NETWORK MARKETING HOT TOPICS: FACELESS ACCOUNTS, MULTIPLE STREAMS OF INCOME, AND IS THE TERM "MLM" OUTDATED...

by Bec Sadek

I'm a huge fan of diving into hot topic conversations, and today's free training doesn't shy away from that. Network marketing going through a transformation right now and there's a few topics I wanted to address. Let's discuss multiple streams of income, Faceless accounts, and the term "MLM". You can watch the full training below... 

1. Is the term MLM outdated? 

This intriguing question popped up on my feed from a well-known network marketing coach. It's essential to remember that coaches in this space often come from a perspective outside the day-to-day grind of building a network marketing business, with many never having reached top earner status in the industry. This can lead to a viewpoint that differs significantly from those of us actively building our businesses through daily prospecting and closing conversation. 

A piece of advice circulating suggests moving away from the term "MLM" as it's considered outdated, advising instead to embrace terms like "affiliate marketing" or "social selling."

Let me be straightforward—I believe this is misguided advice. And before you object with:

"But Bec, I resonate with 'social selling,' or I see myself as an affiliate marketer."

I don't deny the relevance and appeal of these terms in today's fast-evolving industry landscape.

However, the reality is that the broader world still recognizes what we do under the umbrella of MLM or multi-level marketing. Completely ditching the term might inadvertently signal shame or embarrassment about our industry affiliation.

Instead of rejecting the term associated with our industry, why not work on shifting the perception and narrative surrounding it?

MLM accurately describes our business model and sales channel. It's also a term that social media platforms readily recognize, helping categorize your content effectively for those familiar with or open to network marketing. While it's wise to avoid "MLM" in Facebook ads or on TikTok due to platform rules, it still has its place in our vocabulary.

A personal testament to this is my experience as the founder of the #1 online community for network marketers and social sellers. Initially launched under a name that included "Social Selling," the group struggled to gain traction.

Upon rebranding to YES MLMS PLEASE, our community soared. It turns out, both social sellers and network marketers deeply connect with the term "MLM," especially given the widespread aversion encapsulated in the phrase "NO MLMS PLEASE" encountered in nearly every other Facebook group.

So, while "MLM" may not be everyone's preferred descriptor, its relevance and significance remain undiminished. Don't let anyone outside our active business-building sphere convince you otherwise.

2. How do multiple streams of income fit into network marketing? 

The conversation around multiple income streams within network marketing is heating up, and opinions are as varied as they are passionate. At the heart of the debate, I've observed, lies a fundamental distinction between two types of leaders in our industry.

Legacy Leaders vs. Quick Buck Leaders

First, there are the Legacy Leaders. These individuals are in it for the long haul. Their goal? To build enduring relationships with a company they love, building something that withstands the test of time and continues to pay dividends for years. They're focused on cultivating a team of loyal superstars, deeply committed to the company and its opportunities.

On the flip side, we have leaders who chase the Quick Buck. This group is always on the lookout for the next big thing. They hop from one opportunity to another, chasing bonuses and leveraging their influence to draw others into new ventures. Independence is their mantra; they resist being tethered to any single company, valuing freedom above all.

The Choice Is Yours

The beauty of network marketing is that it offers you the freedom to decide which type of leader you aspire to be. While I hold no judgment over your choice, I believe it's essential to understand both paths' potential rewards and pitfalls.

Personally, my loyalty lies with being a Legacy Leader. The idea of jumping ship at the sight of the next opportunity doesn't align with how I envision leadership or trust within my team. This isn't about being "controlled" or "owned" by a company; it's about the commitment I choose to make to those I lead.

A Marriage Analogy

Consider the analogy of marriage. No one forces marriage upon you, and indeed, it's not the right choice for everyone. However, marriage comes with long-term benefits like trust, loyalty, and mutual growth. If you sleep around, the foundation crumbles, and those benefits vanish.

Choosing the single life with its freedoms and short-term pleasures is entirely valid. It's about knowing yourself, understanding the type of leader you wish to be, and the team culture you aim to foster.

My Stance on Multiple Streams of Income

I'm an advocate for diversifying your income sources. That said, when it comes to network marketing, my philosophy is clear: commit to ONE company and give it your all. This commitment doesn't imply you're locked in forever, immune to change. Circumstances evolve, and sometimes, a gut feeling tells you it's time for a change. I've been there myself, transitioning from one company to another—a move that catapulted me from a stuck middle level earner to the top 1% of the industry.

In both instances, I "planted my flag." I made a conscious decision, aiming to make my current company my legacy. I want my team to trust in my stability, never fearing that I might make a sudden shift that could jeopardize their teams and incomes.

It's time to move past the notion of being "controlled" by a company. My choices aren't about restrictions; they're about achieving specific outcomes and fostering a team culture that aligns with my values. I want to work with individuals who are in it for the long haul, not just those chasing the next "shiny object." Those are not my people, not my tribe. However, the path you choose is entirely yours.

3. Faceless accounts. Do they work or do they lack credibility and trust? 

Lately, there’s been some buzz around Faceless accounts on Instagram, sparking discussions among some well-known network marketing trainers.  There is one specific coach who has criticized Faceless accounts for their lack of ability to  build trust with an audience....

The crazy thing is that this specic coach actually built all of their influence on a faceless account.

 A classic case of "Do as I say, not as I do," maybe? 🤔

I don't think this trend isn't black and white. There's no one-size-fits-all strategy that guarantees success. However, let me share insights from the front lines, not as an outsider looking in, but as a leader actively engaged in building a network marketing business alongside my team.

A leader on my team started a Faceless Instagram account and, within three weeks,  grew it to over 100k followers.

Even crazier, she converted this following into over 60 sales in just 3 weeks. This experience shows that Faceless accounts can work, as long as they align with your strategy and circumstances.

This isn't to say I advocate for everyone to rush into creating Faceless accounts. But if you have specific challenges then this could be a great route for you to take.

You might  have privacy concerns, job restrictions, or any other reason that makes showing your face online impractical, a Faceless account is a great solution for you. 

If you're  ready to stop chasing uninterested friends and family and you want to build a brand new audience on social media then I've got something special for you. 3. Faceless accounts. Do they work or do they lack credibility and trust? 

Lately, there’s been some buzz around Faceless accounts on Instagram, sparking discussions among some well-known network marketing trainers.  There is one specific coach who has criticized Faceless accounts for their lack of ability to  build trust with an audience....

The crazy thing is that this specic coach actually built all of their influence on a faceless account.

 A classic case of "Do as I say, not as I do," maybe? 🤔

I don't think this trend isn't black and white. There's no one-size-fits-all strategy that guarantees success. However, let me share insights from the front lines, not as an outsider looking in, but as a leader actively engaged in building a network marketing business alongside my team.

A leader on my team started a Faceless Instagram account and, within three weeks,  grew it to over 100k followers.

Even crazier, she converted this following into over 60 sales in just 3 weeks. This experience shows that Faceless accounts can work, as long as they align with your strategy and circumstances.

This isn't to say I advocate for everyone to rush into creating Faceless accounts. But if you have specific challenges then this could be a great route for you to take.

You might  have privacy concerns, job restrictions, or any other reason that makes showing your face online impractical, a Faceless account is a great solution for you. 

If you're  ready to stop chasing uninterested friends and family and you want to build a brand new audience on social media then I've got something special for you. Grab my free guide  for network marketers that will show you exactly how to build a brand new warm market on social media. 

Have an awesome week! 

Bec Sadek

Bec