Over the three plus decades I've been in the MLM / Network Marketing profession, I've learned a few things. Mostly I learned them by making lots of mistakes, but a few I learned from other top income earners. In this article I'm going to share 5 of my favorites. These are not theoretical ideas, but rather things I've done to build several large and lucrative businesses, a couple from which I still earn very nice residual incomes.
The key to these MLM / Network Marketing success tips is that you can't just read them. You have to put them into action in your business. The Bible tells us that we need to be "doers of the word", which means that it's great to read about these five powerful business building tips, but until you become a "doer" nothing will happen. So, I encourage you to study these tips and think about how you can implement them into your business today, this week, this month.
Okay, here we go:
Tip #1: Treat Your Business Like a BIG Business
Treat your MLM / Network Marketing business like you invested a million dollars to get it started, rather than as a hobby you work when you have time and you will see much quicker and bigger success. If you invested in a McDonald's franchise, you would work 15 hours a day for years to recoup your initial investment. The problem with network marketing is that it doesn't require a big investment, so people don't treat it like a big business. Yet, the potential income in network marketing is much higher than with a McDonald's franchise. So, treat your network marketing business like a big business by investing the hours every week to build your network.
Tip #2: Set up a designated business area in your house.
If you can spare a bedroom, do it. If not, at least have a desk in the corner and partition it off for your office. This will help you in two ways. First, you will be able to deduct that area of your home on your taxes. Second, it will help you know when you are working and when you are not. If you have a family, make sure they understand that when you are in your office, you're working and are not to be disturbed except for an emergency. That way you will be able to focus without constant interruptions.
Tip #3: Introduce your business to at least one new person every day.
It could be someone you know (from your warm market list) or someone you meet. If you do this 6 days a week (take Sunday off) and 50 weeks (take 2 off for vacation), you will prospect 300 new people each year. With just a 10% closing ratio, you would add 30 new people to your team each year. Now, imagine if they all did the same. It's as easy as saying, "Say, would you be interested in making some extra money, if it didn't jeopardize what you are doing now?" OR "You seem like a sharp person, do you keep your eyes open for ways to make extra income outside of what you do now for a living?" The key is to find a question that works for you and ask someone new every day.
Tip #4: Do What Business Owners Do
When you join an MLM / Network Marketing company, you are in business, so do what every other business owner does - create a business entity (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation) and get licensed in your state. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS and then set up a separate bank account. All your MLM income and costs should flow through that account. This will keep you legit with the IRS and will give you the right business mindset to achieve success.
Tip #5: Find a coach.
Every athletic team has a coach and every top network marketer had/has a coach. The best coach is an upline leader who has already achieved success in your company. Ask them to devote time each week to coaching you. The key is to do what they say. They've been there, done that, got the t-shirts, so all you have to do is listen and follow. If you join my MLM Tip of the Day list and community on Facebook, you can be part of my exclusive Group Coaching program. Go to www.DailyMLMTips.com and subscribe to the free list or find the MLM Tip of the Day group on Facebook and join or do both.
There you go. Remember, it's one thing to just read through these 5 MLM / Network Marketing success tips and think about them and it's another thing to put them into action in your business. So, I hope you will study them and then become a doer!
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Leads, Leads, Leads
In a recent query of my MLM Tip of the Day list (www.DailyMLMTips.com) I found that one of the biggest challenges network marketers are facing is finding people to sponsor into their business. Not a big shock, as during my 34 years in MLM, this has always been one of the biggest challenges. Now, unlike all the gurus out there, I don't claim to have all the answers or some magical system that produces an unending supply of leads. However, I can give you some time-proven, field-tested ideas that have worked for me and other top income earners. Here we go:
1. The best leads are always people you know, so start there. If you were opening a restaurant or a retail store, you would certainly tell all your family members and friends, wouldn't you? So, why wouldn't you want to tell them about your network marketing business? Particularly when it could completely transform their lives. You are really doing them a disservice by not giving them the opportunity to look and make their own, educated decision, about your business. AND, don't worry about what they are going to say or think, because what you are worrying about very, very rarely ever happens. You are just the messenger, so deliver the message and if they aren't interested, that's okay, move on.
2. The next best leads are people your friends and family know, so make sure you are always asking for referrals. Learn to ask, "who do you know that is highly motivated and would like to make very serious money in the coming years?" If they don't come up with anyone, you can push it a little, "Really, you don't know anyone who would like to make some big time money and save thousands on their annual taxes each year?" "How about some of your friends? Relatives? Business associates? People you go to church with?" If you push a little (not too much or they will get irritated), they will generally come up with someone. Then just ask them to introduce you by phone, text, or email, so you can contact them. If you keep asking the "who do you know" question, you will have a never ending supply of leads. AND that's the truth!
