MLM...what?

We all know our family and friends who are in an MLM. Some may call it a pyramid scheme, but let's be real, the corporate world is a pyramid scheme just as much. Soooo what is an MLM? An MLM is a multi-level marketing company. Basically they own the rights and rules to their product and marketing and such; but give you a commission for being an advocate, representative, ambassador, whatever you'd like to call it. A simple Google search could give you more details and statics, such as this great site: https://truelist.co/blog/mlm-statistics/ (below is a snippet from their site). However, I'm here to tell you about my experience with a few different companies I've been a part of.

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MLM Companies I've Participated In

Over the years I've participated in a variety of such companies. These include Zyia (three years); Norwex (about a year, if that); DoTerra (2017-current); Green Compass (less than three months); and Herbalife (mid-2023 to present). I know you're probably thinking, "You're crazy lady!" If these were hooks, I'd be on the fire for a fish fry - I know! All in all, the experience, knowledge, and personal growth I gained from participating in these companies was worth it, in my opinion. However, by now I've realized being an actual employee is more worth it, in my opinion when it comes to paying the bills.

What I've Learned

Throughout the variety of these companies I've learned that it's best to ask ALL of the questions before committing. Here are the 7 things you should know before joining:

1. Get to know the company

   1. How long have they been in business?

   2. What are their values and pillars and do they align with yours?

   3. Where are they based out of?

2. Know the product

   1. Is there a demand for this product?

   2. What is the industries future projection?

   3. Do you need to keep inventory on hand?

   4. Is the product quality?

   5. Does the product align with 1. b.?

3. What are the requirements?

   1. Is there a website fee?

   2. What's the start-up cost?

   3. What is the quota and for what kind of time frame?

   4. Do you HAVE to onboard others?

4. What is the compensation scale?

   1. What percentage do you earn on sales?

   2. Do you get a discount or rewards?

   3. Are those scales reasonable and do-able?

5. Know your own limits

6. Is there a support system available?

7. What is the market and company saturation like?

8. What are your long-term goals for this "opportunity" and do you have an exit plan?

(Please stay tuned as I progress on my post!)