Network Marketing Journey

It surprises me how many people have the wrong idea about networking. There is so much to networking that its more than just a technique for building a business. Networking is about life and the way you live it rather than what you get out of it. We network in everything we say and do. All day. Every day.

It’s about developing expertise, sharing, and and building relationships.

The best way I’ve heard it described is to say “it is the realization that people and generosity are the most important things in life, that nothing else comes close, and that its a dedicated concerted effort to steer your life in that direction”. Quoted from Networking Magic, by Rick Frishman and Jill Lublin.

Think about that for a moment. What Rick and Jill are saying is that networking isn’t a “Me First” proposition. It’s about caring and developing the relationships which will benefit all individuals involved.
Henry Ford understood the theories behind networking. He surrounded himself with men who were smarter and/or more skilled than he in their given areas. In doing so, Ford was able to accomplish things many refused to believe in. Ford networked with these individuals, created a team and made history happen.
Some don’t understand that Network Marketing embodies those characteristics. Yes, you need to do your due diligence and look for the company which is right for you, but once found you don’t have to go at it alone. This is why I often instruct people to consider who they will be signing up with just as much, if not more importantly than their company.

The person you sign up with is the person you are going to be working with to achieve success. Are they good people OR are they just in it for the fast buck and will leave you hanging? Will they be there for you when you have questions and be willing to teach you how you can create the same kinds of successes they have generated?

How well do you know them?
Relationships are at the heart of any business and its important to understand why and realize its no longer about you.

I had the chance to jump into network marketing a full 2 years before I actually did but the would-be sponsor I spoke to and his way of business didn’t resonate with me. On the other hand, after my first 10 minute conversation with Tom Long, I knew I would be signing up. It had nothing to do with the company and everything to do with the person I recognized him to be.

Two months passed before I actually signed up and by that time I had gotten to know Tom well enough that I trusted him. I’ve never, not even once regretted my decisions and I’ve discovered a life long friend.

We seek to work with each other and naturally the end game is to make money but we often forget why we are here, on this earth. Our calling is to be here for each other and establish positive relationships.
Networking and building relationships through business building is an essential skill but it is a learned skill.

Go forth, network and live well!

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