Should You invest in Network Marketing?

Last week I was approached with an opportunity to join a network marketing program. This wasn’t the first time the idea has been presented to me. Ever since I was 18 people have tried to recruit me or present their MLM (multilevel marketing) businesses to me. I believe people recognize the “entrepreneurial spirit” within me and that’s typically all that’s needed to get them excited. I sent the person an email thanking them for the opportunity and declined the offer humbly.

I’ve always been willing to listen or review information regarding MLM businesses, but I will never join one. Why? In my opinion they’re bad investments of time, money, relationships, and vision. Through this series we’ll explore my stance on the issues of network marketing/MLM from a biblical and practical perspective. We’ll also take a look at some of the benefits of starting in a network marketing company from the perspectives of people that are making it work for them. I’ve also reached out to the Twitter and Facebook communities to see where everyone’s head is on the subject. It’s my goal that you walk away with a greater understanding of multilevel marketing and are able to take your own stance of whether or not it’s worth your investment.

There are many people that will either agree or disagree with what I’m about to share. I welcome all opinions on the topic as long as they’re constructive, educational, are mature in nature, or add value to the overall conversation.

Just to be absolutely clear, I will present facts, testimonies, and opinions that will support both sides of the equation. I’m not going to tell you to swing one way or the other. You’re going to have to make up your own mind on that one. So, as we venture down this two-way road, which way are you initially headed? Do you think network marketing is worth investing your time, energy, and money in? Are you currently working in a MLM or network marketing business? Sound off in the comments below!

Head on over to the next part of this series, What is Network Marketing?

Disclaimer: We will never share your email address with anyone, period.

About The Author

Rod Kirby

Rod Kirby helps entrepreneurs, small business owners, and organizations take advantage of social media marketing and new media through his company, Kirby Enterprises. Follow Rod on Twitter here.

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http://twitter.com/Vetashep Veta Shepherd

Nice article!! My husband I have been involved in several MLM pursuits-Web TV, Primerica, BrainGarden(whole foods), some premium purfume company, etc. We have always looked at our likes and dislikes and tried what fulfilled our needs and then got involved and shared it with those who had simular needs.

The best one that we have stayed with has been Prepaid Legal. We have seen tremendous personal benefits with it and it seems not to be as high pressured as the others. I'm not a sales person. I'm more of a I like this, check it out to see if you like it too. And that works for me with Prepaid Legal because its like offering an “HMO” of legal services for an affordable rate with quality lawyers in all fifty states. I'm the sceptic in the family when it comes to getting into MLM ventures but this one has made sense to me. It is a small investment that has a quick return and just a matter of “I saw a sale on a great dress” type of sharing info through DVDs, brochures, and plenty of personal help. Its a fit for me and my husband.
http://www.rodkirby.com Rod

Hey, Veta, thank you for voicing your opinion. I'm loving the different perspectives on the whole network marketing industry. Glad it's worked out for you!
http://www.thebusinessgame.co.uk Tony Thornley

Thanks for posting Rod….I think, because in theory Network Marketing should be a very cost effective way of getting products and services to market, there is a great chance for good, honest and ethical companies to thrive as this is the first time we have the combination of the internet AND recession.
http://www.rodkirby.com Rod

Hey, Tony, glad you enjoyed the article. Are in saying that since network marketers have the internet (for marketing) and the recession (for easy recruiting) companies have a solid foundation for success?

Or did you mean something else?
http://www.thebusinessgame.co.uk Tony Thornley

Hi Rod I was in a bit of a rush when I made the comment – apologies…here's what I wanted to say.

I believe honest and ethical companies that already have a 'solid foundation' can get their message across via the internet and get people to take notice of the 'option' of network marketing because a recession will certainly focus peoples attention on how risky it is to try to raise funds in this climate for a traditional bricks and mortar business that offers no guarantee of success.

I think network marketing has taken a bit of a pasting (uk phrase) because of idiots that have used the phrase to describe just about every 'scheme' around, this doesn't mean that there are not good companies that compensate people very effectively across multi levels of their marketing organisations.

Regards

Tony.
http://www.rodkirby.com Rod

Hey, Tony, glad you enjoyed the article. Are in saying that since network marketers have the internet (for marketing) and the recession (for easy recruiting) companies have a solid foundation for success?

Or did you mean something else?