MLM Today
Having A Hard Time Recruiting?
Things could be worse.
I remember thinking that cold contacting might be the hardest thing to do in Network Marketing. Check this -
Tehran Times 
The Intelligence Ministry has announced that 15 companies involved in pyramid schemes have been identified and forced to discontinue operations in Iran over the past three months.
Major firms like Palinure, Inviting, Golden Village, FSG, and Griffin were some of the companies, an economic expert of the Intelligence Ministry told reporters on Monday.
You could see why it might be hard to motivate your downline …
According to the law, everyone who cooperates with these companies is disrupting the economic system of Iran and is legally responsible, he stated.
“Everyone who is involved in this kind of business, with the intention of damaging the interests of the establishment, will face the charge of ‘corrupt person on the earth’.”
According to the law, everyone charged with being a ‘corrupt person on the earth’ should receive the death sentence.
“It is the obligation of the Intelligence Ministry to identify the pyramid selling companies and to deal with them firmly,” he added.
6-4-2 isn't how the circles are drawn ….it may be how you are drawn and quartered.
(Sorry.) 
Aug 21
Where I've Been
I'm not exactly certain where to start with this post.
For the past several months, I have been wrestling with a couple health issues. As I have written in previous posts, I had major heart surgery about 2 1/2 years ago. Around that time it was determined that I had developed Type 1 diabetes.
During my recovery from the surgery and the ongoing drive to get my diabetes under control, there were many changes with my business interests and personal relationships.
Post-op depression and a generally diminished physical capacity brought about a long period of introspection. (Eight way heart bypass will do that for you.)
During this period, I decided to focus on my family and my recovery and I let the business take a back seat.
I experienced another set back earlier this year and the heart docs convinced me to have a defibrillator implanted. The physical recovery for this procedure is mostly complete and I am learning my new physical limitations.
Flash forward to now -
My immediate goal is to reconnect with the business and find a new company with a program I can build. I also plan to post more regularly here and on some of my other sites.
I look forward to re-establishing regular posts and reaching out to those that stop by to check things out. 
More Than Enough To Go Around
There's no question we are in the midst of hard times. Add to the economic trouble, the questionable solutions offered by Congress and the "financial experts", the rabid Presidential race - we are getting our ass kicked.
Pain. Is there anyone you know that isn't experiencing some sort of pain?
I’m not trying to exploit the demise that we are suffering. Forget the sales pitch for a moment.
How many people that are currently experiencing financial trouble COULD you have helped IF only you had talked with them about your business project? Perhaps you market a health & wellness product that could provide some relief for even a few minutes a day - but you permitted yourself to be distracted.
What about your own situation? Some people are masochists, I guess.
I do not for a moment believe that MLM will provide the complete solution for what may be ailing us.
I do believe however that starting and building your own MLM business may help to cover some shortfalls. With the proper focus, I know it can provide a pathway toward your personal freedom and independence from many of the forces that are tearing families apart.
I do not care whether you join any of my projects. I'm not writing this in an attempt to recruit anyone. I am promoting the notion that everyone should seek out a program that will allow them to start right away - a program that will meet their requirements in terms of enrollment, products, compensation, training, and philosophy.
None of us can afford to wait for the economic situation to remedy itself. Regardless of whom may be to blame, I do not think it wise to wait for our politicians to construct an equitable and fair solution.
Please. This is far too important to ignore. I don't ask you to sign on with me. At least, look at what the marketplace has to offer and, if you haven't yet, put some sort of plan in motion. 
MLM & Politics
The difference between some MLMer's and the average politician?
One day, there will be an election and the politician will shut up. Rarely will either live up to the hype. 
The Presentation - Talking Points or Solutions Potential?
I have been listening to a training program lately which made me think about the way I present my business project to my prospects. Even more, I have started to evaluate the various presentations that have been made by others.
For what it's worth …
Does your presentation consist of a 5-point checklist in which you enumerate all the advantages YOU believe should be important to your prospect?
Or -
Do you engage your prospect through dialog to determine what motivates them to look at your project and what problems they seek to overcome by joining your business?
Your checklist and memorized comp plan may well be very impressive but does it truly reach into the hearts and minds of the person who is seeking something better for the quality of their life? 
Clear As Mud
Quixtar's IBOAI has posted their official response about concerns that Triple Diamond, Greg Duncan, is in violation of Quixtar's Rule 6.5, a.k.a. The Bo Short Rule. There has been much written about this rule and the questionable legality of a non-compete for distributors in any networking company.
IBOAI Blog:
A recent article on the Internet connected Greg Duncan, a successful IBO powered by Quixtar, with All In Energy Drink. It resulted in a rumor that Mr. Duncan was in violation of Rule 6.5 of the Quixtar Rules of Conduct. While it’s true Mr. Duncan is a principal of XS Energy Drink, and is associated with All In Energy Drink, the rumor is false.
The fact is, XS Energy Drinks are marketed to Quixtar for sale exclusively by IBOs and All In Energy Drink is marketed to an entirely different market not in competition with Quixtar or IBOs. The manufacture and sale of All In Energy Drink does not violate either the letter or the spirit of the Rules of Conduct.
Whew! That's a relief. I, for one, am glad that the IBOAI addressed that issue but I am still confused about Rule 6.5.1 -
Rule 6.5.1 For purposes of this Rule 6.5., "Compete" means to own, manage, operate, consult for, be employed by, or participate as an independent distributor in (a) any other direct sales program using multilevel or "network" marketing structure, or (b) any other enterprise that markets, through independent distributors, products or services functionally interchangeable with those offered or marketed by the Corporation.
This means an IBO may engage only in other business ventures that do not compete with an independent business powered by Quixtar, and they may only solicit IBOs they personally register in order to promote or expand such other non-competing business ventures.
Isn’t All In Energy Drink "functionally interchangeable" with XS Energy Drink?
The IBOAI concludes with this assurance:
“As many IBOs know, the principals of Alticor manufacture for and invest in brands and other entrepreneurial ventures beyond their direct roles with Quixtar/Amway products. Like the principals of Alticor the principals of XS Energy Drinks pursue similar ventures for the purposes of reducing costs and enhancing the effectiveness of products for IBOs and to empower opportunities for IBOs. The positive proof of the effectiveness of such an approach has clearly shown through with not a single penny of increase in XS pricing in nearly six years. Additionally, the XS team has been unparalleled in their generosity to IBOs and IBO events with support staff, product sampling, literature, gear and gifts at absolutely no cost to the IBOs. Such commitment to the product and IBOs will continue to be our utmost priority.”
There you have it. I guess the answer is: Shut up or we'll raise the prices, you ungrateful bastards! 
Oldest Ponzi Scheme In America Is 73 Today
I'm David Stone and I Endorse This Ad
I cannot deny my supporters. I accept the nomination. What the hell, how much worse can I do than the clowns that are running?
It's The End Of The World! Build Your MLM Before It's Too Late
Ok, so maybe this could be one more reason one would want to start a network marketing business? 
Your Vision and The Company Culture
I started a new blog recently to promote my involvement with Max International. Here's a snip from a post I wrote yesterday about the importance of knowing why you would consider joining a company program and why I believe it's important to base that decision, in part, on the values promoted by the company.
Your Max Impact Blog
Whether you desire to be your own boss, have financial freedom, greater control over your time, help others improve the quality of their lives, achieve better health, or …..(you fill in the blank); I have learned that all subsequent actions will be predicated on the strength of the vision you hold - your goals - your ambitions - your desires - your WHY.
I think an important consideration into such a decision should include whether the culture of the company you may partner with aligns with the vision you hold of your own success. Corporate leadership, founding principles, product strength and security, field leadership, company mission and ethics statements, fairness and potential profitability of the comp plan are several areas I believe should be evaluated before you deliver your dreams and goals for their stewardship. 
Finding My Comfort Zone
Had a great experience last night and one that I know was sorely needed.
Bo Short had flown into town as part of the Max Momentum Tour and we planned on having dinner together before the event. Due to some scheduling conflicts, we had to postpone our meal and met many of the local team leaders instead.
It has been a while since I have been very active in any business activities (as evident by my blog posting). I admit that I felt a bit anxious and uncomfortable having been out of circulation for so long.
As the presentation began, I found myself becoming more adjusted to environment. There was a 10-15 minute break after the opportunity was concluded. Bo Short spent about 45 minutes teaching several core concepts. We were treated to the time-tested "It's Called Practice" method of cold contacting. (I have recently been working on editing a digital conversion.)
Afterwards, several members of the team gathered to ask some specific questions in an impromptu round table. I met several of the attendees and plan to attend future events despite not directly associated with this group.
The meeting broke up about 10:30pm and Bo and I were able to talk over a late dinner.
Despite my initial trepidation, I realize how badly I needed to get back into action and how much I love this business and the people associated with it. 
Coming Up For Air
Well, it has once again been a while between posts and I feel as though I owe an explanation.
I’ll offer this to get started and fill in the gaps as I go along ..
The effects of my health issues I experienced last year were much more far reaching than I had expected. Things became a bit more involved and I discovered there was more going on than I realized.
I have been working on my recovery these many months but have come to understand the psychological aspects to this process was much more than I bargained for or was warned to anticipate.
I wish not to bore anyone so I'll leave it at that for now. I have come to a decision with respect to my blogging here however.
There are many that I know that author blogs about network marketing, MLM, direct sales, etc. There is certainly no shortage of available resources for those so inclined. Many have developed their pages to provide additional revenue through advertising and affiliate links etc. I have no objection to this practice (I have ads on my other sites too) but I have decided to strip away the ads from this page.
What you see here is my first pass on removing the extraneous material from the page. My desire is to relate my personal experiences as I traverse the network marketing environment without the content driven advertising. There are plenty of other pages for you to find those.
From one of my favorite bands, Rush, here's a line from the song, Digital Man,
“He picks up scraps of information
He’s adept at adaptation
Because for strangers and arrangers
Constant change is here to stay"
News From The Front
THE IBO REBELLION The IBO Rebellion has learned of a Georgia lawsuit filed by some TEAM leaders. Despite rumors of Amway's new secret weapon, referred to as the MOAW or the Mother of All Waters, these courageous former Quixtar IBOs continue to take the fight to the enemy. As shown in the last post the MOAW maybe be new but it is certainly not to be feared, unless you have a daughter thinking of attending a Quixtar open meeting. This new lawsuit again attacks the vulnerable underbelly of Amway, its outlandish and sneakily added contract language. You can read the suit by clicking here. 
Former Quixtar / Team IBO Breathes Free Air …Finally
Crazy World Today is my last day of the 6-month rule. While I am still under the 2-year rule, it appears that I am free to do whatever I want, just not with whoever I want. That's fine. With counsel from my mentor, and my lawyer, I believe that I am finally out from under Quixtar.
I hope you have enjoyed this blog. Today also marks my last day of following any news about Quixtar, Amway, Alticore, etc. I am closing that chapter in my life. This blog is part of that chapter. I have tried to leave some balanced information about the struggle Team has faced. I cannot say it was not a biased documentary, but I hope that the information here shows the public dialog that surrounded the whole incident.
I hold no malice towards Quixtar, Amway, Alticore or anyone associated with them (including their Amway Business Operators). I have come to a place of peace with the situation. I know there are others who still struggle (legally and otherwise) with "The Corporation," and I wish them good luck.
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Orrin Woodward Joins Brig Hart's MonaVie
With baited breath, we have waited the required six months to learn where the Team would end up. Almost as much suspense as the lottery……
There’s almost a bit of irony that Orrin et al would head to MonaVie.
Orrin Woodward Leadership Team 
Here is the long awaited announcement from Chris and Terri and Laurie and I. Thank you to Chris Brady for his incredible servant leadership in writing the final article! This is the first step on our journey to our destiny! God Bless, Orrin Woodward
A Long Term Vision
Here is a bit of a vision for where we think the industry can, should, and must go! This won’t all happen tomorrow, but it is ripe for the picking, and we plan on doing it, when the timing is right!
The Hedgehog Concept of the Future
Author Jim Collins writes about what he calls a “Hedgehog Concept” in his book Good to Great. He represents this as the core competency at which an organization can become the best in the world. He said it would be the intersection of several other competencies. Using Collin’s model, let’s look at what could and should be done in this industry.
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Statement From Fred Harteis
Fred Harteis News Articles:: "As an IBO I have entered into many discussions concerning issues I have had with Quixtar i.e.: product pricing, the IBO compensation plan, negative on the web. I have been open about my opinions. When the DTI situation became public, I became very concerned about our future, here based on the DTI complaint. I discussed these issues with several people including my attorneys, my leaders, Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady. However I never talked to D.J. Poyfair or anyone from his firm.
In July of 2007 I along with many others were very concerned about our future in business with Quixtar as was consistent in August of 2007.
Although I agree with the issues I would have hoped Orrin and Chris and the others were not terminated on August 9th of 2007 and the lawsuit would have not been served."
4 Essential Network Marketing Training Principles
By: Wil Chirinos
One of the old techniques on how an MLM works is to have distributors draft a list of targeted prospects from their warm market.
Now that you've run out of your warm market, how do you build an MLM business beyond your friends and relatives?
The problem with this Network Marketing Training Principle is two fold:
1. People might not have the need or the desire to consume the products you're marketing or just are not interested in the so called " opportunity" to generate an additional income.
2. If this is the second, third, or even fourth time around you talk to your warm market about another one of your "business ventures", they have grown immune to your pitch.
Warm market marketing is the hardest market there is. As long as you are not making tons of money, expecting to build a business talking to your friends and family will lead to failure unless you learn how to break out of your limited circle of friends and family and find other prospects for your business.
Your warm market list alone is not going to help you build a residual income business in the long run.
So how should you grow your business?
Go back to marketing principles.
Here are four steps that you would need to master to be able to advance your MLM business beyond the prospecting barrier of your warm market.
1. You must learn to target your market for your products.
Position your products or services in the market place. Define your target market, what are the benefits of consuming your products, what value they bring to an individual. Once you answer these questions, you will be able to identify your potential customer base.
2. You need to deliver the right message to that targeted sector of the market. The "right" message should be the message that solves their problems. This message is based on their own desires and needs, not based on the fact that you would like to make another buck when they purchase your products.
3. You need to facilitate the purchase by basing it on what is the best choice for the consumer, the ease of payment, shipping, follow up and support calls.
4. This prospecting message needs to be delivered to the right targeted audience at the right time based on the consumers' own time table.
These 4 essential marketing principles bring me to my point on how an mlm works:
Learning about marketing, learning how to market your products is an essential component to building a thriving business in network marketing. This is a grossly understated component in any company-sponsored MLM training.
If you were to take what's being taught in any MLM program and bring it into another field of business, for instance, retailing, those techniques would never stand a chance of surviving.
Can you imagine Coca Cola having its employees draft a list of its employees' warm market to sell its products to?
A good upline leader who has spent any time studying marketing principles should be able to tell his downline members:
· How /where to find leads for your products/services for not more than 20 cents per lead as opposed to $5, $10, or even $20 for so-called opportunity seekers leads.
· What to say to a lead once you find that prospect based on his needs.
· How to facilitate the purchase for that consumer.
· How to determine if the consumer is ready to make a purchasing decision solely based on the consumer's own time table.
These basic components should be addressed as you embark to work with your mentor/sponsor in your network marketing company.
In order to break the friends and family barrier, you need to learn how to put the marketing back in network marketing. Develop the skill set of a marketer, learn how to position your products in front of a hungry consumer market that is seeking the very same products you offer.
Article Source: http://netmlmarticles.com
Wil Chirinos helps struggling distributors improve their marketing skills. Learn about his Network Marketing Training Workshop by accessing his brutally honest Report and subscribe to his newsletter. 
To Hype or Not To Hype
by Michael Lemm
OK, before anybody get's their shorts in a bunch let me make it clear I'm not advocating hype. Quite the contrary… I hate it.
You know the type. "Make a million in your underwear"… "$100,000 with no
selling and no sponsoring"… "We build it for you"… "Our secret system guarantees you're success"….yada yada.
But why do we see so much of it? I don't think you can just shrug it off to "they don't know any better," or "their values are lower." It's too prevalent. In fact, some so called "gurus" teach it! You know, the "headlines that sell" type of info products, ezine articles, conference calls, seminars and such.
Why?
Well, I set out awhile back to do a simple little experiment testing "hype" vs "no hype". I found a few message boards that are really nothing more
than a free for all, anything goes advertising stage (not hard to find, unfortunately). I posted a few ads with catchy (if I do say so myself) hype headlines and content (otherwise known as emotional drivel).