3. The third best leads are people you meet in your local community, so make sure you are always alert to good prospects. You are looking for people who are good workers, have a positive attitude, and relate with other people well. You can find them at restaurants, drive-through windows, banks, grocery stores, department stores, the post office or other shippers, copy centers, office products stores, cellular stores, computer stores, and anywhere else you go. All you have to do is compliment and ask: "You are an excellent worker, would you be open to earning money outside of what you are doing here, if it didn't jeopardize your job?" If "yes" get their name, email, and phone and promise to email info and call to answer questions.
I also encourage you to become a networker. Go to www.MeetUp.com and find meet-up groups in your local area that would be attended by the kind of people you would like to have in your business. If there aren't any, start one. Also, check the internet for lead exchange and networking groups in your local area. The Chamber of Commerce mixers are a great place to meet motivated business people who might want to diversify their income. Finally, look for local seminars, classes, conferences, and trade-shows where you could meet motivated business or salespeople.
4. The fourth best is to generate leads through social media. By posting on Facebook, Linked-In, Twitter, Instagram, and others, you can find people who are interested in starting a home business. The best way to do this is to post beneficial information that relates to a home business - articles about how many people are starting home businesses or about people who have had success in a home business. Also articles about the economy and the need for extra or retirement income. The more value you create, the more people will trust and respect you. When you see people like your posts, private message them to see if they might be interested in a solution (your home business).
5. The fifth best type of lead are those you purchase. You can purchase very highly qualified leads for $3 to $5 each, which might seem like a lot of money per lead, but if they become a solid customer or member of your team, they will be worth a lot more than that and could bring in others with them. I've successfully used this type of lead, but actually I prefer a less expensive lead that I can send into my automated qualification system, which will then produce more highly qualified leads which I can call. There are many lead vendors out there. My preference is MLMLeads.com, as they have great leads and excellent free training.
These are just my favorite 5 ways to generate leads and the methods I have used to build several large networks and a very nice full-time income since 1998. I hope that they will help you do the same. If you have questions, please feel free to contact me. I'm always looking to help other network marketers.
Rod Nichols, www.RodNichols.com
1. The best leads are always people you know, so start there. If you were opening a restaurant or a retail store, you would certainly tell all your family members and friends, wouldn't you? So, why wouldn't you want to tell them about your network marketing business? Particularly when it could completely transform their lives. You are really doing them a disservice by not giving them the opportunity to look and make their own, educated decision, about your business. AND, don't worry about what they are going to say or think, because what you are worrying about very, very rarely ever happens. You are just the messenger, so deliver the message and if they aren't interested, that's okay, move on.
2. The next best leads are people your friends and family know, so make sure you are always asking for referrals. Learn to ask, "who do you know that is highly motivated and would like to make very serious money in the coming years?" If they don't come up with anyone, you can push it a little, "Really, you don't know anyone who would like to make some big time money and save thousands on their annual taxes each year?" "How about some of your friends? Relatives? Business associates? People you go to church with?" If you push a little (not too much or they will get irritated), they will generally come up with someone. Then just ask them to introduce you by phone, text, or email, so you can contact them. If you keep asking the "who do you know" question, you will have a never ending supply of leads. AND that's the truth!
3. The third best leads are people you meet in your local community, so make sure you are always alert to good prospects. You are looking for people who are good workers, have a positive attitude, and relate with other people well. You can find them at restaurants, drive-through windows, banks, grocery stores, department stores, the post office or other shippers, copy centers, office products stores, cellular stores, computer stores, and anywhere else you go. All you have to do is compliment and ask: "You are an excellent worker, would you be open to earning money outside of what you are doing here, if it didn't jeopardize your job?" If "yes" get their name, email, and phone and promise to email info and call to answer questions.
I also encourage you to become a networker. Go to www.MeetUp.com and find meet-up groups in your local area that would be attended by the kind of people you would like to have in your business. If there aren't any, start one. Also, check the internet for lead exchange and networking groups in your local area. The Chamber of Commerce mixers are a great place to meet motivated business people who might want to diversify their income. Finally, look for local seminars, classes, conferences, and trade-shows where you could meet motivated business or salespeople.
4. The fourth best is to generate leads through social media. By posting on Facebook, Linked-In, Twitter, Instagram, and others, you can find people who are interested in starting a home business. The best way to do this is to post beneficial information that relates to a home business - articles about how many people are starting home businesses or about people who have had success in a home business. Also articles about the economy and the need for extra or retirement income. The more value you create, the more people will trust and respect you. When you see people like your posts, private message them to see if they might be interested in a solution (your home business).
5. The fifth best type of lead are those you purchase. You can purchase very highly qualified leads for $3 to $5 each, which might seem like a lot of money per lead, but if they become a solid customer or member of your team, they will be worth a lot more than that and could bring in others with them. I've successfully used this type of lead, but actually I prefer a less expensive lead that I can send into my automated qualification system, which will then produce more highly qualified leads which I can call. There are many lead vendors out there. My preference is MLMLeads.com, as they have great leads and excellent free training.
These are just my favorite 5 ways to generate leads and the methods I have used to build several large networks and a very nice full-time income since 1998. I hope that they will help you do the same. If you have questions, please feel free to contact me. I'm always looking to help other network marketers.
