Network Marketing: A $40,000 learning lesson

This image was captured when I was in Osaka

I have noticed when most people hear the term "Network Marketing," it evokes extremely strong emotions, especially negative emotions. Parts of it stem from people who have a hidden agenda and reach out to you randomly to "catch up" even though they haven't spoken to you in years and the other part relates to the fact that there is a perception that it is a "pyramid." However, I actually learned a lot through my experience between 2013-2017.

In 2013, I was working towards dentistry until one day, I bumped into an elementary school friend and she mentioned that her and her fiance were working towards early retirement at the age of 25!

To be honest, I wasn't skeptical at all...if anything, I was quite curious. This curiosity made me do the math in my head...if I get into dental school at age 22 and graduate by age 26, I would be in debt for another 30-40 years so early retirement was not an option! As I continued to meet up with her for a series of coffees, I learned that they had mentorship from successful entrepreneurs who were going to show them the ropes of operating a business. As I got to know their business model, I was quickly drawn to the mentorship aspect and the possibility of having a lucrative side hustle as I pursuit my dreams.

Fast forward four months, I continued with university while working and trying to build up this business. Fast forward four years later, I have invested at least $40,000 into that business model and eventually quit due to a series of drama that had unfolded (it was not conducive for business).

Luckily, I grew closer to that elementary school friend and her husband and eventually had another opportunity to support them with a new, non-network marketing venture.

Not only did I gain a few amazing friendships along the way, but I acquired new habits that would set me up for success:

1) "Developing successful habits is difficult but important": The mentorship organization had a framework for all business owners to develop a consistent habit of lifelong learning through listening to motivational audio's from successful entrepreneurs and to read 10 pages or 15 minutes a day from a personal development book. Prior to 2013, I did not enjoy reading leisurely because I was constantly reading textbooks. A year into business, I read 10 books within that first year and was able to really open up my mind and further develop my confidence, people skills and leadership skills.

2) "Who you surround yourself will affect who you become in five years": Being in an environment with other business owners, they always had pods for attendees to ask a "successful business leader" questions and you never wanted it to be silent/ awkward. Through this experience, I actually discovered a strength of mine- Asking Questions. Not only did I pay attention to the questions that were being asked but I started to craft questions that could help me better understand an individuals thought process (this is important for problem solving and establishing rapport).

3) "Learning to accept No's is important:" I quickly developed thicker skin through hundreds of interactions with strangers. To be successful at network marketing, you had to get good at starting interactions with strangers and quickly/effectively establish rapport! Through this experience, I had a fair share of not so great conversations and a few amazing ones that led to lifelong friendships.

4) "Don't be afraid to question the why behind something:" This is important in that environment and in the work place because if every team member mindlessly follows a direction or process, you hinder the company's ability to innovate.

5) "Everyone is human, so treat them like one:" I noticed whenever an extremely successful/ well-respected individual steps into the room, most people will shy away from walking up to them and having a conversation. I am sure part of it stems from not wanting to say something "dumb" and because they have put that individual on a pedestal. However, in a working environment, it is normal to feel nervous but I have learned that it is important to initiate a conversation with that successful individual. Developing the courage to do so will allow you to stand out!

Through those four years, I can say with confidence that I have zero regrets! Why? Because I have learned a lot! And it reinforced to me that I will always have a side hustle while working because I want to have options in my life and not have my life be dictated by one stream of income.

Would I invest into another network marketing opportunity? Absolutely not! But I would not take back that experience!