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Home » Business Cycle » Network marketing?

4 steps to network marketing success

Do you want to become your own boss, work flexible hours and make money? Of course you do. One way to get to this stage in your professional life is via network marketing.

If you’ve heard of Mary Kay, Avon or Tupperware, you’ve heard of network marketing. These household names are all examples of this type of business, which can be a great fit for those with an entrepreneurial mindset. But what is network marketing exactly, and how does it work? It’s time to learn how you can get all the benefits of being a business owner without all the headaches and level of risk.

Ready to make the next big move for your business?

What is network marketing?

Network marketing in business is a model that’s dependent on person-to-person sales of a product or service. It involves developing a team of people who work together to deliver the product’s message to a wide range of potential customers. The leaders of these teams are compensated for the products they sell as well as the products their team members sell.

It’s also known as multilevel marketing, referral marketing and consumer direct marketing. No matter what you call it, these are businesses where the best entrepreneurs can succeed – and even find their true gift.

How does network marketing work?

You’ll start your network marketing business by signing up with a reputable company – some of today’s most popular are Scentsy, Younique Cosmetics and Young Living Essential Oils. You’ll typically receive a “starter kit” with promotional materials, supplies and other items you’ll need to get started. At first you’ll work underneath a sponsor who can show you the ropes, provide education and give you tips about the industry. Once you know everything there is to know about your product, you’re ready to start selling.

Most network marketing in business takes place face-to-face. All you need to do is talk to people! Let your passion shine through and use your communication skills to build rapport and get people interested in your product. Here’s where the “network” part comes in: When you sign someone up, they become part of your team. You earn commission on their sales and on sales of any people that they sign up – and so on. The more passionate people you can find, the better.

Advantages and disadvantages of network marketing

One of the best advantages of network marketing is that you will feel like your own boss – without taking on the responsibility of starting your own company. You’ll typically be able to work out of your home and make your own hours, giving you the flexibility that many entrepreneurs love, with none of the risks. Another advantage is that you’ll gain skills you can use in any future endeavor, like developing instant connections with others, making persuasive presentations, cultivating and leading a team and effective follow-through.

The disadvantages of network marketing are similar to those for any sales business: It will take time to build your business , and a lot of people will tell you “no” before you start hearing “yes.” Competition can be fierce, so you must always be a step ahead. Never forget that you are still an entrepreneur, even though you’re part of a network marketing business. You must strengthen your resilience, build your brand, market yourself and innovate – just as you would if you started a traditional business.

How to succeed in network marketing

Now that you know what network marketing is, it’s time to get started. Running a successful network marketing business doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. You can create a breakthrough with a few simple steps – change your story, change your strategy and the rest will follow.

Step 1. Find your passion

According to Tony, network marketing is about “picking the right company and realizing you’re a value creator. Whatever you enjoy the most, you’ll do the most.” 

Your love and passion for a product or service drives you to properly tell its story , and that’s how you create value. Consider what products have improved your life in the past and what you want to learn more about. Is it supplements? Home décor? Cosmetics? When you choose something you have a deep interest in, that passion will shine through.

There’s another benefit to choosing something you love: more sales. Today’s consumer is bombarded with marketing, branding and advertising. They’re on high alert and know when they are being “sold” to. If you’re just doing this for the money, they will sense it right away – and react accordingly. The best network marketing entrepreneurs figure out how to combine their true passion with their ability to make money. What is network marketing at its most successful? It’s your chance to make a difference in the world – and make money while you’re at it.

Step 2: Choose the right company

Passion is the most essential ingredient to successful network marketing – and choosing the right company that matches your passion is equally vital. You’ll need to research carefully to locate a business whose message, story and products or services capture your image and make you want to join their ranks. The network marketing business you choose must also have the following traits:

At least five years in operation :

Fifty percent of businesses fail within the first year, and 80% fail within five years. Signing up with a business that hasn’t had its doors open for at least that long is an additional risk.

Steady cash flow :

Network marketing companies with nothing to hide disclose their financial statements. Take the time to read the statements and ensure the business is well-capitalized.

Professional development :

Make sure the business provides the coaching, technology and support you need, and will send you to any conferences and meetings required to advance your training.

Established customer base :

Sign on with an established company that already has raving fan customers . An existing customer base allows a network marketing business to shift gears as necessary.

Step 3. Put your resources to work

Succeeding at network marketing is largely dependent on how many resources you can cultivate. Start by discovering how you can leverage things you already have – connections, education and achievements – into business success. You may already have dozens of relationships that you can capitalize on to grow your network. 

As you consider turning to these people, remember that you want to add value to their lives with your product or service. Don’t pitch everyone in your phone book just because you can. Remember that the secret to living is giving . Those who thrive in network marketing understand that it’s not about selling – it’s about using the opportunity to cultivate an abundance mindset and improve the lives of others.

Step 4: Manage your mindset

  In network marketing, the way you think about yourself matters far more than your tactics. You might have plenty of strategies to deploy, but if you’re not in the right mindset, you won’t be able to execute them. However, even if you have no business experience, you can succeed in network marketing if you create the right mindset .

Before you even start network marketing, you need to learn how to cultivate positive emotions and control your reactions to situations. Choose how you feel rather than reacting to a situation. When you do this, life happens for you instead of to you, putting you firmly in the driver’s seat . You will face plenty of challenges as you learn about network marketing, and viewing each setback as something you can overcome and learn from will help you move on from temporary disappointments.

Figuring out how to succeed in network marketing doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. You can create a breakthrough with a few simple steps – change your story, change your strategy and the rest will follow. Tony says, “Most of us get what we tolerate.” It’s time to stop tolerating anything less than being your own boss.

Ready to take your business to unreached levels?

Discover how to create the ultimate business advantage with Tony Robbins’  7 Forces of Business Mastery  free content series.

© 2024 Robbins Research International, Inc. All rights reserved.

Lead Generation

Network Marketing 101: Starting From Scratch Effortlessly

Explore essential tips to launch your network marketing journey, from selecting the right company, creating a solid plan, to effective outreach on platforms like LinkedIn. Learn the art of consistency and relationship-building for success.

Mar 3, 2024

Ever wondered how to dive into the world of network marketing? You're not alone. Starting from scratch can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it's an adventure waiting to happen. Imagine building your own business network, being your own boss, and creating a stream of income that's as active or passive as you desire.

Why's everyone buzzing about network marketing, you ask? It's simple: flexibility, growth potential, and the power to leverage your personal connections into professional success. Whether you're looking to supplement your income or launch a full-time business, network marketing offers a unique pathway to achieving your goals.

You're probably pondering where to begin, what strategies to adopt, and how to grow your network effectively. Don't worry, we've got your back. Let's embark on this journey together and turn your network marketing aspirations into reality. Ready to take the plunge?

Define Your Why

Embarking on a network marketing journey requires more than just an entrepreneurial spirit; it's about understanding your motivation . Think of your why as the fuel that will keep your engine running even when the road gets tough.

Imagine you're setting sail on an ocean voyage. Without a compass, you'd drift aimlessly, right? Similarly, when you're lost in the sea of network marketing , your why is that compass steering you back to shore. So, what's driving you? Is it the desire for financial freedom, the dream of working from anywhere, or the passion for the product you're promoting? Hammer down your purpose, because it's your steadfast guide through high tides and storms.

Don't confuse your why with a goal like making a million dollars. Your why runs deeper; it's emotional, personal, and it's the backstory to every success. It's not a destination, but rather the journey itself, filled with lessons and growth.

Beware of mistaking momentary enthusiasm for a true why. While a burst of excitement can kickstart your engine, it won't sustain you. Your why is the resilient current beneath that carries you forward through both triumphs and setbacks.

Let's break it down into steps:

Reflect on your passions : What really lights your fire? Maybe it's empowering others or having the means to support your family like a rock-solid pillar.

Consider your strengths : Often, your why sits snuggly with what you're naturally good at. Are you a networking ninja or a sales superstar?

Look at your struggles : Sometimes your why is born from challenges. Overcoming obstacles can fuel your drive to help others navigate similar hurdles.

Write it down : Putting your why into words cements it in reality. Keep it visible, and let it be a daily reminder of what you're working toward.

Your why is your story, your brand , your battle cry. It's unique to you, and it's what makes you stand out in a sea of marketers. Own it, nurture it, and let it be the constant that defines your journey in the ever-evolving world of network marketing.

Research Different Network Marketing Companies

Before you dive into network marketing, it's crucial to shop around and research various companies. This is like picking a partner; you want to find a good match that resonates with your values and interests. Look into their product lines, compensation plans, and the support they offer their network marketers.

Consider this: not all network marketing companies are created equal. Some may promise the moon but have very little history of success. It's vital you look at their track record. How long have they been in business ? Do they have a strong reputation? What's their Better Business Bureau rating? These are indicators of a company's stability and credibility.

You'll find an array of products being sold via network marketing, from health supplements to beauty products to tech gadgets. Think about what you're passionate about selling. If you believe in the product, you're more likely to be convincing when you talk to potential customers and recruits.

Here are some steps to guide your research:

Check out company reviews – What do current and past network marketers say about their experience?

Examine the earnings disclosure – Be realistic about potential earnings. Look at the average income statistics for network marketers in the company.

Attend company meetings – Firsthand information is golden. Get a feel for the culture and support available.

Understand the compensation structure – Know how you'll earn money. Is it more focused on selling products or recruiting others?

It's also wise to be aware of red flags, such as companies that require a large upfront investment to join. This could be a sign of something akin to a pyramid scheme, where the products are secondary to recruiting. Genuine network marketing focuses on actual sales to customers.

When you settle on a company, make sure you're comfortable with their business model . Some operate on a multi-level marketing structure, while others may be direct sales . You'll want to decide which environment fits your business style and how you envision your growth in the field.

In exploring different companies, don't jump at the first opportunity. Network marketing is about building lasting relationships, and that starts with thoroughly understanding the firm you're partnering with and finding synergy with their products and ethics. This deep dive into your potential partnership will pave the way for a more committed and informed start in your network marketing journey.

Choose the Right Network Marketing Company

Embarking on your journey in network marketing starts with selecting the right company to partner with. Think of this decision like choosing a vehicle for a cross-country trip - you want something reliable, efficient, and comfortable.

Research the Company’s Background Begin by digging into the company's history. Just like you wouldn't buy a car without checking its history report, you don't want to commit to a company with a questionable past. Look for companies that have stood the test of time – longevity can be an indicator of stability in the fast-paced world of network marketing.

Product Line Appeal Next, examine the product line. Your enthusiasm for the products is your fuel in network marketing. If you can't get excited about them, it'll be tough to convince others. Choose products you believe in, ones that you would use yourself, and watch your natural passion sell.

Compensation Plan Clarity Understanding the compensation plan is akin to knowing the mileage of your vehicle; it determines how far each effort you put in will take you. Dive into the nitty-gritty of the commission structure and bonuses. Ensure it's fair and offers you a genuine opportunity to grow your income .

Support Structures A good support system from your chosen company is your GPS and roadside assistance rolled into one. Training resources, marketing tools, and mentorship programs can steer you towards success. Verify that the company provides adequate support to help you navigate and grow within the industry.

By focusing on these key areas, you're not just picking any network marketing company; you're choosing a partner that aligns with your goals and values. Equip yourself with this knowledge and drive forward with confidence—your network marketing journey is just revving up.

Understand the Compensation Plan

When you're diving into network marketing, understanding the compensation plan is like unraveling a road map to your treasure. It's the blueprint that details how you'll earn money and it's critical to figure out if it's a good fit for you.

First things first , think of the compensation plan as a recipe—various ingredients come together to give you the full flavor of your potential earnings. These earnings usually include:

Retail Profits : The difference between the wholesale price you pay and the retail price you sell at.

Commissions : Earned from direct sales or sales made by those in your network.

Bonuses : Additional incentives provided for reaching certain milestones or recruiting new members.

Residual Income : Continuing to earn from recurring customer purchases.

It's vital to grasp the key terms like 'downline,' which refers to the recruits who sign up under you, and 'upline' is who you've signed up under. Your downline is crucial because, in most plans, their sales give you a ticket to commission city.

However, the common pitfall lies in the allure of exaggerated earning potential. Don't get caught up in the sizzle of high figures without considering the actual work required. It's not just about recruiting a team—it's about ongoing sales and team support.

Moreover, compensation plans can be as varied as the fish in the sea. Some popular structures are:

Binary Plan : You build two teams (right and left legs). Your earnings are based on the sales of the lesser performing leg.

Unilevel Plan : You earn from your direct recruits and potentially from their recruits down a specified number of levels.

Matrix Plan : Also known as a forced matrix plan, limits the number of recruits in your first line, promoting spillover, which can lead to teamwork.

To navigate these waters, you'll want to regularly attend company training sessions or webinars to sharpen your understanding and skills. Also, tap into your upline for mentorship—they've been where you are and can provide the compass to guide you through the complexities.

When sizing up a plan, use a critical eye. Ask questions like:

How often will you get paid?

What are the benchmarks for each earning tier?

Is there a cap on earnings or required minimums?

Develop a Marketing Strategy

When diving into network marketing, constructing a solid marketing strategy is akin to building a house; you need a good foundation, sturdy walls, and a plan for every room. To start on the right foot, identify your target market. This is your foundation—the group of people who need or want what you're offering. Picture someone you already know who might benefit from your product or service. Chances are others like them are your ideal market.

Imagine each marketing channel—be it social media, blogging, or email campaigns—as a room in your house. You wouldn't decorate every room the same way, right? The same goes for your marketing channels; tailor your strategy to fit each platform's unique style and audience.