Rod Nichols, www.RodNichols.com
Thursday, June 20, 2013
A Remarkable Business
Patti was a single mother of six children living in a rural
town with a population of only 8,000 and had just lost $75,000 in her
traditional business. She had researched all kinds of traditional businesses
and franchises, but there seemed to be only one type of business that would
enable her to stay home with her children, quickly pay off the debt, and earn a
nice six-figure income within the next five years – network marketing.
Collette was a single mother of five children, of which two
were seriously ill and required regular medical attention. She was deeply in debt and could only work
part-time as a secretary. The medical
bills were piling up and the future looked very bleak. That was when she was introduced to a
fantastic home business by her brother.
At first Collette didn’t think she could be successful, because she had
never operated a business before and had no sales or marketing experience, but
this business was different. It seemed to be her answer from God – network
marketing.
What’s remarkable about network marketing?
The incredible, almost unbelievable stories and these are
just three of the thousands from the network marketing industry. It’s truly a
life altering business and how many other types of businesses can you say will
radically change your life? I certainly haven’t found any others. I mean
really, name me another type of business where a twenty-three year old carpet
installer with an injured shoulder and no money, or a seventy year old butcher,
could become millionaires within a few years. Network marketing is the only
answer.
Oh, here I am ranting and raving about how amazing network
marketing is and you’re probably wondering about Del
Well, Del
Network marketing is the most remarkable business I’ve ever
seen and since I’ve been a business consultant for many years and have
thoroughly researched thousands of businesses, that’s quite a statement. It’s
the only business I’ve ever seen that enables the average person, regardless of
age, gender, financial situation, past experience, education, knowledge, or
even language, to start a business with little to no money and in a few short
years are living the lifestyle of the rich and famous.
Can anyone be successful in network marketing?
Since my entry into the industry in 1979, I’ve had the good
fortune to interview hundreds of the top income earners and I can honestly say
that “YES” anyone can be successful in network marketing. Now, don’t stone me.
I didn’t say that everyone would be successful; I just said that everyone could
be successful, because I’ve seen people from all walks of life achieve high
levels of success in network marketing.
I don’t believe that
anything in this world is perfect, but network marketing is as close to the
perfect business as I think you will ever find. If you’re looking for a
business, you will find nothing better than network marketing – low start-up
investment, proven turn-key system, high quality products and services,
outstanding training and support, quick compensation, movable, unlimited growth,
no employees, very little overhead, can be operated from home either part- or
full-time, and produces long-term residual income, just to name a few reasons
why you should seriously investigate this truly remarkable business.
If you are currently in network marketing or were sometime
in the past and have never been successful, perhaps you picked the wrong
company, product/service, compensation plan, timing, or upline. Many people get
into the first network marketing company that comes along, without doing any
research or due diligence. Uncle Joe, who doesn’t have any money and has never
owned a business, shows you a network marketing company and it must be good,
right? I don’t think so. Not every company is right for every person. You’ve
got to find the right one for you.
However, once you find the right company, then there is just
one secret to success – WORK! I know, you were hoping for that get rich quick
deal – well get over it – they don’t exist. Network marketing is a real
business and it requires work – prospecting for people interested in your
products/services or business, presentations, answering questions and handling
objections, follow-up, sponsoring, training, and supporting. If you do these
things and treat it like a real business, in time, you will be successful.
Who knows, perhaps some day you will be like Del
Friday, April 26, 2013
Join the 3%
Watch this short video and learn why it's so important to move away from the 97% and join the 3%. I've spent over three decades studying success and business; the only way I've found for the average person to move from the 97% to the 3% is through network marketing. So, the first step is to join a good network marketing company. Then, it's to do what is necessary to succeed, so you can live the life of your dreams. As Jim Rohn says, it's also easy not to do those things, but that will result in you living a life as a 97%er. Your choice!
If you haven't found a good network marketing business and a mentor who really cares about you and your success, go to www.RodNichols.com and check me and my business out. I'd love to work with you to help you join the 3% and live the life of your dreams! - Rod Nichols
Friday, March 29, 2013
How to Keep Your Downline
As a veteran network marketer, top income earner, author, coach, and speaker, the most common question I hear and the biggest challenge faced by most network marketers is how to keep your downline. During my first 15 years in this great profession, this was a major challenge for me and my answer was always to sponsor more people. In one company I personally sponsored over 150 people and never earned a full-time income. It wasn't until I learned how to keep those I enrolled that I started making a big time income.
Here are the three things I do (and the other top income earners do) to keep my downline:
1. Help them earn money quickly - My first goal with a new member is to help them earn enough to cover their monthly product purchase. Next is to help them earn $500 above their product cost. At this point, they can't afford to leave. Finally, I want to help them earn enough to quit their job and enjoy true freedom. So, your first step is to work with an upline leader to figure out what a new person would have to do to earn their monthly product for free, make an extra $500 per month, and develop incomes of $50,000, $100,000, and $200,000.