I also continued my normal "tell it like it is," "this is the real truth" marketing habits in my usual locals.
What happened?
To my dismay, the hype ads received lots of "hits" and a decent amount of sign-ups. The honest approach received the usual steady but not "massive" performance.
The results? (Pay attention, kiddies…here's the moral of the story)
The folks who became customers and sub-agents from the honest upfront approach were much fewer in number, BUT more solid! The customers were
loyal users and offered referals. The sub-agents actually grasped the concept
that you have to sell product to earn income (hey Junior, it's called Network Marketing, not Network Recruiting, for a reason. Duh!) Plus those they recruited were brought in under the "honesty" label, too, and were taught to
sell also.
Hmmmm….doing things the right way? May be slower (by appearance) but definitely the kind of structure to build.
The others — those emotional "I'll jump" looking for a good time crowd?
How did they fare?
Briefly… they didn't do diddly.
Customers dropped after a short time or never fully activated and paid.
The sub-agents sat on their hands waiting for something to happen. They all
had the attention span of my teenage son on a Friday night… in a theater
full of equally hormonally challenged teenage girls.
No focus… no effort… all looks with no substance.
Now, see the difference?
You may get numbers and "massive growth" from hype, but it's all smoke
and mirrors. Doesn't mean squat.
While the less flashy professional and honest approach gets results. Real results. It may not make the headlines. But it will sneak up on ya. Before you know it, you've got a heck of business the others won't have.
It pays to be a tortoise. Plod along to the finish line.
Let the hare run around like a fool. You can send him/her a post card from your yacht!
Hope ya learned something….
Be honest… be helpful… be yourself… and have fun.
Take your pants off in public. Wear your heart on your sleeve.
Or maybe you're more sedate, more low keyed. It doesn't matter.
What matters is that people leave you thinking, "I just met a real person, a genuine human being, a positive honest spirit not trying to trick me to do anything."
All the Hype Masters are missing the boat when they try to take you where they want you to go. Whatever they build won't last.
Get real. Be honest. Tell your story and listen. Care.
You’ll build a business….a real one that lasts.
Article Source: http://netmlmarticles.com
Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications including Real Time Leads….and the Administrator for HomeBasedBusinessForums.com. Michael also authors Best MLM Resources where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest MLM tips, ideas, tools, leads, news, and insights. 
MLM Today - Two Blogs For The Price Of One
What is better than one blog with a catchy name like MLM Today?
How about one blog page that also includes headlines from another blog with an equally catchy name like Network Marketing Today!
Located comfortably in the sidebar, I have added a recent headline widget from my other page.
Did I mention that it was FREE! 
Tips To Choosing The Best Online MLM Program
iSnare.com : "Multi level marketing programs, also known as MLM, are getting very popular because it can promise amazing income for those who join the programs. With online MLM companies, the industry has expanded further. Many people can earn from the comforts of their own homes through MLM.
How can you make the most out of an online MLM program? First, you must enroll with the right MLM program. Listed below are tips to help you find the MLM program that would work best for you.
1.What is the creditability of the online MLM program that you wish to join? Conduct a due diligence on the company to ensure that it is reputable and not a scam."
Is Your Understanding Of Network Marketing Outdated?
Article Sphere: "I knew things in our industry had changed, but I didn't realize just HOW MUCH they had changed until recently. Now we all know nothing stays the same, and progress is always welcome in Network Marketing, but I don't think many of us are truly aware of the vast differences we've seen technology bring in just the past few years.
Ten years ago–even five years ago–a successful couple or individual working in Networking limited themselves to a single program. Why? Because working direct sales or MLM took a TON of work."
Discipline and Internet MLM
Article Circulation: "If there is one and only one ingredient to guarantee your success in Internet MLM, I would say it is discipline. Discipline that I am about to define here is the discipline towards ourselves; commitment that we gave to ourselves; high standard that we set for ourselves.
Discipline is a bridge between our thought and accomplishment to our success in Internet MLM. Discipline is the glue that binds inspiration to achievement. They are the foundation on which all success is built. Failure is lead by lack of discipline.
95% of internet marketer fails because they failed to follow their plan. They do not have discipline towards themselves. If your plan was to write 4 articles this week and you only write 1, you are behind by 3 articles- today. If your plan was to post 3 post each in 3 different forums and you post only 1, you are behind by 8 posts- today. If you accumulate all these one day, it will make a difference over a period of time."
By Invitation Only - Fanista
As you may have read, Alticor is launching a new site called Fanista.
Below is a sample of the invitation email posted at Idolator.
Like you, I'm an ardent fan of all things entertainment. That's one of the reasons I am so excited to be a part of a new company called Fanista.com. It is a web site made for real, impassioned fans. The site's community is focused exclusively on music, DVDs, games and books, and is a place where members can share their reviews and opinions as well as shop. In its simplest form, Fanista.com is an attempt to replicate online what we all do in the physical world: champion the artists and entertainment we love. Also, like the real world, there is NO charge or subscription fee to do what it is we all do so naturally.
I’d really love for you to be one of the first reviewers. Why? Well, to be honest, we need you — someone smart, inspiring and articulate to help us build the foundation of the community. From what I've read of your writing, seems you fit the mold.
And we're willing to reward you for your efforts if you're interested. Through our unique "Common Interest Commerce," or "CIC," rewards program, users who become CIC members can earn up to two levels of commission: 5% of every purchase made by the friends they bring in, and, when their friends become CIC members, another 5% of every purchase made by the friends of their friends. Users can also earn insider perks and achieve social status for establishing themselves as tastemakers and "experts" when they share their voice and loves with the Fanista.com community at large. It's our way of rewarding the people who help us build the community.
Fanista.com is a way for you to amplify your voice, to let others hear what you have to say, to influence the people around you and to get something tangible in exchange for all of it. So, check it out. Sign up. Bring your friends. Earn some cash. Get other perks. Change the world — or at least help us try to pioneer a new model!
When the music industry continues to report double-digit loses, why would anyone venture into a shrinking market? If this site we a source hub for downloads, then it may make more sense. Otherwise, it's like trying to market concentrated laundry soap at twice the price. Doh! 
Note To Disgruntled Quixtar Team IBO's
I hate to admit it but I have been reading with some degree of amusement at the dozen or so websites taking issue with the removal of one of Quixtar's most over-hyped "leaders".
These sites are just so Orrin. For anyone who has read any of his "work", there is a defined tendency to compare his "mission" to key people or events in recorded history. Take a look at any one of these "independent" pages and they act as if there is moral equivalency with the American Independence or the American Civil War. Give me a break.
Look. You don't like the rules of the game at Quixtar?
It’s not jail. You can always leave.
Now, Orrin on the other hand may not have the same option someday soon. 
Have Americans lost their entrepreneurial spirit?
New School Network Marketing by Kim Klaver: "Many networkers tell me that they speak to people who complain of not having enough, not living well enough, not being able to afford enough…and yet, they say NO to network marketing, and anything else that requires a change in their regular routines. Are folks just satisfied with less than before?
Or do we have just enough so that the sustained extra effort required just isn't worth it? "
The 6 Important Elements of Qualifying
Natural Selling:: "I was talking with someone the other day about the purpose of qualifying. Coming from a conventional selling point of view he was at first quite narrow in his definition. It made me think of an article I wrote sometime ago on the subject, so here it is slightly updated. Unlike the conventional hard hitting and self centered approach of aggressively qualifying someone, Natural Selling allows you to qualify your potential partners and customers in a harmonious way, and just as importantly, help them qualify and inspire themselves to change and want to do business with you."
10 Steps To Success In Direct Sales
Best MLM Resources: "Here are the ten steps that will assure your success in MLM, Network Marketing, AND Direct Sales:
1. BE A GOAL SETTER. What do you want to accomplish? Do you want to save for college education for your children? A new car? A new home? You can have whatever you want, but you must want it enough to do the things that have to be done to get it. Whatever your goal, write it down and set a target date for reaching it. Divide the time period into blocks of achievement that are reachable. Work consistently toward accomplishing each day, each week, each month what you set out to do. Goal-setting is a must in every area of life. Little is ever accomplished without definite goals.
2. BE A LIST MAKER. Each evening list all the things you want to get done the following day. That gives you an organized approach to each day. As each task is finished, mark it off your list. It is amazing how much gets done when one works with a 'things-to-do' list. Also, have a notebook listing appointments, potential clients, repeat clients, and referrals, and keep it with you at all times. You will be adding to it constantly. "
More Than Enough To Go Around
There's no question we are in the midst of hard times. Add to the economic trouble, the questionable solutions offered by Congress and the "financial experts", the rabid Presidential race - we are getting our ass kicked.
Pain. Is there anyone you know that isn't experiencing some sort of pain?
I’m not trying to exploit the demise that we are suffering. Forget the sales pitch for a moment.
How many people that are currently experiencing financial trouble COULD you have helped IF only you had talked with them about your business project? Perhaps you market a health & wellness product that could provide some relief for even a few minutes a day - but you permitted yourself to be distracted.
What about your own situation? Some people are masochists, I guess.
I do not for a moment believe that MLM will provide the complete solution for what may be ailing us.
I do believe however that starting and building your own MLM business may help to cover some shortfalls. With the proper focus, I know it can provide a pathway toward your personal freedom and independence from many of the forces that are tearing families apart.
I do not care whether you join any of my projects. I'm not writing this in an attempt to recruit anyone. I am promoting the notion that everyone should seek out a program that will allow them to start right away - a program that will meet their requirements in terms of enrollment, products, compensation, training, and philosophy.
None of us can afford to wait for the economic situation to remedy itself. Regardless of whom may be to blame, I do not think it wise to wait for our politicians to construct an equitable and fair solution.
Please. This is far too important to ignore. I don't ask you to sign on with me. At least, look at what the marketplace has to offer and, if you haven't yet, put some sort of plan in motion. [Link]
MLM & Politics
The difference between some MLMer's and the average politician?
One day, there will be an election and the politician will shut up. Rarely will either live up to the hype. [Link]
The Presentation - Talking Points or Solutions Potential?
I have been listening to a training program lately which made me think about the way I present my business project to my prospects. Even more, I have started to evaluate the various presentations that have been made by others.
For what it's worth …
Does your presentation consist of a 5-point checklist in which you enumerate all the advantages YOU believe should be important to your prospect?
Or -
Do you engage your prospect through dialog to determine what motivates them to look at your project and what problems they seek to overcome by joining your business?
Your checklist and memorized comp plan may well be very impressive but does it truly reach into the hearts and minds of the person who is seeking something better for the quality of their life? [Link]
Clear As Mud
Quixtar's IBOAI has posted their official response about concerns that Triple Diamond, Greg Duncan, is in violation of Quixtar's Rule 6.5, a.k.a. The Bo Short Rule. There has been much written about this rule and the questionable legality of a non-compete for distributors in any networking company.
IBOAI Blog:
A recent article on the Internet connected Greg Duncan, a successful IBO powered by Quixtar, with All In Energy Drink. It resulted in a rumor that Mr. Duncan was in violation of Rule 6.5 of the Quixtar Rules of Conduct. While it’s true Mr. Duncan is a principal of XS Energy Drink, and is associated with All In Energy Drink, the rumor is false.
The fact is, XS Energy Drinks are marketed to Quixtar for sale exclusively by IBOs and All In Energy Drink is marketed to an entirely different market not in competition with Quixtar or IBOs. The manufacture and sale of All In Energy Drink does not violate either the letter or the spirit of the Rules of Conduct.
Whew! That's a relief. I, for one, am glad that the IBOAI addressed that issue but I am still confused about Rule 6.5.1 -
Rule 6.5.1 For purposes of this Rule 6.5., "Compete" means to own, manage, operate, consult for, be employed by, or participate as an independent distributor in (a) any other direct sales program using multilevel or "network" marketing structure, or (b) any other enterprise that markets, through independent distributors, products or services functionally interchangeable with those offered or marketed by the Corporation.
This means an IBO may engage only in other business ventures that do not compete with an independent business powered by Quixtar, and they may only solicit IBOs they personally register in order to promote or expand such other non-competing business ventures.
Isn’t All In Energy Drink "functionally interchangeable" with XS Energy Drink?
The IBOAI concludes with this assurance:
“As many IBOs know, the principals of Alticor manufacture for and invest in brands and other entrepreneurial ventures beyond their direct roles with Quixtar/Amway products. Like the principals of Alticor the principals of XS Energy Drinks pursue similar ventures for the purposes of reducing costs and enhancing the effectiveness of products for IBOs and to empower opportunities for IBOs. The positive proof of the effectiveness of such an approach has clearly shown through with not a single penny of increase in XS pricing in nearly six years. Additionally, the XS team has been unparalleled in their generosity to IBOs and IBO events with support staff, product sampling, literature, gear and gifts at absolutely no cost to the IBOs. Such commitment to the product and IBOs will continue to be our utmost priority.”
There you have it. I guess the answer is: Shut up or we'll raise the prices, you ungrateful bastards! [Link]
Oldest Ponzi Scheme In America Is 73 Today
[Link]
I'm David Stone and I Endorse This Ad
I cannot deny my supporters. I accept the nomination. What the hell, how much worse can I do than the clowns that are running?
[Link]
It's The End Of The World! Build Your MLM Before It's Too Late
Ok, so maybe this could be one more reason one would want to start a network marketing business? [Link]
Your Vision and The Company Culture
I started a new blog recently to promote my involvement with Max International. Here's a snip from a post I wrote yesterday about the importance of knowing why you would consider joining a company program and why I believe it's important to base that decision, in part, on the values promoted by the company.
Your Max Impact Blog
Whether you desire to be your own boss, have financial freedom, greater control over your time, help others improve the quality of their lives, achieve better health, or …..(you fill in the blank); I have learned that all subsequent actions will be predicated on the strength of the vision you hold - your goals - your ambitions - your desires - your WHY.
I think an important consideration into such a decision should include whether the culture of the company you may partner with aligns with the vision you hold of your own success. Corporate leadership, founding principles, product strength and security, field leadership, company mission and ethics statements, fairness and potential profitability of the comp plan are several areas I believe should be evaluated before you deliver your dreams and goals for their stewardship. [Link]
Finding My Comfort Zone
Had a great experience last night and one that I know was sorely needed.
Bo Short had flown into town as part of the Max Momentum Tour and we planned on having dinner together before the event. Due to some scheduling conflicts, we had to postpone our meal and met many of the local team leaders instead.
It has been a while since I have been very active in any business activities (as evident by my blog posting). I admit that I felt a bit anxious and uncomfortable having been out of circulation for so long.
As the presentation began, I found myself becoming more adjusted to environment. There was a 10-15 minute break after the opportunity was concluded. Bo Short spent about 45 minutes teaching several core concepts. We were treated to the time-tested "It's Called Practice" method of cold contacting. (I have recently been working on editing a digital conversion.)
Afterwards, several members of the team gathered to ask some specific questions in an impromptu round table. I met several of the attendees and plan to attend future events despite not directly associated with this group.
The meeting broke up about 10:30pm and Bo and I were able to talk over a late dinner.
Despite my initial trepidation, I realize how badly I needed to get back into action and how much I love this business and the people associated with it. [Link]
Coming Up For Air
Well, it has once again been a while between posts and I feel as though I owe an explanation.
I’ll offer this to get started and fill in the gaps as I go along ..
The effects of my health issues I experienced last year were much more far reaching than I had expected. Things became a bit more involved and I discovered there was more going on than I realized.
I have been working on my recovery these many months but have come to understand the psychological aspects to this process was much more than I bargained for or was warned to anticipate.
I wish not to bore anyone so I'll leave it at that for now. I have come to a decision with respect to my blogging here however.
There are many that I know that author blogs about network marketing, MLM, direct sales, etc. There is certainly no shortage of available resources for those so inclined. Many have developed their pages to provide additional revenue through advertising and affiliate links etc. I have no objection to this practice (I have ads on my other sites too) but I have decided to strip away the ads from this page.
What you see here is my first pass on removing the extraneous material from the page. My desire is to relate my personal experiences as I traverse the network marketing environment without the content driven advertising. There are plenty of other pages for you to find those.