One common mistake is trying to be everywhere at once. You're better off picking a couple of outlets where your target customers are most active and focusing your energy there. Spreading yourself too thin can dilute your message and sap your energy.

As for techniques, personalization is paramount, especially in cold emails or LinkedIn outreach. Think of your message like a handshake; it's much more effective when you look someone in the eye, say their name, and offer something relevant to them specifically. A generic message is like a limp handshake—easily forgotten.

Incorporating best practices into your approach means:

Crafting compelling subject line

Customizing messages to add personal touches

Offering genuine value in your conversations

Following up without being pushy

Test different approaches and track your results. Some methods might work well with one segment of your audience but not another. Keep refining your strategy based on feedback and metrics, such as open rates or engagement levels.

Remember, network marketing is a dynamic and personal business . Your marketing strategy should reflect that, allowing for genuine connections that could lead to fruitful partnerships or sales. Keep learning, adapting, and growing, and your network marketing efforts can thrive from the ground up.

Utilize Social Media Platforms

When starting from scratch in network marketing, social media platforms are your allies. They're like the new-age town square where conversations happen, relationships are forged, and businesses grow. You'll want to be where your audience is —and that's likely scrolling through their feeds on various social platforms.

But before you dive in, here's a crucial point : Don't spread yourself too thin. You might believe you need to have a presence on every platform, but that's a common misconception. In reality, you should focus on one or two platforms where your target demographic is most active.

Facebook and Instagram are the equivalent of mainstream TV channels, appealing to a broad audience. Meanwhile, LinkedIn is like the professional networking event of the social media sphere, excellent for B2B outreach. TikTok ? It's the trendy new club everyone's talking about – great for a younger audience.

Avoiding the trap of generic posts is vital. Personalize your content; think of it as tailoring a suit—it should fit your audience perfectly. Your followers don't want the same old pitches they've seen a hundred times. They're looking for stories, helpful tips, and insights that resonate on a personal level.

Leverage user-generated content and reviews. They act as word-of-mouth endorsements and are social proof that your network marketing is genuine and impactful.

Understand the Algorithm

Each social media platform has its own algorithm , which determines what content gets seen. It's kind of like the secret sauce that can make or break your visibility online. Here's where you'll need to do your homework—understanding these algorithms is key to increasing your reach. Regular posts, engaging with comments, and posting at optimal times can improve your visibility.

Engage with Your Community

It's not just about broadcasting content; it's about sparking conversations. Reply to comments, ask open-ended questions, and run polls. Engagement boosts your activity and gets more eyes on your page. But remember, the engagement must be authentic —no one appreciates spammy comments or insincere interactions.

Build a Strong Network

Establishing a solid network is the backbone of successful network marketing. Imagine networking like planting a garden – you need to sow the seeds, nurture them, and then watch them grow. You're not simply collecting contacts; you're cultivating relationships.

Understanding and identifying your target market is the first step. You wouldn't want to water tomato plants if you're trying to grow cucumbers. Similarly, engage with individuals who genuinely have an interest or a need for your product or service. This relevance is crucial, as it ensures your efforts are concentrated on fertile ground.

One common mistake network marketers make is trying to cast the net too wide from the get-go. It's like trying to be friends with everyone at a party. Realistically, you'll only vibe with a few people, and those are the connections that will be most fruitful. Focus on quality, not quantity. Invest in those relationships by showing genuine interest and offering value before you look to gain anything from them.

Different techniques can be applied depending on where you find your connections. For instance:

LinkedIn outreach requires a professional tone and understanding of business etiquette.

Cold emails need to be concise, personalized, and provide a clear call-to-action without sounding too salesy.

On platforms like Facebook or Instagram , casual and relatable content may resonate better.

Let's talk about incorporating these into your routine. Schedule regular intervals to reach out to new contacts, but also to follow up with your current connections. Remember, networking isn't a one-and-done activity. It's about building and maintaining relationships.

Here are some practical tips to further strengthen your network:

Attend networking events and conferences related to your niche.

Participate actively in online forums and social media groups.

Offer help and provide insights when others seek advice – be a giver, not just a taker.

Each interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow your network. Keep your approach flexible - adapt your strategies as you gain more insight into what works for your particular audience.

Attend Events and Workshops

When you're looking to break new ground in network marketing, attending events and workshops is like finding a treasure map. You'll meet others who are on the same journey, share stories, and learn from those who've already reached the treasure chest of success. Imagine walking into a room filled with potential partners and mentors—it's like stepping onto a gold mine of opportunities.

Events and workshops are more than just meet and greets; they're your fast-track to learning the ins and outs of the industry. You might find yourself at a workshop that teaches you how to craft the perfect pitch or at a seminar that shows you how to leverage social media for your business. You're not just a passive listener; you're an active participant in your growth.

One common mistake? Going in without a game plan. To get the most out of these events, go in with a strategy:

Set clear goals. What do you want to walk away with? Is it 10 new contacts or a new selling technique?

Prepare engaging questions. Asking thought-provoking questions not only helps you learn but also makes you memorable.

Follow up. The magic often happens after the event. Don't let those new connections grow cold.

Remember, each event is unique. The lavish annual conference with keynote speakers might offer big-picture insights, while the local weekly workshop could be a chance to fine-tune practical skills. Select events that align with your business phase—whether you're just starting out or aiming to scale up.

Integrating the knowledge and networks gained from events into your business plan is key. Perhaps you learned a new lead generation technique; test it, refine it, and measure its success. Information without action is like a car without gas—it might look good, but it's not going to get you anywhere.

These gatherings are fertile ground for collaborations and partnerships. Be open to joining forces with others who complement your strengths and weaknesses. That synergy can be the catalyst for exponential growth, launching you ahead in the competitive world of network marketing.

Simply put, attending events is not just about showing up—it's about showing up prepared to learn, connect, and apply new insights to your business blueprint. Each event is a stepping stone, and with the right approach, you're building a path towards your goals.

Provide Value to Your Network

When diving into the world of network marketing, think of yourself as a farmer rather than a hunter. Your network is your crop; nurture it with value and it'll flourish. Imagine throwing seeds (your products or opportunities) on barren land (a network with no value) - they simply won't grow. But plant them in fertile soil (a network that trusts you), and you'll reap the rewards.

First off, let's tackle common mistakes : marketers often pitch their product relentlessly, forgetting that a hard sell can turn people away. It's like going on a first date and asking someone to marry you - it's just too much too soon. Instead, focus on building relationships . Share resources, offer advice, and engage genuinely with your network's needs. By doing so, you're laying the groundwork for trust and loyalty.

Next up, different techniques and variations for providing value. It's not always about your product; sometimes, it's about the knowledge you share or the problems you solve. Here are a few practical tips:

Share industry insights and trends.

Offer free, valuable resources that address common pain points.

Engage in meaningful conversations and truly listen to feedback.

Each of these methods works best when tailored to your audience. For example, if you're addressing budget-conscious entrepreneurs, sharing cost-saving tips might be more valuable than discussing premium tools.

Incorporating these practices involves patience and consistency. It's about finding a balance - you don't want to bombard your network with too much content, but you also don't want to be forgotten. Regular, value-driven interactions are key. Share a pertinent article one week, host a free Q&A session the next. You'll become a go-to resource in your industry, which is a strong foundation for any network marketing business.

Embrace these strategies and watch as your marketing transforms from a series of cold pitches to a sustainable growth system . Remember, value is a currency in itself, and you're the mint.

Stay Consistent and Persistent

Building your network marketing business from scratch is a lot like nurturing a garden – you can't just plant the seeds and come back weeks later expecting a bounty of vegetables. It requires daily effort, a steady hand, and a patient spirit. Consistency is the water and sunlight for your business; without it, nothing grows.

When you're consistent in your efforts, reaching out to potential leads, and regularly sharing valuable content, you're setting a rhythm for your business. Persistence , on the other hand, is the resilience to keep going when results aren't immediate. It can be tough, especially when you don't see the fruits of your labor right away, but that's where the magic happens. Here's what you need to remember:

Establish a Daily Routine : Create a schedule for your outreach efforts. Whether it's sending cold emails or connecting with potential leads on LinkedIn, carving out dedicated time each day ensures you're always moving forward.

Monitor Your Outreach: Keep track of who you've contacted and when. It'll save you from the embarrassment of double messaging and help you follow up effectively.

Practical Tips to Sidestep Common Mistakes

Imagine you're casting a wide net to catch fish, but this particular net happens to have one massive hole. That's exactly what inconsistent follow-ups do to your potential leads. They leak out. So, always double-check your follow-up strategy.

Avoid these common errors:

Not personalizing your messages. A generic approach screams 'bulk email', and leads can sniff those out from a mile away.

Bombarding contacts. There's a fine line between persistence and annoyance. Space out your messages to avoid spamming.

Techniques and Variations for Every Situation

Cold emailing is much like baking – certain ingredients work wonders for some recipes but not for others. For instance, a personalized subject line might be the 'sugar' that sweetens the deal for a cold email but could feel too informal on LinkedIn. Know your platform and adjust your method accordingly:

Cold Email : Keep it short and sweet, talk about the benefits, and explain why you're reaching out.

LinkedIn Outreach : Be professional, highlight mutual connections or interests, and engage with their content first.

Provide value in every interaction. It’s not just about the sale; it’s about building a relationship

You've got the tools and insights to kick-start your journey in network marketing. Remember, it's about nurturing relationships and providing value, not just closing sales. With a daily routine and smart outreach, you're set to grow your network effectively. Avoid the pitfalls of impersonal messages and stay the course—consistency and patience are your best allies. Now, take that first step and watch your network marketing business flourish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is key to building a successful network marketing business.

Building a successful network marketing business hinges on consistency and persistence. Engaging in daily efforts and maintaining a patient demeanor are fundamental to growth in the network marketing field.

Can you suggest practical tips for maintaining consistency in network marketing?

Practical tips for maintaining consistency include establishing a daily routine and monitoring outreach efforts to ensure a steady flow of communication with your contacts.

What common mistakes should I avoid in network marketing?

Avoid common mistakes such as failing to personalize your messages to each contact and overwhelming your contacts with too many messages, as this can be counterproductive.

How should you use cold emailing and LinkedIn for network marketing?

For cold emailing, focus on personalizing your communication and providing value upfront. LinkedIn outreach should be professional and concentrate on building relationships by engaging with content and offering assistance.

What is the overall focus when interacting in network marketing?

The overall focus in network marketing interactions is to provide value in every exchange and prioritize building relationships over simply trying to make a quick sale.

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What Is Network Marketing? Meaning, Types, and History

August 7, 2023

by Derek Doeing

In this post

Types of network marketing, history of network marketing companies, things to consider when entering network marketing.

Do you remember those Tupperware and Pampered Chef parties your mom would host when you were younger?

You’d have to clean the house all day just to get confined to your room while your mom dealt with some high-quality kitchen gear and entertained the other moms in town. You weren’t entirely sure what was going on outside your bedroom door those nights.

Turns out, your mom was an entrepreneur – running her own home marketing business and participating in network marketing.  

What is network marketing?

Network marketing is a business model that relies on individuals harnessing their personal networks to grow a business or sell a product. These networks are used to generate leads and recruit customers or partners, usually implementing a training and mentorship process for new recruits.

Some network marketing companies use multi-level marketing (MLM) software to assist with lead generation and deploy their strategy.

In this article, you will learn about the types of network marketing, its history, and things to consider before approaching network marketing.

Network marketing, although similar, is not to be confused with influencer marketing . Instead, it can be broken down into three essential categories.

These categories are similar in that they call upon individuals to use their personal networks to run their businesses. Through these networks, individuals make sales or recruit others to sell products.

1. Multi-level marketing

Multi-level marketing (MLM) is a distribution-based marketing network that includes direct sales and a downline of distributors. These home businesses tend to get a lot of bad press for their similarity to pyramid schemes.

In reality, they have one key difference. Where pyramid schemes require people to invest in a false promise of wealth, MLM organizations sell real products or services that distributors believe in. 

Source: LastWeekTonight 

Many MLM companies provide a healthy infrastructure and great training, plus extra rewards for high performers. Scentsy, Herbalife, and Advocare are some well-known players in the MLM field.  

2. Direct marketing

This single-tier marketing system requires an individual to sign up for a program to sell a product or service. Individuals who sign up for these programs do not need to recruit other distributors and are paid only for the direct sales they make.

Direct marketing is the most immediate form of sales. Find a product you like and get your friends and family to buy it. A few top companies involved in this type of network marketing are Mary Kay cosmetics, Avon cosmetics, and Pampered Chef kitchen supplies.

3. Affiliate marketing

A newer aspect of network marketing is using online affiliate marketing platforms . Website owners and bloggers integrate links to specific products on their platforms. When people click on those links and purchase products, the website owner is rewarded a referral fee. This provides customers with access to a trusted site where they can immediately purchase the products being advertised.

It’s important for those using affiliate links to be transparent about that. A simple disclaimer at the bottom of a blog post fits this purpose and lets your audience know that you’re making money from these links. Amazon’s affiliate program is one of the most well-known, but Partnerize and Google’s Affiliate Network are also options.

Those are thousands of affiliate programs out there for both brands and individual individuals can leverage. Be sure to research the most high-paying affiliate programs out there before you join a program.

To understand how these network marketing systems have evolved and become prominent, let’s take a look at where these marketing strategies originated.

During the Industrial Revolution of the 1800s, a large number of new products were being invented that needed to be sold to consumers. These products were often complex and required explanation to potential buyers. Network marketing began to hit its stride following World War II in the 1940s with the California Vitamin Company (renamed Nutrilite in 1939) and the California Perfume Company (now Avon).  

