How to succeed in network marketing?

First, it’s a business.  So let’s think about how to succeed in the network marketing business.  Or, how NOT to succeed in network marketing.

Be lazy, impulsive, or easily discouraged.  Not gonna cut it.

You dipping your toe in the network marketing business for the first time?  Checking it out?  Good for you.  In my parents’ day network marketing was called mulit-level marketing and involved smarmy guys in shiny suits selling you cleaning products by telling you how dirty your house is. Whew, those days are gone.

Network marketing is a way to own and run your own business, either part time or full time.  It’s a business that – if you’re smart and work hard – can generate a good income stream for you.  But don’t quit your day job.  Not yet.

Here’s how to succeed in network marketing.

Talk to anybody who’s ever started a business and the successful ones will tell you they did their homework and had a written plan.  That’s right.  A written business plan.  It’s not you and your buddies talking smack at halftime about how freaking rich you’re gonna get sitting in your sweat pants at the computer.

1. Do your homework:

what’s the business you’re investing in?  I mean this is the most important point right here, number one.  Where you gonna put your time, energy, and initial money?  There’s some shady stuff out there, friend. So take your time before you plunk down a dime.

2. A written plan.

Yep.  What’s your strategy?  Where are you starting?  How much are you willing to put in – time, money, and psychic energy? Where will you be in six months? A year?  Have a budget for time and money, have goals, and write it down because words are powerful.  A written plan.

3.  Don’t be lazy. 

You want to make money?  Be prepared for two things – to work hard and to screw up.  You’re gonna screw up.  This is life, right?  So, lots of trial and error here.  Like my Aunt Ellie use to say, [quote_center]“It’s not how you f– up, boys, it’s how you recover.” [/quote_center]  To succeed in this business you gotta be able to bounce back.  If you’re one of these sort of sorry ass types that gets punched and limps away, network marketing may not be for you.

4.  Get support.

Chances are you’re looking into an opportunity somebody else has brought to your attention.  Grill his ass.  How much up line help and support is there?  Who’s gonna be your mentor?  Do not be afraid to ask for help and make sure the business you choose provides it.

5.  Have no fear.

Seriously.  This business is not for sissies.  You have to like to sell stuff.  You have to like people sometimes at least.  If you’re bookish and quiet, God bless, but work in a lab or something.

It’s actually pretty cool when it all clicks.

Do your homework, have a plan, be fearless.  Oh, and Trust the Force.