLM both working for the company as well as distributors who have been involved with companies for 15+ years. As I see it MLM or network marketing is a great model to bring a product to market and a great way to build an income.

I would say 2 things let down MLM

1) Product Product Product. Most of the things offered via mlm are rubbish or really overpriced so find the right product that sells itself.

2) Don't buy into the whole get rich quick junk, it's just not true. I personally know a couple who are top of the tree so to speak for an international MLM in the UK. They work hard !! morning meetings / training afternoon & evening. If you want to make it big you need to put the effort in.

That's my 2 cents worth, hope it helps.

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Newbieee 11 years ago

I would like to share my stand on MLM here..

MLM is a system. [a business system which is legal if you follow the guidelines, i have studied the legalities regarding MLM but again it varies from country to country]

If it is illegal in your country then of cos you dont need to discuss about this. U just cant do it.

But if it is legal then here goes..

It is a system. ASystem in and off itself is amoral.
What you do with it or how you carry out the business affects how the public view your company or business model.

Just like insurance company, in most countries, they use an MLM system to pay out the agents.
It is a respected career as a financial consultant. [insurance agent]

But its how they conduct their business that makes the general public shan't them.

In a smaller picture, if you work for ABC company and you use underhand method to close a deal. PPL come to know about it, and they jump to conclusions or have the impression that ABC company is like that, they do things this way. Or worst still, accuse the whole industry ABC company is in.

Now lets touch on whether it works.
Again like what another warrior said, it is just an opportunity, its up to you to make it work.
Insurance and banking/financial industry have very VERY HIGH turn over.
Does that mean it doesnt work??

Having said that, i would venture to say, most MLM companies will find it hard to sustain.
U have to find one that is a good company with good quality product and ever improving and adding value added product or service.
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Don Grace

11 years ago

The bottom line is it's just another way to bring a product to market and earn commissions, that's it.

What's most important is you can look at ANY company and you'll find people making money, and you'll find people (the majority) that don't make squat. And this applies across the board whether it be mlm, aff marketing, cpa, selling your own stuff, etc.

So who do you listen to, someone making a bundle or a broke person for financial advice? The correct answer is obvious.

Once you understand online marketing like the back of your hand you can practically take any business model and make it work, mlm or otherwise.

Most people just don't take the time to do all the steps necessary to succeed... and then blame their lack of action on the system or company, make lame excuses like saturation, then cry scam anywhere they can instead of owning their experience.

This kind of negativity can spread like a virus and poison your mind. Pay attention to what kind of people you let influence you, it makes all the difference in the world.

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mobiussilver

11 years ago

I think MLM just selling dreams

sorry just my own opinion

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Eutaw

11 years ago

I agree with ronrule. MLM is here today gone tomorrow! For a long term approach..that you control. Make your own product.....build a list and make money! I know there are a few parts to that, however it will work. Most of the MLM......training,products.... are terrible.

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iwowwe4you

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Eutaw

I agree with ronrule. MLM is here today gone tomorrow! For a long term approach..that you control. Make your own product.....build a list and make money! I know there are a few parts to that, however it will work. Most of the MLM......training,products.... are terrible.

One of the examples of a secure MLM company with great product: Russian Company Mirra (also known as Mirra Lux). Around 20 years on the market now. Product: creams, cosmetics, food supplements. They have unique technology allowing them to produce their products at 20 degrees by C or below. This allows to keep all the ingredients alive. No other company can use this technology as it was patented for 100 years.
I tried products my self many years ago and still buy them for my own use.
I think this product is the best on the market and even that the price is a bit higher, but it is great value for money.
I had my own online shop selling these products. Unfortunately they do not offer direct postage to the buyers and I had to make a little warehouse out of one of the rooms in my house. But I have 4 small kids and did for obvious reasons decided not to risk those products.
There is no any thing wrong with the company or product and I quit for my personal reasons and passed my online shop to my down-line member who earns with it till now.
To be clear, I a not promoting this company and I do not work with it. Right now I only use their products as customer.
This is just one example of secure MLM company who has own laboratories where they constantly improve their products and invent new.
However I know people who failed after registering with them, not only those who succeeded. It all depends on personality and if you know what to do.