The products produced by the California Vitamin Company were in such high demand that founder Carl Rehnborg began recruiting independent distributors to increase the number of salespeople. These independent distributors were instructed to find new distributors in their circles of friends, acquaintances, and customers. The representatives were paid on the sales of the distributors they personally recruited.

In 1959, two employees of Nutrilite, Rick de Vos, and Jan van Andel, founded their own company: Amway. Amway was created using the MLM organizational structure and paved the way for MLM companies to be established in other countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, and France. Amway allowed companies like Panasonic, Palmolive, and MasterCard to include network marketing in their omnichannel marketing strategies. Amway's success has even led them to sponsor an NBA arena, the Orlando Magic's Amway Center (and the older Amway Arena), since 1989.

Source: Amway Center

By the 1980s, the landscape of U.S. economics was transformed. A financial boom coincided with women entering commercial life. These women were a huge target for network marketing companies, as they sought jobs that allowed them to earn money without neglecting their children and families. Women were able to acquire high positions within these companies, creating opportunities for women to achieve financial independence without giving up their families.

At the end of the 1990s, network marketers were learning to harness the power of the internet. The implementation of online shops and electronic orders made employing social networks much easier for individual distributors and businesses. Since the rise of social media platforms, it’s become common to see advertisements by people in your network for companies like Rodan + Fields or ItWorks.

The categories network marketing is conducted in will continue to grow and evolve as society does. At its core, though, building relationships will always be the key to successful network marketing.

However, there are some other things you should take into consideration if you think network marketing is for you.

If you’re ready to start your own home business as a network marketer, there are some things you should consider and research first. These organizations want access to your network of friends and family.

You value the people in your life, so protect them and only market what you personally find valuable.

Questions to ask before joining a network marketing company

• How old is the company?
• What product or service do they offer (and is it something you find valuable)?
• How fair and generous is the pay distribution?
• What is the integrity of the company?
• Does the company have good momentum and timing?
• What support or training is offered by the company?

Like in any career, you need to make sure you are securing yourself and your customers. A large number of scams exist, claiming to be network marketing opportunities. Use the simple checklist above to begin research into network marketing organizations.

Remember that this is a business. You are your own boss and your own employee. If you want to call the shots, you need to be okay with facing failure and trying again. Keep in mind that not everyone in your network may be supportive.

Additionally, have a clear understanding of how this affects your taxes and finances. If you’re not versed in accounting, consider hiring an accountant. There are many people who specialize in dealing with home-based businesses.

Mentorships are key to successful network marketing

If you joined a network marketing organization, chances are you were recruited by someone you know. This person has likely been around longer than you and should function as your mentor until you get off your feet.

It’s in the best interest of your mentor to help you succeed, so be willing to listen to them and learn the system.

Equally as important, it’s vital for you to be a good mentor when the time comes. When you recruit someone into your organization, support them and teach them how to be a successful network marketer.

Long-term relationship building is how you’ll find success in network marketing.

Make connections that count

We’ve covered almost everything there is to know about network marketing, including what it is, the different types, its history, how to choose an organization, and the importance of mentorships.

As you go forward and employ your network to sell a product or service, keep in mind that before they are your customers, they are your friends and family. Building a great relationship first and selling a product second is the way to be an effective and successful network marketer.

Another way to generate leads is by maintaining a good brand reputation. Promote a positive brand experience by tracking customer reviews through online reputation management software .

Ready to (net)work it?

Get the best MLM software to assist your network marketing strategies.

Derek is a former G2 content associate. He can usually be found discussing pop music, politics, or digital marketing on the internet. (he/him/his)

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Your Network Marketing Strategy: 21 Success Tips (Secrets) – 2024

Understanding and implementing a robust network marketing strategy is crucial for success in the MLM world. 

What’s my goal in this post?

To help you navigate the network marketing business model as an MLM rep.

I’ll explore MLM as a concept and show you why becoming an excellent marketer plays a significant role in your network marketing strategy .

I’ll discuss adding artificial intelligence (AI) into your MLM strategies to boost efficiency and results. 

Because over 80% of marketers now report using AI in their marketing campaigns. Consider doing the same when building your multi level marketing business.

By the way:

Do I know what I’m talking about?

Great question!

I built a 9-levels deep international downline and I’ll only bring you methods and tips that will help you create your own MLM empire and success.

Ready to learn how to dominate with your multi level marketing strategy?

What Is Network Marketing?

Network marketing meaning: Also called multi-level marketing , MLM is a business practice where you sell products or services to customers directly. 

The concept behind multi level marketing is simple:

You use online marketing methods to attract customers.

You offer your business opportunity to your customers. 

You’ll earn income through direct sales of your company’s products and/or services.

In turn, reps recruited by you sell the product/service to their customers. 

As the recruiter, you earn commissions based on the sales made by those in your downline – hence the term ‘multi level marketing’.

Rodan + Fields , Arbonne , and Herbalife are all examples of successful companies that use this business model. 

Guess what? 

None of it is an illegal pyramid scheme or multi level marketing scheme because you’re selling products, not a Ponzi Scheme investment. 

Quick Stat: According to the Direct Selling Association, the multi level marketing process continues to hit record retail numbers with over $42 billion sold recently.

Related Reading:

How The Attraction Marketing Formula Will Build Your MLM Business

My Review Of The Attraction Marketing Formula

My Review Of Elite Marketing Pro (creator of AMF)

How To Buy Leads For Your Business

How MLM Works: Tips For Success

MLM allows you to:

• Easily start a business
• Earn income through direct sales
• Recruit others into your downline

But how can you set up a network marketing strategy that creates success?

1. Select the Best MLM Company

Choosing the right multi level marketing company is like choosing a life partner.

It’s a big decision that requires careful consideration as you work on your network marketing strategy. 

Here are some questions to ask yourself when evaluating potential companies:

2. How long has the company been around?

Longevity matters in the MLM world. 

Consider joining a company only after it provides a steady track record. 

Personally, I would join a company only after it’s lasted five years or more?

Well, I once joined a brand new company, built a big downline, got myself to $10,000 per month in income…

…the company disappeared after we learned its top-level management didn’t perform well at all!

3. Do you believe in the product?

As Zig Ziglar once said, “If people like you, they’ll listen to you, but if they trust you they’ll do business with you.”

People will follow you after they clearly see how much you love what you sell. 

The best way to love a product is to use it and get a real result from it. 

As well, you need to ask yourself if it’s a fad or trend (and stay away from that!)

Do people genuinely need what you sell?

For example, Herbalife has lasted a long time because it solves the problem of weight loss. Its reps help people overcome a true challenge in their lives. 

A company like ACN helps people save money on Internet, TV, and other services. People love saving money on these services, especially when the economy isn’t strong. 

4. Is the company in a growing niche?

It’s important to choose a company that operates in a growing niche. 

According to Zipdo, wellness products dominate direct sales globally, accounting for 33% of total sales . 

Focusing on topics like health, wealth, or personal development will help you do well long-term. 

Every person on earth wants to:

• Feel better
• Lose weight
• Look younger
• Make or save money
• Improve as an individual

If you want success , consider a company that sells products or services that help in these ways.

5. What kind of training and support does the company offer?

Select a company that invests in its distributors’ success. 

Look for an MLM company that provides quality instruction, such as:

• Digital materials
• One-on-one training from an upline member

Remember, the company’s success is directly tied to your success.

Here’s a biggie:

Does your company allow you to market online?

Or, do they tell you to just “share it with friends and family?”

If I was joining a new company in the 21st Century and saw that they restricted my online marketing efforts, I’d run as fast as possible in the opposite direction!

Choosing the right network marketing company is a big decision.

But if you ask the correct questions, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful network marketing business .

6. Understand Earning Potential

Does the compensation plan provide a decent commission per sale?

Know how earnings are structured within the company. 

The best MLMs offer a balanced compensation plan where both selling products/services and recruiting new members can provide significant income potential. 

Beware of “pie-in-the-sky” promises of wealth.

In essence, success in network marketing comes down to choosing the right company with quality products/services while leveraging effective relationship-building strategies. 

Your network marketing strategy should include a nice mixture of:

• Choose wisely
• Sell honestly
• Understand the potential for earnings

Network Marketing Strategy: Promotion Tips

An exceptional marketing plan is essential when building a network marketing strategy. 

Use the following marketing strategies to reach your target audience and stand out.

7. Social Media Marketing

Social media is a game-changer for MLM. 

You might not appreciate its advantage unless you’re an old dude like me 🙂

I was around pre-Internet when we had to spend $1000s on magazine ads or scour the mall for prospects.

You can use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and LinkedIn to find and close customers. 

Engage with your audience.

Respond to their comments and messages.

Word of caution:

Don’t use social media as the online form of the “3-foot rule.”

Target people based on their needs so they actually have an interest in solving the problem you and your product solve.

8. Blogging

A well-crafted blog can establish you as an authority in your niche. 

Share valuable information about your products or services while also providing useful content that engages readers. 

Creating content for your website and MLM funnel can help boost SEO and bring more visitors.

9. YouTube MLM Strategy

Videos can be a potent tool to demonstrate the usefulness of your product or service. 

According to HubSpot , videos on YouTube significantly increase engagement rates compared to other types of content. 

Create engaging videos that showcase your products or services and share them on your website and social media channels.

10. Paid Ads

Paid social media advertising can give your business exposure to a larger audience than organic posts. 

Facebook ads & posts , for instance, allow for precise targeting based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. 

Set a budget and track your results to ensure a positive return on investment.

11. Email List Building

An email list is effective for direct communication with business opportunity prospects showing interest in your product or opportunity. 

Use regular emails to keep them informed about promos or income opportunities. 

Provide value in your emails and avoid spamming your subscribers.

Use social media platforms, blogging, YouTube videos, paid ads and email list building to reach your target audience and stand out from the competition. Engage with your audience, provide valuable content, use precise targeting for paid ads, and avoid spamming your subscribers.

Tips for Crushing Your Network Marketing Strategy

MLM can seem tough to break into. It can feel like you’re pushing a big boulder uphill for a bit. 

With the right strategy, you can dominate the game. 

Here are additional tips to help you create an effective network marketing strategy.

12. Know Your “Why”

Your ‘why’ is your driving force. 

When the going gets rough, your ‘why’ will be what pushes you forward. 

Knowing your ‘why’ will give your business purpose and direction.

13. Avoid Marketing to Friends and Family

Don’t be that person who ruins Thanksgiving dinner poking the family with a sales pitch. 

Focus on seeking out those who have already expressed interest in your offering.

Your friends or the guy at the supermarket check-out doesn’t give a rat’s ass about what you sell. 

Think about it:

Does Nike ask the guy at the counter if they want to try some new shoes?

Does your local florist “hit up” the waiter each time they go out to eat?

Legitimate businesses use targeted marketing techniques to attract people who want what they sell. 

It’s called Attraction Marketing and you will enjoy building your MLM business after learning how to do attraction marketing correctly . 

14. Identify Your Target Market’s Needs

To successfully reach your target market, you must recognize and address their needs. 

This allows for more targeted messaging and higher conversion rates.

You should make a list of the pain points, goals, needs, and aspirations of your “best fit” customer. 

Then, you can point to these qualities with your marketing. 

It’s what you pull from for content with your social media, blogging, email, and ad efforts.

15. Show How Your Product Fulfills Those Needs

Don’t just tell people how great your product is. 

Demonstrate how your product or service fulfills those identified needs by providing value through problem-solving capabilities or unique benefits.

Share customer testimonials. 

Most importantly…share YOUR story.

16. Set and Track Clear Marketing Goals

Setting clear goals is key to any successful business venture. 

These should be specific, measurable objectives that guide your actions towards achieving desired outcomes.

For example:

Track how many new people you expose to your product and/or business opportunity each day. 

Track how many leads you get from all the marketing strategies I listed above. 

Track how many leads turn into sales. 

How many join your team?

Ya gotta know if you want to consider yourself a growing entrepreneur. 

17. Understand Your Compensation Plan

Make certain to fully understand how you get paid. 

Read the comp plan. 

Use this knowledge to track how many people you need to bring in as customers each month to earn your desired income. 

Otherwise, you’re flying blind and will never understand why you’re income doesn’t grow. 

18. Support Your Downline Members

Helping your team members succeed isn’t just ethical – it’s smart business. 

Their success contributes directly to yours, so assisting them becomes paramount.

19. Work on Personal Development

Continuous learning enhances skills necessary for growth and expansion, making personal development vital in this industry. 

Check out credible sources like Entrepreneur for tips on how to improve your skills.

Revolutionize Your Network Marketing Strategy with AI

AI can automate your time-consuming and tedious tasks, such as creating marketing assets like:

• Social media updates
• Landing pages

It frees up valuable time and resources for you to focus on building relationships and communicating with prospects .

20. Use AI Automated Content

AI platforms can generate engaging content tailored to your audience’s preferences and behavior patterns. 

Simply provide the software with relevant information about your product or service, and it will do the rest.

21. Create AI Social Media Posts & Email/Landing Pg Campaigns

AI can schedule and post on social media platforms at optimal times when your target market is most active online. 

It can also manage email campaigns by sending personalized messages based on each recipient’s interaction history with previous emails.

Effective landing pages are crucial for lead generation in your MLM business. 

AI can analyze user behavior data from these pages and make necessary adjustments for improved conversion rates.

Note: While AI has many advantages, it should complement human involvement in building relationships with prospects. Successful network marketing strategies require a personal touch. Don’t “automate” your business so much that prospects and downline members think you don’t care about them.