2. Get them hooked on your products/services - This way at the very least, they will be a product/service user for life. First, is to make sure they have a personal experience. Second, provide them with information that shows why your product/service is unique, proprietary, patented, exclusive, and better than all the competitors. Third, help them introduce your products/services to their friends and family, so they can build an array of testimonials from people they know.
3. Recognize them - Most people go through life feeling underappreciated. You, as their sponsor and upline leader, have a chance to change that. Recognize them for the smallest of things - attending a meeting/conference call/webinar, making their list, setting up their company web site, going through the company training program, contacting their first person, setting up their first 3-way call, enrolling their first customer/member/distributor, achieving their first rank advancement, and so on. People will often do more for recognition, than they will for money, so recognize them often.
If you do these three things consistantly, you will retain a much higher percentage of your team. Don't get discouraged when some still quit. Remember that this business is only for those who are willing to do the work to succeed. If they aren't willing to do the work, there is nothing you can do for them. Wish them well, let them go, and focus on those who are putting out the effort. The result will be a solid and loyal team.
============================================================================
Rod Nichols has been involved in the network marketing profession since 1979 as a company founder/operator, distributor, coach, trainer, speaker, and author. Several of his books have been industry best sellers and he has trained tens of thousands of people on how to be successful in network marketing. Recently he was featured in Better Networker's The Definitive Guide to Home Business Success - http://jvz6.com/c/79637/23465. He is also the publisher of The MLM Tip of the Day - www.DailyMLMTips.com. For more information about Rod, go to www.RodNichols.com.
Here are the three things I do (and the other top income earners do) to keep my downline:
1. Help them earn money quickly - My first goal with a new member is to help them earn enough to cover their monthly product purchase. Next is to help them earn $500 above their product cost. At this point, they can't afford to leave. Finally, I want to help them earn enough to quit their job and enjoy true freedom. So, your first step is to work with an upline leader to figure out what a new person would have to do to earn their monthly product for free, make an extra $500 per month, and develop incomes of $50,000, $100,000, and $200,000.
2. Get them hooked on your products/services - This way at the very least, they will be a product/service user for life. First, is to make sure they have a personal experience. Second, provide them with information that shows why your product/service is unique, proprietary, patented, exclusive, and better than all the competitors. Third, help them introduce your products/services to their friends and family, so they can build an array of testimonials from people they know.
3. Recognize them - Most people go through life feeling underappreciated. You, as their sponsor and upline leader, have a chance to change that. Recognize them for the smallest of things - attending a meeting/conference call/webinar, making their list, setting up their company web site, going through the company training program, contacting their first person, setting up their first 3-way call, enrolling their first customer/member/distributor, achieving their first rank advancement, and so on. People will often do more for recognition, than they will for money, so recognize them often.
If you do these three things consistantly, you will retain a much higher percentage of your team. Don't get discouraged when some still quit. Remember that this business is only for those who are willing to do the work to succeed. If they aren't willing to do the work, there is nothing you can do for them. Wish them well, let them go, and focus on those who are putting out the effort. The result will be a solid and loyal team.
============================================================================
Rod Nichols has been involved in the network marketing profession since 1979 as a company founder/operator, distributor, coach, trainer, speaker, and author. Several of his books have been industry best sellers and he has trained tens of thousands of people on how to be successful in network marketing. Recently he was featured in Better Networker's The Definitive Guide to Home Business Success - http://jvz6.com/c/79637/23465. He is also the publisher of The MLM Tip of the Day - www.DailyMLMTips.com. For more information about Rod, go to www.RodNichols.com.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
MLM & the Top 50 Article Directories by Rod Nichols
A great way to build your network marketing / MLM business is to become an expert. Normally, to become an expert, you would have to invest years into your craft, but today, because of the magnitude of the internet, you can become an expert within a couple months. Here are 2 steps that will help establish you as an expert in network marketing / MLM:
1. Write 10 articles about network marketing and include an offer for free information by linking to your web page.
2. Submit these 10 articles individually to the top 50 article directories:
1. Write 10 articles about network marketing and include an offer for free information by linking to your web page.
2. Submit these 10 articles individually to the top 50 article directories:
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Coach Your Leaders
I was introduced to network marketing/multi-level marketing in 1979 and for the first 10 years I was a miserable failure. I did just about everything that a person could do wrong and very few of the right things. One of the reasons for this was that I didn't receive any coaching. I was always sponsored by a friend or someone who didn't know any more about succeeding in network marketing than I did. I didn't achieve any success until I started receiving regular coaching from successful upline mentors.
Now that I am a successful upline mentor, I intentionally reach out to my leaders (even those I haven't personally sponsored) and offer regular coaching calls or meetings. I don't want them to have to suffer for 10 years, like I did. Instead, I want them to see a high level of success within the first 2 years and the only way that can happen is if they have someone to guide them through the MLM minefields that deter most people.
