Monday, September 10, 2012

The Different Types of Network Marketers

You know in some circles if you go around telling people you are involved in network marketing you would be considered a leper. But for many of us who have gone past the stage of what will my family or friends think, you are more than likely either making some money or alot of money in the network marketing industry. After spending the last 5 years involved in the industry and now making a full-time income as a network marketing trainer and even a distributor, I can now declare myself an expert on the field of network marketing which we also call - MLM, Multi-level Marketing, referral marketing, direct sales, and relationship marketing. Some call it a pyramid, but that's a subject for another blog.

Most legitimate network marketing companies have strict guidelines enforced to keep them compliant, so they won't face any heat from any of The Federal Trade Commissions and if they are smart they would be members of The Direct Selling Industry.

I have also found that there are several different types of personalities involved in the network marketing industry and have broken them down based on what I have seen - Good or Bad - it is what it is. So here we go:

The Newbie - This is someone who has never done network marketing, they like the idea of creating extra income and will usually only do well early on if they follow a system. Statistically speaking most people in MLM take a few rodeos, before they many any money, but many newbies find success right away. It usually depends on 3 factors - ability to follow system, sphere of influence, and work ethic. With all 3 your newbie could be your next MLM Superstar.

The Loyalist - These people typically will follow others and if you say the product is great, they will believe you. They are some of your most loyal distributors and will always attend events and more than likely use and share the products. These folks just like being a part of something bigger than them, and it isn't so much about the money. They get their product for free or make an extra $100 to $1500 per month. Most people in MLM fall into this category if they have been with a company for more than 90 Days and are more dedicated than the failure or the customer. Some of these folks move onto MLM Superstar Status, or just become loyal customers.

The MLM Junkie - These people usually don't stay at a company long enough to make any money, but will always be looking for the next big deal. They are like gamblers who never win, but never quit. I think they are just addicted to the idea that network marketing will one day pay off for them. And sure they get a few wins here and there, but they never make any real money that lasts for more than a few months. They are always looking to win that lottery and never put the blinders on.

The Shark - This guy or gal is a recruiting machine and will generally bug you until you say YES. They don't take NO for an answer. And as soon as you give them your credit card, you never hear from them again. They are usually pushy salespeople types who have no idea how or want to help other people. They are in it for a quick buck and will never make big money long term, but will tear it up short term. A few may get lucky and even sponsor a big hitter.

The MLM Failure- This person has never made a dime in MLM. They simply join a company and look for the easy way to do it and try to re-invent the wheel. These people usually suffer from paralysis by analysis and will give you every reason why they don't prospect, but can quote every top notch network marketer by name and have probably spent more money on seminars and books then most do on a college degrees, but they miss the 2nd most important component - that you must work. Some will get it and move on to the loyalist or MLM Superstar category.

The One-time MLM Superstar - These are the guys who have had prior success in a company and want everyone to know about it. They are probably well-known in the industry and haven't had any success in quite awhile, they may even be BROKE. They are usually looking for a deal. They won't join an MLM without some up-front money as they usually need it, due to their financial situation being so bad. Most resent these networkers for getting a deal, but that's the way the biz goes. Personally, from experience I would never pay anyone to join my MLM Business, but you generally can't recruit these guys unless you offer them something.

The MLM Star - These are the ones who make a full-time income in MLM. They have generally had success outside of network marketing, so they just use their previous success to build their business. This would be a celebrity, athlete, public speaker, realtor, mayor, pastor, etc.. People flock to these people because of their professions, credibility, or fame. These people can build an MLM effortlessly, but in most cases won't quit their profession for it. But you want these guys on your team - they will BUILD Large in most cases, at least recruit a ton.

The MLM Superstar - These are the ones who somehow hit the 3% of our industry. They are gifted, disciplined, and love helping others. They never quit, although I am sure most wanted to at some point in their careers. They probably did not see success early on at the same rate as The MLM Star, but they are the ones you generally see walking the stage - getting awards, car bonuses, and checks. These people generally make a full-time income in MLM and/or a ton of money (6 & 7 Figure Income Earners). Most of these folks have been in the industry for more than 3 to 5 years and probably learned from getting bruised up in one of the other categories. They are generally good people with big hearts, but still many in this category are self serving.

Well there you have the different types of individuals that make up The Network Marketing Profession. I'm sure there are others, but these are the ones that come to mind.