Tools to try:

ChatGPT : With ChatGPT you can do some excellent research, like how to start your new blog :

Jasper :  Jasper helps you write content. You can use it to write YouTube descriptions, blog outlines, or write pieces of articles that you string together to form an entire post.

Content At Scale : With Content At Scale , you can write entire articles for your blog with the push of a button. Your article appears within 10 minutes or less of pushing the button. Then, you edit this first draft, add some images or videos, and add the article to your website.

Network Marketing Strategy FAQs 

Still have a few questions about the best network marketing strategy? 

What is the strategy in MLM?

The strategy of direct selling involves building a team or organization to sell products and services through personal connections. It includes prospecting,  marketing, recruiting, training, and supporting new members while focusing on product sales. Your goal is to create a sustainable business model with multiple income streams from direct sales and team commissions.

What are the 3 C’s of MLM?

The 3 C’s of direct sales stand for Create, Capture, and Convert. Create refers to generating interest in your products or opportunity. Capture involves collecting contact information from potential customers or recruits. Convert focuses on turning prospects into buyers or team members through follow-up strategies and relationship-building techniques.

What are the 5 types of MLM?

• The Unilevel Plan: A simple structure where each member can recruit an unlimited number of people directly under them.
• The Binary Plan: Members build two teams (left leg/right leg) that grow simultaneously.
• The Matrix Plan:  Features limited width but allows deeper levels within organizations.
• The Stair Step Plan: Members advance in rank based on sales volume.
• The Hybrid Plan: Combines elements of multiple plans for a more flexible structure.

What are the 4 pillars of MLM Strategy?

Belief system, long-term commitment, retail sales and recruiting, and duplication and multiplication.

What are the 7 tips for network marketing?

• Set clear goals
• Create a daily action plan
• Foster strong relationships with clients & teammates
• Continuously develop communication skills
• Maintain consistency in efforts & messaging
• Leverage social media platforms effectively
• Incorporate personal development practices into your routine

Is MLM the same as affiliate marketing?

Don’t confuse multi level marketing with affiliate marketing. Some articles on MLM talk about single-tier and two-tier marketing. They lump these affiliate marketing models in with direct sales. You don’t build a downline in affiliate marketing. Two different concepts entirely. Learn more about affiliate marketing . 

Final Network Marketing Strategy Thoughts

What do you think?

Ready to use my network marketing strategy tips to start dominating inside your MLM business?

Here’s something I know from my personal experience with direct sales:

It becomes overwhelming putting all the pieces together. 

It can be a bit scary getting your target market figured out, deciding on blogging, social media, paid ads, or other types of marketing. 

• “Where do I start?”
• “How do I know if social media or blogging is best for my business?”
• “What if I don’t identify the right pain points or goals of my customers?”

I was there once…at the beginning of my MLM journey.

That’s why I put together some MLM training that teaches you how to speed up the process…

….how to get the income you’re looking for faster than you might think possible!

Click here to check it out now ! 

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The Network Marketing Business Model: Is It Right for You?

That depends on the type of network marketing.

What Is Network Marketing?

Multi-level marketing, does network marketing pay well.

• Multi-Level Marketing vs. Network Marketing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Balance

Network marketing is a business model that relies on a network of distributors to grow a business. There are many types of network marketing, but one of the most well-known types is called multi-level marketing.

Key Takeaways

• Network marketing is a business model that relies on a network of independent distributors to sell a product.
• Multi-level marketing is a type of network marketing where the salespeople also earn money by recruiting more salespeople.
• To earn money with network marketing, you must commit time, money, and effort—possibly more than you'd expect.

Network marketing relies on individual distributors who market and sell a product to their network of friends, relatives, and people they know or meet. The distributors make money through commissions on the products they sell. Often, they're not employees of the company, but rather independent contractors.

Distributors in network marketing businesses typically use three strategies to succeed: lead generation, recruiting, and building and management.

Lead generation is the process of locating new customers and clients who may be interested in the product. Recruiting is the process of adding customers and business partners to your network. And building and management are the way you train, motivate, and manage your recruits.

In some businesses, the distributors are also paid a commission for recruiting more distributors to sell the product. The more people they recruit, the more money they can make.

The result is multiple tiers, or levels, of salespeople: the top, original tier (called "the upline"), and then one or more tiers below them ("the downline"). Each new recruit might then also recruit additional distributors, which would form that level's downline. This type of network marketing is called multi-level marketing (MLM).

Some MLM programs allow you to make money five or more tiers deep. The top-level tiers make the most money, because they receive commissions from all the tiers below them. It is difficult for the newest recruits to make money.

Examples of MLM businesses include LuLaRoe, Magnetic Sponsoring, and Amway.

Network marketing does not pay equally well for everyone. The amount you earn depends on the volume of sales you can generate on your own and, in the case of MLM companies, the success of your downline as well.

A study published by the Consumer Awareness Institute noted that most of the commissions paid by MLM companies go to a tiny portion of distributors, with 99% of recruits actually losing money on their efforts.

There are several reasons why it can be tough to make money with multi-level marketing.

First, the company may require you to buy its products, pay for training, or keep a certain amount of inventory on hand. These costs often come before you can make your first sale, so you start out behind.

Then, the exciting bonuses or prizes the company offers are often only available to sellers who "pay to play," by making incentivized purchases of a certain dollar amount. This inventory then has to be sold as well if the salesperson is to make a profit. Sometimes these purchases are required if the seller wishes to advance, and reselling is tough because the seller needs to mark the product above retail to recoup their costs.

Finally, there are often operating expenses, such as computers, phones, internet access, and "training tools" required by the company. These costs further erode the possibility of profit, requiring the seller to meet such rigorous sales or recruiting goals that it's nearly impossible to get ahead.

Not everyone who wants to sell something will be good at it. However, sincerity and genuine enthusiasm about a company or product is a form of marketing in and of itself. If the only incentive to the sales team is money, they may cut corners or mislead others in an attempt to earn more for themselves. For network marketing to be successful, the salespeople must be sincerely enthusiastic about the product as well.

Take the time to research your state's laws regarding network marketing. Deceptive marketing practices and pyramid schemes can land you in legal trouble if you are not careful.

Multi-Level Marketing vs. Network Marketing 

Multi-level marketing is a form of network marketing with several levels of distributors. A large part of a multi-level marketer's success will come from recruiting.

But there are two other, simpler modes of network marketing as well: single-tier network marketing and two-tier network marketing.

Single-Tier Network Marketing

With single-tier network marketing, you sign up for a company's affiliate program to sell their products or services. You do not need to recruit other distributors, and all your pay comes from direct sales. Avon, the popular beauty company, uses single-tier network marketing.

In some online affiliate programs, you get paid for the traffic you drive to the affiliate's website. Pay-per-click (PPC) and pay-per-lead (PPL) affiliate programs are other examples of single-tier networking.

Two-Tier Network Marketing

Unlike single-tier network marketing, two-tier network marketing does involve some recruiting, but your pay isn't solely dependent on it. You get paid for direct sales (or traffic you drive to a website) and for direct sales or referred traffic made by affiliates or distributors you recruit to work under you. An example of a two-tier program is Ken Envoy's Site Sell.

Can you make money with network marketing?

Yes, it's possible to make money with network marketing. However, it's not easy. To be successful typically requires a serious application of effort, time, and money. Casual salespeople will quickly find themselves losing money.

Is network marketing risky?

Yes, there are risks that go with network marketing. You risk the money it takes for startup costs, inventory purchases, and training materials. You'll also spend time and money filling out paperwork, filling and shipping orders, and recruiting new salespeople. To make your money back, you'll need to sell a lot of product. And to continue to make a profit, you'll need to continue selling more (and sometimes recruiting new salespeople for your downline). Consider whether your network truly has enough buyers to support your business's needs, and research the network marketing company thoroughly before you get involved.

Want to read more content like this? Sign up for The Balance’s newsletter for daily insights, analysis, and financial tips, all delivered straight to your inbox every morning!

Federal Trade Commission. " The Case (for and) Against Multi-Level Marketing ," Chapter 7, Pages 7-1, 7-32.

Federal Trade Commission. " The Case (for and) Against Multi-level Marketing ," Page Intro-4.

Federal Trade Commission. " The Case (for and) Against Multi-Level Marketing ," Chapter 7, Pages 7-5, 7-7.

Federal Trade Commission. " Multi-Level Marketing Businesses and Pyramid Schemes ."

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• How to Create Your Network Marketing Strategy

Published on:

Once you set your Network Marketing goals and outcomes , you’ll need to create strategies to reach them before you create your business plan . Here are some strategies that will help to make your goals a reality.

If you want to inspire your team, get them to events. Events are where leaders are born . It can be company, regional, local, recruiting or training events. You can also hold your own events for your team around other events. Think of events as tools . They’re the lifeblood of what we do in our business. They’ll help your team rank advance and develop influencers in your organization and their leadership skills. 

You should constantly promote events and make sure your team sees the value in them. Make events non-negotiable. After an event, people are overwhelmed and tired, so it’s important to schedule a training session to focus everyone on what they learned and what they’re going to do. Then give them an assignment of what to do as soon as they get home so they’ll be productive.

Most people are reactionary and not proactive when it comes to their calendar. It’s your job to manage your calendar and the calendar is your boss . Just as retailers plan ahead for the holiday season, we need to do the same. In Network Marketing there are naturally slow times: January 1 – 15, April 1 – 15, June – August and during the end of the year holidays. You can increase your productivity from 50% to 100% if you can come up with some strategies and campaigns in advance that will keep your team excited and productive during these traditionally slower periods. When everyone else is slowing down, you’ll be accelerating the pace and gaining market share . 

Some ideas for campaigns for these periods include: New Year’s Kickoff, Valentine’s Day, Tax Time, Get Ready for Summer, 4th of July, School’s Out, Back to School, Black Friday/Cyber Monday and Christmas. 

And speaking of campaigns, an influencer’s job is to keep people focused longer than they would have been to create action. That is what a campaign does. People have been programmed their whole life to follow the system – at home, in school, at work – so they’re waiting for assignments from you. They need you to give them assignments and they’ll be relieved when you do because they’ll have clarity. Then, at some point, you can transition them to giving themselves assignments .

Here is an example of a campaign. Home meetings are very effective so a campaign around holding them is a great way to duplicate. Maybe have everyone agree to attend or host 5 home meetings in 5 days. You could do a similar campaign for Zoom meetings, luncheons or anything else you want your team to concentrate on.

Now that you have set goals and outcomes and you have some strategies established, you can move on to creating a business plan . 

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Great. Thanks!

I thank you Mr Earl for helping me to attend this

Thanks Eric

This is helpful for me

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Motivation In Network Marketing – How To Achieve It And Why It Is Important

Network marketing, also known as multi-level marketing (MLM), is a business model in which independent salespeople sell products and services to consumers and also recruit and train other salespeople to do the same.

Motivation is a crucial factor in the success of an MLM business, as it drives individuals to take action and achieve their goals.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of motivation in network marketing and explore various strategies for maintaining motivation in this industry.

Goals of network marketing motivation

The goals of network marketing motivation are numerous and varied. Some of the key benefits of maintaining motivation in this industry include the following:

• Increased productivity and sales : When individuals are motivated, they are more likely to put in the effort required to sell products and services, which leads to higher levels of productivity and, ultimately, increased sales.
• Improved team morale and cohesion : Motivated team members are more likely to work well together and support one another, enhancing confidence and a more cohesive team.
• Personal and professional development : Network marketing can allow individuals to develop new skills, learn about different products and industries, and grow personally and professionally. Motivation is key to taking advantage of these opportunities.

Action plans for maintaining motivation in network marketing

There are several action plans that individuals in the network marketing industry can use to maintain motivation:

• Set clear and achievable goals : It is crucial to understand what you want to achieve in your network marketing career. Setting specific, achievable goals can help you stay focused and motivated as you work towards achieving them.
• Continuously educate oneself about the product and industry : Staying up-to-date on the latest products and industry trends can help keep you motivated and give you the confidence to sell effectively.
• Surround oneself with positive and successful individuals : Seek out mentors and surround yourself with other motivated and successful individuals in the industry. Their positive attitudes and success stories can be infectious and help keep you motivated.
• Use visualization and positive affirmations : Visualizing your success and repeating positive affirmations to yourself can help you stay focused and motivated on your goals.
• Reward oneself for progress and accomplishments : Celebrating small wins and milestones as you work towards your goals is essential. Recognizing and rewarding your progress can help keep you motivated to continue moving forward.

MLM motivation quotes

Motivational quotes can inspire and encourage, particularly when feeling discouraged or stuck in a rut.

In the network marketing industry, where success often requires hard work and perseverance, these quotes can be beneficial for maintaining motivation.

Some examples of quotes to take inspiration from in the network marketer activity are:

The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today. – Franklin D. Roosevelt

The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary. – Vidal Sassoon

The man who will use his skill and constructive imagination to see how much he can give for a dollar, instead of how little he can give for a dollar, is bound to succeed. – Henry Ford

The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. – Steve Jobs

The only thing standing between you and your goal is the bullshit story you keep telling yourself as to why you can’t achieve it. – Jordan Belfort

Here are ten quotes about network marketing from some of the industry’s leading figures:

“Network marketing is not a hobby. It is a business.” – Eric Worre.

