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Originally Posted by TMoney
so in other words not lookin to good from your perspective. Thanks for your input.
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Well I admit I am not too fond of MLMs. But that's largely because I have yet to meet one that I actually like.
In fact, here's
my latest rant on it at the time of this writing.
But, to be perfectly fair, I don't see anything inherently wrong with the direct/network marketing model if it actually conducts honest, sound business. The unfortunate fact is that many (perhaps most) does not. For example:
1. As mentioned in my link, I was propositioned by a loan-based MLM. Making commissions based on loans. Think about that for a moment. You basically benefit by encouraging other people to go into as deep in debt as possible. It may not be illegal, but it certainly puts a bad taste in my mouth.
2. Another co-worker of mine is involved in a travel agency MLM. Here, the problem doesn't lie in the core products/services. Rather, it was the business model. Specifically, they make you buy a version of their own website. Why do we need to do that? Doesn't it make more sense to establish a one-stop shop? The answer becomes painfully obvious when you look at the startup cost: $500 for them to set it up for you(!) AND $50 a month to maintain it! Please take a few seconds and let that sink in for a moment.
3. Another friend of mine was involved in a MLM that sold health aids and beauty products. The main draw? Special ionized ginseng tonics that can be used for anything under the sun, from healthier skin to improved virility. Seriously! He lost $6,000 before our fair city sued that "company" for fraud, and was ultimately banned from doing business here.
When people are considering MLMs, I hope they will ask themselves one simple question: Why are they trying to woo you so hard? The reason is simple: They are actually selling TWO products, not one. The first is a core product / service, and really, it could be anything under the sun. The second is that they are selling you a dream. They are preying on your ego, enticing you with hopes of quick, easy money. Yes, it's may be possible for some... but if you want the real truth, all you have to do is look at how YOUR hard-earned money is leaving your pocket and going into theirs. Remember, you're not just a potential "business partner". You're also their customer! That is the inherent nature of MLMs.
But let me end this tirade with some balance. As I mentioned in the beginning, I DO think that it is possible for MLMs to do honest business. In the end, it's just a more elaborate version of a door-to-door salesman, and really, there's nothing wrong with that.
However, as both a potential business partner as well as a customer, we need to put on our business hat and suit, and look at this with objectivity and critical thinking. If they want to do busines, let's do business! If they want to talk shop, let's talk shop! Don't let their flowery sales pitch fool you.
Look at what they are selling. Is it a good, honest product?
Look at how they are structured. Is it a good, honest networking model?
Look at what you are investing in. Is it actually a viable investment for your own hard-earned money?
Then decide if it can work for you. And I honestly do believe that it can work for some.
But whatever it is, don't let them insult your intelligence. Be that savvy business man that they claim you are. Listen to everything, weigh everything, then decide if MLMs are actually right for you.