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So, you've decided to join an MLM company?
Good for you!

It's definitely an exciting chance for making more money, and enjoying more time freedom. Yet, before you dive right in, you should always begin any new venture by getting all the facts you can.

For starters, ask the correct questions. Here are 6, in no particular order, that I use when evaluating a new business opportunity. I've also included their corresponding red flags, as an extra measure of protection. You're welcome. ;)

Let's get right to it then...

Question 1:

"What do you expect of me to so that I can see immediate results?"

POTENTIAL RED FLAG:
Any answer involving the recruiting of reps without the selling of a product or service.
"You sign up 3, then get them to sign up 3. DO that and we'll all get rich!"

That's a sure warning sign the company may not be legitimate. The income you generate needs to come from the profit of goods and/or services. And of course, your degree of effort. If you don't put in the effort, then you cannot expect to succeed.

Question 2:

"How well is the product and/or service performing?"

Is there growth? How much? And don't show interest in only sales volume. It's almost just as important to know how the sales force of the company is growing... or declining. This will further help you determine how well (or how poor) the product/service moves. Any good MLM company is proud of its growth... and will love sharing their proof of income.

POTENTIAL RED FLAG:
Any MLM company that cannot back up their claims with proof, be it income or otherwise.

Now the company doesn't have to be well established, startups definitely have their appeal. But... no matter how young, or old an opportunity is, it DOES need to be growing. 

Question 3:

"What help does the company provide when it comes to getting new leads?"

Are you expected to get leads on your own? Now, it doesn't make them a bad risk if they don't help you. Remember, after all, this is your business we're building here. But it's a good judgement call for how well you think you will do at generating leads on your own. Now, it always helps if a company has in place a way to provide you with solid, quality leads. Generally, and as expected, for a fee.

POTENTIAL RED FLAG:
If your desired MLM company of choice doesn't provide, at least, a lead capture page for you to use. OR worse... doesn't stipulate that you just can't use whatever methods you deem appropriate. 

You'll want some restraint on the part of the company here. None, and you open yourself up to less than ethical practices by some... well... less than ethical people.

Question 4:

"What type of training do you provide?"

ESPECIALLY for those just starting out. Never dealt with a network marketing business of your own? (Or any business for that matter). A daunting experience to say the least!

Even for more seasoned veterans of MLM, it's makes an impact. It could be the difference in how well you handle your sales, and your downline recruiting.

POTENTIAL RED FLAG:
Left to your own devices to look for, and get trained. Or told to just ask your sponsor for help. What's even worse? "Yeah, just Google it."

Yeah... ummm... no.

Question 5:

"What must I move (certain amount) in product every month?"

Listen, there HAS to be an answer here. If the company doesn't have minimums, it doesn't matter how good the opportunity looks. It just won't sustain growth and will be gone, fast.

POTENTIAL RED FLAG:
No minimums to stay "qualified" for commissions. Or, in retrospect, an amount too high to sustain, especially in the beginning of your career.

SO, it's not that you need to know if there is a required preset figure for orders of products that must generated. It's that you need to know what the required preset figure for orders of products that must generated.

Question 6:

"How does the company plan on helping me succeed?"

Any company worth their salt will want you to succeed. It's in their best interest. Providing proper training and support (#1 IMHO)... tools, and opportunities to advance you in the pay plan. Events. Online, and sometimes local as well. Products. Existing and new. Innovative, and always staying current.

POTENTIAL RED FLAG:
As a general rule, I stay away from any market or niche that seems to be a "fad".

That is to say, something that may be short-lived and without sustainable growth qualities.

All in all, you need to be comfortable with your choices. And with the right amount of due-diligence, you'll could be part of a successful mlm opportunity.

Hope that helps!

Peace, love and respect.
Stephen J. Rosen | King of Residuals

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