Your downline is your most valuable resource in network marketing. Without them, you're really just part of someone else's downline, and while that might be just fine, if you want to grow your business and excel, you need a powerful downline of your own.
These people will be the ones that create their own downlines and lift you further to success. One of the best ways to help create a strong downline is to learn how the sales funnel parallels the MLM industry. The sales funnel model will help you understand how downline prospects move from first glance to solid performer.
MLM works best when you train your downline well and connect with them in a way that creates trust and excitement. Your people will work harder for you if they know you are working hard for their success, too.
Training is probably the most effective way to keep your empower your downline, and keep them from dropping out. If you abandon them once you've got them, you'll lose them quickly. Here are some suggestions for training that will help keep your downline happy and working hard:
- Start a blog. Share your tips and tricks. Share your stories. Share what you've learned so far and share your dreams for both you and them.
- Offer phone consultations. This is a great training tool. If your downline feels that they can actually talk through questions or issues they're having with you, they'll feel like you're investing in them and their success. You can set up hours that you are available for phone consultations and make appointments via email.
- Send them newsletters using an auto responder that are packed with information about the products, and how they can generate their own downline.
- Send them emails that give lessons, or direct them to articles that might be of interest, such as articles about the need to treat network marketing as a business, not a hobby or how to use free Web 2.0 resources for lead generation.
- Talk to them via blog, newsletter or email about the importance of promoting the product and give them tips about how to do that.
If you put forth the time and energy, you can educate and empower your downline to excel at their own MLM business. Network marketing takes work and effort both on your part and your downline's part.
If you're willing to invest in them, they will put forth an effort that will meet and exceed your expectations. You won't have to worry about losing people. They'll stay because you've created an atmosphere of trust and growth, so they'll feel encouraged and motivated.
Make sure you share examples from your own network marketing journey. Share the knowledge you've gained through your professional ups and downs - be human to them. Doing this will empower them to pursue their own dreams of success!