Is A MLM (Multilevel Marketing) Business A Pyramid Scheme?

Pyramid SchemeDo You Assign The Phrase “Pyramid Scheme” To All MLMs?

If You Do, Then It Should Be Pointed Out That There Is A Definite Distinction Between A Pyramid Scheme And An MLM.

A Pyramid Scheme Is Illegal While An MLM Is Bonefide Business Model!

The term “pyramid scheme“, was used to generally describe network marketing concerns in a recent conversation I had.  It prompted me to write this post with the following video regarding the term.  Specifically, I don’t get enthusiastic when the phrase is used to describe the MLM business model.  At the same time, I am aware as to why individuals may well connect the term with these sorts of businesses.  First of all, allow me to point out that pyramid schemes are against the law!

Now it is true that they may appear to be the forerunners for multilevel marketing concerns.  Plus there is no argument when it comes to the similarity factor.  However, there is a distinct difference.  The legality factor constitutes one of these distinctions.  Another key aspect to consider is that pyramid schemes are, and have always been, money exchanges.  In other words you will never see an associated product.  That factor alone prompted the illegal designation.

A Pyramid Scheme Is What It Is Because Of The Following Criteria!

As indicated, the framework of a pyramid scheme is very similat to that of a network marketing platform.  But, as also highlighted, there is a subtle difference.  What many individuals overlook is the following factor.  Folk are automatically forced into the spots that are open below the top ones in a pyramid scheme.  To put it another way, as individuals become members they fill the next open position automatically.  The system operates on a first come first serve basis and it is of no consequence which person does the enrolling!

Pyramid Scheme

In the image highlighted above, it doesn’t matter if individual “A” or “B” enrolls person “C”.  That person fills up position “C3” in any case. The matrix will continue to fill in a left to right manner.  Person “D” will automatically fill position “D4” regardless of the enroller!  This points out why people towards the top benefit the most monetarily.  It also clarifies why MLMs are frowned on.  Lots of individuals avoid them because they have lost money in various pyramid schemes.  They are misinformed!

Now Consider Why An MLM Is Quietly Different From A Pyramid Scheme!

This isn’t the scenario with multilevel marketing.  Simply because you happen to be at the pinnacle doesn’t mean that you’re going to earn more money than the people who sign up below you.  In this case, the individual that does the enrolling and assists their team in duplicating the process, is rewarded.  To state it another way, the person who performs, benefits.  The people that don’t work, don’t earn.  In life, that is fundamentally correct.

This means that you can have a scenario where the individual a couple of levels beneath you is earning considerably more income.  You definitely have the potential to benefit as a result of volume of people underneath you.  However, you would need to develop a power team on the opposing side to begin earning.  That simply boils down to deploying the required work ethic!  In essence, a multilevel marketing program is just a different way of distributing a product or service!

Now That  We Have Defined What A Pyramid Scheme Is, Review The Following MLM Facts:

Direct Selling (Relationship Marketing) And Your Warm Market – Potential Growth Or Not?

Direct SellingAre You Considering Direct Selling As A Means Of Establishing Long Term Financial Security?

If You Are, You Are Making A Smart Decision! The Direct Selling Business Is Definitely A Good Move If You Are Prepared For What Is Required!

Who You Should Target First In Your Direct Selling Business!

If you are entering the direct selling arena for the first time, that is a good move!  The following video will attest to that.  This article discusses your target audience.  That stated, you have probably heard the phrase “warm market”.  It is also likely that your sponsor has already encouraged you to target this group.  This mix of individuals will generally consist of immediate family members, other relatives, people dating back to childhood, high school friends, university acquaintances, professors and people that you currently work with.

The list can be surprisingly extensive. Essentially these individuals make up your warm market. The fundamental question is whether or not you should approach this group.  Secondly, if you do, can you develop a significant down-line with these individuals?  In any case, approaching one’s warm market comes with its challenges.  In addition, it takes time to develop.  Although this group may initially appear to be the right target segment to approach, this strategy may not generate the hoped for numbers and sales volume over the long haul.

Does Your Warm Market Take Direct Selling Seriously!

In many cases, family members and friends will simply not enroll in your program.  These individuals actually are the hardest group to persuade to enter into a multilevel business program.  The fact that they have known you for a considerable period of time directly lends itself to their not taking what you have to say about the product or service, seriously.  Essentially, they will be very skeptical about the business and brush aside your sales pitch.

Another consideration is that family members are not very receptive to other relatives or friends who attempt to sell them something.  Plus they specifically reject multilevel business programs.  You may very well think that you have the plague should you find out the lengths that these folk take to avoid you.  Additionally, your warm market will sometimes attempt to take advantage of having that close relationship.  Don’t be surprised when you get specific requests for free products as a bargaining chip for their enrollment.

Generally, Direct Selling To Your Warm Market Is Not All Bad!

Now let’s assume that some of these individuals do enroll in your multilevel business.  No doubt they will attempt to develop their business by approaching their warm market too!  This definitely leads to some potential overlap.  You will end up competing for the same prospects which can quickly lead to a degree of saturation.  However, this not all totally negative.  Having these folk as members in your multilevel business will most probably generate some growth, albeit at a slower rate.

Another factor to consider is that your warm market will most likely want to see proof of potential success. If you cannot demonstrate a level of accomplishment, they are not likely to enroll.  They will want to see some tangible evidence such as the acquisition of a new home or vehicle.  Ultimately, even if you succeed in acquiring these types of possessions, your main objective should be to gain their trust.  The materialistic aspect should not be the only focus!

Direct Selling Should Involve Your Warm And Cold Markets!

Generally speaking, targeting your warm market does not assist with developing your down-line because of its very nature. The individuals who make up this group will all have a different array of experiences and motivations.  They do not represent a defined target market and you are in essence assuming that they will join your multilevel business simply because they know you.  However, do not rule them out all together!

What you should do is develop your business with your cold market to begin with.  This entails approaching individuals who have already expressed an interest in your product or service.  Deploying this marketing strategy will put you in the position of not having to “hard” sell to your relatives and friends.  You will no doubt see your multilevel business expand over time.  This in turn will make it far easier to target your warm market at a later date.

Enhance Your Direct Selling Efforts By Reading The Following Information Or……