From one of my favorite bands, Rush, here's a line from the song, Digital Man,
“He picks up scraps of information
He’s adept at adaptation
Because for strangers and arrangers
Constant change is here to stay"
[Link]
News From The Front
THE IBO REBELLION The IBO Rebellion has learned of a Georgia lawsuit filed by some TEAM leaders. Despite rumors of Amway's new secret weapon, referred to as the MOAW or the Mother of All Waters, these courageous former Quixtar IBOs continue to take the fight to the enemy. As shown in the last post the MOAW maybe be new but it is certainly not to be feared, unless you have a daughter thinking of attending a Quixtar open meeting. This new lawsuit again attacks the vulnerable underbelly of Amway, its outlandish and sneakily added contract language. You can read the suit by clicking here. [Link]
Former Quixtar / Team IBO Breathes Free Air …Finally
Crazy World Today is my last day of the 6-month rule. While I am still under the 2-year rule, it appears that I am free to do whatever I want, just not with whoever I want. That's fine. With counsel from my mentor, and my lawyer, I believe that I am finally out from under Quixtar.
I hope you have enjoyed this blog. Today also marks my last day of following any news about Quixtar, Amway, Alticore, etc. I am closing that chapter in my life. This blog is part of that chapter. I have tried to leave some balanced information about the struggle Team has faced. I cannot say it was not a biased documentary, but I hope that the information here shows the public dialog that surrounded the whole incident.
I hold no malice towards Quixtar, Amway, Alticore or anyone associated with them (including their Amway Business Operators). I have come to a place of peace with the situation. I know there are others who still struggle (legally and otherwise) with "The Corporation," and I wish them good luck.
Powered by ScribeFire.
[Link]
Orrin Woodward Joins Brig Hart's MonaVie
With baited breath, we have waited the required six months to learn where the Team would end up. Almost as much suspense as the lottery……
There’s almost a bit of irony that Orrin et al would head to MonaVie.
Orrin Woodward Leadership Team Here is the long awaited announcement from Chris and Terri and Laurie and I. Thank you to Chris Brady for his incredible servant leadership in writing the final article! This is the first step on our journey to our destiny! God Bless, Orrin Woodward
A Long Term Vision
Here is a bit of a vision for where we think the industry can, should, and must go! This won’t all happen tomorrow, but it is ripe for the picking, and we plan on doing it, when the timing is right!
The Hedgehog Concept of the Future
Author Jim Collins writes about what he calls a “Hedgehog Concept” in his book Good to Great. He represents this as the core competency at which an organization can become the best in the world. He said it would be the intersection of several other competencies. Using Collin’s model, let’s look at what could and should be done in this industry.
Powered by ScribeFire.
[Link]
Statement From Fred Harteis
Fred Harteis News Articles:: "As an IBO I have entered into many discussions concerning issues I have had with Quixtar i.e.: product pricing, the IBO compensation plan, negative on the web. I have been open about my opinions. When the DTI situation became public, I became very concerned about our future, here based on the DTI complaint. I discussed these issues with several people including my attorneys, my leaders, Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady. However I never talked to D.J. Poyfair or anyone from his firm.
In July of 2007 I along with many others were very concerned about our future in business with Quixtar as was consistent in August of 2007.
Although I agree with the issues I would have hoped Orrin and Chris and the others were not terminated on August 9th of 2007 and the lawsuit would have not been served." [Link]
4 Essential Network Marketing Training Principles
By: Wil Chirinos
One of the old techniques on how an MLM works is to have distributors draft a list of targeted prospects from their warm market.
Now that you've run out of your warm market, how do you build an MLM business beyond your friends and relatives?
The problem with this Network Marketing Training Principle is two fold:
1. People might not have the need or the desire to consume the products you're marketing or just are not interested in the so called " opportunity" to generate an additional income.
2. If this is the second, third, or even fourth time around you talk to your warm market about another one of your "business ventures", they have grown immune to your pitch.
Warm market marketing is the hardest market there is. As long as you are not making tons of money, expecting to build a business talking to your friends and family will lead to failure unless you learn how to break out of your limited circle of friends and family and find other prospects for your business.
Your warm market list alone is not going to help you build a residual income business in the long run.
So how should you grow your business?
Go back to marketing principles.
Here are four steps that you would need to master to be able to advance your MLM business beyond the prospecting barrier of your warm market.
1. You must learn to target your market for your products.
Position your products or services in the market place. Define your target market, what are the benefits of consuming your products, what value they bring to an individual. Once you answer these questions, you will be able to identify your potential customer base.
2. You need to deliver the right message to that targeted sector of the market. The "right" message should be the message that solves their problems. This message is based on their own desires and needs, not based on the fact that you would like to make another buck when they purchase your products.
3. You need to facilitate the purchase by basing it on what is the best choice for the consumer, the ease of payment, shipping, follow up and support calls.
4. This prospecting message needs to be delivered to the right targeted audience at the right time based on the consumers' own time table.
These 4 essential marketing principles bring me to my point on how an mlm works:
Learning about marketing, learning how to market your products is an essential component to building a thriving business in network marketing. This is a grossly understated component in any company-sponsored MLM training.
If you were to take what's being taught in any MLM program and bring it into another field of business, for instance, retailing, those techniques would never stand a chance of surviving.
Can you imagine Coca Cola having its employees draft a list of its employees' warm market to sell its products to?
A good upline leader who has spent any time studying marketing principles should be able to tell his downline members:
· How /where to find leads for your products/services for not more than 20 cents per lead as opposed to $5, $10, or even $20 for so-called opportunity seekers leads.
· What to say to a lead once you find that prospect based on his needs.
· How to facilitate the purchase for that consumer.
· How to determine if the consumer is ready to make a purchasing decision solely based on the consumer's own time table.
These basic components should be addressed as you embark to work with your mentor/sponsor in your network marketing company.
In order to break the friends and family barrier, you need to learn how to put the marketing back in network marketing. Develop the skill set of a marketer, learn how to position your products in front of a hungry consumer market that is seeking the very same products you offer.
Article Source: http://netmlmarticles.com
Wil Chirinos helps struggling distributors improve their marketing skills. Learn about his Network Marketing Training Workshop by accessing his brutally honest Report and subscribe to his newsletter. [Link]
To Hype or Not To Hype
by Michael Lemm
OK, before anybody get's their shorts in a bunch let me make it clear I'm not advocating hype. Quite the contrary… I hate it.
You know the type. "Make a million in your underwear"… "$100,000 with no
selling and no sponsoring"… "We build it for you"… "Our secret system guarantees you're success"….yada yada.
But why do we see so much of it? I don't think you can just shrug it off to "they don't know any better," or "their values are lower." It's too prevalent. In fact, some so called "gurus" teach it! You know, the "headlines that sell" type of info products, ezine articles, conference calls, seminars and such.
Why?
Well, I set out awhile back to do a simple little experiment testing "hype" vs "no hype". I found a few message boards that are really nothing more
than a free for all, anything goes advertising stage (not hard to find, unfortunately). I posted a few ads with catchy (if I do say so myself) hype headlines and content (otherwise known as emotional drivel).
I also continued my normal "tell it like it is," "this is the real truth" marketing habits in my usual locals.
What happened?
To my dismay, the hype ads received lots of "hits" and a decent amount of sign-ups. The honest approach received the usual steady but not "massive" performance.
The results? (Pay attention, kiddies…here's the moral of the story)
The folks who became customers and sub-agents from the honest upfront approach were much fewer in number, BUT more solid! The customers were
loyal users and offered referals. The sub-agents actually grasped the concept
that you have to sell product to earn income (hey Junior, it's called Network Marketing, not Network Recruiting, for a reason. Duh!) Plus those they recruited were brought in under the "honesty" label, too, and were taught to
sell also.
Hmmmm….doing things the right way? May be slower (by appearance) but definitely the kind of structure to build.
The others — those emotional "I'll jump" looking for a good time crowd?
How did they fare?
Briefly… they didn't do diddly.
Customers dropped after a short time or never fully activated and paid.
The sub-agents sat on their hands waiting for something to happen. They all
had the attention span of my teenage son on a Friday night… in a theater
full of equally hormonally challenged teenage girls.
No focus… no effort… all looks with no substance.
Now, see the difference?
You may get numbers and "massive growth" from hype, but it's all smoke
and mirrors. Doesn't mean squat.
While the less flashy professional and honest approach gets results. Real results. It may not make the headlines. But it will sneak up on ya. Before you know it, you've got a heck of business the others won't have.
It pays to be a tortoise. Plod along to the finish line.
Let the hare run around like a fool. You can send him/her a post card from your yacht!
Hope ya learned something….
Be honest… be helpful… be yourself… and have fun.
Take your pants off in public. Wear your heart on your sleeve.
Or maybe you're more sedate, more low keyed. It doesn't matter.
What matters is that people leave you thinking, "I just met a real person, a genuine human being, a positive honest spirit not trying to trick me to do anything."
All the Hype Masters are missing the boat when they try to take you where they want you to go. Whatever they build won't last.
Get real. Be honest. Tell your story and listen. Care.
You’ll build a business….a real one that lasts.
Article Source: http://netmlmarticles.com
Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications including Real Time Leads….and the Administrator for HomeBasedBusinessForums.com. Michael also authors Best MLM Resources where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest MLM tips, ideas, tools, leads, news, and insights. [Link]
MLM Today - Two Blogs For The Price Of One
What is better than one blog with a catchy name like MLM Today?
How about one blog page that also includes headlines from another blog with an equally catchy name like Network Marketing Today!
Located comfortably in the sidebar, I have added a recent headline widget from my other page.
Did I mention that it was FREE! [Link]
Tips To Choosing The Best Online MLM Program
iSnare.com : "Multi level marketing programs, also known as MLM, are getting very popular because it can promise amazing income for those who join the programs. With online MLM companies, the industry has expanded further. Many people can earn from the comforts of their own homes through MLM.
How can you make the most out of an online MLM program? First, you must enroll with the right MLM program. Listed below are tips to help you find the MLM program that would work best for you.
1.What is the creditability of the online MLM program that you wish to join? Conduct a due diligence on the company to ensure that it is reputable and not a scam." [Link]
Is Your Understanding Of Network Marketing Outdated?
Article Sphere: "I knew things in our industry had changed, but I didn't realize just HOW MUCH they had changed until recently. Now we all know nothing stays the same, and progress is always welcome in Network Marketing, but I don't think many of us are truly aware of the vast differences we've seen technology bring in just the past few years.
Ten years ago–even five years ago–a successful couple or individual working in Networking limited themselves to a single program. Why? Because working direct sales or MLM took a TON of work." [Link]
Discipline and Internet MLM
Article Circulation: "If there is one and only one ingredient to guarantee your success in Internet MLM, I would say it is discipline. Discipline that I am about to define here is the discipline towards ourselves; commitment that we gave to ourselves; high standard that we set for ourselves.
Discipline is a bridge between our thought and accomplishment to our success in Internet MLM. Discipline is the glue that binds inspiration to achievement. They are the foundation on which all success is built. Failure is lead by lack of discipline.
95% of internet marketer fails because they failed to follow their plan. They do not have discipline towards themselves. If your plan was to write 4 articles this week and you only write 1, you are behind by 3 articles- today. If your plan was to post 3 post each in 3 different forums and you post only 1, you are behind by 8 posts- today. If you accumulate all these one day, it will make a difference over a period of time." [Link]
By Invitation Only - Fanista
As you may have read, Alticor is launching a new site called Fanista.
Below is a sample of the invitation email posted at Idolator.
Like you, I'm an ardent fan of all things entertainment. That's one of the reasons I am so excited to be a part of a new company called Fanista.com. It is a web site made for real, impassioned fans. The site's community is focused exclusively on music, DVDs, games and books, and is a place where members can share their reviews and opinions as well as shop. In its simplest form, Fanista.com is an attempt to replicate online what we all do in the physical world: champion the artists and entertainment we love. Also, like the real world, there is NO charge or subscription fee to do what it is we all do so naturally.
I’d really love for you to be one of the first reviewers. Why? Well, to be honest, we need you — someone smart, inspiring and articulate to help us build the foundation of the community. From what I've read of your writing, seems you fit the mold.
And we're willing to reward you for your efforts if you're interested. Through our unique "Common Interest Commerce," or "CIC," rewards program, users who become CIC members can earn up to two levels of commission: 5% of every purchase made by the friends they bring in, and, when their friends become CIC members, another 5% of every purchase made by the friends of their friends. Users can also earn insider perks and achieve social status for establishing themselves as tastemakers and "experts" when they share their voice and loves with the Fanista.com community at large. It's our way of rewarding the people who help us build the community.
Fanista.com is a way for you to amplify your voice, to let others hear what you have to say, to influence the people around you and to get something tangible in exchange for all of it. So, check it out. Sign up. Bring your friends. Earn some cash. Get other perks. Change the world — or at least help us try to pioneer a new model!
When the music industry continues to report double-digit loses, why would anyone venture into a shrinking market? If this site we a source hub for downloads, then it may make more sense. Otherwise, it's like trying to market concentrated laundry soap at twice the price. Doh! [Link]
Note To Disgruntled Quixtar Team IBO's
I hate to admit it but I have been reading with some degree of amusement at the dozen or so websites taking issue with the removal of one of Quixtar's most over-hyped "leaders".
These sites are just so Orrin. For anyone who has read any of his "work", there is a defined tendency to compare his "mission" to key people or events in recorded history. Take a look at any one of these "independent" pages and they act as if there is moral equivalency with the American Independence or the American Civil War. Give me a break.
Look. You don't like the rules of the game at Quixtar?
It’s not jail. You can always leave.
Now, Orrin on the other hand may not have the same option someday soon. [Link]
Have Americans lost their entrepreneurial spirit?
New School Network Marketing by Kim Klaver: "Many networkers tell me that they speak to people who complain of not having enough, not living well enough, not being able to afford enough…and yet, they say NO to network marketing, and anything else that requires a change in their regular routines. Are folks just satisfied with less than before?
Or do we have just enough so that the sustained extra effort required just isn't worth it? " [Link]
The 6 Important Elements of Qualifying
Natural Selling:: "I was talking with someone the other day about the purpose of qualifying. Coming from a conventional selling point of view he was at first quite narrow in his definition. It made me think of an article I wrote sometime ago on the subject, so here it is slightly updated. Unlike the conventional hard hitting and self centered approach of aggressively qualifying someone, Natural Selling allows you to qualify your potential partners and customers in a harmonious way, and just as importantly, help them qualify and inspire themselves to change and want to do business with you." [Link]
10 Steps To Success In Direct Sales
Best MLM Resources: "Here are the ten steps that will assure your success in MLM, Network Marketing, AND Direct Sales:
1. BE A GOAL SETTER. What do you want to accomplish? Do you want to save for college education for your children? A new car? A new home? You can have whatever you want, but you must want it enough to do the things that have to be done to get it. Whatever your goal, write it down and set a target date for reaching it. Divide the time period into blocks of achievement that are reachable. Work consistently toward accomplishing each day, each week, each month what you set out to do. Goal-setting is a must in every area of life. Little is ever accomplished without definite goals.
2. BE A LIST MAKER. Each evening list all the things you want to get done the following day. That gives you an organized approach to each day. As each task is finished, mark it off your list. It is amazing how much gets done when one works with a 'things-to-do' list. Also, have a notebook listing appointments, potential clients, repeat clients, and referrals, and keep it with you at all times. You will be adding to it constantly. " [Link]
More Than Enough To Go Around
There's no question we are in the midst of hard times. Add to the economic trouble, the questionable solutions offered by Congress and the "financial experts", the rabid Presidential race - we are getting our ass kicked.
Pain. Is there anyone you know that isn't experiencing some sort of pain?
I’m not trying to exploit the demise that we are suffering. Forget the sales pitch for a moment.
How many people that are currently experiencing financial trouble COULD you have helped IF only you had talked with them about your business project? Perhaps you market a health & wellness product that could provide some relief for even a few minutes a day - but you permitted yourself to be distracted.
What about your own situation? Some people are masochists, I guess.
I do not for a moment believe that MLM will provide the complete solution for what may be ailing us.
I do believe however that starting and building your own MLM business may help to cover some shortfalls. With the proper focus, I know it can provide a pathway toward your personal freedom and independence from many of the forces that are tearing families apart.
I do not care whether you join any of my projects. I'm not writing this in an attempt to recruit anyone. I am promoting the notion that everyone should seek out a program that will allow them to start right away - a program that will meet their requirements in terms of enrollment, products, compensation, training, and philosophy.
None of us can afford to wait for the economic situation to remedy itself. Regardless of whom may be to blame, I do not think it wise to wait for our politicians to construct an equitable and fair solution.
Please. This is far too important to ignore. I don't ask you to sign on with me. At least, look at what the marketplace has to offer and, if you haven't yet, put some sort of plan in motion. [Link]
MLM & Politics
The difference between some MLMer's and the average politician?
