There’s something about me that you may not know – I operate a network marketing business. Of course, this doesn’t make me especially unique since more than 15.2 million people participated in some form of network marketing (also known as “direct selling”) in 2006, according to the Direct Selling Association (DSA).
I’m sure you’ve either heard of, or been a consumer of, products from network marketing brands like Avon, Mary Kay, Arbonne, Tupperware, Pampered Chef and many more. This $30.8 billion industry (2007) is exploding, and with women representing more than 87% of the sales force, moms have a lot to do with that growth.
Why moms choose network marketing
- Work/life flexibility: The flexibility to set your own hours and work from home is luring for many working moms who struggle to manage a 40-50 work week. A network marketing business is often operated from home with business tools you may already own – a telephone, PC and Internet connection.
- Direct correlation between effort and earnings: Your earning success isn’t determined by an annual salary review, but by the amount of time and effort you’re willing to put into growing your business. Some moms get into network marketing because they want to earn a couple hundreds of dollars for discretionary spending, while others focus on replacing their current salary with the intention of quitting their full-time job.
- Work full-time, part-time and/or along-side a “regular” job: Since you have control over your earning potential, you can choose how often to work your business. The DSA reports that a large majority of people work less than 10 hours a week.
- Low point of entry. Just about anyone can start a network marketing business, regardless of education, experience, location or physical ability. Interestingly enough, the most successful, educated person in the corporate world doesn’t always translate to an overwhelming success in network marketing where the playing field is leveled.
- Receive training and support. Most reputable network marketing companies offer tremendous sales and marketing training to help their representatives succeed. This also means new members have a built-in network of resources and people who have a vested interest in seeing them succeed.
Could Network Marketing be for you?
The network marketing industry definitely isn’t for everyone. Selling, of any form, is usually best-suited for outgoing personalities who are self-motivated and driven to achieve sales goals. Re-consider leaping into the industry if you:
- are inherently shy;
- struggle to make conversation with strangers;
- never ask for what you need or want;
- have a violent fear of rejection;
- are not willing to work the business consistently.
The Ugly
I sometimes joke, “The surest way to get someone to leave me alone is to tell them I’m in network marketing.” Unfortunately, there’s a gray cloud looming over the network marketing industry. Some people mistakenly assert it’s a pyramid scheme, while others run for the hills for fear that I’ll call them incessantly to host an at-home party or get a list of their friend’s phone numbers. I understand the fear. An inexperienced, non-savvy network marketer will burn through their social network in a matter of days, while others use questionable (often wildly annoying) tactics to fill their prospect pipeline. I’d run too. My hope is that as more high-integrity, experienced network marketers and companies enter the scene, the perception will change.
The bottom line: Do Your Homework
Network marketing is not a path to instant wealth. Like anything, it takes diligent effort, a willingness to learn from failure and a passion for the industry and product you’re representing. If you’re thinking about network marketing, please do your homework first by following these initial steps:
- Recognize that any new business, network marketing or otherwise, takes a good 2-3 years to turn a profit; be committed to the long haul;
- Take time to research the industry and the companies you’re considering alongside your personal goals and style (Are they in alignment?);
- Talk to people who are already doing the business and ask lots of questions.
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I used to sell Lingerie for Petra and while I wasn’t as successful as I should have been because I was not willing to put in the time or effort to make it work. I recognize that it was a great opportunity.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by my blog and for your comment! I really like your blog, too. I will have to hang out a bit!!
I personally would never do MLM. I know too many people that lost a lot of money and just weren’t successful at it. But if it works for you that is great!
Thanks for the info. I briefly considered this. However, I am generally “inherently shy”. I guess I always would wonder if I was “bothering” people with my requests. But for some, it is a very successful business. This article could help.
I’m so NOT a sales person…I end up having parties where I give away everything (?!) – I’ve done Mary Kay and Discovery Toys in the past. My husband says that I’m much better at giving stuff away – he thinks “Santa Claus” would be a great job for me!
Thanks for the great post. I haven’t tried Network Marketing but my parents have done it with several companies. I’m not a put yourself out there sales kinda person. Over the internet, on my computer, now that’s me. So which one are you selling?
I’ve been an Avon Representative for 18 years, and I absolutely love it! Selling is easy for me, it’s the recruiting aspect of it I have problems with, because I’m shy.