My first experience with a multi-level marketing (MLM) operation was an invitation to an "interview" for a marketing job when I was 20. On arrival, I was promptly carted into a room with 50 other people, spoken to by a guy with brilliant white teeth whose hair probably wouldn't have moved under any circumstances. He could have written the book on presenting, making eye contact, using names, asking the appropriate number of questions. The whole thing seemed about as sincere as a game show host's desire to see an overweight housewife win a new car. I didn't want to be rude and walk out in the middle of it, but there was no way I was going to sign up to be in somebody else's down line. The gentleman who invited me to the religious cult gathering, er, intro session sat me down in an overstuffed leather chair and shoved a clipboard at me. "I've already filled in part of it for you." I stood up, thanked him for his time, and let him know I wasn't interested. He put his hand on my shoulder, pushed me back into the chair, and said "That's great. We'll go ahead and get you signed up. What I need from you today is $200."
I was mad. He wasn't listening. It felt manipulative. And there was one thing about it I've never been able to shake for all these years. I've never seen any organization with members who bought in as completely as the stakeholders of an MLM. They were mobilized, committed. They had their pitches down. They had their materials. They learned how to market. They were fearless!
I've been part of some really great churches, political groups and social clubs. The membership is often largely attracted by a handful of members, or in some cases a single person. I've learned how to be the connector. I recruit for my company, not in any official capacity, but because it's a great place to be and I want other people to have the opportunity.
There's an unmatchable excitement around recruiting. I love talking about intangibles with people. I want them to buy into the idea of what I'm doing. I want to learn what they're excited about. I love sharing ideas, vetting my own, seeing how we can all get better. I think every employee should get in the habit of recruiting, every club member, every congregant. If you don't love what you're part of enough to tell other people, why are you doing it?
I scan my company's website for open positions on a regular basis. I can rattle off a dozen reasons why people should want to work for us. I love my church, and one of the highlights of last week was having my best friend with me. I'm part of a political women's group that I started inviting friends to after the first meeting.
If you're not part of an incredible church, a vibrant company or a dynamic club, join one. There's no day like today!