One day, there will be an election and the politician will shut up. Rarely will either live up to the hype. [Link]
The Presentation - Talking Points or Solutions Potential?
I have been listening to a training program lately which made me think about the way I present my business project to my prospects. Even more, I have started to evaluate the various presentations that have been made by others.
For what it's worth …
Does your presentation consist of a 5-point checklist in which you enumerate all the advantages YOU believe should be important to your prospect?
Or -
Do you engage your prospect through dialog to determine what motivates them to look at your project and what problems they seek to overcome by joining your business?
Your checklist and memorized comp plan may well be very impressive but does it truly reach into the hearts and minds of the person who is seeking something better for the quality of their life? [Link]
Clear As Mud
Quixtar's IBOAI has posted their official response about concerns that Triple Diamond, Greg Duncan, is in violation of Quixtar's Rule 6.5, a.k.a. The Bo Short Rule. There has been much written about this rule and the questionable legality of a non-compete for distributors in any networking company.
IBOAI Blog:
A recent article on the Internet connected Greg Duncan, a successful IBO powered by Quixtar, with All In Energy Drink. It resulted in a rumor that Mr. Duncan was in violation of Rule 6.5 of the Quixtar Rules of Conduct. While it’s true Mr. Duncan is a principal of XS Energy Drink, and is associated with All In Energy Drink, the rumor is false.
The fact is, XS Energy Drinks are marketed to Quixtar for sale exclusively by IBOs and All In Energy Drink is marketed to an entirely different market not in competition with Quixtar or IBOs. The manufacture and sale of All In Energy Drink does not violate either the letter or the spirit of the Rules of Conduct.
Whew! That's a relief. I, for one, am glad that the IBOAI addressed that issue but I am still confused about Rule 6.5.1 -
Rule 6.5.1 For purposes of this Rule 6.5., "Compete" means to own, manage, operate, consult for, be employed by, or participate as an independent distributor in (a) any other direct sales program using multilevel or "network" marketing structure, or (b) any other enterprise that markets, through independent distributors, products or services functionally interchangeable with those offered or marketed by the Corporation.
This means an IBO may engage only in other business ventures that do not compete with an independent business powered by Quixtar, and they may only solicit IBOs they personally register in order to promote or expand such other non-competing business ventures.
Isn’t All In Energy Drink "functionally interchangeable" with XS Energy Drink?
The IBOAI concludes with this assurance:
“As many IBOs know, the principals of Alticor manufacture for and invest in brands and other entrepreneurial ventures beyond their direct roles with Quixtar/Amway products. Like the principals of Alticor the principals of XS Energy Drinks pursue similar ventures for the purposes of reducing costs and enhancing the effectiveness of products for IBOs and to empower opportunities for IBOs. The positive proof of the effectiveness of such an approach has clearly shown through with not a single penny of increase in XS pricing in nearly six years. Additionally, the XS team has been unparalleled in their generosity to IBOs and IBO events with support staff, product sampling, literature, gear and gifts at absolutely no cost to the IBOs. Such commitment to the product and IBOs will continue to be our utmost priority.”
There you have it. I guess the answer is: Shut up or we'll raise the prices, you ungrateful bastards! [Link]
Oldest Ponzi Scheme In America Is 73 Today
[Link]
I'm David Stone and I Endorse This Ad
I cannot deny my supporters. I accept the nomination. What the hell, how much worse can I do than the clowns that are running?
[Link]
It's The End Of The World! Build Your MLM Before It's Too Late
Ok, so maybe this could be one more reason one would want to start a network marketing business? [Link]
Your Vision and The Company Culture
I started a new blog recently to promote my involvement with Max International. Here's a snip from a post I wrote yesterday about the importance of knowing why you would consider joining a company program and why I believe it's important to base that decision, in part, on the values promoted by the company.
Your Max Impact Blog
Whether you desire to be your own boss, have financial freedom, greater control over your time, help others improve the quality of their lives, achieve better health, or …..(you fill in the blank); I have learned that all subsequent actions will be predicated on the strength of the vision you hold - your goals - your ambitions - your desires - your WHY.
I think an important consideration into such a decision should include whether the culture of the company you may partner with aligns with the vision you hold of your own success. Corporate leadership, founding principles, product strength and security, field leadership, company mission and ethics statements, fairness and potential profitability of the comp plan are several areas I believe should be evaluated before you deliver your dreams and goals for their stewardship. [Link]
Finding My Comfort Zone
Had a great experience last night and one that I know was sorely needed.
Bo Short had flown into town as part of the Max Momentum Tour and we planned on having dinner together before the event. Due to some scheduling conflicts, we had to postpone our meal and met many of the local team leaders instead.
It has been a while since I have been very active in any business activities (as evident by my blog posting). I admit that I felt a bit anxious and uncomfortable having been out of circulation for so long.
As the presentation began, I found myself becoming more adjusted to environment. There was a 10-15 minute break after the opportunity was concluded. Bo Short spent about 45 minutes teaching several core concepts. We were treated to the time-tested "It's Called Practice" method of cold contacting. (I have recently been working on editing a digital conversion.)
Afterwards, several members of the team gathered to ask some specific questions in an impromptu round table. I met several of the attendees and plan to attend future events despite not directly associated with this group.
The meeting broke up about 10:30pm and Bo and I were able to talk over a late dinner.
Despite my initial trepidation, I realize how badly I needed to get back into action and how much I love this business and the people associated with it. [Link]
Coming Up For Air
Well, it has once again been a while between posts and I feel as though I owe an explanation.
I’ll offer this to get started and fill in the gaps as I go along ..
The effects of my health issues I experienced last year were much more far reaching than I had expected. Things became a bit more involved and I discovered there was more going on than I realized.
I have been working on my recovery these many months but have come to understand the psychological aspects to this process was much more than I bargained for or was warned to anticipate.
I wish not to bore anyone so I'll leave it at that for now. I have come to a decision with respect to my blogging here however.
There are many that I know that author blogs about network marketing, MLM, direct sales, etc. There is certainly no shortage of available resources for those so inclined. Many have developed their pages to provide additional revenue through advertising and affiliate links etc. I have no objection to this practice (I have ads on my other sites too) but I have decided to strip away the ads from this page.
What you see here is my first pass on removing the extraneous material from the page. My desire is to relate my personal experiences as I traverse the network marketing environment without the content driven advertising. There are plenty of other pages for you to find those.
From one of my favorite bands, Rush, here's a line from the song, Digital Man,
“He picks up scraps of information
He’s adept at adaptation
Because for strangers and arrangers
Constant change is here to stay"
[Link]
News From The Front
THE IBO REBELLION The IBO Rebellion has learned of a Georgia lawsuit filed by some TEAM leaders. Despite rumors of Amway's new secret weapon, referred to as the MOAW or the Mother of All Waters, these courageous former Quixtar IBOs continue to take the fight to the enemy. As shown in the last post the MOAW maybe be new but it is certainly not to be feared, unless you have a daughter thinking of attending a Quixtar open meeting. This new lawsuit again attacks the vulnerable underbelly of Amway, its outlandish and sneakily added contract language. You can read the suit by clicking here. [Link]
Former Quixtar / Team IBO Breathes Free Air …Finally
Crazy World Today is my last day of the 6-month rule. While I am still under the 2-year rule, it appears that I am free to do whatever I want, just not with whoever I want. That's fine. With counsel from my mentor, and my lawyer, I believe that I am finally out from under Quixtar.
I hope you have enjoyed this blog. Today also marks my last day of following any news about Quixtar, Amway, Alticore, etc. I am closing that chapter in my life. This blog is part of that chapter. I have tried to leave some balanced information about the struggle Team has faced. I cannot say it was not a biased documentary, but I hope that the information here shows the public dialog that surrounded the whole incident.
I hold no malice towards Quixtar, Amway, Alticore or anyone associated with them (including their Amway Business Operators). I have come to a place of peace with the situation. I know there are others who still struggle (legally and otherwise) with "The Corporation," and I wish them good luck.
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[Link]
Orrin Woodward Joins Brig Hart's MonaVie
With baited breath, we have waited the required six months to learn where the Team would end up. Almost as much suspense as the lottery……
There’s almost a bit of irony that Orrin et al would head to MonaVie.
Orrin Woodward Leadership Team Here is the long awaited announcement from Chris and Terri and Laurie and I. Thank you to Chris Brady for his incredible servant leadership in writing the final article! This is the first step on our journey to our destiny! God Bless, Orrin Woodward
A Long Term Vision
Here is a bit of a vision for where we think the industry can, should, and must go! This won’t all happen tomorrow, but it is ripe for the picking, and we plan on doing it, when the timing is right!
The Hedgehog Concept of the Future
Author Jim Collins writes about what he calls a “Hedgehog Concept” in his book Good to Great. He represents this as the core competency at which an organization can become the best in the world. He said it would be the intersection of several other competencies. Using Collin’s model, let’s look at what could and should be done in this industry.
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[Link]
Statement From Fred Harteis
Fred Harteis News Articles:: "As an IBO I have entered into many discussions concerning issues I have had with Quixtar i.e.: product pricing, the IBO compensation plan, negative on the web. I have been open about my opinions. When the DTI situation became public, I became very concerned about our future, here based on the DTI complaint. I discussed these issues with several people including my attorneys, my leaders, Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady. However I never talked to D.J. Poyfair or anyone from his firm.
In July of 2007 I along with many others were very concerned about our future in business with Quixtar as was consistent in August of 2007.
Although I agree with the issues I would have hoped Orrin and Chris and the others were not terminated on August 9th of 2007 and the lawsuit would have not been served." [Link]
4 Essential Network Marketing Training Principles
By: Wil Chirinos
One of the old techniques on how an MLM works is to have distributors draft a list of targeted prospects from their warm market.
Now that you've run out of your warm market, how do you build an MLM business beyond your friends and relatives?
The problem with this Network Marketing Training Principle is two fold:
1. People might not have the need or the desire to consume the products you're marketing or just are not interested in the so called " opportunity" to generate an additional income.
2. If this is the second, third, or even fourth time around you talk to your warm market about another one of your "business ventures", they have grown immune to your pitch.
Warm market marketing is the hardest market there is. As long as you are not making tons of money, expecting to build a business talking to your friends and family will lead to failure unless you learn how to break out of your limited circle of friends and family and find other prospects for your business.
Your warm market list alone is not going to help you build a residual income business in the long run.
So how should you grow your business?
Go back to marketing principles.
Here are four steps that you would need to master to be able to advance your MLM business beyond the prospecting barrier of your warm market.
1. You must learn to target your market for your products.
Position your products or services in the market place. Define your target market, what are the benefits of consuming your products, what value they bring to an individual. Once you answer these questions, you will be able to identify your potential customer base.
2. You need to deliver the right message to that targeted sector of the market. The "right" message should be the message that solves their problems. This message is based on their own desires and needs, not based on the fact that you would like to make another buck when they purchase your products.
3. You need to facilitate the purchase by basing it on what is the best choice for the consumer, the ease of payment, shipping, follow up and support calls.
4. This prospecting message needs to be delivered to the right targeted audience at the right time based on the consumers' own time table.
These 4 essential marketing principles bring me to my point on how an mlm works:
Learning about marketing, learning how to market your products is an essential component to building a thriving business in network marketing. This is a grossly understated component in any company-sponsored MLM training.
If you were to take what's being taught in any MLM program and bring it into another field of business, for instance, retailing, those techniques would never stand a chance of surviving.
Can you imagine Coca Cola having its employees draft a list of its employees' warm market to sell its products to?
A good upline leader who has spent any time studying marketing principles should be able to tell his downline members:
· How /where to find leads for your products/services for not more than 20 cents per lead as opposed to $5, $10, or even $20 for so-called opportunity seekers leads.
· What to say to a lead once you find that prospect based on his needs.
· How to facilitate the purchase for that consumer.
· How to determine if the consumer is ready to make a purchasing decision solely based on the consumer's own time table.
These basic components should be addressed as you embark to work with your mentor/sponsor in your network marketing company.
In order to break the friends and family barrier, you need to learn how to put the marketing back in network marketing. Develop the skill set of a marketer, learn how to position your products in front of a hungry consumer market that is seeking the very same products you offer.
Article Source: http://netmlmarticles.com
Wil Chirinos helps struggling distributors improve their marketing skills. Learn about his Network Marketing Training Workshop by accessing his brutally honest Report and subscribe to his newsletter. [Link]
To Hype or Not To Hype
by Michael Lemm
OK, before anybody get's their shorts in a bunch let me make it clear I'm not advocating hype. Quite the contrary… I hate it.
You know the type. "Make a million in your underwear"… "$100,000 with no
selling and no sponsoring"… "We build it for you"… "Our secret system guarantees you're success"….yada yada.
But why do we see so much of it? I don't think you can just shrug it off to "they don't know any better," or "their values are lower." It's too prevalent. In fact, some so called "gurus" teach it! You know, the "headlines that sell" type of info products, ezine articles, conference calls, seminars and such.
Why?
Well, I set out awhile back to do a simple little experiment testing "hype" vs "no hype". I found a few message boards that are really nothing more
than a free for all, anything goes advertising stage (not hard to find, unfortunately). I posted a few ads with catchy (if I do say so myself) hype headlines and content (otherwise known as emotional drivel).
I also continued my normal "tell it like it is," "this is the real truth" marketing habits in my usual locals.
What happened?
To my dismay, the hype ads received lots of "hits" and a decent amount of sign-ups. The honest approach received the usual steady but not "massive" performance.
The results? (Pay attention, kiddies…here's the moral of the story)
The folks who became customers and sub-agents from the honest upfront approach were much fewer in number, BUT more solid! The customers were
loyal users and offered referals. The sub-agents actually grasped the concept
that you have to sell product to earn income (hey Junior, it's called Network Marketing, not Network Recruiting, for a reason. Duh!) Plus those they recruited were brought in under the "honesty" label, too, and were taught to
sell also.
Hmmmm….doing things the right way? May be slower (by appearance) but definitely the kind of structure to build.
The others — those emotional "I'll jump" looking for a good time crowd?
How did they fare?
Briefly… they didn't do diddly.
Customers dropped after a short time or never fully activated and paid.
The sub-agents sat on their hands waiting for something to happen. They all
had the attention span of my teenage son on a Friday night… in a theater
full of equally hormonally challenged teenage girls.
No focus… no effort… all looks with no substance.
Now, see the difference?
You may get numbers and "massive growth" from hype, but it's all smoke
and mirrors. Doesn't mean squat.
While the less flashy professional and honest approach gets results. Real results. It may not make the headlines. But it will sneak up on ya. Before you know it, you've got a heck of business the others won't have.
It pays to be a tortoise. Plod along to the finish line.
Let the hare run around like a fool. You can send him/her a post card from your yacht!
Hope ya learned something….
Be honest… be helpful… be yourself… and have fun.
Take your pants off in public. Wear your heart on your sleeve.
Or maybe you're more sedate, more low keyed. It doesn't matter.
What matters is that people leave you thinking, "I just met a real person, a genuine human being, a positive honest spirit not trying to trick me to do anything."
All the Hype Masters are missing the boat when they try to take you where they want you to go. Whatever they build won't last.
Get real. Be honest. Tell your story and listen. Care.
You’ll build a business….a real one that lasts.
Article Source: http://netmlmarticles.com
Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications including Real Time Leads….and the Administrator for HomeBasedBusinessForums.com. Michael also authors Best MLM Resources where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest MLM tips, ideas, tools, leads, news, and insights. [Link]
MLM Today - Two Blogs For The Price Of One
What is better than one blog with a catchy name like MLM Today?
How about one blog page that also includes headlines from another blog with an equally catchy name like Network Marketing Today!
Located comfortably in the sidebar, I have added a recent headline widget from my other page.
Did I mention that it was FREE! [Link]
Tips To Choosing The Best Online MLM Program
iSnare.com : "Multi level marketing programs, also known as MLM, are getting very popular because it can promise amazing income for those who join the programs. With online MLM companies, the industry has expanded further. Many people can earn from the comforts of their own homes through MLM.
How can you make the most out of an online MLM program? First, you must enroll with the right MLM program. Listed below are tips to help you find the MLM program that would work best for you.
1.What is the creditability of the online MLM program that you wish to join? Conduct a due diligence on the company to ensure that it is reputable and not a scam." [Link]
Is Your Understanding Of Network Marketing Outdated?
Article Sphere: "I knew things in our industry had changed, but I didn't realize just HOW MUCH they had changed until recently. Now we all know nothing stays the same, and progress is always welcome in Network Marketing, but I don't think many of us are truly aware of the vast differences we've seen technology bring in just the past few years.
