If you have ever been involved with Network Marketing, you are likely familiar with hype. To some degree, most people have been “taken-in” by carefully crafted messages that are designed to lure people into making a decision to join a particular opportunity. These messages usually have some truth in them, but more-than-likely have more fluff content that quite honestly – exaggerates and fabricates.
Hey, that’s just the way it is – so let’s just deal with the reality and try to live in the real world! Of course, Network Marketing hype is not much different than other traditional advertising – but, honestly, the MLM industry has created a bad image for itself by hyped-up messages that prey on people who are just looking for opportunity and “hope”. A Gatorade advertising campaign may over-exaggerate the benefits of the product, but they are not creating victims by promising a changed life if you drink the product.
Let’s try this… How about we try to live in the REAL WORLD and look beyond the spin and hype strategy that typical Network Marketing companies deploy? If people who are looking for a legitimate home-based income would come out of their fantasy expectations and really take the effort to peek behind the curtain of the MLM companies they are looking to join, Company Executives might just decide to give a message that has more truth than spin. For the most part, the marketplace has created this monster by buying into the deception. I actually believe we are beginning to see changes taking place with some courageous companies – as their is now much more scrutiny taking place with the emergence of social communities.
So, what gives me the authority to have an opinion on this subject?
Well, for one I have been an Executive with several Network Marketing Companies, and have worked with many company Executives who believe the only way to grow the business was to “out-hype” the competition. It’s a shame, but the messages are often crafted by the way the public (and especially the “MLM Junkies”) respond. So, in theory, the company that is more clever in their spin – will win the harvest of new recruits.
The problem with that strategy is… the company will only thrive as long as they are able to stay ahead of the industry hype. The MLM Junkies will begin immediately looking for the “next big spin” and will quickly vacate the company as soon as a more intriguing offer comes along.
So, what is the answer for Network Marketing newbies?
Look for companies that offer a product you REALLY believe in, are stable in their marketing campaigns, have seasoned Network Marketing executives who do not constantly hype their credentials, and operate with transparency. Stay away from new start-ups, companies that are run by Venture Capitalists, lawyers, investors, or Accountants, and avoid companies that constantly over-exaggerate their success on conference calls or email campaigns.
The bottom line… look for stability and integrity, and don’t believe everything you hear. The old cliche is very true in this industry… “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Popular Questions
What does looking beyond the hype mean in network marketing?
Looking beyond the hype means evaluating a network marketing opportunity through evidence rather than excitement or dramatic promises. Review the compensation plan, product demand, startup costs, recurring expenses, and income disclosures before making a decision. Speak with current and former participants to learn about typical experiences, not just exceptional success stories.
How can looking beyond the hype reveal whether a network marketing opportunity is credible?
Looking beyond the hype requires checking whether the business has clear products or services that customers would buy without joining the opportunity. Examine the company's policies, refund terms, leadership history, and regulatory record. Be cautious when presentations focus more on recruiting, luxury lifestyles, or urgency than on customers and sustainable sales.
What questions should you ask when looking beyond the hype?
Ask how much new participants typically earn after expenses, how many hours they work, and what percentage of revenue comes from retail customers. Request written details about fees, required purchases, training costs, and inventory obligations. Also ask how income is generated at each level and whether the plan rewards genuine sales rather than recruitment alone.
Why is looking beyond the hype important before joining a network marketing program?
Looking beyond the hype can prevent decisions based on unrealistic income claims or emotionally charged presentations. A careful review helps you compare the opportunity with your available time, budget, skills, and financial goals. If the numbers do not make sense without constant recruiting or significant spending, delaying or declining the opportunity may be the more practical choice.