During these weekly or every other week coaching calls, I help them uncover their compelling why, set goals, create a plan to reach those goals, and a weekly schedule that will keep them committed to their business. In the following calls, I hold them accountable to the activities they have scheduled and to the achievement of their goals within the set time lines. We also talk about their contacts during the preceding week and I coach them on how to handle situations, objections, questions, or anything else that becomes a barrier to the person enrolling. I strive to help my downline members become better with each new contact.
I also use these coaching times to build relationship. I want to know about the rest of their life - where they work, what they do, family, friends, hobbies, successes and struggles. I keep notes on my leaders, so I can remember to ask them about things that are going on. I care and want them to know that they are not just a cog in the machine or a number in the system. They are important to me and I want them to not only be successful in their business, but also in their lives. Sometimes I even do some coaching on marriages, relationships, health issues, mental struggles, and more. I'm looking to build whole, healthy people, not just successful downline members.
Eventually, these leaders, or up and coming leaders, will outgrow me and go on to coach their own leaders. The cycle repeats down throughout the team, creating a network of loyal, highly trained members who are enjoying success in their businesses and life. This is how you build a strong organization and life-long residual income.
I started this coaching system back in 1995 and built an organization into the thousands that is still intact today, even though I retired from that business in 2001. Consequently, I still earn a significant annual residual income from that business. I am now replicating that system with a new company and in just 2 years have already built a solid network of over 3,000 members and a six figure income and I'm nothing special. I'm basically introverted and don't sponsor a lot of people. I'm just good at building leaders and now that you have my strategy, you can too!
====================================================================================
Rod Nichols has been involved in the network marketing/MLM industry since 1979 as a company founder/owner, consultant, trainer, coach, mentor, distributor, and author. He has been a top leader and built large networks with three MLM businesses and earns a full-time residual income from two of those and is a top income earner in his current company. He is also the industry best-selling author of Successful Network Marketing for the 21st Century, Would You Like to Dig in My Goldmine?, The Ideal Business, and The Twelve Power Secrets for Network Marketing Success. Rod is known as a nuts and bolts trainer and has trained over 10,000 people in the MLM profession. For more information about Rod, visit his web site at www.RodNichols.com or e-mail at Rod@RodNichols.com
Now that I am a successful upline mentor, I intentionally reach out to my leaders (even those I haven't personally sponsored) and offer regular coaching calls or meetings. I don't want them to have to suffer for 10 years, like I did. Instead, I want them to see a high level of success within the first 2 years and the only way that can happen is if they have someone to guide them through the MLM minefields that deter most people.
During these weekly or every other week coaching calls, I help them uncover their compelling why, set goals, create a plan to reach those goals, and a weekly schedule that will keep them committed to their business. In the following calls, I hold them accountable to the activities they have scheduled and to the achievement of their goals within the set time lines. We also talk about their contacts during the preceding week and I coach them on how to handle situations, objections, questions, or anything else that becomes a barrier to the person enrolling. I strive to help my downline members become better with each new contact.
I also use these coaching times to build relationship. I want to know about the rest of their life - where they work, what they do, family, friends, hobbies, successes and struggles. I keep notes on my leaders, so I can remember to ask them about things that are going on. I care and want them to know that they are not just a cog in the machine or a number in the system. They are important to me and I want them to not only be successful in their business, but also in their lives. Sometimes I even do some coaching on marriages, relationships, health issues, mental struggles, and more. I'm looking to build whole, healthy people, not just successful downline members.
Eventually, these leaders, or up and coming leaders, will outgrow me and go on to coach their own leaders. The cycle repeats down throughout the team, creating a network of loyal, highly trained members who are enjoying success in their businesses and life. This is how you build a strong organization and life-long residual income.
I started this coaching system back in 1995 and built an organization into the thousands that is still intact today, even though I retired from that business in 2001. Consequently, I still earn a significant annual residual income from that business. I am now replicating that system with a new company and in just 2 years have already built a solid network of over 3,000 members and a six figure income and I'm nothing special. I'm basically introverted and don't sponsor a lot of people. I'm just good at building leaders and now that you have my strategy, you can too!
====================================================================================
Rod Nichols has been involved in the network marketing/MLM industry since 1979 as a company founder/owner, consultant, trainer, coach, mentor, distributor, and author. He has been a top leader and built large networks with three MLM businesses and earns a full-time residual income from two of those and is a top income earner in his current company. He is also the industry best-selling author of Successful Network Marketing for the 21st Century, Would You Like to Dig in My Goldmine?, The Ideal Business, and The Twelve Power Secrets for Network Marketing Success. Rod is known as a nuts and bolts trainer and has trained over 10,000 people in the MLM profession. For more information about Rod, visit his web site at www.RodNichols.com or e-mail at Rod@RodNichols.com
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
There's Power in the 3-Way
In my 31 years of network marketing, I've had the opportunity to work with and interview hundreds of the industries top leaders. I too am one of those top leaders, having built two large networks with large full-time residual incomes. We have all built our businesses at different paces and using different methods. However, the one thing I know that we have all used to build our businesses is the 3-way call.