Ten years ago–even five years ago–a successful couple or individual working in Networking limited themselves to a single program. Why? Because working direct sales or MLM took a TON of work." [Link]
Discipline and Internet MLM
Article Circulation: "If there is one and only one ingredient to guarantee your success in Internet MLM, I would say it is discipline. Discipline that I am about to define here is the discipline towards ourselves; commitment that we gave to ourselves; high standard that we set for ourselves.
Discipline is a bridge between our thought and accomplishment to our success in Internet MLM. Discipline is the glue that binds inspiration to achievement. They are the foundation on which all success is built. Failure is lead by lack of discipline.
95% of internet marketer fails because they failed to follow their plan. They do not have discipline towards themselves. If your plan was to write 4 articles this week and you only write 1, you are behind by 3 articles- today. If your plan was to post 3 post each in 3 different forums and you post only 1, you are behind by 8 posts- today. If you accumulate all these one day, it will make a difference over a period of time." [Link]
By Invitation Only - Fanista
As you may have read, Alticor is launching a new site called Fanista.
Below is a sample of the invitation email posted at Idolator.
Like you, I'm an ardent fan of all things entertainment. That's one of the reasons I am so excited to be a part of a new company called Fanista.com. It is a web site made for real, impassioned fans. The site's community is focused exclusively on music, DVDs, games and books, and is a place where members can share their reviews and opinions as well as shop. In its simplest form, Fanista.com is an attempt to replicate online what we all do in the physical world: champion the artists and entertainment we love. Also, like the real world, there is NO charge or subscription fee to do what it is we all do so naturally.
I’d really love for you to be one of the first reviewers. Why? Well, to be honest, we need you — someone smart, inspiring and articulate to help us build the foundation of the community. From what I've read of your writing, seems you fit the mold.
And we're willing to reward you for your efforts if you're interested. Through our unique "Common Interest Commerce," or "CIC," rewards program, users who become CIC members can earn up to two levels of commission: 5% of every purchase made by the friends they bring in, and, when their friends become CIC members, another 5% of every purchase made by the friends of their friends. Users can also earn insider perks and achieve social status for establishing themselves as tastemakers and "experts" when they share their voice and loves with the Fanista.com community at large. It's our way of rewarding the people who help us build the community.
Fanista.com is a way for you to amplify your voice, to let others hear what you have to say, to influence the people around you and to get something tangible in exchange for all of it. So, check it out. Sign up. Bring your friends. Earn some cash. Get other perks. Change the world — or at least help us try to pioneer a new model!
When the music industry continues to report double-digit loses, why would anyone venture into a shrinking market? If this site we a source hub for downloads, then it may make more sense. Otherwise, it's like trying to market concentrated laundry soap at twice the price. Doh! [Link]
Note To Disgruntled Quixtar Team IBO's
I hate to admit it but I have been reading with some degree of amusement at the dozen or so websites taking issue with the removal of one of Quixtar's most over-hyped "leaders".
These sites are just so Orrin. For anyone who has read any of his "work", there is a defined tendency to compare his "mission" to key people or events in recorded history. Take a look at any one of these "independent" pages and they act as if there is moral equivalency with the American Independence or the American Civil War. Give me a break.
Look. You don't like the rules of the game at Quixtar?
It’s not jail. You can always leave.
Now, Orrin on the other hand may not have the same option someday soon. [Link]
Have Americans lost their entrepreneurial spirit?
New School Network Marketing by Kim Klaver: "Many networkers tell me that they speak to people who complain of not having enough, not living well enough, not being able to afford enough…and yet, they say NO to network marketing, and anything else that requires a change in their regular routines. Are folks just satisfied with less than before?
Or do we have just enough so that the sustained extra effort required just isn't worth it? " [Link]
The 6 Important Elements of Qualifying
Natural Selling:: "I was talking with someone the other day about the purpose of qualifying. Coming from a conventional selling point of view he was at first quite narrow in his definition. It made me think of an article I wrote sometime ago on the subject, so here it is slightly updated. Unlike the conventional hard hitting and self centered approach of aggressively qualifying someone, Natural Selling allows you to qualify your potential partners and customers in a harmonious way, and just as importantly, help them qualify and inspire themselves to change and want to do business with you." [Link]
10 Steps To Success In Direct Sales
Best MLM Resources: "Here are the ten steps that will assure your success in MLM, Network Marketing, AND Direct Sales:
1. BE A GOAL SETTER. What do you want to accomplish? Do you want to save for college education for your children? A new car? A new home? You can have whatever you want, but you must want it enough to do the things that have to be done to get it. Whatever your goal, write it down and set a target date for reaching it. Divide the time period into blocks of achievement that are reachable. Work consistently toward accomplishing each day, each week, each month what you set out to do. Goal-setting is a must in every area of life. Little is ever accomplished without definite goals.
2. BE A LIST MAKER. Each evening list all the things you want to get done the following day. That gives you an organized approach to each day. As each task is finished, mark it off your list. It is amazing how much gets done when one works with a 'things-to-do' list. Also, have a notebook listing appointments, potential clients, repeat clients, and referrals, and keep it with you at all times. You will be adding to it constantly. " [Link]
10 Killer Ways to Promote Your New MLM Program
Ezine Articles: "You just joined this wonderful new MLM and you're rearing to go! Then you think… go where and how?? Here are 10 ways to promote your MLM that'll get you started on the way to your first recruits 1. Free classifieds - Though not as great as they once were, if your MLM program is free to join you will get some takers. The trick is to keep posting often and keep your ad up there. 2. Ezine Ads - These are cost effective and very targeted so you don't waste your advertising dollars. Use classified ads if you have a small budget and don't place any ads in ezines you haven't read." [Link]
27 Prospects Later
GoArticles.com: "Warm market indeed! As our fictitious friend stares down at her yellow lined blank sheet of paper, she now understands what it feels like to be an official member of the NFL club–No Friends Left! Frustrated with the knowledge that she has no one to contact, and with her sights still set on success, Mary heads straight towards a cold cruel market–that wild wintry world of advertising, cold calls and worst of all, those opportunity seekers' e-mail lists. With no degree in marketing, no advertising experience, and without any knowledge of the right prospecting tools, our friend Mary is doomed to fail. And the saddest part is, she will probably blame her downfall on our industry, her new company, or a lack of upline support." [Link]
The Presentation - Talking Points or Solutions Potential?
I have been listening to a training program lately which made me think about the way I present my business project to my prospects. Even more, I have started to evaluate the various presentations that have been made by others.
For what it's worth …
Does your presentation consist of a 5-point checklist in which you enumerate all the advantages YOU believe should be important to your prospect?
Or -
Do you engage your prospect through dialog to determine what motivates them to look at your project and what problems they seek to overcome by joining your business?
Your checklist and memorized comp plan may well be very impressive but does it truly reach into the hearts and minds of the person who is seeking something better for the quality of their life? [Link]
Clear As Mud
Quixtar's IBOAI has posted their official response about concerns that Triple Diamond, Greg Duncan, is in violation of Quixtar's Rule 6.5, a.k.a. The Bo Short Rule. There has been much written about this rule and the questionable legality of a non-compete for distributors in any networking company.
IBOAI Blog:
A recent article on the Internet connected Greg Duncan, a successful IBO powered by Quixtar, with All In Energy Drink. It resulted in a rumor that Mr. Duncan was in violation of Rule 6.5 of the Quixtar Rules of Conduct. While it’s true Mr. Duncan is a principal of XS Energy Drink, and is associated with All In Energy Drink, the rumor is false.
The fact is, XS Energy Drinks are marketed to Quixtar for sale exclusively by IBOs and All In Energy Drink is marketed to an entirely different market not in competition with Quixtar or IBOs. The manufacture and sale of All In Energy Drink does not violate either the letter or the spirit of the Rules of Conduct.
Whew! That's a relief. I, for one, am glad that the IBOAI addressed that issue but I am still confused about Rule 6.5.1 -
Rule 6.5.1 For purposes of this Rule 6.5., "Compete" means to own, manage, operate, consult for, be employed by, or participate as an independent distributor in (a) any other direct sales program using multilevel or "network" marketing structure, or (b) any other enterprise that markets, through independent distributors, products or services functionally interchangeable with those offered or marketed by the Corporation.
This means an IBO may engage only in other business ventures that do not compete with an independent business powered by Quixtar, and they may only solicit IBOs they personally register in order to promote or expand such other non-competing business ventures.
Isn’t All In Energy Drink "functionally interchangeable" with XS Energy Drink?
The IBOAI concludes with this assurance:
“As many IBOs know, the principals of Alticor manufacture for and invest in brands and other entrepreneurial ventures beyond their direct roles with Quixtar/Amway products. Like the principals of Alticor the principals of XS Energy Drinks pursue similar ventures for the purposes of reducing costs and enhancing the effectiveness of products for IBOs and to empower opportunities for IBOs. The positive proof of the effectiveness of such an approach has clearly shown through with not a single penny of increase in XS pricing in nearly six years. Additionally, the XS team has been unparalleled in their generosity to IBOs and IBO events with support staff, product sampling, literature, gear and gifts at absolutely no cost to the IBOs. Such commitment to the product and IBOs will continue to be our utmost priority.”
There you have it. I guess the answer is: Shut up or we'll raise the prices, you ungrateful bastards! [Link]
Oldest Ponzi Scheme In America Is 73 Today
[Link]
I'm David Stone and I Endorse This Ad
I cannot deny my supporters. I accept the nomination. What the hell, how much worse can I do than the clowns that are running?
[Link]
It's The End Of The World! Build Your MLM Before It's Too Late
Ok, so maybe this could be one more reason one would want to start a network marketing business? [Link]
Your Vision and The Company Culture
I started a new blog recently to promote my involvement with Max International. Here's a snip from a post I wrote yesterday about the importance of knowing why you would consider joining a company program and why I believe it's important to base that decision, in part, on the values promoted by the company.
Your Max Impact Blog
Whether you desire to be your own boss, have financial freedom, greater control over your time, help others improve the quality of their lives, achieve better health, or …..(you fill in the blank); I have learned that all subsequent actions will be predicated on the strength of the vision you hold - your goals - your ambitions - your desires - your WHY.
I think an important consideration into such a decision should include whether the culture of the company you may partner with aligns with the vision you hold of your own success. Corporate leadership, founding principles, product strength and security, field leadership, company mission and ethics statements, fairness and potential profitability of the comp plan are several areas I believe should be evaluated before you deliver your dreams and goals for their stewardship. [Link]
Finding My Comfort Zone
Had a great experience last night and one that I know was sorely needed.
Bo Short had flown into town as part of the Max Momentum Tour and we planned on having dinner together before the event. Due to some scheduling conflicts, we had to postpone our meal and met many of the local team leaders instead.
It has been a while since I have been very active in any business activities (as evident by my blog posting). I admit that I felt a bit anxious and uncomfortable having been out of circulation for so long.
As the presentation began, I found myself becoming more adjusted to environment. There was a 10-15 minute break after the opportunity was concluded. Bo Short spent about 45 minutes teaching several core concepts. We were treated to the time-tested "It's Called Practice" method of cold contacting. (I have recently been working on editing a digital conversion.)
Afterwards, several members of the team gathered to ask some specific questions in an impromptu round table. I met several of the attendees and plan to attend future events despite not directly associated with this group.
The meeting broke up about 10:30pm and Bo and I were able to talk over a late dinner.
Despite my initial trepidation, I realize how badly I needed to get back into action and how much I love this business and the people associated with it. [Link]
Coming Up For Air
Well, it has once again been a while between posts and I feel as though I owe an explanation.
I’ll offer this to get started and fill in the gaps as I go along ..
The effects of my health issues I experienced last year were much more far reaching than I had expected. Things became a bit more involved and I discovered there was more going on than I realized.
I have been working on my recovery these many months but have come to understand the psychological aspects to this process was much more than I bargained for or was warned to anticipate.
I wish not to bore anyone so I'll leave it at that for now. I have come to a decision with respect to my blogging here however.
There are many that I know that author blogs about network marketing, MLM, direct sales, etc. There is certainly no shortage of available resources for those so inclined. Many have developed their pages to provide additional revenue through advertising and affiliate links etc. I have no objection to this practice (I have ads on my other sites too) but I have decided to strip away the ads from this page.
What you see here is my first pass on removing the extraneous material from the page. My desire is to relate my personal experiences as I traverse the network marketing environment without the content driven advertising. There are plenty of other pages for you to find those.
From one of my favorite bands, Rush, here's a line from the song, Digital Man,
“He picks up scraps of information
He’s adept at adaptation
Because for strangers and arrangers
Constant change is here to stay"
[Link]
News From The Front
THE IBO REBELLION The IBO Rebellion has learned of a Georgia lawsuit filed by some TEAM leaders. Despite rumors of Amway's new secret weapon, referred to as the MOAW or the Mother of All Waters, these courageous former Quixtar IBOs continue to take the fight to the enemy. As shown in the last post the MOAW maybe be new but it is certainly not to be feared, unless you have a daughter thinking of attending a Quixtar open meeting. This new lawsuit again attacks the vulnerable underbelly of Amway, its outlandish and sneakily added contract language. You can read the suit by clicking here. [Link]
Former Quixtar / Team IBO Breathes Free Air …Finally
Crazy World Today is my last day of the 6-month rule. While I am still under the 2-year rule, it appears that I am free to do whatever I want, just not with whoever I want. That's fine. With counsel from my mentor, and my lawyer, I believe that I am finally out from under Quixtar.
I hope you have enjoyed this blog. Today also marks my last day of following any news about Quixtar, Amway, Alticore, etc. I am closing that chapter in my life. This blog is part of that chapter. I have tried to leave some balanced information about the struggle Team has faced. I cannot say it was not a biased documentary, but I hope that the information here shows the public dialog that surrounded the whole incident.
I hold no malice towards Quixtar, Amway, Alticore or anyone associated with them (including their Amway Business Operators). I have come to a place of peace with the situation. I know there are others who still struggle (legally and otherwise) with "The Corporation," and I wish them good luck.
Powered by ScribeFire.
[Link]
Statement From Fred Harteis: 01/30/2008
Fred Harteis.com As an IBO I have entered into many discussions concerning issues I have had with Quixtar i.e.: product pricing, the IBO compensation plan, negative on the web. I have been open about my opinions. When the DTI situation became public, I became very concerned about our future, in the USA based on the DTI complaint. I discussed these issues with several people including my attorneys, my leaders, Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady. However I never talked to D.J. Poyfair or anyone from his firm.
In July of 2007 I along with many others were very concerned about our future in business with Quixtar as was consistent in August of 2007.
Although I agree with the issues I would have hoped Orrin and Chris and the others were not terminated on August 9th of 2007 and the lawsuit would have not been served.
Hat Tip: Quixtar Blog
Powered by ScribeFire.
[Link]
Orrin Woodward Joins Brig Hart's MonaVie
With baited breath, we have waited the required six months to learn where the Team would end up. Almost as much suspense as the lottery……
There’s almost a bit of irony that Orrin et al would head to MonaVie.
Orrin Woodward Leadership Team Here is the long awaited announcement from Chris and Terri and Laurie and I. Thank you to Chris Brady for his incredible servant leadership in writing the final article! This is the first step on our journey to our destiny! God Bless, Orrin Woodward
A Long Term Vision
Here is a bit of a vision for where we think the industry can, should, and must go! This won’t all happen tomorrow, but it is ripe for the picking, and we plan on doing it, when the timing is right!
The Hedgehog Concept of the Future
Author Jim Collins writes about what he calls a “Hedgehog Concept” in his book Good to Great. He represents this as the core competency at which an organization can become the best in the world. He said it would be the intersection of several other competencies. Using Collin’s model, let’s look at what could and should be done in this industry.
Powered by ScribeFire.
[Link]
Statement From Fred Harteis
Fred Harteis News Articles:: "As an IBO I have entered into many discussions concerning issues I have had with Quixtar i.e.: product pricing, the IBO compensation plan, negative on the web. I have been open about my opinions. When the DTI situation became public, I became very concerned about our future, here based on the DTI complaint. I discussed these issues with several people including my attorneys, my leaders, Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady. However I never talked to D.J. Poyfair or anyone from his firm.
In July of 2007 I along with many others were very concerned about our future in business with Quixtar as was consistent in August of 2007.