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SunilTanna

11 years ago

Originally Posted by iwowwe4you

One of the examples of a secure MLM company with great product: Russian Company Mirra (also known as Mirra Lux). Around 20 years on the market now. Product: creams, cosmetics, food supplements. They have unique technology allowing them to produce their products at 20 degrees by C or below. This allows to keep all the ingredients alive. No other company can use this technology as it was patented for 100 years.
I tried products my self many years ago and still buy them for my own use.
I think this product is the best on the market and even that the price is a bit higher, but it is great value for money.
I had my own online shop selling these products. Unfortunately they do not offer direct postage to the buyers and I had to make a little warehouse out of one of the rooms in my house. But I have 4 small kids and did for obvious reasons decided not to risk those products.
There is no any thing wrong with the company or product and I quit for my personal reasons and passed my online shop to my down-line member who earns with it till now.
To be clear, I a not promoting this company and I do not work with it. Right now I only use their products as customer.
This is just one example of secure MLM company who has own laboratories where they constantly improve their products and invent new.
However I know people who failed after registering with them, not only those who succeeded. It all depends on personality and if you know what to do.

In which country do patents las 100 years? Because it isn't the US or any EU country or Russia.

Term of patent - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Russian Federation: Patent System in Russia

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iwowwe4you

11 years ago

Originally Posted by SunilTanna

In which country do patents las 100 years? Because it isn't the US or any EU country or Russia.

Term of patent - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Russian Federation: Patent System in Russia

In fact this one valid worldwide. I saw that patent with my own eyes when visited the head office. No one can use their technology for 100 years from the point they patented it. For now it is a bit more that 80 years left.

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SunilTanna

11 years ago

Originally Posted by iwowwe4you

In fact this one valid worldwide. I saw that patent with my own eyes when visited the head office. No one can use their technology for 100 years from the point they patented it. For now it is a bit more that 80 years left.

What's the patent number, and where is it registered? Which country even?

How are they going to enforce it?

In US courts, you can only enforce US patents. See e.g. Patent Holders in the United States Can't Enforce Foreign Patents in US CourtsLaw Vibe

And US patents run for 20 years - see link previous posted

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iwowwe4you

11 years ago

Country is Russian, I don't remember where it was registered and the patent number as I saw it many years ago. I have no idea how they are going to enforce it if needed. All what I can tell I saw the patent. I have no idea how the patents stuff work but the document was clearly stating that patent is for 100 years and a date of expiry.

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OnlineStoreHelp

11 years ago

So just to give it some perspective, I wanted to detail my experience dealing with MLM "independent distributors" as they all seemed to be called.

The Independent Distibutor
Whenever one of these guys starts trying to recruit me, I tell them if they can satisfy the following requirements, I am more then happy to listen. And I will since I am always looking for opportunities that meet my criteria.

Minimum Gross Margins of 30%
Proof that product sells consistently at MSRP and not the actual discounted rate.
I don't pay someone for the honor of selling their product unless they are allowing me to private label it, and that will be one time payment.
USP - Unique Selling Proposition

I have yet to see one physical MLM product actually meet all these criteria. Usually they have some type of answer for the USP but 6 times out of 10 it is of dubious quality. When they see the minimum gross margins is normally when the bus op sales comes on hard. "ya its only 15% but if you recruit two people downline you get bonuses and yada yada yada".

Usually I get sold in a scammy way about this secret opportunity, or this global business I participate in that I need help with. OK, I will meet with you, but give me an agenda first. Oh I can't tell you till we meet. WTF, I know MLM recruiting when I see it!

But you don't need to recruit others!
Technically, you are correct, most legitimate MLM companies do not require you to recruit. But, I have yet to see a compensation plan that doesn't creates a glass ceiling on earnings unless you are both selling and recruiting. Whether you want to call it "creating leaders" or recruiting warm bodies, it is still recruiting.

You shouldn't need a spreadsheet to figure out what you will be paid.
I have yet to see a compensation plan that doesn't need an excel spread sheet to figure out what you will get paid. This is always a warning bell to me and for a reason. They do not want you to know how you are getting paid. Instead of dollars, its points, or some other phantom currency they calculate from you.

Networking
You have to network like in any business to get your name out there. But realize you will have to jump through more hoops then other businesses. The local networking groups usually have rules of, you can sell the product, but not the opportunity.

When you go to a networking event, you will end up being "that guy". People will politely listen to you, smile and nod, and even give you their card, but when you walk away, listen to the chuckles as they are normally ridiculing you so you gotta have a thick skin.

