Rich Devos and Robert Kiyosaki

It is interesting to note that two of the featured videos that appear at the home page of this site are those promoting Network Marketing. Not sure how the general attitude at this site is in regards to that, I am curious.

What I liked about the Rich Devos video was/is that he had advice that was both generic and applicable to all selling.

What I liked about Robert Kiyosaki's was/is that he teaches the basics of why you want to start your own business.

Both are great videos, for different reasons. And both are surprisingly applicable to traditional business people too, again, due to completely different focuses.

Clearly I have not watched all of the videos featured at this site and hosted at YouTube, nor am I likely too. In fact, had I not recognized Rich Devos, I would not have watched either of the two I mentioned ... my point is; there may be several more on Network Marketing featured here. My question is, how do you as a sales professional feel about that?

I know how I feel. What are your thoughts?

[This forum could use some more traffic, imo.]

I've never really trusted anything MLM. I don't know how many other people do either. AmWay might do a lot of marketing to get the new name Quixtar out there, but people still view MLM as hokey. My personal view.

There is something to be said about the brilliance of a business model which relies so heavily upon referral and repeat business, however. Currently working in a venture which robs me of the ability to generate anything of the kind, I have dreams about exceeding customer expectations and growing a network of repeat customers who seek me out directly for future purchases.

The Devos video was inspiring in that it reaffirms the idea that, while we might expect to sell anything to anyone, it is impossible to sell everything to everyone and remembering that, just because you could not close this prospect on the idea does not mean that you have failed. There is always room for personal improvement, but looking back, it is important to accept that there will be times when the sale failed because of reasons other than one's lack of ability.

On the other hand, the Kiyosaki video was a good reminder of the rich dad - poor dad analogies. Interesting how it played into more MLM materials, but certainly important to keep in mind. The catch on that one is the appeal of minimal investment to get on board with some form of business development. There is no such thing as a free lunch (but don't we all wish there was)!

It is interesting that the landmark or precedent setting decision was 29 years ago and still people feel Network Marketing may be somewhat shady ... that decision, what has become known as The Amway Exception, clearly explains in legal jargon what the exception to an illegal pyramid is.

Since I am the past president of a Network Marketing company, I can tell you that though this is not the only legality that is important, as long as the last person who gets involved can make money merely through retailing it is not an illegal pyramid. The other law applicable in 22 or more States, is that you cannot be forced to buy $500 or more merely for the right to sell.

But I am also a sales trainer, starting way back in 1977 with the Xerox model. So, I guess what I was looking for was opinions on whether those videos were applicable on a sales training site. Since the issue of legality was solved nearly three decades ago, is there an issue of appropriateness? Should they be here?

Again, just as a thought provoking question. What do you think?

People involved in MLM need to learn how to sell too. I don't see a problem with MLM discussions or videos on a sales training site.

Excellent reply Mikey!