One of the most common statements I hear among successful network marketing professionals is that they want to populate their organizations with strong individuals.
I agree with the statement. When I was building an organization I wanted independent, competent, confident, butt kicking fearless nail chewers as well.
But I also wanted “weaklings.”
Let’s clarify what we mean when we say weaklings. I didn’t want people with negative energy dragging down the whole group.
I also didn’t want people who are so afraid that they won’t make any moves without someone constantly holding their hand.
But I did find immense value in having people who don’t have “world domination” as their goal. I’m talking about good soldiers. These are people who don’t want to lead. They want to follow. They want to be told what to do by someone with strength, confidence and conviction.
There are lots of reasons for this, some of which are obvious and some of which may not be.
Let’s start with the obvious. Among the trainers I’ve studied, most say about 80 percent of the volume that’s consumed (either products or services, depending on your program) is ordered by the end consumer.
My organization basically bared that number out. Many people were buying for themselves, or for one of two friends. These people were getting what they wanted out of the business, which was products and services that are superior to what they’d otherwise find in the marketplace.
They’re also in a positive environment which is far superior to where they spend most of the rest of their lives.
There are other reasons why you want “weaklings” in your organization that may not be so obvious at first, but if you look closely at the networking world, particularly the “heavy hitters” it will become more obvious.
I know a lady who is the stereotypical “Type A” personality. She achieved a middle six figure income because she was willing to put on the blinders for a two year period and not deviate from a system that had created enormous success for the people who came before her.
That model of doing business served her well during her major building mode. She arrived at the top of her company’s pay plan.
But that same intensity held her back from building relationships and forming partnerships with the other top people who could have helped her sustain that level of success.
She is trying to build a local training in her area. Instead of building coalitions of people who want to contribute to the success of the organization, she’s making the same demands of people that she made of herself when she worked her way to the top.
These folks don’t want what she wants, at least not enough to make the sacrifices she made.
They’re good people who want to be part of a group of positive, fun-loving people who build a little bit of income. They’re an attractive bunch! Between them and the ten percent who are serious full time networkers, it’s a good group to bring a new prospect to.
But my friend didn’t see it that way. She expects everyone around her to have the same level of commitment she has. Not gonna happen.
And instead of accepting this reality and graciously accepting the help and support being offered, she scared off the people who could have been her best cheerleaders and resources.
Her drive got in the way of seeing what’s around her. If she could have just seen more clearly, it would have been easier to notice the human potential and resources that are all around.
That’s why “Type A’s” often have a hard time in this business. They work harder than everyone else, so they see everyone else as less valuable than they are. They lose faith in others, and these people in turn lose faith in themselves.
Remember, these are the people who will usually consume most of the products or services in your program. Some of them, with time and continuing personal development will grow into leadership roles.
Some of them will connect you to the people who will become the leaders in your organization.
But they won’t do any of the above if they get blown out of the water!
Wherever you are on this equation - Unstoppable Type A, Enthusiastic but scared newbie, or somewhere in between, here are some tips that coan help you find happiness and profit in your home business.
1. Figure out exactly what you want from your home business. A few hundred dollars a month? Replace a full time income? “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” money? Also factor in the type of commitment you’re willing to make to get it: time, learning, steps out of your comfort zone and financial investment. There are no right or wrong answers here, but you will work smartest and most efficiently when you pursue your goals, not someone else’s.
2. Know your products and/or services well. You may enjoy them enough to stay with the company even if the money isn’t showing up the way you’d like. And if you’re one of the “heavy hitters” you can support and advocate for those end consumers who probably make up the bulk of your sales volume.
3. Be part of a “big tent” environment. If you’re a leader, create an environment where everyone is recognized and celebrated. If you’re one of the followers or smaller players, find an environment where it feels good. If that’s not your current organization, there are many others that will welcome you with open arms.
4. Ask for help in your areas that are not your favorites. If you’re a “heavy hitter, asking for help empowers those who are looking for a place to belong. It may also give them confidence to grow their business, and themselves. If you’re a “weakling” asking for help sends a message to your leader that you’re teachable and willing to do the work to succeed. Of course you have to accept and implement any help you’re given.
5. Build your business - as a leader or a follower - based on compassion, courage and commitment. Get stronger, better and happier everyday, as a businessperson and human being. Start with the free Crash Course In Creation at NO MORE HOLDING BACK.
Your Friend,
Larry
P.S. Of course you figured out by now that “weaklings” is just another word for people who are happy doing their own thing and can choose to growth their businesses and themselves anytime they’re ready.
ALWAYS do your own thing… no pressure, just let it flow
Great post darlin!