Although I agree with the issues I would have hoped Orrin and Chris and the others were not terminated on August 9th of 2007 and the lawsuit would have not been served." [Link]
4 Essential Network Marketing Training Principles
By: Wil Chirinos
One of the old techniques on how an MLM works is to have distributors draft a list of targeted prospects from their warm market.
Now that you've run out of your warm market, how do you build an MLM business beyond your friends and relatives?
The problem with this Network Marketing Training Principle is two fold:
1. People might not have the need or the desire to consume the products you're marketing or just are not interested in the so called " opportunity" to generate an additional income.
2. If this is the second, third, or even fourth time around you talk to your warm market about another one of your "business ventures", they have grown immune to your pitch.
Warm market marketing is the hardest market there is. As long as you are not making tons of money, expecting to build a business talking to your friends and family will lead to failure unless you learn how to break out of your limited circle of friends and family and find other prospects for your business.
Your warm market list alone is not going to help you build a residual income business in the long run.
So how should you grow your business?
Go back to marketing principles.
Here are four steps that you would need to master to be able to advance your MLM business beyond the prospecting barrier of your warm market.
1. You must learn to target your market for your products.
Position your products or services in the market place. Define your target market, what are the benefits of consuming your products, what value they bring to an individual. Once you answer these questions, you will be able to identify your potential customer base.
2. You need to deliver the right message to that targeted sector of the market. The "right" message should be the message that solves their problems. This message is based on their own desires and needs, not based on the fact that you would like to make another buck when they purchase your products.
3. You need to facilitate the purchase by basing it on what is the best choice for the consumer, the ease of payment, shipping, follow up and support calls.
4. This prospecting message needs to be delivered to the right targeted audience at the right time based on the consumers' own time table.
These 4 essential marketing principles bring me to my point on how an mlm works:
Learning about marketing, learning how to market your products is an essential component to building a thriving business in network marketing. This is a grossly understated component in any company-sponsored MLM training.
If you were to take what's being taught in any MLM program and bring it into another field of business, for instance, retailing, those techniques would never stand a chance of surviving.
Can you imagine Coca Cola having its employees draft a list of its employees' warm market to sell its products to?
A good upline leader who has spent any time studying marketing principles should be able to tell his downline members:
· How /where to find leads for your products/services for not more than 20 cents per lead as opposed to $5, $10, or even $20 for so-called opportunity seekers leads.
· What to say to a lead once you find that prospect based on his needs.
· How to facilitate the purchase for that consumer.
· How to determine if the consumer is ready to make a purchasing decision solely based on the consumer's own time table.
These basic components should be addressed as you embark to work with your mentor/sponsor in your network marketing company.
In order to break the friends and family barrier, you need to learn how to put the marketing back in network marketing. Develop the skill set of a marketer, learn how to position your products in front of a hungry consumer market that is seeking the very same products you offer.
Article Source: http://netmlmarticles.com
Wil Chirinos helps struggling distributors improve their marketing skills. Learn about his Network Marketing Training Workshop by accessing his brutally honest Report and subscribe to his newsletter. [Link]
To Hype or Not To Hype
by Michael Lemm
OK, before anybody get's their shorts in a bunch let me make it clear I'm not advocating hype. Quite the contrary… I hate it.
You know the type. "Make a million in your underwear"… "$100,000 with no
selling and no sponsoring"… "We build it for you"… "Our secret system guarantees you're success"….yada yada.
But why do we see so much of it? I don't think you can just shrug it off to "they don't know any better," or "their values are lower." It's too prevalent. In fact, some so called "gurus" teach it! You know, the "headlines that sell" type of info products, ezine articles, conference calls, seminars and such.
Why?
Well, I set out awhile back to do a simple little experiment testing "hype" vs "no hype". I found a few message boards that are really nothing more
than a free for all, anything goes advertising stage (not hard to find, unfortunately). I posted a few ads with catchy (if I do say so myself) hype headlines and content (otherwise known as emotional drivel).
I also continued my normal "tell it like it is," "this is the real truth" marketing habits in my usual locals.
What happened?
To my dismay, the hype ads received lots of "hits" and a decent amount of sign-ups. The honest approach received the usual steady but not "massive" performance.
The results? (Pay attention, kiddies…here's the moral of the story)
The folks who became customers and sub-agents from the honest upfront approach were much fewer in number, BUT more solid! The customers were
loyal users and offered referals. The sub-agents actually grasped the concept
that you have to sell product to earn income (hey Junior, it's called Network Marketing, not Network Recruiting, for a reason. Duh!) Plus those they recruited were brought in under the "honesty" label, too, and were taught to
sell also.
Hmmmm….doing things the right way? May be slower (by appearance) but definitely the kind of structure to build.
The others — those emotional "I'll jump" looking for a good time crowd?
How did they fare?
Briefly… they didn't do diddly.
Customers dropped after a short time or never fully activated and paid.
The sub-agents sat on their hands waiting for something to happen. They all
had the attention span of my teenage son on a Friday night… in a theater
full of equally hormonally challenged teenage girls.
No focus… no effort… all looks with no substance.
Now, see the difference?
You may get numbers and "massive growth" from hype, but it's all smoke
and mirrors. Doesn't mean squat.
While the less flashy professional and honest approach gets results. Real results. It may not make the headlines. But it will sneak up on ya. Before you know it, you've got a heck of business the others won't have.
It pays to be a tortoise. Plod along to the finish line.
Let the hare run around like a fool. You can send him/her a post card from your yacht!
Hope ya learned something….
Be honest… be helpful… be yourself… and have fun.
Take your pants off in public. Wear your heart on your sleeve.
Or maybe you're more sedate, more low keyed. It doesn't matter.
What matters is that people leave you thinking, "I just met a real person, a genuine human being, a positive honest spirit not trying to trick me to do anything."
All the Hype Masters are missing the boat when they try to take you where they want you to go. Whatever they build won't last.
Get real. Be honest. Tell your story and listen. Care.
You’ll build a business….a real one that lasts.
Article Source: http://netmlmarticles.com
Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications including Real Time Leads….and the Administrator for HomeBasedBusinessForums.com. Michael also authors Best MLM Resources where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest MLM tips, ideas, tools, leads, news, and insights. [Link]
MLM Today - Two Blogs For The Price Of One
What is better than one blog with a catchy name like MLM Today?
How about one blog page that also includes headlines from another blog with an equally catchy name like Network Marketing Today!
Located comfortably in the sidebar, I have added a recent headline widget from my other page.
Did I mention that it was FREE! [Link]
Tips To Choosing The Best Online MLM Program
iSnare.com : "Multi level marketing programs, also known as MLM, are getting very popular because it can promise amazing income for those who join the programs. With online MLM companies, the industry has expanded further. Many people can earn from the comforts of their own homes through MLM.
How can you make the most out of an online MLM program? First, you must enroll with the right MLM program. Listed below are tips to help you find the MLM program that would work best for you.
1.What is the creditability of the online MLM program that you wish to join? Conduct a due diligence on the company to ensure that it is reputable and not a scam." [Link]
Is Your Understanding Of Network Marketing Outdated?
Article Sphere: "I knew things in our industry had changed, but I didn't realize just HOW MUCH they had changed until recently. Now we all know nothing stays the same, and progress is always welcome in Network Marketing, but I don't think many of us are truly aware of the vast differences we've seen technology bring in just the past few years.
Ten years ago–even five years ago–a successful couple or individual working in Networking limited themselves to a single program. Why? Because working direct sales or MLM took a TON of work." [Link]
Discipline and Internet MLM
Article Circulation: "If there is one and only one ingredient to guarantee your success in Internet MLM, I would say it is discipline. Discipline that I am about to define here is the discipline towards ourselves; commitment that we gave to ourselves; high standard that we set for ourselves.
Discipline is a bridge between our thought and accomplishment to our success in Internet MLM. Discipline is the glue that binds inspiration to achievement. They are the foundation on which all success is built. Failure is lead by lack of discipline.
95% of internet marketer fails because they failed to follow their plan. They do not have discipline towards themselves. If your plan was to write 4 articles this week and you only write 1, you are behind by 3 articles- today. If your plan was to post 3 post each in 3 different forums and you post only 1, you are behind by 8 posts- today. If you accumulate all these one day, it will make a difference over a period of time." [Link]
By Invitation Only - Fanista
As you may have read, Alticor is launching a new site called Fanista.
Below is a sample of the invitation email posted at Idolator.
Like you, I'm an ardent fan of all things entertainment. That's one of the reasons I am so excited to be a part of a new company called Fanista.com. It is a web site made for real, impassioned fans. The site's community is focused exclusively on music, DVDs, games and books, and is a place where members can share their reviews and opinions as well as shop. In its simplest form, Fanista.com is an attempt to replicate online what we all do in the physical world: champion the artists and entertainment we love. Also, like the real world, there is NO charge or subscription fee to do what it is we all do so naturally.
I’d really love for you to be one of the first reviewers. Why? Well, to be honest, we need you — someone smart, inspiring and articulate to help us build the foundation of the community. From what I've read of your writing, seems you fit the mold.
And we're willing to reward you for your efforts if you're interested. Through our unique "Common Interest Commerce," or "CIC," rewards program, users who become CIC members can earn up to two levels of commission: 5% of every purchase made by the friends they bring in, and, when their friends become CIC members, another 5% of every purchase made by the friends of their friends. Users can also earn insider perks and achieve social status for establishing themselves as tastemakers and "experts" when they share their voice and loves with the Fanista.com community at large. It's our way of rewarding the people who help us build the community.
Fanista.com is a way for you to amplify your voice, to let others hear what you have to say, to influence the people around you and to get something tangible in exchange for all of it. So, check it out. Sign up. Bring your friends. Earn some cash. Get other perks. Change the world — or at least help us try to pioneer a new model!
When the music industry continues to report double-digit loses, why would anyone venture into a shrinking market? If this site we a source hub for downloads, then it may make more sense. Otherwise, it's like trying to market concentrated laundry soap at twice the price. Doh! [Link]
Note To Disgruntled Quixtar Team IBO's
I hate to admit it but I have been reading with some degree of amusement at the dozen or so websites taking issue with the removal of one of Quixtar's most over-hyped "leaders".
These sites are just so Orrin. For anyone who has read any of his "work", there is a defined tendency to compare his "mission" to key people or events in recorded history. Take a look at any one of these "independent" pages and they act as if there is moral equivalency with the American Independence or the American Civil War. Give me a break.
Look. You don't like the rules of the game at Quixtar?
It’s not jail. You can always leave.
Now, Orrin on the other hand may not have the same option someday soon. [Link]
Have Americans lost their entrepreneurial spirit?
New School Network Marketing by Kim Klaver: "Many networkers tell me that they speak to people who complain of not having enough, not living well enough, not being able to afford enough…and yet, they say NO to network marketing, and anything else that requires a change in their regular routines. Are folks just satisfied with less than before?
Or do we have just enough so that the sustained extra effort required just isn't worth it? " [Link]
The 6 Important Elements of Qualifying
Natural Selling:: "I was talking with someone the other day about the purpose of qualifying. Coming from a conventional selling point of view he was at first quite narrow in his definition. It made me think of an article I wrote sometime ago on the subject, so here it is slightly updated. Unlike the conventional hard hitting and self centered approach of aggressively qualifying someone, Natural Selling allows you to qualify your potential partners and customers in a harmonious way, and just as importantly, help them qualify and inspire themselves to change and want to do business with you." [Link]
10 Steps To Success In Direct Sales
Best MLM Resources: "Here are the ten steps that will assure your success in MLM, Network Marketing, AND Direct Sales:
1. BE A GOAL SETTER. What do you want to accomplish? Do you want to save for college education for your children? A new car? A new home? You can have whatever you want, but you must want it enough to do the things that have to be done to get it. Whatever your goal, write it down and set a target date for reaching it. Divide the time period into blocks of achievement that are reachable. Work consistently toward accomplishing each day, each week, each month what you set out to do. Goal-setting is a must in every area of life. Little is ever accomplished without definite goals.
2. BE A LIST MAKER. Each evening list all the things you want to get done the following day. That gives you an organized approach to each day. As each task is finished, mark it off your list. It is amazing how much gets done when one works with a 'things-to-do' list. Also, have a notebook listing appointments, potential clients, repeat clients, and referrals, and keep it with you at all times. You will be adding to it constantly. " [Link]
10 Killer Ways to Promote Your New MLM Program
Ezine Articles: "You just joined this wonderful new MLM and you're rearing to go! Then you think… go where and how?? Here are 10 ways to promote your MLM that'll get you started on the way to your first recruits 1. Free classifieds - Though not as great as they once were, if your MLM program is free to join you will get some takers. The trick is to keep posting often and keep your ad up there. 2. Ezine Ads - These are cost effective and very targeted so you don't waste your advertising dollars. Use classified ads if you have a small budget and don't place any ads in ezines you haven't read." [Link]
27 Prospects Later
GoArticles.com: "Warm market indeed! As our fictitious friend stares down at her yellow lined blank sheet of paper, she now understands what it feels like to be an official member of the NFL club–No Friends Left! Frustrated with the knowledge that she has no one to contact, and with her sights still set on success, Mary heads straight towards a cold cruel market–that wild wintry world of advertising, cold calls and worst of all, those opportunity seekers' e-mail lists. With no degree in marketing, no advertising experience, and without any knowledge of the right prospecting tools, our friend Mary is doomed to fail. And the saddest part is, she will probably blame her downfall on our industry, her new company, or a lack of upline support." [Link]
The Rarely Told Truth About Network Marketing
ArticleDashboard: "I think there are basically two reasons that some people seem to be almost electrocuted, simply by hearing someone mention the word network marketing. Either they have tried it themselves, and because they didn't have a clue on how to do it they failed miserably. Or they belong to the group of people who can't get the idea that mlm = pyramid scheme out of their heads. This second misconception is easy to debunk. Pyramid schemes are illegal almost everywhere, do you really think large multinational companies could operate year after year on an entirely illegal basis? Secondly, this view on network marketing shows that the speaker is ignorant. He or she hasn't done an ounce of homework on the various businesses that are available to each of us today, and they are ignorant of the industry itself. " [Link]
Succeed slowly at network marketing.
NetMLMArticles: "The common perception is that the hierarchical structure of network marketing looks like a pyramid scheme. And while pyramid schemes are illegal. To equate this to network marketing is simply not fair. The way the company is structured doesn't decide the organization's legality. If at all the federal government would be like a pyramid. The right kind of network marketing is legal since it entails marketing a product and the volume of products sold is what determines just how much amount of money the company (and consequently the distributor) makes. In order to succeed in the network marketing business, you need to know what you're getting into and have an idea of how much work it will entail to meet your goals. It may take a while, but starting slowly but surely will translate a much higher success rate than just plunging head first without prior thought whatsoever. " [Link]
Hating Amway In 2 Easy Steps
Amway / Quixtar may have the 8-step pattern but Scoobie Davis has reduced his to a mere two. So, if you want to strike out at the vast right wing conspiracy, you could start here……
The Real Amway: "there are a lot of disgruntled former Amway/Quixtar distributors out there. Amway sued some of these disgruntled distributors who were using the Internet to air their grievances (even though their web sites are amateurish, they were effective enough for Amway to go to the trouble of taking them to court). " [Link]
Quixtar loses round against former distributors - mlive.com
mlive.com: "Quixtar argued Wednesday that former distributors were in contempt of a court order forbidding them from disparaging the firm or using information gleaned from their company affiliation. Alticor Inc.'s Quixtar wants Kent County Circuit Judge Paul Sullivan to rule the former distributors, operating as independent business owners, are in contempt of the preliminary injunction he issued in August. In that ruling, he forbid the TEAM business sales organization and its leaders from, among other things, using their former Quixtar networks to disseminate information that could harm Quixtar." [Link]
And In This Corner …..
iWon Money & Investing: "Direct-marketing firm Quixtar Inc., a sister company of Amway Corp., has sued 30 people who anonymously posted what it considers disparaging remarks about Quixtar in blogs and online forums and in YouTube.com videos. In the lawsuit filed this past week in Ottawa County Circuit Court, Quixtar seeks an injunction and damages of more than $25,000 against the posters, identified only as John Does. 
Quixtar believes the videos and other postings are part of an organized effort by former distributors who unsuccessfully sued Alticor and are under court order not to disparage the company or disclose proprietary information, according to the lawsuit. In one video the lawsuit cites, a man wearing a shirt that says 'Property of Quixtar' rants about the company. In another, a man points out products at a grocery store priced much lower than comparable Quixtar products."
More info
Check out the Alticor Media Blog for additional dirt on this story -
Yes, we did.