Make sure you do your homework as you will expend quite a bit of political and business capital with your network once they find out its MLM. Whether you believe your MLM or MLM is the holy grail, it doesn't change the fact that most people do not trust MLM.

If people don't succeed its because they:

Didn't try
Weren't good business people
Didn't follow the plan
They weren't committed

This is the biggest load of malarky. I just got to see a successful business man "fail" at MLM recently. His other businesses (which he built from scratch) do about 14 million gross a year so I would say he knows business. His wife was committed to the business since she believed in the product so he spent a lot of money on selling and recruiting. He still hasn't made a profit and in that time expended his time and political capital with his network who, regardless of what others think of MLM feel that (this fool got duped into a MLM scheme).

Why does MLM have a bad reputation?

Many failed pyramid schemes that taint the field
Many feel like MLM preys on the unsophisticated
The cult like mentality of MLM members
Bogus claims that are never backed up by facts - See below

Quote:
Originally Posted by SunilTanna
In which country do patents las 100 years? Because it isn't the US or any EU country or Russia.

Term of patent - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Russian Federation: Patent System in Russia
In fact this one valid worldwide. I saw that patent with my own eyes when visited the head office. No one can use their technology for 100 years from the point they patented it. For now it is a bit more that 80 years left.

Stuff like this gives MLM a bad name.

MLMer: "They have 100 year worldwide patent"
SKeptic: "Patents only last 20 years and are only enforceable in their respective countries"
MLMer: "Oh no, they have a SPECIAL patent that no one else has. I saw it in russia, I don't speak or read russian but really I saw it!"
Skeptic: "Well give me the patent number or a link to the patent office."
MLMer: "Oh no its a super secret patent but trust me, its real"

It's just like the potato chip business
No its not. Frito Lay has multiple channels. Local sales people with an "EXCLUSIVE" region to sell to the grocery stores and chains that then buy direct from Frito Lay. Jobbers that are able to aggregate orders from many small shops to get price breaks they couldn't get on their own. Frito Lay is not out recruiting you to sell their product and I would be willing to bet there is not a free, make money selling chips card in each bag.

Wine purveyors sell directly to restaurants and shops (depending on state law) but all beer has to go through exclusive distributors. You can talk about each business being a pyramid, but how deep does the Frito Lay Pyramid go?

What is your Unique Selling Proposition
The issue I have always had with MLM is it creates clones with little USP. If you have three hundred people in a 3 mile radius all selling the same product and dream, how successful can you really be?

MLMer: But Walmart and Target sell the same stuff!

Yes, but there are not 100 Walmarts and Targets in a 3, 10 or even 25 mile radius. Also, Walmart, Target and 7/11 each have unique selling proposition, different customers they are trying to target.

The other thing no one can answer, if the product is so good, why do I want to share this with anyone? It is the reason no one shares their niche amazon or adsense sites.

But my Upline says he makes 100,000 a year doing this!
That's great, but make him prove it. It is a legitimate business, he should be able to show you legitimate sales numbers. Before I ever interviewed at companies, I always looked at their financials (when public) or have done D&B searches or even looked up their DBA at the state office. Your upline should be able to show you proof from him, not some mystery person somewhere up the chain. Unfortunately I have yet to see one recruiter willing to show his numbers.

Is it all a scam?
No. I am not willing to say that it is. I would be willing to bet there are a handful of legitimate MLM's where you can succeed and grow a business.

Have I seen them yet? Nope.

Do they fit my business criteria? Not yet.

Did I get lot of things wrong?
I bet I did. I love being educated especially when I am wrong but so far I feel there are better bus ops that are worth my time.

For example, I can find an under utilized niche and open an ecommerce store with better margins, a unique selling proposition, my own branding and I control that customer, not a home office.

Each person has to find the business that works right for them. In my case, MLM just won't work but I imagine there are many people that do just fine. I unfortunately have not had the pleasure of meeting them yet. I met one "diamond" distributor but his wife owns three high end bikini shops so I imagine he isn't starving if his MLM business doesn't make it. Guess what he wasn't willing to show me?

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Tsnyder

11 years ago

Originally Posted by OnlineStoreHelp

Guess what he wasn't willing to show me?

There are likely two reasons why no one will show you
how much they're earning.

The newbies likely aren't earning much and haven't been
taught how to simply and logically discard that meaningless
objection and the veteran successful ones won't jeopardize
what they've built by doing something that is illegal in all 50
states.