The unfortunate fact, is that even though 3 way calls is one of the keys to the success of most top leaders, distributors are not doing 3-way calls. In a recent meeting of approximately 50 distributors, I asked how many were doing weekly 3-way calls with upline or downline and only one person put up his hand. I also know from talking with other leaders that their downlines are effectively using this amazing business-building tool.
If the 3-way call is so important, why don't more distributors do them? I believe it is because they are afraid the prospect will feel "ganged up on" and will be offended. Since many of these calls are to friends and family members, this feeling overrides the potential for success. The distributor would rather have the call fail, than to do a 3-way call with the upline.
Personally, I think that distributors are getting the wrong impression about 3-way calls, because we (upline) are not explaining the methodology and benefits properly. So, here goes.
First, let's talk about the best way to make a 3-way call. Now, for my disclaimer. I am not saying that this is the absolute and only way to make a 3-way call. If your upline has a standard way of doing calls, than that's the way to go. If not, give this a try:
If you are making 3-way calls with your upline, the reason you have your upline on the phone is not to hammer on the prospect or as the heavy closer, but rather so between the two of you the prospect can get all of his/her questions answered. Also, so that your company can be presented in the best possible way and your prospect can make an educated decision.
Here's how the call might go:
The distributor calls upline and discusses the call prior to the appointed time. Distributor puts upline on hold by depressing the "flash" or "conference" button on their phone.The distributor should get a couple quick tones and then a regular dial tone or the opportunity to dial the next number on a cell phone, at which point he/she can dial the prospects number. When it starts ringing, press the flash key or hook button again to re-connect the upline or on a cell phone, let it connect and then join the calls. Here is the dialog when the prospect answers:
Distributor: John, hi this is Rod. I'm calling to follow-up on that information that I (sent/dropped off to) you. I have on the phone with me one of my business partners, Steve has been very successful in this business and is a really great guy. I've got Steve on the phone because I'm relatively new and I thought you would have some great questions that I couldn't answer. John this is (upline).
At this point the upline will take over the call and your job is to listen, take notes, and learn. Here is what the upline might say:
Upline: Hi John. How are you this evening? Are we catching you at a good time? Great! We appreciate you taking the time to talk with us. First I want you to know that I am strictly here to answer questions, fill in the gaps, and help provide the information you need to make a good decision. This is a very important decision and our job is to provide you with sufficient information to make an educated decision. The one favor I need to ask you is that you not say yes or no until you have received enough information to thoroughly research this business and make a good decision. Will you do that for us? Thanks! Now, did you get some time to review the information that Bob sent you?
From here the upline is going to handle the call as he/she feels fit, but it will be a very comfortable call for all involved.
Now, if you are doing the calls with your downline, you should follow the script for the upline, which will help make them more comfortable with the calls.
We recommend that every new distributor do at least thirty 3-way calls before they start talking with people on their own or doing 3-ways with their downline. After thirty calls the distributor will have heard all the main objections and questions, plus the answers. The best way to do these thirty calls is to have the upline do all of the call on the first 10. During the second 10, the distributor should do the first part of the call with the upline handling objections or answering questions. The new distributor should do all of the calls on the third 10 with the upline on for back-up.
Following you will find examples of how the 2nd and 3rd sets of calls might go.
2nd Set of 3-Way Calls:
Distributor: John, hi this is Rod. I'm calling to follow-up on that information that I (sent/dropped off to) you. I have on the phone with me one of my business partners (upline's name), who is here because I am relatively new and I thought you would have some great questions that I couldn't answer. John this is (upline). (upline and prospect say hi, then you continue) John, first off, is this a good time to talk? (If yes, continue) Did you have a chance to review the information? (If yes, continue) (If no, set a time to call again) Excellent! What did you (see/hear) that you liked best or grabbed your attention? (reinforce what they liked and keep asking for more until they run out)
Seems like you had a few things that you liked about our program. So, what questions can we answer? (upline will now help with answers)
3rd Set of 3-Way Calls:
Use the same script as in the 2nd set, except that the distributor will answer questions and call in the upline only when he/she gets stuck.
3-way calls are not only effective for quick and efficient sponsoring, but it is also a great training tool. A new distributor will learn much more by listening in on some calls then by you telling them what to do.
Now for the benefits of 3-way calls:
Distributor - fewer negative calls, better closing ratios, build network quicker.
Upline - opportunity to train, help new distributor get checks quicker, build own network.
Prospect - opportunity to hear different perspectives on the business, get all questions answered, make a good decision.
3-way calls are a win-win-win opportunity and a critical part of every success story in network marketing, so if you aren't already a leader in your company, start doing 3-way calls with your upline and if you are a leader, start doing 3-way calls with your downline. Either way, if you do this, you will see your network grow and your checks skyrocket!
The unfortunate fact, is that even though 3 way calls is one of the keys to the success of most top leaders, distributors are not doing 3-way calls. In a recent meeting of approximately 50 distributors, I asked how many were doing weekly 3-way calls with upline or downline and only one person put up his hand. I also know from talking with other leaders that their downlines are effectively using this amazing business-building tool.