The biggest mistake network marketers make is treating it as a hobby. They’re not serious about it, and they don’t put in the work. It’s a business, and it requires effort to make it a success. – Tom “Big Al” Schreiter

Network marketing is an equal opportunity, but it’s not a level playing field. You have to be willing to do what others are not willing to do. – Don Failla

Network marketing is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It’s a legitimate business model that requires hard work, dedication, and leadership. – Mike Dillard

The most successful network marketers are those who are willing to put in the time and effort to educate themselves, develop their skills, and build strong relationships with their team members and customers. – Rob L. Sperry

The beauty of network marketing is that you can start part-time, and as your business grows, you have the opportunity to work it full-time and achieve financial freedom. – Wes Linden

The key to success in network marketing is to never give up and to continuously educate yourself about the industry and your product. – Eric Worre

Network marketing is not about selling products; it’s about building relationships and helping people achieve their goals and dreams. – Tom “Big Al” Schreiter

In network marketing, it’s not about how many people you know; it’s about how many people know you and trust you. – Don Failla

Success in network marketing is about leadership, not about being a salesperson. It’s about inspiring and mentoring others to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. – Mike Dillard

These quotes remind us that success takes hard work and perseverance and that we control our destinies.

They encourage us to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough, and to never give up on our dreams.

What is the importance of motivation in network marketing? 

Motivation is essential in network marketing because it drives individuals to take action and work towards their goals. Without motivation, it can be challenging to put in the effort required to succeed in this industry.

How can I maintain my motivation in network marketing?

There are several strategies for maintaining motivation in network marketing, such as setting clear and achievable goals, continuously educating oneself about the product and industry, surrounding oneself with positive and successful individuals, using visualization and positive affirmations, and rewarding oneself for progress and accomplishments.

What are some common sources of motivation for network marketers?

Common sources of motivation for network marketers include personal and professional development, the desire to achieve financial freedom, the opportunity to work with a supportive team, and the satisfaction of helping others achieve their goals.

Can motivational quotes help with motivation in network marketing?

Yes, motivational quotes can help maintain motivation in network marketing. They can provide inspiration and encouragement, particularly during times of doubt or challenges.

What are some tips for using motivational quotes to stay motivated in network marketing?

Some tips for using motivational quotes to stay motivated in network marketing include finding quotes that resonate with you, writing your favorite quotes down and keeping them in a visible location, and sharing quotes with your team to help motivate and encourage them.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, motivation is a crucial factor in the success of network marketing.

By setting clear and achievable goals, continuously educating oneself, surrounding oneself with positive influences, using visualization and affirmations, and rewarding oneself for progress and accomplishments, individuals in the industry can maintain their motivation and achieve their goals.

Additionally, motivational quotes can provide inspiration and encouragement along the way.

By implementing these strategies, individuals can stay motivated and succeed in the dynamic and rewarding world of network marketing.

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How to Create a Social Media Marketing Strategy in 9 Easy Steps [Free Template]

Creating your social media marketing strategy doesn’t need to be painful. Create an effective plan for your business in 9 simple steps.

A social media marketing strategy is a summary of everything you plan to do and hope to achieve on social media. It guides your actions and lets you know whether you’re succeeding or failing.

The more specific your plan is, the more effective it will be. Keep it concise. Don’t make it so lofty and broad that it’s unattainable or impossible to measure.

In this post, we’ll walk you through a nine-step plan to create a winning social media strategy of your own. We’ve even got expert insights from Amanda Wood, Hootsuite’s Senior Manager of Social Marketing.

How to create a social media strategy:

Bonus: Get a free social media strategy template   to quickly and easily plan your own strategy. Also use it to track results and present the plan to your boss, teammates, and clients.

What is a social media marketing strategy?

A social media strategy is a document outlining your social media goals, the tactics you will use to achieve them and the metrics you will track to measure your progress.

Your social media marketing strategy should also list all of your existing and planned social media accounts along with goals specific to each platform you’re active on. These goals should align with your business’s larger digital marketing strategy.

Finally, a good social media plan should define the roles and responsibilities within your team and outline your reporting cadence.

Create. Schedule. Publish. Engage. Measure. Win.

Creating your own social media marketing strategy (video guide)

No time to read the whole article? Let Amanda, Hootsuite’s own Senior Manager of Social Media Marketing, guide you through our free social media marketing strategy template in less than 10 minutes:

How to create a social media marketing strategy in 9 steps

Step 1. choose goals that align to business objectives, set s.m.a.r.t. goals.

The first step to creating a winning social media strategy is to establish clear objectives and goals. Without goals, you have no way to measure success and return on investment (ROI) .

Each of your social media marketing goals should be SMART : s pecific, m easurable, a ttainable, r elevant and t ime-bound.

Psst: Need help getting started? We’ve got social strategy guides for small businesses , financial services , government , higher education , healthcare , real estate , law firms , and non-profits .

Oh, and if you need examples of smart social media goals , we’ve got you covered there too.

Once you’ve decided on your goals, track them in a social media strategy doc — grab our free template if you don’t have one already.

Track meaningful metrics

Vanity metrics like number of followers and likes are easy to track, but it’s hard to prove their real value. Instead, focus on things like engagement, click-through, and conversion rates.

For inspiration, take a look at these 19 essential social media metrics .

You may want to track different goals for different social media networks, or even different uses for each network.

For example, if you use LinkedIn to drive traffic to your website, you would measure click-throughs. If Instagram is for brand awareness, you might track the number of Instagram Story views. And if you advertise on Facebook, cost-per-click (CPC) is a common success metric.

Social media goals should align with your overall marketing objectives. This makes it easier to show the value of your work and secure buy-in from your boss.

Start developing a successful social media marketing plan by writing down at least three goals for social media.

“ It’s easy to get overwhelmed by deciding what to post and which metrics to track, but you need to focus on what you want to get out of social media to begin with,” says Amanda Wood, Hootsuite’s Senior Manager of Social Marketing. “Don’t just start posting and tracking everything: match your goals to your business, and your metrics to your goals.”

Step 2. Learn everything you can about your audience

Get to know your fans, followers, and customers as real people with real wants and needs, and you will know how to target and engage them on social media.

When it comes to your ideal customer, you should know things like:

• Average income
• Typical job title or industry

Here’s a simple guide and template for creating audience/buyer personas .

Don’t forget to document this information in your strategy doc!

Social media analytics can also provide a ton of valuable information about who your followers are, where they live, and how they interact with your brand on social media. These insights allow you to refine your strategy and better target your audience.

Jugnoo, an Uber-like service for auto-rickshaws in India, used Facebook Analytics to learn that 90% of their users who referred other customers were between 18- and 34-years-old, and 65% of that group was using Android. They used that information to target their ads, resulting in a 40% lower cost per referral.

Check out our guide to using social media analytics and the tools you need to track them .

Step 3. Get to know your competition

Odds are your competitors are already using social media, and that means you can learn from what they’re doing.

Conduct a competitive analysis

A competitive analysis allows you to understand who the competition is and what they’re doing well (and not so well). You’ll get a good sense of what’s expected in your industry, which will help you set social media targets of your own.

It will also help you spot opportunities and weaknesses you can document in your social strategy doc.

Maybe one of your competitors is dominant on Facebook, for example, but has put little effort into X (Twitter) or Instagram. You might want to focus on the social media platforms where your audience is underserved, rather than trying to win fans away from a dominant player.

Use social media listening

Social listening is another way to keep an eye on your competitors.

Do searches of the competition’s company name, account handles, and other relevant keywords on social media. Find out what they’re sharing and what other people are saying about them. If they’re using influencer marketing, how much engagement do those campaigns earn them?

Pro tip : Use Hootsuite Streams to monitor relevant keywords, hashtags and accounts in real-time.

Try Hootsuite for free. You can cancel anytime.

As you track, you may notice shifts in how your competitors and industry leaders are using social media. You may come across new, exciting trends. You might even spot specific social content or a campaign that really hits the mark—or totally bombs.

Use this kind of intel to optimize and inform your own social media marketing strategy.

Just don’t go overboard on the spy tactics, Amanda advises. “ Make sure you aren’t ALWAYS comparing yourself to the competition — it can be a distraction. I’d say checking in on a monthly basis is healthy. Otherwise, focus on your own strategy and results.”

Step 4. Do a social media audit

If you’re already using social media, take stock of your efforts so far. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What’s working, and what’s not?
• Who is engaging with you?
• What are your most valuable partnerships?
• Which networks does your target audience use?
• How does your social media presence compare to the competition?

Once you collect that information, you’ll be ready to start thinking about ways to improve.

We’ve created an easy-to-follow social media audit guide and template to walk you through each step of this process.

Your audit should give you a clear picture of what purpose each of your social accounts serves. If the purpose of an account isn’t clear, think about whether it’s worth keeping.

To help you decide, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is my audience here?
• If so, how are they using this platform?
• Can I use this account to help achieve my goals?

Asking these tough questions will keep your social media strategy focused.

Look for impostor accounts

During the audit, you may discover fake accounts using your business name or the names of your products.

These imposters can be harmful to your brand—never mind that they’re capturing followers that should be yours.

You may want to get your accounts verified too to ensure your fans know they are dealing with the real you.

Here’s how to get verified on:

• X (Twitter)

Step 5. Set up accounts and improve profiles

Decide which networks to use.

As you decide which social networks to use, you will also need to define your strategy for each.

Benefit Cosmetics’ social media manager, Angela Purcaro, told eMarketer : “For our makeup tutorials … we’re all about Snapchat and Instagram Stories. [X], on the other hand, is designated for customer service.”

Hootsuite’s own social team even designates different purposes for formats within networks. On Instagram, for example, they use the feed to post high-quality educational infographics and product announcements and Stories to cover live events or quick social media updates.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hootsuite 🦉 (@hootsuite)

Pro tip : Write out a mission statement for each network. A one-sentence declaration to keep you focused on a specific goal.

Example: “We will use X for customer support to keep email and call volumes down.”

Or: “We will use LinkedIn for promoting and sharing our company culture to help with recruitment and employee advocacy.”

One more: “We will use Instagram to highlight new products and repost quality content from influencers.”

If you can’t create a solid mission statement for a particular social media channel, you may want to ask yourself if it’s worth it.

Note : While larger businesses can and do tackle every platform, small businesses may not be able to — and that’s ok! Prioritize social platforms that will have the most impact on your business and make sure your marketing team has the resources to handle content for those networks. If you need help focusing your efforts, check out our 18-minute social media plan .

Set up your profiles

Once you’ve decided which networks to focus on, it’s time to create your profiles. Or improve existing ones so they align with your strategy.

• Make sure you fill out all profile fields
• Include keywords people would use to search for your business
• Use consistent branding (logos, images, etc.) across networks so your profiles are easily recognizable

Pro tip : Use high-quality images that follow the recommended dimensions for each network. Check out our always-up-to-date social media image size cheat sheet for quick reference.

We’ve also got step-by-step guides for each network to walk you through the process:

• Create a Facebook business page
• Create an Instagram business account
• Create a TikTok account
• Create a X (Twitter) business account
• Create a Snapchat account
• Create a LinkedIn Company Page
• Create a Pinterest business account
• Create a YouTube channel

Don’t let this list overwhelm you. Remember, it’s better to use fewer channels well than to stretch yourself thin trying to maintain a presence on every network.

Optimize your profiles (and content) for search

Never heard of social SEO ? It’s time to learn.

44% of Gen Z consumers use social platforms to research their purchase decisions, which means it’s extra critical that your channels are optimized for social search.

That means making sure your profile names are clear and descriptive, you’re including relevant hashtags and keywords in your bio and on every post, and you’re using features like alt text and captions to include your target keywords as naturally as possible.

Step 6. Find inspiration

While it’s important that your brand be unique, you can still draw inspiration from other businesses that are great on social.

“ I consider it my job to stay active on social: to know what’s trending, which campaigns are winning, what’s new with the platforms, who’s going above and beyond,” says Amanda. “This might be the most fun step for you, or the hardest one, but it’s just as crucial as the rest of them.”

Social media success stories

You can usually find these on the business section of the social network’s website. ( Here’s Facebook’s , for example.)

Case studies can offer valuable insights that you can apply to your own social media plan.

Award-winning accounts and campaigns

You could also check out the winners of The Facebook Awards or The Shorty Awards for examples of brands that are at the top of their social media game.

For learning and a laugh, check out Fridge-Worthy, Hootsuite’s bi-weekly awards show highlighting brands doing smart and clever things on social media.

Your favorite brands on social media

Who do you enjoy following on social media? What do they do that compels people to engage and share their content?

National Geographic, for example, is one of the best on Instagram, combining stunning visuals with compelling captions.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by National Geographic (@natgeo)

Then there’s Shopify. The ecommerce brand uses Facebook to sell themselves by showcasing customer stories and case studies.

And Lush Cosmetics is a great example of superior customer service on X. They use their 280 characters to answer questions and solve problems in an extremely charming and on-brand way.

Source: lushcosmetics on X

Notice that each of these accounts has a consistent voice, tone, and style. That’s key to letting people know what to expect from your feed. That is, why should they follow you? What’s in it for them?

Consistency also helps keep your content on-brand even if you have multiple people on your social media team.

For more on this, read our guide on establishing a compelling brand voice on social media .

Ask your followers

Consumers can also offer social media inspiration.

What are your target customers talking about online? What can you learn about their wants and needs?

If you have existing social channels, you could also ask your followers what they want from you. Just make sure that you follow through and deliver what they ask for.

Step 7. Create a social media content calendar

Sharing great content is essential, of course, but it’s equally important to have a plan in place for when you’ll share content to get the maximum impact.

Your social media content calendar also needs to account for the time you spend interacting with the audience (although you need to allow for some spontaneous engagement as well).