If you see people in MLM waving checks around and making
income claims run away as fast as you can.

The only other comment I'd have on your post is that no MLM
company is going to grant you a license to private label their
product. That would pretty much defeat the purpose of their
business plan.

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seosoldier

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Tsnyder

There are likely two reasons why no one will show you
how much they're earning.

The newbies likely aren't earning much and haven't been
taught how to simply and logically discard that meaningless
objection and the veteran successful ones won't jeopardize
what they've built by doing something that is illegal in all 50
states.

If you see people in MLM waving checks around and making
income claims run away as fast as you can.

The only other comment I'd have on your post is that no MLM
company is going to grant you a license to private label their
product. That would pretty much defeat the purpose of their
business plan.

I will show you how much I make. Admittedly I'm not getting rich on it but it's a great part-time income that doesn't require tons of work, and many of us are making decent income, long term with Multipure. If anyone wants to make $500-2000/month it is quite do-able if you work at it. I am averaging $1k/month for over a year and I know others who are averaging much more than that because they work harder at it and perhaps are just better at it than I am.

But no, you're not going to get rich quick with it nor give up your day job after a month or two but it's a great way to start learning internet marketing or personal sales or both and make a great income while doing so.

I make no income claim other than if you work at it you can make a good steady part time or full time income, and honestly I could work a lot harder and make a lot more, but I'm diversifying into other forms of online income, instead, because I believe multiple income streams are a good idea.

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jmad1906

11 years ago

The MLM system is the same without prejudice to the industry or product. 1. get a product/service 2. Make a list of everyone you know 3. Schedule a pitch meeting 4. Ask for the check 5 ask for referrals. I'd name company names that i have seen this with (including the knife company) but i dont think thats allowed. If i create a new widget n my garage.. i can follow the same pattern.

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ScrooG

11 years ago

Originally Posted by jmad1906

The MLM system is the same without prejudice to the industry or product. 1. get a product/service 2. Make a list of everyone you know 3. Schedule a pitch meeting 4. Ask for the check 5 ask for referrals. I'd name company names that i have seen this with (including the knife company) but i dont think thats allowed. If i create a new widget n my garage.. i can follow the same pattern.

This may be true in many or even a majority of MLM companies but not the same with all. Please do not paint all MLM with the same brush. Yes all have downlines but not all make the majority of $ off their downline. The one I participate in, I have zero downline and make good money. Would I make MORE with a downline? Yes but not that MUCH more.

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Steve B 11 years ago
I have never been in an MLM company and have never wanted to be. Here are the reasons why:
- I absolutely hate being pitched (attempted recruitment) by friends and family (even more so by strangers), especially those that won't tell me in advance why they want 30 minutes or an hour of my time.
- I sometimes listen just to get people "off my back" as they will keep pestering me for an audience even though I try to politely tell them I'm not interested.
- It seems that commissions are often geared to favor the owners and those who get in line early. They make money on the backs of all the recruited masses.
- It seems that most of the "earnings" are coming from recruiting others, not selling the product. In fact, "the product" often seems like an afterthought, something to keep regulators happy.
- It seems many MLMs have two faces. There's the public face that's all about how great the company is, how much they care about the individual, how much money one can earn without hard "selling", how easy it is to build a huge downline, etc. Then there's the "inside" face where reality rules and all is not peaches and cream. Hidden or escalating costs, poor or no training, surprises that weren't covered during recruitment, and sometimes company legal or financial issues that stay hidden until they fester and ooze. This perception comes from family and friends whom I've talked to - not firsthand experience.
- If the MLM is or appears to be successful it seems that copycats come out of the woodwork further saturating the marketplace and making it more difficult to interest prospects in the MLM.
- It seems to me that when critics bash the MLM model, the only ones who stand up to support it are those in the business - people who have a vested interest in painting the picture as rosy as possible. The greatest critics seem to be those who were recruited into the business and, for whatever reason, left angry and with a bad taste in their mouth.
Yes, I know that some or all of these same perceptions could be made about non-MLM business models as well.

I'm not being critical of what you MLMers are doing. I'm just trying to shed some light on how I personally perceive the model as an outsider looking in - maybe there are many others who also feel this way.

I hope all of you rise to the top in your pink Cadillacs.