We filed suit this week in Ottawa County, Michigan seeking to learn more about a number of “John Does” who have cropped up online since our dispute with Orrin Woodward and TEAM began.
Because we believe we can prove that some of their sites and posts were engineered or directed by Woodward, TEAM, their lawyers or their PR agency. And that those sites were purposely used to post material that violates a court order.
Still more -
Now that the shoe is most certainly on the other foot, Quixtar finds themselves on the receiving end of the subterfuge known as Orrin Woodward. I am convinced that Quixtar laughed with utter delight while the Team developed Quixtar Qrush was encouraged to do their dirty work. As far as Quixtar is concerned, the chickens have come home to roost. Woodward and his ilk will eventually get what they have long deserved. The saddest part is that both are guilty of the same fundamental deception and have successfully perpetuated the stereotype about network marketing. [Link]
Hogwarts School of Advanced MLM Training?
I was browsing Michael Lemm's blog and found this post. This caught my attention because I have 4 children that can recite every word from any of the Harry Potter movies and/or books. (If only Harry was shown cleaning his room every once and a while.)
Best MLM Resources -
I had this sent to me in an email….no idea who the original author is. Whoever it is has quite the creative talent. Read on for a real treat…..and a fun learning experience.
Network Marketing and Harry Potter
Have you ever thought about the similarities between Harry Potter and Network Marketing? I know it may seem a bit strange but here are some ideas:
1. Some people simply aren't able to make it in network marketing. Just like some of Harry's friends and acquaintances struggle to be successful wizards, some people for one reason or another don't seem to have what it takes to succeed.
Nice post Michael. Go Blue! [Link]
It's Called Success teleseminar announced
MLM Blog -
I got a call a few days ago from Bo Short about a new tele-seminar that he is producing aimed at Network Marketers. Bo is busy lining up some excellent speakers for the 8 hour tele-seminar and I am honored to say that he asked me to come on and speak about my Internet Success.
Because of my association with Bo, I have had hundreds of people email me and come up to me at events and tell me that Bo Short is their favorite speaker of all time. Bo Short is a sought after speaker who commands up to $15,000 for a one hour keynote address.
Well, now we have a chance to get 8 hours of training and coaching from Bo and his hand picked Network Marketing all stars from the comfort of home via this tele-seminar. [Link]
Site Update
With some reluctance, I have loaded one of the "new" blogger templates. Wanting to be able to capitalize on the expanded features, I will be re-tooling the look and feel of the page. I have also had a growing sense of more personal and professional change lately.
Since my heart surgery in February and my subsequent rehabilitation, I have experienced the profoundly unique opportunity to assess my achievements and current life course. I hope to share some of this here.
Update: I have been working on restoring some old posts that I had lost in my archives some time ago. I dig having the tag feature as well and will make them available soon.
One of my best friends called me tonight to ask what was going on with MLM Today. We talked about how we started in the business and how our pages have developed over the years. It reminded me how important it is to remember where you came from and what you overcame as you move toward to desired destinations. Thanks for the words of encouragement and support. [Link]
Are You A Network Marketing Professional? Or, Are You An Amateur?
yop2com : "Do you look like a professional Network Marketer? Do You Talk like a professional Network Marketer? Do you write like a professional Network Marketer? Do your marketing results show you to be a Network Marketing professional? And, most importantly, does your team see you as a professional? Or, are you viewed by them as an amateur?" [Link]
Doug Firebaugh: Conversation Piece
From the Doug Firebaugh blog -
"Starting a conversation with anyone about Network Marketing is so easy, but yet we seem to make it difficult. We seem to hesitate and wonder what to say or do, and we often miss the chance to talk about our business to people who truly would be opne to moving their life into a larger place.
Why does this happen?
Many times, it is a fear becuase of a lack of knowledge, or experience approaching people. Talking to people about your business starts with talking to people about anything but your business. Talk about their business and employment. Be interested in THEM, not you. And approaching people with a GREAT INTENTION is the secret." [Link]
Tim Sales: How Much Are You Making?
Tim Sales blog -
"You’ve been in the business for a few weeks. You’re talking to a prospect, telling them about your opportunity and they say, “If this is so great - how much money are you making?”
Oh gosh - isn’t this objection annoying?
It’s annoying because it hits you right in the gut because you’ve thought the same thing. Even more, you’ve been hoping that no one would ask you that! But they do and it hurts. Now what?" [Link]
New MLM: Money Talk
MoneyWeb -
Cell C is netting about 500 subscribers a day through a new network marketing company, Money Talk.
In less than two months Money Talk says it has managed to get 15 000 people to join their scheme, which makes them Cell C subscribers.
Head of communications at Cell C, Shenanda Janse van Rensburg says that according to their records Money Talk has only signed up over 144 customers and sold 1284 starter packs. [Link]
Yor.com to offer VoIP
CNN Money -
deltathree, Inc. (Nasdaq:DDDC), a leading provider of SIP-based Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) solutions for service providers and consumers worldwide, today announced that its Hosted Consumer VoIP Solution has been implemented by Yor.com, a leading multi-level marketing firm that supports thousands of independent representatives worldwide. Specializing in offering innovative VoIP services provided by deltathree, Yor.com has established a strong reach in North and South America.
deltathree’s Hosted Consumer VoIP Solution is a comprehensive, customizable turnkey solution for service providers looking to launch their own VoIP offering with minimal investment and rapid deployment. The Hosted Consumer VoIP Solution provides Yor.com with a full VoIP platform, including components such as billing, reporting, eCommerce, fraud management, soft-switch capabilities, Customer Premise Equipment (CPE) support and network management. [Link]
Xrii - Now in pre-launch
Webwire -
Xango reps are jumping ship to a brand new networkmarketing company called Zrii.
Xango is a company that broke records just a fewyears ago. They did millions of dollars in salesand generated a lot revenue for their distributors.
The product that Xango has produced spread like wildfire accross the Internet.
It still is one of the most profitable network marketing companies in the world. [Link]
Orrin Woodward Is .. Who?
This can't be real. I am uncertain whether this is intended to slam Woodward or praise him. Take a look and decide for yourself. [Link]
Shame On You
From the Alticor Media Blog -
We terminated Orrin Woodward yesterday, along with several other leaders of his field organization, named Team. We’ll post our formal statement when it’s ready. Informally, here’s the story:
We terminated Orrin Woodward for philosophical reasons. We did it for legal reasons.
But the main reason we did it is because the way Orrin Woodward ran his organization was a disgrace to every person who’s ever tried to build a Quixtar or Amway business the right way.
Stunning?! Shocking?! Yeah, right.
Read the post.
Here’s a line that really stands out.
…Orrin Woodward was a poster child for a long list of bad business practices that our critics hate about our company…
And yet. Orrin was selected to join the vaunted IBOAI Board just a couple of years ago. The way this statement reads suggests that perhaps Orrin Woodward was the black sheep of the family. The red-headed stepchild…..
Read the post.
I know several people that were once part of Team / Team of Destiny. Woodward and other leaders within the organization have been explaining the Quixtar relationship as one of "supplier".
This was a long time coming and sadly, long overdue. Anyone remember the Dateline story about Quixtar? Any remember how the "Corporation" responded. Anyone remember how Woodward himself responded? [Link]
Let Them Eat Cake
Here's a snip from a "new" blog about the Quixtar business called "The IBO Rebellion". Perhaps the forces that once conjured Qrush are now fixing a new target.Welcome to the IBO Rebellion. This site is both serious and tongue in cheek. I look to provide a little comic relief to some of the vicious attacks Alticor has engaged in. Not lost among the humor, this site will provide a glimpse into the reality that is Alticor / Amway / Quixtar, and their methods of operation when challenged by a band of business owners led by Orrin Woodward, known as Team. The content provided herein is solely my own. It is my personal opinion, my thoughts, and comedic view of the situation at hand. This site is neither sponsored and or endorsed by Alticor or TEAM. However, I make no bones about it. I support the TEAM and their quest for freedom. Yet I do this with an honest heart. With that said you can take it or leave it but I speak from experience in this field. [Link]
Quixtar: More Changes
From the IBOAI Media Center -
A Temporary Restraining Order Pending Arbitration was sought by the Independent Business Owners Association International (IBOAI) and granted on August 14, 2007 in a Michigan district court, preventing former IBOAI directors Orrin Woodward, Billy Florence, Don Wilson, Randy Haugen, Chris Brady and Chuck Goetschel from continuing to engage in breach of their fiduciary duty, breach of contract and violation of the Michigan Uniform Trade Secrets Act. [Link]
Quixtar IBOAI Blog Launches
IBOAI Blog -
This is a moderated blog, which means that no messages will appear publicly until they have been viewed and approved by a moderator. Our moderators will never block a post simply because it is critical of an organization or an individual, as long as the criticism does not violate the guidelines given below. We seek to promote open and constructive communication on all subjects of interest to Independent Business Owners powered by Quixtar.
These guidelines have been developed for the protection of all who participate on this blog. The posts of those who violate the “absolute no-no’s” shown below will not be allowed to appear, although the moderators will do their best to explain to first-time violators why the post was barred and give them a chance to post a revised message. Repeat violators will be banned from the site. [Link]
BurnLounge Changes Comp Plan After FTC Pressures
PC World:
BurnLounge Inc. has eliminated the "network marketing" portion of its business that was targeted by the FTC, the company said.
The FTC's complaint accused BurnLounge of making deceptive earnings claims for members who paid between US$29.95 and $429.95 a year for one of the company's product packages. Members were supposed to be paid to sell digital music and movies to others, but the FTC alleged that BurnLounge's compensation program primarily provided payments for the recruiting of new participants, not on the retail sale of products.
Most BurnLounge members would lose money if they only sold music and didn't recruit other members, the FTC alleged. [Link]
How to understand an MLM compensation plan
Improving Your World: "Understanding an MLM compensation plan is all in the way they pay. Here is how to understand each companies MLM compensation plan.
The money that a person makes after they have invested money and time into an MLM is called the compensation. This is usually set on a commission base. You will need to start seeing a turn around in your investment within a week or so time. If a company does not have a faster return, then you may want to look further into other companies that will have a faster compensation turn around.
When you are considering the different MLM compensation plans, you will then need to know which ways you will gain from this MLM Company. Here are the areas that you can expect to make a profit or benefit from the compensations available." [Link]
Internet Home Based Business Network Marketing
American Chronicle: "MLM, multilevel business marketing, will pay its partners when other people join the team to sell their product. If you want to stop the daily grind of going to work every day, then an internet home based MLM business opportunity could be just what you are searching for. It can be very appealing to ponder the idea of sitting at your computer at home every day and earn an income; however, it is not a good idea for you to quit your day job just yet. The income you get to start with probably will not be enough for you to survive on. You could start on a part time basis and build your internet home based business to a point where you can quit your day job and work from home." [Link]
6 Sure-Fire Tips to Increase Traffic To Your Network Marketing Website
Entrepreneur: "As someone who works at home operating a network marketing home business, if you have a website that promotes your product or service, you know you must have an on-going stream of traffic.
There are numerous ways to generate traffic.There are things you can do now to get that coveted traffic stream. Following are 6 sure fire tips you can use today to increase traffic to your home business website.
Tip #1: Use high quality, unique content if you want free search engine traffic for the long-term. This really is the most important tip of all. Unfortunately, it is one that many network marketers with a website ignore. By providing lots of information and keyword rich, as well as useful content, it will be much easier for the search engines and humans to find your site." [Link]
What MLM Winners Do
Michael Dlouhy: "MLM winners take a strong position, a righteous position. They can attack from it, or defend it. It’s great if it irritates the “bad guys” (heavy hitters?), because controversy is perfect.
Confidence comes from deep inside. You must accept responsibility for causing the results you want; THAT is what grows self-confidence.
If you don’t believe in yourself, people see it in your walk. They’ll hear it in your voice." [Link]
7 Highly Shorted Multilevel Marketing Stocks
Seeking Alpha: "Stockerblog submits: Multilevel Marketing, Network Marketing, Direct Sales, Homebased Businesses, call it what you will, MLMs have been falling under the scrutiny of the Federal Trade Commission for years, to determine if they are pyramid or Ponzi schemes.
Short sellers even jumped on the bandwagon a few months ago, encouraging the FTC to adopt more restrictive rules for MLM companies. Some of these companies still have high short ratios and others have had a significant drop in their short interest over the past month. [By the way, a good site to check the short interest on a stock is ShortSqueeze.com.]
MLM companies operate by recruiting salespeople to sell a product and provide additional commissions based on the sales of people that are recruited into their downline. This includes direct recruits, and their recruits' recruits. There can be as many as seven to ten levels downline." [Link]
Amway the $5 Billion MLM Giant Sanctions its Entire 30,000 UK Sales Force
Press Release 365: "In a nutshell, Amways seemingly soft touch with its ibo (independent business owner) sales force, over their lucrative, conference, speaker, books and cd systems, which many organisations run side by side with their Amway business, is about to come to an end.
This income that Amway has now blocked, is known as system money by the ibo sales force and millions can be made from it by its successful ibos, they are known as 'system lords'. They have taken full advantage of one of the best internet home based business opportunities.
Amways zero tolerance on system money started with the UK and Ireland on May 4th 2007 and will then roll out to the rest of the world, that’s when surely war will break out.
”
Note: MLM Blog has a follow-up letter posted on this announcement. [Link]
The Shocking Truth - 7 Myths of MLM Email Lead Companies
Entrepreneur: "Anyone starting a Multi-Level Marketing business or any type of home business will need a lead company to provide targeted prospects for your business. One thing you need to ask yourself is how they generate the leads. Good companies will generate potential contacts through a range of methods.
Today, lead generating companies use the internet along with telemarketing, ad campaigns, and direct mail campaigns. They will then use a software program to provide you with business opportunity leads that fit your business.
I personally have been in network marketing business for over 10 years and know how deep the shark infested waters of bad lead companies that over promise and under deliver. There are 7 Myths about mlm email leads and the companies that provide these services that you should be aware of and avoid when choosing a lead company." [Link]
Quote for the every day
Life is an opportunity, benefit from it. Life is a beauty, admire it. Life is a dream, realize it. Life is a challenge, meet it. Life is a duty, complete it. Life is a game, play it. Life is a promise, fulfill it. Life is sorrow, overcome it. Life is a song, sing it. Life is a struggle, accept it. Life is a tragedy, confront it. Life is an adventure, dare it. Life is luck, make it. Life is life, fight for it!
- Mother Teresa [Link]
Amway Launches Premium Soap
MLM News: "'Amway launches country's first premium soap New Delhi, Apr 24: Leading direct selling FMCG company Amway India today launched country's first premium soap 'Persona 3-in-1'.
Amway Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Bill Pinckney said, ''The Persona 3-in-1 soap contains various unique oils selected specially for Persona, a soap that is bound to appeal the entire family.'' Mr Pinckney added the soap contains premium Almond oil, which will leave the users skin soft, supple and smooth and is available with all Amway business owners." [Link]
Upline2: A New Online Magazine For Network Marketers
Upline2: "A web-downloadable monthly publication, Upline² is an all-digital re-working of the original revered and much-missed Upline magazine which appeared in print throughout the '90s. [Upline… huh?]
Featuring 'lots of really experienced & knowledgeable people'… top coaches & experts—not just from inside Network Marketing but also from the wider world of regular business—each issue includes news, interviews, reviews and proven tips & techniques.
‘Network Marketing made easier, better & more profitable…' it's a great business-building resource with advice & support for those who want to know how to plan, develop & manage a successful & satisfying Network Marketing enterprise—whether part-time stay-at-home mom or high-income pro." [Link]
Network Marketing Tips For An Internet Home Based Business
American Chronicle: "There are a few network marketing tips that you could follow to make sure that your network marketing internet home based business is as successful as it could be. First you will want to pick your network marketing internet home based business opportunities from a reputable list from very reliable sources. After you have your list, you will want to enroll in at least two or three of the network marketing internet home based business opportunities. Since there is no guarantee that any opportunity will not go out of business, it is important to not put all of your eggs in one basket. There is some truth to the saying that there is safety in numbers." [Link]
Gene Simmons and MLM
During my cardiac rehab I admit that I am watching more television these days. One show that I have picked up on is Gene Simmons Family Jewels on A&E. For those that don't know, it's a reality show that documents the various activities of the Simmons/Tweed household. It took a while but it has grown on me.
The episode last night centered on Gene's recovery from recent cosmetic surgery. Following the suggestions of those around him, he opts to try some holistic alternatives to aid in speeding his recovery. Predictably, several radical treatments are attempted which included a topical salve that included Goji juice. As Shannon Tweed and her sister Tracy are whipping up the miracle cure, the camera zooms to close-up to the contents in the refrigerator. Lo and behold, top shelf - a bottle of Goji juice.