If the 3-way call is so important, why don't more distributors do them? I believe it is because they are afraid the prospect will feel "ganged up on" and will be offended. Since many of these calls are to friends and family members, this feeling overrides the potential for success. The distributor would rather have the call fail, than to do a 3-way call with the upline.
Personally, I think that distributors are getting the wrong impression about 3-way calls, because we (upline) are not explaining the methodology and benefits properly. So, here goes.
First, let's talk about the best way to make a 3-way call. Now, for my disclaimer. I am not saying that this is the absolute and only way to make a 3-way call. If your upline has a standard way of doing calls, than that's the way to go. If not, give this a try:
If you are making 3-way calls with your upline, the reason you have your upline on the phone is not to hammer on the prospect or as the heavy closer, but rather so between the two of you the prospect can get all of his/her questions answered. Also, so that your company can be presented in the best possible way and your prospect can make an educated decision.
Here's how the call might go:
The distributor calls upline and discusses the call prior to the appointed time. Distributor puts upline on hold by depressing the "flash" or "conference" button on their phone.The distributor should get a couple quick tones and then a regular dial tone or the opportunity to dial the next number on a cell phone, at which point he/she can dial the prospects number. When it starts ringing, press the flash key or hook button again to re-connect the upline or on a cell phone, let it connect and then join the calls. Here is the dialog when the prospect answers:
Distributor: John, hi this is Rod. I'm calling to follow-up on that information that I (sent/dropped off to) you. I have on the phone with me one of my business partners, Steve has been very successful in this business and is a really great guy. I've got Steve on the phone because I'm relatively new and I thought you would have some great questions that I couldn't answer. John this is (upline).
At this point the upline will take over the call and your job is to listen, take notes, and learn. Here is what the upline might say:
Upline: Hi John. How are you this evening? Are we catching you at a good time? Great! We appreciate you taking the time to talk with us. First I want you to know that I am strictly here to answer questions, fill in the gaps, and help provide the information you need to make a good decision. This is a very important decision and our job is to provide you with sufficient information to make an educated decision. The one favor I need to ask you is that you not say yes or no until you have received enough information to thoroughly research this business and make a good decision. Will you do that for us? Thanks! Now, did you get some time to review the information that Bob sent you?
From here the upline is going to handle the call as he/she feels fit, but it will be a very comfortable call for all involved.
Now, if you are doing the calls with your downline, you should follow the script for the upline, which will help make them more comfortable with the calls.
We recommend that every new distributor do at least thirty 3-way calls before they start talking with people on their own or doing 3-ways with their downline. After thirty calls the distributor will have heard all the main objections and questions, plus the answers. The best way to do these thirty calls is to have the upline do all of the call on the first 10. During the second 10, the distributor should do the first part of the call with the upline handling objections or answering questions. The new distributor should do all of the calls on the third 10 with the upline on for back-up.
Following you will find examples of how the 2nd and 3rd sets of calls might go.
2nd Set of 3-Way Calls:
Distributor: John, hi this is Rod. I'm calling to follow-up on that information that I (sent/dropped off to) you. I have on the phone with me one of my business partners (upline's name), who is here because I am relatively new and I thought you would have some great questions that I couldn't answer. John this is (upline). (upline and prospect say hi, then you continue) John, first off, is this a good time to talk? (If yes, continue) Did you have a chance to review the information? (If yes, continue) (If no, set a time to call again) Excellent! What did you (see/hear) that you liked best or grabbed your attention? (reinforce what they liked and keep asking for more until they run out)
Seems like you had a few things that you liked about our program. So, what questions can we answer? (upline will now help with answers)
3rd Set of 3-Way Calls:
Use the same script as in the 2nd set, except that the distributor will answer questions and call in the upline only when he/she gets stuck.
3-way calls are not only effective for quick and efficient sponsoring, but it is also a great training tool. A new distributor will learn much more by listening in on some calls then by you telling them what to do.
Now for the benefits of 3-way calls:
Distributor - fewer negative calls, better closing ratios, build network quicker.
Upline - opportunity to train, help new distributor get checks quicker, build own network.
Prospect - opportunity to hear different perspectives on the business, get all questions answered, make a good decision.
3-way calls are a win-win-win opportunity and a critical part of every success story in network marketing, so if you aren't already a leader in your company, start doing 3-way calls with your upline and if you are a leader, start doing 3-way calls with your downline. Either way, if you do this, you will see your network grow and your checks skyrocket!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Building During the Holidays
Throughout my 31 years in network marketing, it always amazed me that my slowest time of business was from Thanksgiving to New Years. Now, I fully understand that here in the U.S. we go on a mental Christmas break during that time, but what never made sense is why people didn’t use the natural networking opportunities to build their businesses. I always had great success during this time of year and I hope you will use these ideas to do the same.
