Parading super successful people across the stage or on a conference call – who are “just like the listeners” – is one of the great recruiting
tools of our business.
You know, the rags to riches stories.
But. There’s a downside.
If one does not show the struggles these folks had to go through to get
where they are today, the success stories can do more harm than good.
Because.
If all Lulu (an inexperienced MLMer) hears about is the success stories,
then, when Lulu runs into the usual difficulties – pukies and all –
she’s out even faster.
Because the expectations were set so ridiculously high. So noted
Darren Hardy, publisher of Success Magazine.
Bottom line: Tell the struggles the big banana survived.
PS This is why I so HATE those stories some people tell, where they
act as if they have no clue why their business got big – and now it earns
them six figures a year or more.
They’ll tell their stories during opp meetings and say “the income just
kept on growing – without us! Isn’t that just AMAZING?” As if others
should expect this also (!)
In fact these folks know very well what “happened.” They had a super
star producer fall on their head. Someone they did NOT bring in
themselves, and whose success that upline had little or nothing to do with.
It’s a marvelous thing to have happen. Only in MLM. But.
Why not just SAY that in the opp calls and meets?
“I had a super producer fall on my head, and my income went from $235/mo to
$9k/mo. This kind of thing DOES happen in our business! One reason to
consider it.”
Just let’s not pretend we don’t know what happened when relating such
a story to newbies. Or acting as if it’s typical. It’s NOT.
Just more reason for someone to quit. Because. They can’t figure out
what they did wrong – why are THEY not suddenly making $9k/mo like
this other guy said he did? He said he was all clueless about what might
have happened, didn’t he? I’m clueless too, but that’s not
happening for me!
Sigh.
The business offers a wonderful opportunity. There are wonderful success
stories around the world. No need to downplay the obstacles or the good
luck some people have had fall onto their heads.
We may do more to shoot ourselves in the foot – and head – than any outsider
could ever do. Think?
Spot on Kim!
SO correct, insightful and helpful, as usual, Kim. Thank you, again!
Thank you sharing! I think this is true. The meteoric rising stars are paraded around and held up as examples. I can see how this can be discouraging rather than encouraging. A lady I know got out before she even started because this.
Dear Kim,
On their rocketing success from $235 per month to $9K per month, you left out the part about working only 5 to 10 hours per week.
To me the success stories are more meaningful when I understand the rocky path they followed, and how they persevered.
Kim,
Your HONEST answers are very much appreciated.
Blessings,
Tom
Thanks Kim!
Right on the money as always!
We sure need a lot more transparent people like you in our industry! Would make a world of difference!
Regards.
You are so right, Top Banana! The one character I recall that said that very thing a few months ago was the very person I lost confidence in believing. Ironically, his name almost rhymes with baloney, the very stuff he’s dishing out. That’s alright, though. I think I’ve found something that’s offering truth on video and teaching me more from believable sources rather than giving me hype. Bottom line: go where the money is and get off the stuck elevator!