Set your posting schedule

Your social media content calendar lists the dates and times at which you will publish types of content on each channel. It’s the perfect place to plan all of your social media activities—from images, link sharing, and re-shares of user-generated content to blog posts and videos. It includes both your day-to-day posting and content for social media campaigns.

Your calendar also ensures your posts are spaced out appropriately and published at the best times to post .

Pro tip: You can plan your whole content calendar and get recommended best times to post on every network based on your past engagement rate, impressions, or link click data in Hootsuite.

Hootsuite’s Best Time to Publish feature

Determine the right content mix

Make sure your content strategy and calendar reflect the mission statement you’ve assigned to each social profile, so that everything you post is working to support your business goals.

(We know, it’s tempting to jump on every meme, but there should always be a strategy behind your social media marketing efforts!)

You might decide that:

• 50% of content will drive traffic back to your website
• 25% of content will be curated from other sources
• 20% of content will support lead-generation goals (newsletter sign-ups, ebook downloads, etc.)
• 5% of content will be about your company culture

Placing these different post types in your content calendar will ensure you maintain the right mix.

If you’re starting from scratch and you’re not sure what types of content to post, try the 80-20 rule :

• 80% of your posts should inform, educate, or entertain your audience
• 20% can directly promote your brand.

You could also try the social media content marketing rule of thirds :

• One-third of your content promotes your business, converts readers, and generates profit.
• One-third of your content shares ideas and stories from thought leaders in your industry or like-minded businesses.
• One-third of your content is personal interactions with your audience

Whatever you decide on, be sure to document it in your strategy doc.

Don’t post too much or too little

If you’re starting a social media marketing strategy from scratch, you may not have figured out how often to post to each network for maximum engagement yet.

Post too frequently and you risk annoying your audience. But, if you post too little, you risk looking like you’re not worth following.

Start with these posting frequency recommendations:

• Instagram (feed): 3-7 times per week
• TikTok: 3-5 times per week
• Facebook: 1-2 times per day
• X (Twitter): 1-5 times per day
• LinkedIn: 1-5 times per day

Pro tip : Once you have your social media content calendar planned out, use a scheduling tool to prepare messages in advance rather than updating constantly throughout the day.

We might be biased, but we think Hootsuite is the best social media management tool. You can schedule social media posts to every network and the intuitive calendar view gives you a full picture of all your social activity each week.

Try It Free

Step 8. Create compelling content

Remember those mission statements you created for each channel in Step 5? Well, it’s time to go a bit deeper, a.k.a. provide some examples of the type of content you’ll post to fulfill your mission on each network.

If you’re not sure what to post, here’s a long list of social media content ideas to get you started. Or (to make it even easier) you can use an AI tool like OwlyWriter to generate on-brand content in a flash.

The idea here is to:

• Keep your content aligned with the purpose of each network;
• Show other stakeholders (if applicable) what kind of content they can expect to see on each network.

This last point especially will help you avoid any tension when your colleagues want to know why you haven’t posted their case study/whitepaper/blog post to TikTok yet. It’s not in the strategy, Linda!

Ideally, you will generate content types that are both suited to the network and the purpose you’ve set out for that network.

For example, you wouldn’t want to waste time posting brand awareness tweets if you’ve designated X/Twitter for primarily customer support. And you wouldn’t want to post super polished corporate video ads to TikTok, as users expect to see short, unpolished videos on that platform.

It might take some testing over time to figure out which type of content works best on which type of network, so prepare to update this section frequently.

We won’t lie: content creation isn’t as easy as everyone not on the social team seems to think. But if you’re struggling, Amanda suggests going back to basics.

The first question to ask is: is there cohesion between your content types? Is your content providing value? Do you have a good mix of entertaining, or educational content? What does it offer that makes a person stop and spend time? Creating a few different content pillars or categories that encompass different aspects of storytelling for your brand, and what you can offer your audience is a good start.

This brings us to Step 9.

Step 9. Track performance and make adjustments

Your social media marketing strategy is a hugely important document for your business, and you can’t assume you’ll get it exactly right on the first try.

As you start to implement your plan and track your results, you may find that some strategies don’t work as well as you’d anticipated, while others are working even better than expected.

That’s why it’s important to document your progress along the way.

Look at performance metrics

In addition to the analytics within each social network (see Step 2), you can use UTM parameters to track social visitors as they move through your website, so you can see exactly which social posts drive the most traffic to your website.

Benchmark your results

You’ve got your numbers, but how do they stack up to the competition in your industry? Industry benchmarks are a great way to evaluate your performance against other businesses in your category.

If you’ve got Hootsuite Analytics , you can use our built-in social media benchmarking tool to compare the performance of your social accounts against the average of brands in your industry with just a couple of clicks.

You can set up custom timeframes, switch between networks — Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, and TikTok — and look up benchmarks for metrics like followers, audience growth rate, engagement rate, clicks, shares, and much more.

You’ll also find resources to improve your performance  right in the summary section:

Re-evaluate, test, and do it all again

Once this data starts coming in, use it to re-evaluate your strategy regularly. You can also use this information to test different posts, social marketing campaigns, and strategies against one another. Constant testing allows you to understand what works and what doesn’t, so you can refine your social media marketing strategy in real time.

You’ll want to check the performance of all your channels at least once a week and get to know the basics of social media reporting so you can track your growth over time.

Pro tip: If you use Hootsuite, you can review the performance of all your posts on every network in one place. Once you get the hang of checking your analytics, you may even want to customize different reports to show specific metrics over a variety of different time periods.

Surveys can also be a great way to find out how well your social media strategy is working. Ask your followers, email list, and website visitors whether you’re meeting their needs and expectations, and what they’d like to see more of. Then make sure to deliver on what they tell you.

Finalizing your social media strategy

Spoiler alert: nothing is final.

Social media moves fast. New networks emerge, others go through demographic shifts.

Your business will go through periods of change as well.

All of this means that your social media marketing strategy should be a living document that you review and adjust as needed. Refer to it often to stay on track, but don’t be afraid to make changes so that it better reflects new goals, tools, or plans.

When you update your social strategy, make sure to watch our 5-step video on how to updating your social media strategy for 2024:

Social media strategy template

Ready to start documenting? Grab your free social media strategy template below!

What’s next? When you’re ready to put your plan into action, we’re here to help…

Save time managing your social media marketing strategy with Hootsuite. From a single dashboard you can easily:

• Plan, create, and schedule posts to every network
• Track relevant keywords, topics, and accounts
• Stay on top of engagement with a universal inbox
• Get easy-to-understand performance reports and improve your strategy as needed

Try Hootsuite for Free

With files from Shannon Tien .

Do it better with Hootsuite , the all-in-one social media tool. Stay on top of things, grow, and beat the competition.

Become a better social marketer.

Get expert social media advice delivered straight to your inbox.

Christina Newberry is an award-winning writer and editor whose greatest passions include food, travel, urban gardening, and the Oxford comma—not necessarily in that order.

Amanda Wood is a senior social marketing professional who combines analytical and creative thinking to build brands.

As head of social at Hootsuite, Amanda oversees the global social strategy encompassing organic and paid social on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn, a social engagement and listening strategy, and an employee advocacy program.

As the leader of a high-performing social team, she has extensive experience collaborating with creatives to bring campaigns to life on social and drive business results.

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13.30: Assignment- Complete Marketing Plan

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Resubmission recommendation: We recommend giving students an initial due date to complete Part 3 of the Marketing Plan after Module 13: Promotion: IMC. Then, after students have received some instructor feedback, in lieu of a final exam, we recommend allowing the students to revise and resubmit their final, improved Marketing Plan with a final due date prior to the end of term.

Student Instructions: Complete the following information about the organization and products and/or services you will focus on as you develop a complete marketing plan throughout the course. You may need to do research to get answers to the questions below. The subject for this assignment should be the organization and products and/or services you identified for the Marketing Plan, Parts 1 and 2 Assignments.

When you submit this assignment, you should submit it as a complete marketing plan, including all your work from Marketing Plan Assignments, Parts 1 and 2. All elements of your marketing plan should be complete. You may incorporate improvements to earlier sections of the plan, based on prior feedback from your instructor.

Marketing Mix (Four Ps)

Product strategy.

Briefly describe your product or service. Where is it in the product life cycle? What recommendations do you have for improving the offering to fit your target market’s needs? Be sure to consider:

• What level of quality and consistency does the offering have?
• How many features does it have and can they be removed or added?
• How well does your product or service deliver what the customer values? How can it improve?
• What improvements would help your offering compete more effectively?

Pricing Strategy

How is your product or service priced today? How does this compare to competitors, assuming competitors are at or near break-even point with their pricing? Analyze pricing alternatives and make recommendations about pricing going forward based on the following:

• How sensitive are your customers to changes in price?
• What revenue you need to break even and achieve profitability?
• What does the price says about your product in terms of value, quality, prestige, etc.?

Place: Distribution Strategy

What is your current distribution strategy? What missed opportunities or disconnects are you seeing in this distribution approach? Make recommendations about your future distribution strategy based on the following:

• What are the best distribution channels and methods for you to use, and why?
• Will you have a retail outlet and if so, where will it be located?
• In what geographic area(s) will your product/service be available?

Promotion: Integrated Marketing Communications Strategy

Use the template below to lay out your design for a marketing campaign aimed at your target segment.

How will you achieve your goal? What promotional or engagement strategies will you use? Think creatively about campaigns you’ve seen for companies or brands that have caught your attention, and how your campaign will make an impact on your target audience. Will your campaign influence? Engage? Educate? Nurture? Build awareness? Etc.

Example: Use email marketing, social media and a sales promotion (prize drawing at conference) to encourage veteran attendees to post online about their experiences and plans for attending the user conference using the event hashtag. Use these testimonials to amplify dialogue about the conference (via social media), build awareness (via email marketing, Web site and targeted digital advertising) and convince peers they should attend.

In consideration of the of your previous analysis, you need to identify at least one goal for the campaign.

• Describe the target segment for your campaign.
• What is the goal you want to achieve with the campaign?
• What is your call to action?
• Make sure your goal is S.M.A.R.T. (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timed.)
• Audience: HR professionals who are casual and power-users of Chumber systems
• Increase event registration by 20% by the start date of the annual user conference.
• Call to action: Register online today.

Identify the primary message for your campaign, 2-3 message pillars and proof points for each. Be sure to include a call to action that helps to achieve your goal. Remember that messages should align reinforce your positioning statement. Be sure to include a call to action that helps to achieve your goal.

• Primary Message: The annual user conference provides phenomenal value for training, professional development, peer networking and learning how to get the most out of your investment.
• Message Pillar: This conference welcomes you into a dynamic, well-connected and highly competent professional community.
• Proof Point: Veteran attendees return year after year because it is recharges their skills, knowledge and professional networks.
• Call to Action: Register online today.

Promotional Mix and IMC Tools

Identify the key marketing communication methods and specific IMC tools you will use in your marketing campaign. How will you use each of these tools? Look for ways different methods and tools can build on each other: advertising, direct marketing, public relations, digital marketing, guerrilla marketing, personal selling, sales promotion.

Digital Marketing

• Web site: Add testimonials from prior attendees, event hashtag, rolling hashtag Tweets box, social media buttons to make registration easy to share via social media

Direct Marketing

• Email marketing: Reach out to prior year’s attendees who are already registered. Ask them to post about plans to attend upcoming conference. Conduct email campaign with target audience list to generate awareness, interest, desire to attend conference.

Sales Promotion + Digital Marketing

• Contest/giveaway: Offer giveaway where Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn posts trigger entries in a “conference evangelist” contest/giveaway to take place at conference opening session, one entry per social media tool per day

Sales Alignment

At what point(s) in the sales process (or sales funnel) does this campaign operate? Sales process stages are: 1) generate leads; 2) build relationships/discover needs; 3) present solution/resolve concerns; 4) close the sale; 5) monitor and follow up. How does your campaign support sales activity?

Measurement (KPIs—Key Performance Indicators)

How will you measure the success of the campaign? Select 3-6 KPIs (key performance indicators) that you will measure. Briefly explain why each KPI you select will be a good indicator of whether your campaign is successful.

Examples of KPIs:

• Total sales/revenue
• New/incremental sales
• Number of qualified leads generated
• Net Promoter Score
• Web site unique visitors
• Number of registrations/sign-ups
• Impressions – views of content
• CTR – click through rate
• Engagement – comments, likes, shares, pageviews, video views
• Followers – social media (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube)

Budget: List marketing budget and resources required to execute your marketing campaign, and estimate what it will cost. Include items such as labor, materials and other expenses such as: print materials, online media tools or development, public relations services, design services, content development services, space or equipment rental, etc. Also, estimate the increased sales or revenue the campaign will generate for the company.

Add additional rows as needed.

Estimated campaign impact: [insert]

Action Plan

Outline the specific activities you must complete in order to execute your marketing campaign. Each element of your integrated marketing communications plan should be listed as a separate activity. List actions in the order they need to take place for the plan to be successful: first things first, later steps last. Follow-up activities and evaluation of campaign effectiveness also should be captured in this action plan. For the purposes of setting due dates in this action plan, you should assume you must complete the marketing campaign within 3–12 months.

Risk Factors

Contingency plans and risk management: You should consider the possible risks to your business and make contingency plans to address them. You note some possible risks under the “weakness” and “threats” sections of your SWOT analysis. Identify steps you can take to either reduce risks or work around them if they occur.

Executive Summary

Do this section last. This short summary should provide a holistic overview of your marketing plan. All of this information is covered in more detail in the rest of the marketing plan. For the Executive Summary, provide a clear, concise overview of the following points:

Company Description

Briefly description the organization and offerings (products and/or services) your marketing plan focuses on, and the problem(s) they solve.