First, there are all the Christmas/holiday parties. Instead of hanging around in the corner or by the food table, why not engage with people and find out how things are going in their lives. Find out what they do for a living and how things are going at their job or in their business. Look for pain areas – working too many hours, not making enough money, being taken advantage of, dead end job, business not doing well, etc. It’s very possible your network marketing business just might be the solution for these pain areas. You can also find out about their family – kids, how many, their activities, etc. Again, look for pain areas. This is also a great time to make comments about all the money spent during the holidays and see how they respond, looking for pain areas. Ask if they are going anywhere for the holidays or do they have any great vacations upcoming. All of these discussion areas will help you to build rapport and then present your business as a solution to the pain areas.
Second, are the shopping trips and all the sales clerks. When you find someone who is really doing a great job, compliment them and then say something like, “As good a worker as you are, you must get paid a lot of money to work here.” After the get up off the floor, you can say something like “I’m always on the look out for people who have a good work ethic. I’m a recruiter for a national/multi-national company that is expanding into the area. People just like you are earning a lot of money and enjoying time freedom. I’d really enjoy talking with you further, if you are interested?” If they respond with yes or what’s it all about, say “This obviously isn’t the right time to have a discussion like this, so if you would write your name and phone number, I’ll give you a call.” Here are two of my businesses cards. Please keep one and write your name and phone number on the other. Thanks.”
Third, are those holiday letters and Christmas cards sent out to family and friends. Why not include a promotional piece or information about your business. You never know who might be interested in your products/services or business or both. How can people do business with you if they don’t know you’re in business? Get the word out and watch your business grow.
This is a great season to build your business. If you use these ideas and pass these on to your downline, your business won’t decrease like so many others, your business will prosper.
First, there are all the Christmas/holiday parties. Instead of hanging around in the corner or by the food table, why not engage with people and find out how things are going in their lives. Find out what they do for a living and how things are going at their job or in their business. Look for pain areas – working too many hours, not making enough money, being taken advantage of, dead end job, business not doing well, etc. It’s very possible your network marketing business just might be the solution for these pain areas. You can also find out about their family – kids, how many, their activities, etc. Again, look for pain areas. This is also a great time to make comments about all the money spent during the holidays and see how they respond, looking for pain areas. Ask if they are going anywhere for the holidays or do they have any great vacations upcoming. All of these discussion areas will help you to build rapport and then present your business as a solution to the pain areas.
Second, are the shopping trips and all the sales clerks. When you find someone who is really doing a great job, compliment them and then say something like, “As good a worker as you are, you must get paid a lot of money to work here.” After the get up off the floor, you can say something like “I’m always on the look out for people who have a good work ethic. I’m a recruiter for a national/multi-national company that is expanding into the area. People just like you are earning a lot of money and enjoying time freedom. I’d really enjoy talking with you further, if you are interested?” If they respond with yes or what’s it all about, say “This obviously isn’t the right time to have a discussion like this, so if you would write your name and phone number, I’ll give you a call.” Here are two of my businesses cards. Please keep one and write your name and phone number on the other. Thanks.”
Third, are those holiday letters and Christmas cards sent out to family and friends. Why not include a promotional piece or information about your business. You never know who might be interested in your products/services or business or both. How can people do business with you if they don’t know you’re in business? Get the word out and watch your business grow.
This is a great season to build your business. If you use these ideas and pass these on to your downline, your business won’t decrease like so many others, your business will prosper.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Part or Full Time?
Network marketing can be a very exciting business. Most people start part-time and may at times consider going full-time. Watching others, who are working their business full-time, making big money can be a real motivator. Dynamic meetings can also get you thinking that you would rather be working your business full-time than making your boss rich.
Going full-time is a critical move. It can make or break your business, so do not take the decision lightly. First, you must be with a company that you feel for certain will be around for years to come. Second, you must have gained enough knowledge that you can spend the majority of your time sponsoring and retailing (making money). Third, you should have either 6 months of your current income in the bank or your network marketing income should equal what you need to survive each month. Fourth, you should be prepared mentally for self-employment. It takes a great deal of self-motivation to work your business every day, rather than go play and hope the business builds itself.
This will surely lead to financial ruin.
I would also suggest that, prior to going full-time, you spend some days with someone who is. Experience what they are doing, so you can have a realistic picture of what you will need to do. The more your prepare, before making the big jump, the better your chances of success.
Going full-time is a critical move. It can make or break your business, so do not take the decision lightly. First, you must be with a company that you feel for certain will be around for years to come. Second, you must have gained enough knowledge that you can spend the majority of your time sponsoring and retailing (making money). Third, you should have either 6 months of your current income in the bank or your network marketing income should equal what you need to survive each month. Fourth, you should be prepared mentally for self-employment. It takes a great deal of self-motivation to work your business every day, rather than go play and hope the business builds itself.
This will surely lead to financial ruin.
I would also suggest that, prior to going full-time, you spend some days with someone who is. Experience what they are doing, so you can have a realistic picture of what you will need to do. The more your prepare, before making the big jump, the better your chances of success.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
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