Steve
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jbenson00

11 years ago

If you want some good training on doing network marketing or MLM. Then I would get The Professional Inviter by Tim Sales. Great information on how to properly do MLM or network marketing. I too have been very successful at some network marketing gigs and others I have failed at. This was mostly due to my excuses and shortcomings.

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karlbetz

11 years ago

MLM is not necessarily a liar, but a liar will use MLM system.

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iwowwe4you 11 years ago

Originally Posted by karlbetz

MLM is not necessarily a liar, but a liar will use MLM system.

Have sense, but today's liars use a lot of different forms and there is no guaranty that is it is not MLM you will not lose money. You have to be careful with any offer you get or opportunity you found.
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Happy to share 18 years experience in MLM/IM. Not doing any other work for over 7 years now. Accredited as a coach by 3 companies I worked with after completing a course of education and passing exams. HND in Business, Economics, Accounting, Market Research, Market Development, Management.
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WeavingThoughts

11 years ago

MLM isn't always a scam, but often too much effort compared to other IM monetizing methods if you are talking of genuine MLM like Amway.

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iwowwe4you 11 years ago

Originally Posted by WeavingThoughts

MLM isn't always a scam, but often too much effort compared to other IM monetizing methods if you are talking of genuine MLM like Amway.

Not at all. It is about the same effort compare to other IM businesses, however gets easier with the time going.
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Happy to share 18 years experience in MLM/IM. Not doing any other work for over 7 years now. Accredited as a coach by 3 companies I worked with after completing a course of education and passing exams. HND in Business, Economics, Accounting, Market Research, Market Development, Management.
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Daniel Evans

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Chuck Burke

I've come to realize that there are some "big name" warriors doing mlm stuff.
I had been taught that mlm was a scam, pyramid and just plain bad.

Now, I'm having 2nd thoughts.

I wouldn't have second thoughts based upon how I percieve the status of a "big name" and what they happen to be doing.

We should decide for ourselves what is ethical.

Daniel

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thedanbrown

11 years ago

There are a whole bunch of IMers who are members of multiple MLM companies and back end all their leads with whatever MLM they feel suits their clients best. It's becoming more and more popular now even big marketers like Russel Brunson and Peng Joon are involved with MLM.

It definitely is not a pyramid scheme or anything like that lol that's just the perspective of someone who doesn't really understand the direct sales industry. This video might clear things up a bit:

I still think it is a pyramid scheme...(Pyramid...

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realaffiliatereviews

11 years ago

My wife and I have been working in an anti-aging network marketing company for the past 3 months and doing pretty well. i really didnt like network marketing companies up until we found this company. Its only been around just over a year and did $100 million the first year on the market. and on top of that, its only been launched in the US so there is huge growth potential as we start to launch into other countries through the end of this year.

The reason I believe in the product so much is the product truly works, and works fast. another great thing about this company they donate 30% of it's profits to cancer research. no other company that i know of does this.

if anyone wants to learn more about the product or the company, let me know. if you're outside the US, get in touch so you can be one of the first to carry this product in your country.

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Make Money Ninja

11 years ago

What is MLM LOL..... All i know is value, marketing and seo... IM BLIND TO THIS BULLSHIT

Also drunk..

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seosoldier

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Chuck Burke

I've come to realize that there are some "big name" warriors doing mlm stuff.
I had been taught that mlm was a scam, pyramid and just plain bad.

Now, I'm having 2nd thoughts.

How many of you warriors do mlm ? Full time, part time, in addition to other internet marketing?

Please share your opinions, yay or nay on multi-level marketing.

It seems that MLM has a bad name and it seems there may be different types - some very bad and some very good. Some are outright scams like the one the FTC closed down last year, which was basically a "pyramid scam".

I am a Multipure distributor. It is set up as "MLM" but it doesn't fit the profile of the bad things people say about MLM.

1) we don't promise people they'll get rich quick, we say it's a business in which you can make some money if you sign up and promote it, and over time you can make some decent money
2) we offer a solid product and we've been in business for 40+ years and our technology is cutting-edge and we're considered a leader in the field of water filtration technology and products
3) you can make good money with a large downline or you can make good money with ZERO downline (I am proof of that!)