Target Segment

Identify and briefly describe your target segment.

Competitive Advantage

Explain your organization’s competitive advantage.

Positioning Statement

Provide the positioning statement your marketing plan will apply.

Marketing Plan Objectives

List the objectives of marketing plan: What will it accomplish? Be as specific as possible: anticipated increase in sales, profits, market share, etc.

Sample Grading Rubric

Marketing mix (four ps) grading rubric.

Total points possible for Marketing Mix (Four Ps): 10 pts.

Goal Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Goal: 5 pts.

Approach Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Approach: 5 pts.

Messages Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Messages: 15 pts.

Promotional Mix and IMC Tools Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Promotional Mix and IMC Tools: 15 pts.

Sales Alignment Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Sales Alignment: 10 pts.

Budget Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Budget Grading: 10 pts.

Action Plan Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Action Plan: 10 pts.

Risk Factors Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Risk Factors: 10 pts.

Executive Summary Grading Rubric

Total points possible for Executive Summary: 10 pts.

Total points possible for Complete Marketing Plan Assignment (Marketing Mix Four Ps, Approach, Goal, Messages, Promotional Mix and IMC, Sales Alignment, Budget, Action Plan, Risk Factors, and Executive Summary) Tools: 100 pts.

Contributors and Attributions

• Assignment: Complete Marketing Plan. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution

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• Social Media Marketing (SMM)
• Why Is SMM So Powerful?
• How SMM Works

Tracking Metrics

• Pros and Cons

The Bottom Line

• Marketing Essentials

Social Media Marketing (SMM): What It Is, How It Works, Pros and Cons

Adam Hayes, Ph.D., CFA, is a financial writer with 15+ years Wall Street experience as a derivatives trader. Besides his extensive derivative trading expertise, Adam is an expert in economics and behavioral finance. Adam received his master's in economics from The New School for Social Research and his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in sociology. He is a CFA charterholder as well as holding FINRA Series 7, 55 & 63 licenses. He currently researches and teaches economic sociology and the social studies of finance at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

Investopedia / Paige McLaughlin

What Is Social Media Marketing (SMM)?

Social media marketing (also known as digital marketing and e-marketing) is the use of social media—the platforms on which users build social networks and share information—to build a company's brand, increase sales, and drive website traffic. In addition to providing companies with a way to engage with existing customers and reach new ones, SMM has purpose-built data analytics that allows marketers to track the success of their efforts and identify even more ways to engage.

Within 18 years, from 2004 (when MySpace became the first social media site to reach one million users) to 2022, the dramatic growth of interactive digital channels took social media to levels that challenge even the reach of television and radio. At the start of 2023, there were 4.76 billion social media users globally—over 59% of the world's population.

Key Takeaways

• Social media marketing uses social media and social networks—like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram—to market products and services, engage with existing customers, and reach new ones.
• The power of social media marketing comes from the unparalleled capacity of social media in three core marketing areas: connection, interaction, and customer data.
• Social media marketing has transformed the way businesses can influence consumer behavior—from promoting content that drives engagement to extracting personal data that makes messaging resonate with users.
• Because social media today is so ubiquitous, marketing techniques using these platforms are extremely important for businesses.
• Social media marketing is often more cost-effective with great exposure, though it requires ongoing maintenance and might have unintended negative feedback consequences.

Why Is Social Media Marketing (SMM) So Powerful?

The power of SMM is driven by the unparalleled capacity of social media in three core marketing areas: connection, interaction, and customer data.

Not only does social media enable businesses to connect with customers in previously impossible ways, but there is also an extraordinary range of avenues to connect with target audiences—from content platforms (like YouTube) and social sites (like Facebook) to microblogging services (like X).

Interaction

The dynamic nature of the interaction on social media—whether direct communication or passive liking—enables businesses to leverage free advertising opportunities from eWOM (electronic word-of-mouth) recommendations between existing and potential customers. Not only is the positive contagion effect from eWOM a valuable driver of consumer decisions, but the fact that these interactions happen on the social network makes them measurable. For example, businesses can measure their social equity—a term for the return on investment (ROI) from their social media marketing campaigns.

Customer Data

A well-designed social media marketing plan delivers another invaluable resource to boost marketing outcomes: customer data. Rather than being overwhelmed by the 3Vs of big data (volume, variety, and velocity), SMM tools have the capacity not only to extract customer data but also to turn this gold into actionable market analysis—or even to use the data to crowdsource new strategies.

Consider how different demographics may not have equal access to social media. Relying only on digital or online marketing may unintendedly exclude certain groups of people without online access.

How Social Media Marketing (SMM) Works

As platforms like Facebook, X, and Instagram took off, social media transformed how we connect and how businesses can influence consumer behavior—from promoting content that drives engagement to extracting geographic, demographic , and personal information that makes messaging resonate with users.

SMM Action Plan

The more targeted your SMM strategy is, the more effective it will be. Hootsuite, a leading software provider in the social media management space, recommends the following action plan to build an SMM campaign that has an execution framework as well as performance metrics:

• Align SMM goals to clear business objectives
• Learn your target customer (age, location, income, job title, industry, interests)
• Conduct a competitive analysis of your competition (successes and failures)
• Audit your current SMM (successes and failures)
• Create a calendar for SMM content delivery
• Create best-in-class content
• Track performance and adjust SMM strategy as needed

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Compared to traditional marketing, social media marketing has several distinct advantages, including the fact that SMM has two kinds of interaction that enable targeted customer relationship management (CRM) tools: both customer-to-customer and firm-to-customer. In other words, while traditional marketing tracks customer value primarily by capturing purchase activity, SMM can track customer value directly (through purchases) and indirectly (through product referrals).

Shareable Content

Businesses can also convert the amplified interconnectedness of SMM into the creation of sticky content, the marketing term for attractive content that engages customers at first glance. This gets them to purchase products and share the content. This kind of word-of-mouth advertising not only reaches an otherwise inaccessible audience but also carries the implicit endorsement of someone the recipient knows and trusts—making the creation of shareable content one of the most important ways social media marketing drives growth.

Earned Media

SMM is also the most efficient way for a business to reap the benefits of another kind of earned media (a term for brand exposure from any method other than paid advertising): customer-created product reviews and recommendations.

Viral Marketing

Another SMM strategy that relies on the audience to generate the message is viral marketing , a sales technique that attempts to trigger the rapid spread of word-of-mouth product information. Once a marketing message is being shared with the general public far beyond the original target audience, it is considered viral—a very simple and inexpensive way to promote sales.

Customer Segmentation

Because customer segmentation is much more refined on SMM than on traditional marketing channels, companies can ensure they focus their marketing resources on their exact target audiences.

According to Sprout Social, the most important SMM metrics to track are focused on the customer: engagement (likes, comments, shares, clicks); impressions (how many times a post shows up); reach/virality (how many unique views an SMM post has); share of voice (how far a brand reaches in the online sphere); referrals (how a user lands on a site); and conversions (when a user makes a purchase on a site). However, another critical metric is focused on the business: response rate/time (how often and how fast the business responds to customer messages).

When a business is trying to determine which metrics to track in the sea of data that social media generates, the rule is always to align each business goal to a relevant metric. If your business goal is to grow conversions from an SMM campaign by 15% within three months, then use a social media analytics tool that measures the effectiveness of your campaign against that specific target.

Even in the digital age, people appreciate the human touch, so don't rely only on social media to get the word out.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media Marketing (SMM)

The introduction of social media marketing has introduced a new suite of benefits. Social media platforms provide a powerful channel for reaching and engaging with a large audience, which can help increase brand awareness and recognition.

Engaging with customers through social media channels can help build stronger relationships and foster customer loyalty. It's often a less expensive option than traditional advertising methods, making it more appealing for smaller or start-up businesses.

The nature of social media marketing also has plenty of benefits. Sharing links to your website or blog on social media can help drive more traffic to your website and increase the likelihood of conversions. In addition, social media provides a way to gather feedback from customers in real time, allowing for instant interaction and simplicity in communication.

Social media marketing also has the benefit of being broad but also targeted. Social media can help businesses reach a wider audience and increase engagement through shares, likes, comments, and other forms of interaction. This is especially true considering many customers forward content to friends and family who might be non-customers. On the other hand, social media platforms offer a range of targeting options, meaning companies can pinpoint specific demographics, interests, and behaviors and deliver personalized content to those audiences.

Disadvantages

Though riddled with benefits, there are some downsides and complications to social media marketing. Building a strong social media presence takes time and effort, and business owners must often consistently engage and create content.

Effective social media marketing requires a deep understanding of the various platforms and the ability to create engaging content, analyze data, and make data-driven decisions. Each platform is often specialized and requires its own understanding. In addition, social media platforms are constantly changing their algorithms and policies which can make it difficult to predict and maintain success.

Though social media makes it easy to communicate with customers, it also provides a platform for customers to voice their complaints and grievances publicly. This may have the unintended consequence of creating a public forum, which can damage a company's reputation if not handled properly.

Last, it may be difficult to clearly quantify the return on social media marketing. Measuring the effectiveness and ROI of social media marketing can be challenging as it often involves tracking multiple metrics, analyzing complex data sets, and making assumptions about why consumers may have acted in various ways.

May help companies enhance brand recognition easily

Offers companies more cost-effective solutions with great exposure

May be leveraged to increase website traffic and real-time feedback

May be leveraged for targeted or specific engagements

May be time-consuming to set up and maintain

May be unpredictable, as different platforms may change algoriths

May result in negative feedback displayed in a very public fashion

May be difficult to fully understand the true ROI

What Is Sticky Content in Social Media Marketing?

Sticky content is the marketing term for attractive content that engages customers at first glance and then influences them to purchase products and share the content.

What Is Viral Marketing in Social Media Marketing?

Viral marketing is an SMM strategy that attempts to trigger the rapid spread of word-of-mouth product information—a very simple and inexpensive way to promote sales.

What Is Earned Media in Social Media Marketing?

Earned media is a marketing term for brand exposure from any method other than paid advertising, e.g., customer-created content ranging from product reviews and recommendations to shares, reposts, and mentions.

What Are Some Examples of Social Media Marketing Strategies?

Social media marketing has grown to include several techniques and strategies to engage users and market products and services. These include audience-targeted advertising, interactive chatbots , creating personalized experiences for customers online, social media influencers , and building an online audience.

Social media marketing (SMM) uses social media platforms to interact with customers to build brands, increase sales, and drive website traffic. As social media usage grows around the world, both via computer and mobile devices, the ability to drive sales from certain user populations is a growing business rife with competition for views and clicks.

Our World in Data. “ The Rise of Social Media .”

DataReportal. " Global Social Media Statistics. "

Hootsuite. “ How to Create a Social Media Marketing Strategy .”

Sprout Social. " What Is Viral Marketing (and Does it Actually Work in 2020)? "

Sprout Social. " The Most Important Social Media Metrics to Track ."

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Define and Discuss on Network Marketing

Principle purpose of this article is to Define and Discuss on Network Marketing. Here explain Network Marketing with briefly explanation. Network marketing has become the top mode of marketing for many companies especially those coping with products. The many benefits of such a marketing are probably what have made such a marketing exciting for the businesses. Here are some of the main advantages of networking in marketing: Leverage, Increased passive income, Low starting costs, International operation, Freedom, Support and Training.

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Network Marketing Assignment

What is Network Marketing? Multi-level marketing (MLM), also known as Network Marketing, is a business-distribution model that allows a parent company to market its products directly to consumers by means of relationship referrals and direct selling. Independent, unsalaried salespeople of multi-level marketing, referred to as distributors (or associates, independent business owners, franchise owners, sales consultants, consultants, independent agents, etc. ), represent the parent company and are awarded a commission based upon the volume of product sold through each of their independent businesses (organizations).

Independent distributors develop their organizations by either building an active customer base, who buy direct from the parent company, or by recruiting a downline of independent distributors who also build a customer base, thereby expanding the overall organization. Additionally, distributors can also earn a profit by retailing products they purchased from the parent company at wholesale price. Distributors earn a commission based on the sales efforts of their organization, which includes their independent sale efforts as well as the leveraged sales efforts of their downline.

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This arrangement is similar to franchise arrangements where royalties are paid from the sales of individual franchise operations to the franchisor as well as to an area or region manager. Commissions are paid to multi-level marketing distributors according to the company’s compensation plan. There can be multiple levels of people receiving royalties from one person’s sales. THIS IS A VERY BRIEF OVERVIEW OF NETWORK MARKETING. Network marketing is, in short, a “business in a box”. For a nominal fee, you can register with a certain company in order to build up an organisation based around their products or services.

You are classed as an independent business owner: registered with, but not employed by, the parent company. Over our lives, we have all recommended goods or services to those we know. Think back to the last time you went to see a film in the cinema (or, if this doesn’t help, think about the last time you ate out at a fine restaurant or listened to some music. ) If you saw a film that you really enjoyed, the chances are you would have recommended it to people you know. Why? Because you wanted them to be able to enjoy the same experience that you had been fortunate enough to find.

So let’s say that you told six friends, and all six of them went to see the same film on your recommendation. They probably bought some popcorn with their film, and maybe a drink. Perhaps they paid some money to park in the cinema car park. All told, they might have spent at least forty pounds together. That’s forty pounds that the cinema got thanks to your efforts. But how much did you get paid for doing them such a favour? Not a penny! The cinemas and the film-makers spend all of their money on hugely expensive advertising campaigns and rely on these to encourage people to see the movies.

