What to consider before joining a network marketing business?

There is so much of misconception towards network marketing business that in order to even get started, we need to have a strong desire to achieve our dreams and be willing to get out from our comfort zone. The possibility of achieving success beyond our existing imagination in this business is real. However, why still so much of negativity surrounding this business model? Why do people still think that being a network marketer is a low level business?

I think the prime reason is that there is just too many fake and dishonest people using this business model to prey on misinformed prospect. The promise of easy money with a low business entry barrier. Network marketing business requires us to be committed and put some effort in building our team of assets. It will not happen over night, but once the leveraging momentum kicks in, we will see the result of our effort. The strong point of this business is its leveraging ability, which traditional business model may not have.

To me, network marketing is just another business model used by companies to generate consistent sales. Traditional business relies on giving discount to maintain its loyal customers but network marketing business creates business opportunity to its customers to maintain their brand loyalty. In long term, loyal customers in traditional business will continue to pay for the products but network marketers are paid to consume the products.

The reality is that all business models have flaws. Most traditional business start-ups fail within 3-5 years. There are also plenty of failures in franchise business too. Yet, regardless of the business models, there are still many successful businesses.

If you want to start join a network marketing business, perhaps you can use the 4 P's principle to identify the correct networking marketing business to involve:

1) Products => Are there real products and how many? Do the products have huge and expanding market? Are the products unique and consumable? What is the industry trend of the products?

2) Plans => How do you generate your consistent passive income? (From product sales volume or merely from recruiting? Remember, in order to receive your commission, the company has to sell. Generating income from membership fees only should sound an alarm)

3) Potential => What are the potential ways for you to generate income? Most network marketing companies have several methods of generating income for you. Find that out.

4) People => This is a business of people. The people in your team is very critical to achieving your success. If you can't work with them, you will not succeed. Remember, it's a team effort.

I hope I manage to clarify some misconceptions on network marketing. Off course there will be people who agree or disagree my point of view. Nevertheless, I am just sharing my thoughts.