The key to long-term success in network marketing is duplication.

This occurs only if you and your systems are duplicatable. Are they? Could anyone join your team, copy what you are doing and be successful?

If the answer is yes, then you can skip this article. Otherwise, continue on as we discuss building a system of duplication.

First is the way your business is set-up.
Network marketing is designed to be a home-based business. If you're using or contemplating an office or training center, this is not duplicatable. Although it seems more business-like, your prospective distributors will look at your set-up and decide they can't do your business.

I remember an entire company that required leaders to set up a training facility. The company did well for awhile, but is now out of business. So, make sure that you have a home-based office set-up that any one could duplicate.

Second are your marketing methods.
Are you doing massive advertising, e-mail marketing, or direct mail? Again, this may be effective, but it's not duplicatable. The average distributor will not be able to afford your system. If you're going to use mass marketing, make sure that you also have systems for the average distributor. I remember a top income earner who built her business passing out opportunity cards in the business district. Another who conducted face-to-face surveys. Also, remember that over 80% of the people who join network marketing companies are sponsored by someone they know, so don't forget the warm market methods also.

Third are your presentations.
Are you so smooth and knowledgeable that the new distributor would feel they could never do a presentation? I often think of a top network marketer who started out giving presentations in holey jeans (because that's all he had to wear) and today he's a top income earner. To make your business presentation easily duplicatable, start using DVD's, overhead slides, or flip charts. Stick with information that is readily available to the average distributor. It's even best is you don't do all of the presentation. Start including others in your presentations and you'll see quicker duplication.

The more duplicatable your business, marketing, and presentations, the quicker your network (and income) will grow.


Rod Nichols
University Place, Washington, United States

Rod Nichols has been involved in the network marketing industry since 1979, as a company founder/owner, distributor, consultant, trainer, coach, and author.