Except that there are two problems: Firstly, millions of dollars are spent advertising to people who have already seen the movie, or have no intention of ever doing so; Secondly, have you ever been to see a movie because it looked good from the commercials, but actually it was terrible?! So network marketing came about to solve these problems. Network marketing companies sell practically everything you could ever think of, but very few of them ever advertise. They rely on ‘referral marketing’ to spread the word about their products.

That is to say, they make sure that they have an exceptionally good product, and then rely on people to spread the word for them. In thanks for doing this, they pay those people for each sale made as a result of their efforts. This is much more efficient than blanket advertising, because the company is only paying for sales made, so it saves a huge amount of money which can be funneled into producing better, cheaper products, and paying its distributors (that is, those who are doing the ‘referring’) very well indeed. In a real network marketing business, every person joining the company forms the head of their very own business.

They usually do some personal retailing, which may involve talking to their friends and relatives about a particular product or service. Some organisations encourage the development of a substantial retail base, which is always a good idea. As you will be making a tidy sum of money on the side, you might now want to recommend this business model to some of your friends. After all – they probably want to earn some extra money too! They start at the head of their own business, and they also build up a small retail turnover. They make exactly the same money from that as you do from your own retail business.

However, because you introduced them, you also get a small bonus payment from the company by way of a reward for spreading the word. After all, because of your efforts, the company is now making more money. This first person is a member of your downline. They are on your first level. As time goes on, you will introduce other people to the organization, and these people will in turn introduce a second level and so on. These are all members of your downline, and you are their upline. Your own upline is the person who introduced you to the business.

Your upline will offer you help and advice because they won’t succeed until they help a number of their downline also to succeed! The more money you make, the more money they make. Clearly your organisation will never be as large as theirs, because yours is a part of theirs, but most network marketing companies reward those who bring in most of the distributors. If you do very little work, but just happen to register someone who works extremely hard, then it is only fair that they should get far more money from their group than you do.

So network marketing is a fair and ethical way to do business. It avoids waste, it rewards people for the work that they do, and does so on a continual basis – as long as the company continues to make money from your efforts, you will get paid. Even if those efforts were ten years ago! Moreover, it encourages people to help you to succeed, which for many people is a truly welcome break from the backstabbing and office politics that accompany so many conventional jobs. Many people worldwide have developed a very substantial residual income from network marketing.

A residual income is one that keeps coming in month after month based on work you have already done. The more work you do, the more your income increases. If you do no work then your income will usually remain about the same but you still get paid! If your organization is big enough then it might even continue to increase without any further input for you – there are lots of people in your group making money too, and they want to make even more! HOW DID NETWORK MARKETING START? Network marketing has been around for nearly fifty years.

It started in the US, and the first major modern network marketing business was formed in 1959. This company was created by business partners Rich DeVos and Jay VanAndel, originally with just one single product and a new and unique business vision. They regarded conventional sales jobs as unfair – being paid only once for the work that they did even when the company continued to make a profit from their labours for many years afterwards. They believed that they should be paid relative to the benefit the company continued to get from their original work.

The only problem with this was that no company would sanction their model of business, and the extra costs of paying the salesmen on an ongoing basis would have pushed the price of the products far too high to be saleable. So DeVos and VanAndel broke away and formed their own company, returning a few years later with enough money to buy out their original employers and incorporate the vitamin business into their growing corporation. Their company is now a multi-billion dollar business operating in virtually every developed country in the world.

Within a few short years, many more companies followed in their footsteps and now network marketing is responsible for a turnover of tens of billions of dollars in the US alone. IS NETWORK MARKETING LEGAL? Network marketing is absolutely legal, and is governed by strict regulations in most countries. However, be aware that some companies masquerade as network marketing companies whilst failing to conform to the required regulations. In most countries, the network marketing industry is regulated by the Direct Selling Association. There is lots more information on their website regarding regulations and legal issues.

They charge hefty fees for membership, so it is certainly possible that a legitimate network marketing company might not be a member of the DSA. IS NETWORK MARKETING ETHICAL? Lots of people worry about this question. It as a huge problem many people have in the beginning of their time as a network marketer. Network marketing is highly ethical, though there are sadly many people within the industry who act in an unethical way. Some people have registered with NM opportunities and behaved in a non-ethical manner, but this is not at all a criticism of the industry – just on those particular individuals.

Plenty of people abuse their privileges in jobs. Conventional business is very much a tiered system. IssueConventional BusinessNetwork Marketing Leadership positionsLimited. Usually one or two CEOs, presidents etc. Many at lower levels unable to promote until somebody above them leaves. Unlimited. Anyone can progress to any level regardless of when they started or under whom. PromotionLimited availability. Decided by candidate’s boss or supervisor. Unlimited. Decided by each individual and dependent only on the value they bring to the organisation, i. e. urely on merit. SupportSuperiors don’t want their employees rising up the ranks and taking their jobs! It is in the upline’s interest to help and support their downline as much as possible, even if that means helping them to reach higher levels than themselves. AdvertisingAdvertising designed to be as manipulative as possible, e. g. appealing to sexual instincts or desire for personal acceptance. Most NM companies do not advertise. Products are sold based on recommendations, demonstrations or just low prices. RewardsMost sales posts offer one-off commissions.

Often very little personal recognition or encouragement. Commissions based on the ongoing sales volume of your downline group. Lots of personal recognitions and encouragement from the entire team. Starting PositionGenerally dependent on education levels and occasionally on favouritism. Often linked to family background, with rich families able to send their children to prestigious schools. Everyone starts at exactly the same level regardless of initial wealth, background or education. WHAT TYPE OF GOODS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH NETWORK MARKETING?

Anything you could ever name, from disposable chemicals such as soap and washing powder, vitamins, beauty products etc. right the way to gas, electricity, telephone calls and life insurance. BENEFITS OF NETWORK MARKETING ?One of the major benefits of a Network Marketing business is that the startup costs are so small. In fact, in many countries there are restrictions limiting the size of the maximum signup cost. This is because some unscrupulous companies were making most of their money from signing up new people, and not enough from selling products. Network Marketing works well because practically anyone can do it. The ideal business opportunity will cost little to set up, and little to run. However, this is not always possible, and in most cases the first few months, or years (if you build your organisation slowly) will not run at a significant profit, if any at all. ?Some Network Marketing companies encourage you to enter training schemes in order to help you build your business. ?The benefit of being around positive, like-minded people is enormous. It rewards people for the work that they do, and does so on a continual basis – as long as the company continues to make money from your efforts, you will get paid. COMAPANIES INVOLVED IN NETWORK MARKETING This is a list of companies which utilize multi-level marketing, also known as “network marketing”, for most of their sales. ???Avon Products ???BioPerformance ???Cobra Group ???Excel Communications ???Forever Living Products ???Freelife ???Mini IQ ???Monavie ???National Safety Associates ???Neways ???Oriflame ???Quixtar ??? Telecom Plus ???XanGo REFERENCES http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Multi-level_marketing ttp://www. networkmarketingexplained. net/ http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/List_of_multi-level_marketing_companies Why would a company choose the MLM route to product distribution? There are several good reasons: – Low overhead. There are virtually no up-front advertising costs. Unlike a typical retail company, the MLM company doesn’t have to spend massive amounts of money to “pull” customers in. Instead, it pays distributors to “push” the product out into the marketplace. In addition, the company only has to pay the distributors for *results* — that is, a percentage of products actually sold.

Ordinarily an MLM company will use the money that *would* have gone into advertising to pay its distributors. (Using Procter & Gamble as an example: I have an unconfirmed report that says P&G’s sales in 1992 were $25billion. Their advertising budget was $10billion. So they spent 40% of their sales on ads. MLM companies typically pay 40-80% of their sales volume to their distributors. ) – Low distribution overhead. Typical retail companies generally use: a series of national, regional, state, and local warehousers to distribute their product to the retail stores.

Each of these intermediaries wants to make a living, and marks up the cost of the product. Using P again: my unconfirmed report says that a tube of Crest that sells for $2-3 in a store costs P roughly 13 cents to manufacture. If it sold for $2, 40% (80c) would go to advertising, leaving $2 – 80c – 13c = $1. 07 for distribution costs and P’s profit. – Rapid growth. A well-managed MLM company can grow at an amazing: rate — as much as 20%, 50%, even 100% per MONTH. (In fact one of the biggest reasons for MLM company failure is inability to keep up with explosive growth. It would be difficult or impossible to generate this kind of growth in an overcrowded retail market. – Specialized and motivated “sales force. ” There are hundreds of thousands of products cramming the shelves of retail stores. It’s almost impossible for a new product to make a dent in the market, unless the company spends megabucks on advertising. Also, many MLM products need more explanation than can be done in a 30-second TV spot. A person-to-person word-of-mouth campaign can solve both of these problems. That’s the company’s perspective.

For the individual, MLM can offer an opportunity to build a part-time income source that can, with enough effort, grow into a significant income. With hard work (and a little luck) you can earn incredible incomes. How? MLM is all about “a lot of people doing a little bit. ” In an MLM you are rewarded for the sales you create — not only directly, but indirectly as well. You get profit for any retail sales you make, plus you get a bonus on the sales made by people you enrolled into the company, and people they enrolled, and people THEY enrolled, and…

By getting a small percentage of many people, your income can grow to a very large number. But wait. It’s not that simple. It takes a lot of time and work to build up a group (called a “downline”) in any MLM. What’s more, even if you’re a real hard-working go-getter, YOU can’t do all of it. You can’t enroll the 90,000+ people in this group by yourself. Each person has to find 5 of his own — and the sad truth is, most people are not that ambitous. It’s hard to find the ones that will work. So it’s almost unheard-of for someone to actually build an idealized group like this.

Some “legs” in the downline will build faster than others, and some will grow slower. If you don’t work hard yourself, you might never start ANY legs that go anywhere. But that’s the concept: a whole lot of people doing a little bit each, and you getting a small reward on each one. If you have the initiative and work ethic to build that group, you can make a very nice income in MLM — maybe even get rich. But MLM **IS NOT** a get-rich-quick deal. It DOES take a lot of work, and most people won’t put in the work it takes.

The large majority of people will never get rich; quite a few hardly make a dime. But the beauty of it is, as long as you pick a good company with a good product or service, the size of your success is up to YOU. Why do companies choose Network Marketing to distribute their products or services? Below the 2 diagrams show the standard and network marketing models for distribution of goods and services. REFERENCES http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Multi-level_marketing http://www. networkmarketingexplained. net/ http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/List_of_multi-level_marketing_companies

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Summary and Conclusion

MARKETING IS the most exciting of all business sports. It is the heartbeat of every successful business. It is continually changing in response to the explosion of information, the expansion of technology, and the aggressiveness of competition, at all levels and everywhere.

All business strategy is marketing strategy. Your ability to think clearly and well about the very best marketing strategies, and to continually change and upgrade your activities, is the key to the future of your business.

Fortunately, like all business skills, marketing can be learned by practice, experimentation, and continually making mistakes. The key is to test, test, test. And whatever marketing strategy is working for you today, no matter how ...

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Report: Kodai Senga will face live hitters, Tylor Megill to begin rehab assignment

Senga set for live batters Monday; Megill to pitch two innings Saturday for Brooklyn

• Author: Joe Calabrese

In this story:

An already thin New York Mets starting rotation is expected to add Kodai Senga and Tylor Megill in the coming weeks.

MLB.com Mets beat writer Anthony DiComo provided key updates Friday on New York’s right-handed starting pitchers. Senga and Megill remain at different stages of their current ongoing rehab assignments with different anticipated timetables for return.

Mets rehab updates: ▪️Kodai Senga (shoulder capsule strain) threw an up-down bullpen yesterday and is scheduled to face hitters for the first time on Monday. ▪️Tylor Megill (shoulder strain) is due to begin a minor league rehab assignment Saturday with two innings at Brooklyn. — Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) April 26, 2024

Senga reportedly threw an up-down bullpen Thursday and is scheduled to face hitters for the first time since sustaining injury on Monday. Senga started the season on the 60-day injured list with a right shoulder capsule strain following spring training.

Tylor Megill reportedly is due to begin a minor league rehab assignment Saturday with two innings for the High-A Brooklyn Cyclones. Megill (right shoulder strain) was placed on the 15-day IL on April 1, just three games into the season in the midst of New York’s 0-5 start.

The 31-year old Senga – 12-7, 2.98 ERA, 202 strikeouts, 77 walks in 166.1 innings – was a key part of the Mets rotation in 2023. He was a National League All-Star in his first Major League season, and became the de facto ace of the staff moving forward after Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander midseason trades.

The 28-year old Megill, who turns 29 in July, has had an up-and-down four-year career with the Mets (17-17, 4.68 ERA, 259 strikeouts, 101 walks in 267.1 total innings). Megill, who has primarily been used as a starter, was expected to be an important depth pitcher for the Mets this season behind Senga, Jose Quintana, Luis Severino and Sean Manaea.

Despite no Senga and Megill, New York’s pitching has been highly effective for manager Carlos Mendoza approaching the conclusion of April. The Mets sit at 13-11 overall, third in the NL East and 4.5 games behind the first place Atlanta Braves, and that is due in large part to a 3.53 Team ERA , which ranks ninth among all 30 Major League teams entering Friday, April 26.

The Mets surprisingly rank sixth in MLB with 231 strikeouts with the Tampa Bay Rays. Their bullpen continues to impress as well; according to FanGraphs : New York’s 1.5 WAR among relief pitchers is second only behind the Cleveland Guardians (1.8) entering Friday.

After a 3-3 California road trip against the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants, New York begins a seven-game home stand at Citi Field with a three-game set with the visiting St. Louis Cardinals. The Mets will then host the Chicago Cubs for four games next week.

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