I am certain that the show producers contacted Freelife International about using their Goji product on the show. I can't wait to see how this works it's way into the next product testimonials. [Link]
Patience in Network Marketing
Todd Falcone’s Blog: "I’ve been thinking lately about some of the other elements that separate big producers in this business from those that become statistics or simply produce nothing.
Obviously it takes consistent daily actions to create production. You’ve all heard me say that the only thing that really matters is prospecting. If you are consistently talking to new people every day about your business, you will produce results.
However, it happens at different paces for different individuals. And…if it isn’t happening as fast as you ‘thought’ it would or would like it to, then you may get frustrated, discouraged, think the business doesn’t work, think that you may not be right for the business, or even quit." [Link]
Profiting With Your Network Marketing Business
Entrepreneur: "Most people get into network marketing because they are frustrated with their day job and want to get out of it. If you are going to stay in network marketing, then it is extremely important that you get some training and understand how important it is for that training to be ongoing. It is not easy to build a successful sales organization.
A good training program will teach you the basics as well as how to increase your profit. When you start building your downline you will be expected to train them. This is another reason why it is great to have a good training program in place so that you can share it with them. This will ensure that they are successful and will make you successful too." [Link]
Duplication
Work at Home, MLM Network Marketing, Free Tips and Training : "When people search the internet looking for network marketing tips, one of the biggest searches done is for and network marketing tips on duplication.
Why? Well, to have success in network marketing, there must be duplication. After all, the way to build big in network marketing is to have a large group of people doing a few simple things over a long period of time. But sometimes, that's easier said than done!
What makes a system duplicatable?" [Link]
7 Principles of Success
Free Network Marketing Training: "The 7 Principles of the Successful Network Marketing can greatly improve your results in your home base biz.
1. Successful home base biz requires work. You must treat it as a job. It is not a pastime. It is not a hobby. It is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It is not a 'do nothing, make money' proposition. It requires hard work on your part. You must dedicate time to your biz.
2. Successful MLM biz requires education and preparation. You must tap into professional training resources. You need to read, study and learn. With this knowledge you can replicate the success of others and increase the size of your organization." [Link]
MLM - Get and Keep Customers
Network to Freedom: "Some of the most demanding Distributors are the best Distributors and have been the lifeblood of the team.
Jeffrey J. Fox wrote the following in his book How To Become CEO:
Customers are the lifeblood of any company. Everybody should know this. Everybody says “the customer is king” and “we work for the customer” and “the customer is the real boss.” But very few employees in a corporation do anything to demonstrate they believe in this dictum. Commonly, the higher an executive gets, and the bigger the company, the less they deal with real honest-to-goodness existing and potential customers." [Link]
MLM: An Inconvenient Truth
Well, this may ruffle a few feathers.
Not everyone who starts a business in MLM will succeed. Contrary to all the claims about "no selling" or "we'll do the work" or any of the too good to be true pitch lines, the fact is there is only about a 15% success rate. Now this number does not take into account those that sign up with a company for the sole purpose of buying the product or service at a reduced price.
Despite the efforts of those in the industry that are trying to transform it or get you to join the new school of thought about MLM, the numbers have not yet changed in any significant way. It's not their fault and I certainly applaud the effort. I think. I'll give the benefit of the doubt and believe the efforts are more than simply "marketing" to a new generation of potential business owners.
I do not believe that we will see a higher success rate for the average person joining an MLM. I wish I could state otherwise but I think it takes an above average person to do this business or any other non-traditional enterprise.
The employee and secure paycheck mentality in many people will not permit them the vision to see long term. Most people do not have the "whatever it takes" goal seeking mechanism to pursue their dreams aggressively.
Also contrary to the views of many MLM critics, I do not accept that the industry has the duty to correct the failure rate any more than any other industry. Success in other occupations also tends to follow the same pattern, one look at income statistics in the U.S. would show this as evident.
The fact is that the opportunities are available for those that wish to pursue them. If you are willing to work hard, your chance for success is greatly improved. If you take the time and energy to educate yourself about your business, you chance for success is greatly improved. If you consistently apply your newly developed skills, your chance for success is greatly improved. If you are not willing to do these things, there are no guaranteed "systems" that can help you. Please quit now. [Link]
Do Not!
Darren Hardy Blog: "For when you are feeling a little beat-up and battle-torn by people, policies, circumstances, etc. One of my all-time favorite quotes from the book that inspired me more than any other…
Atlas 'In the name of the best within you, DO NOT sacrifice this world for those who are its worst.
In the name of the values that keep you alive, DO NOT let your vision of man be distorted by the ugly, the cowardly, the mindless, in those who have never achieved their title." [Link]
Top 50 Network Marketing Companies Week 41
Kim Klaver: "Just updated today by Alexa.
Don’t see your company? Check the Top 40 Start-Ups here
The Top 50 Network Marketing Companies are ranked by Internet popularity – number of visitors to the company websites averaged over 3 months." [Link]
MLM - Competition
Network to Freedom: "MLM Competition can be good for your business if you don’t lose your focus on how to do the business.
What do I mean by lose focus? Many new Distributors overlook the significant relational aspect of the business and do things that cost them money with little return. That’s good for you because it softens the market for your products. For example, selling nutrition products a Distributor may pay good money to put their products in a gym (paying the gym owner an annual fee). Please don’t forget to have a personal relationship with the trainers and the customers." [Link]
What To Look Out For When Starting An Online Business
The iRows Blog: "Multiple Streams Of Income: This is one of the most common Myths you will see online. It is hard enough to build ONE successful business but the people who promote these programs promise you can build six simultaneously. It should be renamed: Multiple Streams Of Expenses. That is what it really is. My suggestion is to find a great legitimate program and promote it until it is successful and runs nearly on auto-pilot and then you can start to build another." [Link]
MLM Compensation and Perks
Network to Freedom: "When doing due diligence on an MLM company one of the key areas is evaluation of their compensation plan. First, compare the target company plan to industry. For example, it would not be proper accounting to consider “wholesale discounts” as part of commission expense. Therefore, any comparison to industry would have to include wholesale discounts as a deduction from Gross (Retail) Sales. Why? Because no serious person doing the business would buy at retail (making Gross Sales a meaningless figure)." [Link]
Natural Selling Dialogues “On The Fly”!
Natural Selling: Oliver's Twist: "The conversation usually ends before I am able to take it far enough to make an invitation based upon real knowledge of their present circumstances. I am very motivated, and sometimes have fallen into making an invitation to view material etc. based on no real knowledge, only as you say a hope that something there will generate a response.
I usually get enough [information] that I think there is a need I can assist with, but clearly the conversation has not gone far enough.
” [Link]
Doing Precedes Having
Goals-2-Go Goal Setting Blog: "Action actually begins when you put that initial thought energy out there. The next step might be researching the activities you want to do. It might be networking or meeting people who are in the arena you’re interested in becoming a part of. It might be signing up for a seminar within your specific interest. It might entail researching the career position you wish to hold and finding out how - exactly - to get there.
When you take initial action, it doesn’t mean that you have to climb the entire mountain next Saturday. When I decided to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro last fall, I didn’t just decide to show up at the trailhead one day with a Powerbar in my back pocket. I started with small steps several months in advance. I began to change my diet; I incorporated exercise that increased my cardio endurance; and I started doing research on shoes and equipment used by those who had succeeded before me." [Link]
Should you leave a message?
The Marketing Mix: "Very often, when you are reaching out to prospects who've never heard of you before and you make an initial round of phone calls, it's essential that you leave a message. Frankly, if you don't, it's a waste of time. You may think it's not worth leaving a message, but that only makes sense if you think that leaving a message is about getting a call back. Don't expect that. People rarely call back these days, which is fine.
What’s realistic is to leave a message as your first volley, your initial introduction to a stranger. Don't even think about them calling back. Next, you follow up with an email message that says the exact same thing as your voice mail. They may respond to that, but probably not." [Link]
MLM and Pyramid Schemes - How To Tell The Difference
Just a reminder in case you have forgotten-
About.com: "The big difference between MLM and a pyramid scheme is in the business' operations. The entire purpose of a pyramid scheme is to get your money and then use you to recruit other suckers (ahem - distributors). The entire purpose of MLM is to move product. The theory behind MLM is that the larger the network of distributors, the more product the business will be able to sell." [Link]
Landmarks
Before I add an on-topic post I wanted to pass along an update on my recovery and rehab.
Once I left the hospital, I was signed up for two in-home programs. One was a visiting nurse that would come to the house a few times a week to check vitals, etc. The other was a physical therapist, also a few times a week, to keep me on an exercise program to prepare me for outpatient rehab.
I am pleased to report that I was discharged from both in-home services yesterday and will be starting the outpatient care shortly.
Thank you to those that have been in touch and express their concerns. You care has helped in my recovery efforts and it means a lot to me and my family. Thank you. [Link]
Are You Listening to Hype?
I have come to the conclusion that one cannot avoid a certain amount of hype when listening to just about any sales or opportunity presentation. Knowing which questions to ask and what clues to discover are increasingly important. Here's an article I found that explores this thought.
MLM Residual Income: "Do you want mlm residual income success - are you listening to hype? Are you tending to jump at any pre-launch, promise of big bucks right away, get in at the ground floor?
I wrote about this recently and have receive a couple of comments saying that my article was interesting and then there was a link to a pre-launch.
The interesting thing about all these pre-launches is that they use the fear of loss as a method of enticing people in, i.e., you must get in now to get the big bucks." [Link]
Is Network Marketing The Best Way To Earn Money Working At Home
American Chronicle: "People are often looking for the best way, or the easiest way to earn money working at home. There are many different options to choose from, so how do you sort out and find the home business model that returns the quickest results, especially if you are new to the online world. In my experience, I have found that network marketing is a perfect fit for me, and a great way to earn money working at home.
So what is Network Marketing? With this business model, the 'Company' has agents or affiliates that sell the company's products in return for a fee or commission. Usually the affiliate pays a monthly membership fee which covers training, support, a website, hosting and other benefits. But this is where it gets interesting. The affiliate is then able to refer other affiliates and earn a monthly bonus from the referred people. Not only that, but any sales made by the referred affiliate (sales could be products or more referred affiliates) results in extra commissions for you. This can go multiple levels deep.
Obviously, the big advantage with this model is that you earn money from your product sales, your team's product sales, and monthly bonuses from your direct enrollees and their enrollees, several levels deep. You can make residual, leveraged income from referring one" [Link]
Recently on the MLM blogs
Let’s get things started at Best MLM Resources where author Michael Lemm writes about the dreaded rejection and some advice on how to handle it. Ty Tribble at MLM blog has started his spring cleaning to make his blog easier to navigate. Andrew Murphy at MLM Canada introduces us to internet marketer, Mitchell Harper. Word of Bob Proctor's upcoming appearance on ABC's Nightline is posted at MLM Informer. Lastly, at On The Road With Dave, it is noted that Quixtar is taking the high road and providing timely response to questions and comments submitted by readers of at least one of their blog pages.
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Getting Back Into The Swing
My office is upstairs in the house. The trip upstairs now requires some planning in advance as I am going through my rehab. The therapist doesn't want me taking the stairs too often right now but I did get agreement when I told him that I would rest between trips.
Today, I worked on cleaning up some dead links on my Blogrolling service, changed some sidebar width issues, and set up some new pages with Performancing editor.
It may take some getting used to as well as some workload organization, but I should be able to post more frequently again.
Thanks for the kind words and well wishes. I am feeling great and with any luck (knock on wood) I should be able to stay out of the hospital for a while.
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Extreme Makeover - The Saga Continues
I have experienced some complications from my open heart surgery that landed me back in the hospital for several more days.
Shortly after returning home from my initial stay, I began to experience a rapid shortness of breath. I have been working with a visiting home nurse and a rehabilitation specialist. At first I thought I might have been taking things to quickly and pushing myself too much.
I was instructed to continue working with my respiration exercises to allow the lungs to open fully from the effects of my surgery. For several more days I did this but found I was becoming winded more and more easily. I could not lay down without experiencing greater breathing difficulty. I was forced to sleep in a sitting position and unable to sleep for more that a couple of hours at a time.
After a follow-up appointment with my cardiologist, I was readmitted to the hospital and a procedure called Thoracentesis was performed on each of my lungs to drain excess fluids that had collected from the initial surgery.
After another 4 days in the hospital, I was discharged today and am happy to report that I'm at home again and feeling 415% better.
Thanks to those that wished me well during this period. I cannot tell you how much it has meant to me and my family. Thank you. [Link]
Extreme Makeover
Hello everyone. I feel I have been away long enough to warrant a re-introduction….
I have recently returned home from an extended stay in the hospital. It began with discomfort in the right arm and upper chest area. A quick visit to the nearby emergency room. Transfer to the Heart Hospital of Indiana. Culminating with an eight-way heart bypass operation and a value repair.
I returned home on Monday this week. My office is upstairs so it has taken a little recoup time before I could drag myself up here to hop online.
Along with my new "neck-tie" I have also been diagnosed as being diabetic requiring routine insulin injections. Believe me, that was a major hurdle to cross. The idea of giving oneself a shot seemed so unnatural but I have prevailed over my fears.
So now I am back and should be in rehab for the next 30-60 days. [Link]
My Agloco Update
Many people have signed up in Agloco and have been reporting the growth of this new, up and coming network. I signed up in early January. I have placed links on a couple of sites and set up a blog (that I don't update often enough) and shared with a few people that I know.
I would say my efforts have been limited so far but I do see how this economic network is growing very rapidly.
I have noted that many notable and influential people have been following Agloco. At the end of December, Robert Scoble interviewed two of the founders. You may want to check it out.
If you want more information, here's my link to the Agloco page. [Link]
Google's Valentine
I enjoy seeing the various graphics that Google uses on special events and holidays. I know the people at Google are very busy these days and have trouble keeping current with answering tech support email. FYI Googlers…. I am not the world's greatest speller but it looks like this graphic has a minor typo. [Link]
On Procrastination
I heard this today on a seminar cd.
“You don't have to get it right, you just have to get it going."
Mike Litman [Link]
Updates
The site migration has hit a road block. It will happen….eventually. Progress has been slowed as I am learning how to navigate and import stuff to the new page. Not enough time presently to give it the singular focus. I have gained a new respect for Scotty's ability to repair the warp drive through this process……
Best books suggestions so far….
Aaron Cook said,
I’d have to say it was The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.
Endless lessons in it. It really makes one realize how stupid we adults can be about things, without our even knowing it.
Also, The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran. His flow in words has been an inspiration for me when writing my poetry and music. [Link]
MLM Tidbits and Other Stuff
Some recent items that popped up today that may be of interest …………
At Article Alley, a post about important skills and first steps when starting an MLM business. Leads…generating them and qualifying them.
Ty Tribble at MLM Business Opportunities reports that Amsoil is launching a new product. There's oil in them thar hills.
Off the beaten track, Aaron Cook at Home Business Today (HBT) has a video of a cool new car design from Holland. It's not MLM but …..
I would be remiss if I didn't mention my local football team and their victory at Super Bowl XLI. Also in the spirit, Dave Robison at On The Road With Dave offers words of wisdom from the MVP.
Updates on my site migration and reader poll next up …. [Link]
Not Exactly Crocket and Tubbs
All we need now is the Jan Hammer music.
[Link]
My Super Bowl Pick
Well, tomorrow is the big game.
I have lived in Indianapolis for the past 10 years. Prior to moving here, I lived in Chicago for over 5 years. So you can see that I may have dual allegiance. (Add to this that I am originally from Detroit but most Lions fans put away the paper bag after week five of the regular season.) As much as I would like to see the NFC prevail this year, I cannot ignore the weakness of the conference not to mention the pathetic record of the Central division.
Here is my prediction for the final score tomorrow. 
Indianapolis Colts = 38
Chicago Bears = 17 [Link]
Herbalife receives buyout offer of $38 a share from Whitney
IWon: "Herbalife Ltd. (HLF) said late Friday it has received an acquisition offer of $38 a share from Whitney V L.P. and its affiliates. The offer represents a 14.8% premium to the Herbalife's closing share price Friday of $33.10. Whitney and its related parties already own roughly 27% of the Los Angeles-based vitamin and nutritional supplement company's outstanding stock. Herbalife said it has formed a special board committee to review the offer. Herbalife shares were halted in after-hours trade." [Link]