But it is totally 100% legit, our products are the best in the business, and a lot of people make very good part-time and full-time incomes with it! Not only do we offer money back guarantees and lifetime warranties on our products, but our products are also NSF Certified (real scientific testing and independent lab analysis as well as strict rules about representing the product with complete honesty). (NSF is an internationally respected non-profit organization that tests and certifies things like water filters and plastic tubing and other things that need to be certified for safety, especially where they are used in food and water).

I've been averaging over $1,000 a month for over a year, so I don't get the hostility towards MLM! My sponsor makes quite a bit more because she has a huge downline and does it full time. I know other distributors who make 2-3 times as much as me simply because they devote more time to it, and they've been doing it for 10-15 years.

There is no advantage to having gotten in 15 years ago over getting in now, this is one of the things that make the difference in an MLM company. Some MLM companies are set up so ONLY those who get in early will make a lot of money. With Multipure you make the same commission structure either way and how it works is that the more you sell the more you get per sale, but there's a cap on that so that after so many sales everyone arrives at the same level.

By the way, this is a business that can be done EITHER 100% online or 100% person-to-person or it can be a combination of the 2. I know people making very good money using only one method and others making good money using only the other method.

To me it's a great business model and I am proud to be a Multipure distributor! (We offer great commissions by the way, and if anyone wants to learn more, PM me or check the link in my signature.)

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WillR

11 years ago

And I quote...

"If I would be given a chance to start all over again, I would choose network marketing..."

- Bill Gates

There is absolutely nothing wrong with network marketing in the normal sense of the word. As with anything there is both good and bad. There are scams in network marketing just as there are scams in every type of business.

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thomashoi

11 years ago

Originally Posted by WillR

And I quote...

Quote:
"If I would be given a chance to start all over again, I would choose network marketing..."

- Bill Gates

There is absolutely nothing wrong with network marketing in the normal sense of the word. As with anything there is both good and bad. There are scams in network marketing just as there are scams in every type of business.

Sorry, you have misunderstood. Bill Gates is saying he will be the OWNER of the network marketing company, not the pathetic free sales people who don't even get a salary.

Blessings,
Thomas

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WillR

11 years ago

Originally Posted by thomashoi

Sorry, you have misunderstood. Bill Gates is saying he will be the OWNER of the network marketing company, not the pathetic free sales people who don't even get a salary.

Blessings,
Thomas

No, I understood what I said very well... thanks all the same.

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Enfusia 11 years ago

I founded and ran a mid sized (a few million per year) Network Marketing company by the name of NutriHarmony. I had that for 14 years and it was run with the highest degree of honor and integrity in the industry period. My name is Patrick Shelley you can Google all this and see that what I'm saying is fact.

Prior to that I had built a large organization in another company that ended up folding because of very poor management. My group in that one was over 30k distributors and over 85k customers. So, if you know the averages for how much you make per person in a typical downline you can do the math.

The reason I'm saying all this is so you will know what I'm about to say is not just the opinion of some tard who can't even spell MLM.

Every industry has good people and bad people, good companies and bad companies, that's just life. We have good public officials and bad ones too.

Has every wso you've ever bought been 100% legit 100% the gospel truth? If yes, then you're super lucky or have only bought one and hit the jackpot.

Am I saying all wso's are bad? NO!!!!!!!!!!!!
Am I saying the forum is crooked because a few dim bulbs put out junk wso's NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So, is network marketing as a whole bad because just like any other aspect of life you have good and bad? NO!!!!!!!!!!

Did you stop dating because the 1st one, two, three or more people you dated were shmucks? NO!!!!!!

Will you stop looking for more ways to improve yourself in life because a few before this have failed? NO!!!!!!!!!

I hope I've made my point, my !!!!!!! button on my keyboard might need repairs after this.

Patrick
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- bridev2000 11 years ago
  
  [DELETED]
  
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  WillR 11 years ago
  
  Originally Posted by bridev2000
  
  is where the money is baby.
  
  Nice spam.
  
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thomashoi

11 years ago

I love the MLM business, it is the best kind of business model you can find in the world! You get free sales people advertising your products without paying them a salary. Luckily, the government says this is legal! You only pay them a commission when they close a sale for you, this means your business is ZERO risk, much better than advertising in traditional media.

And the best part is, everything is transacted in CASH, meaning no debt for the company!

And of course, unless you are the owner or the pioneers of the MLM company, you are playing a losing game. You got no control, you can't determine the price of the product and when the owner of the company decides to change the compensation plan, your so called "5 figure monthly income do nothing" goes up in smoke!

Please wake up and play in a game you have an asset you can control.

Blessings,
Thomas

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seosoldier

11 years ago

Originally Posted by thomashoi

I love the MLM business, it is the best kind of business model you can find in the world! You get free sales people advertising your products without paying them a salary. Luckily, the government says this is legal! You only pay them a commission when they close a sale for you, this means your business is ZERO risk, much better than advertising in traditional media.

And the best part is, everything is transacted in CASH, meaning no debt for the company!

And of course, unless you are the owner or the pioneers of the MLM company, you are playing a losing game. You got no control, you can't determine the price of the product and when the owner of the company decides to change the compensation plan, your so called "5 figure monthly income do nothing" goes up in smoke!

Please wake up and play in a game you have an asset you can control.

Blessings,
Thomas

Blessings to you, Thomas.

First of all, it depends on WHICH MLM companies. There are good ones and bad ones, I hope you will at least acknowledge that.

Now, let's look at the other side of the coin:

As a sales person with a good MLM company you do not have to take any risk. (with Multipure for example the sign up fee is only to buy a filter system, and then pay $49 or so for some sales material and processing your application; until recently it was either $10 or free).

So there is a super low risk AND NO INVESTMENT IN PRODUCT, no investment whatsoever.

So you have no risk, no investment, and all you have to do is talk to people - either by net or in person - about water filters, show them why these are the best (easy enough, since they are), and you get paid. Your only work is to promote the product, which can be done for free.

Now, as a means to strike it rich, I agree with you. Very few people will get rich working for most MLM's, and if you want to get rich, create your own product, create your own company, create your own brand, etc...

However not everyone has the creativity, start up money or gumption to start their own company or create their own product. Nor do they want to risk their money.

For many people a good MLM company that sells a good solid product is a great way to make some money with little or no investment and practically no risk.

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carnal

11 years ago

MLM programs are really not suitable for those who are just starting out internet marketing.

Stay out of these MLM programs, because these are very often pyramid schemes.

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himanuzo

11 years ago

Besides affiliate marketing, I also run a network marketing business which has an ecommerce platform. I combine both offline and internet marketing to build my own business for global.

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Willie Crawford

11 years ago

Been doing it since 2004... with a product that compliments
my internet marketing.

The fact that you see a lot of big-name IM'ers "coming out
of the closet" may be a sign that the industry is maturing or
losing some of it's stigma.

I've allways viewed it as just another business model... and
considered the product... and company management more
important than the model.

Willie

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Marie Cody

11 years ago

Originally Posted by Chuck Burke

I've come to realize that there are some "big name" warriors doing mlm stuff.
I had been taught that mlm was a scam, pyramid and just plain bad.

Now, I'm having 2nd thoughts.

How many of you warriors do mlm ? Full time, part time, in addition to other internet marketing?

Please share your opinions, yay or nay on multi-level marketing.

I'd go with your first thought. You are right that it is a scam. It is a scam as it will reach in the long run.

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Mitch Barber

11 years ago

I have made good money in mlm back in the 90's and early 2000's. It's not easy, but it is doable if you commit to it. There are a number of enourmous plus points:-

1. You will only be successful (long term) by helping others to be successful
2. You can earn a truely residual income if you pick a quality company with quality products/services that have a monthly billing. It will take time to build, but well worth it.
3. With a quality company you will get training in sales and people skills which are transferable anywhere!
4. It's one of the best opportunities for the 'little' guy to start from nothing and make a success of themselves - mainly because of all the help and support from their 'upline' (remember, the people in the upline only become successful by helping those in their team to be successful).
5. With a quality MLM company you are building a true business that is sellable and willable (i.e. transferable).

The downsides:-
1. There's a lot of less than credible MLM's out there.
2. You can work hard and build yourself a residual income but it CAN be taken away from you if the company decides to change direction, alter their marketing plan or goes bust. All three of the above have happened to me.

Was it worth doing? For me, yes. Even though I don't have the income from those companies any more, I had a very laid-back income for quite a few years after building my 'business'. I learned an enourmous amount of skills which have helped me in other areas of my life and business. I also loved being able to help others to acheive success.

My main recommendation would be to do some comprehensive research on any company (and it's founders / directors) you choose to get involved with. Also being in at the beginning is not neccessary. I would rather go with an established and proven company than a start-up.

I hope that helps.

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