Many network marketers focus on expanding their customer base, but true growth lies in building a strong, dynamic team. The question many new network marketers have is how do you attract and retain top talent? It’s not just about talking about your business; it’s about building genuine relationships with your network and fostering a supportive environment. When you value relationships, you can leverage your relationships to grow your team. Let your network and current team members help you grow: encourage them to recruit and ask your best advocates for introductions

Shift your mindset from “me” to “we”

The foundation of a thriving network marketing business isn’t built on individual gain but on overall growth. It’s about shifting your perspective from “what can I get?” to “how can I help?”

Put others first

It’s easy to ask, “How are you?” or say “Have a wonderful day!” but genuine connection requires delving deeper. When you connect with your network, actively listen to their responses and pay attention to their unspoken needs and challenges. It’s in what they don’t say that you can discover how to help and serve them. 

Identify their needs 

Go beyond the obvious and look for subtle cues. This could involve offering a listening ear, sharing relevant resources, or connecting them with someone who can help. Also, look for ways to understand your team’s perspective, their struggles, and their goals. This fosters genuine empathy, allowing you to connect on a deeper level. For example, instead of immediately pitching your weight loss product to someone who mentions feeling tired and stressed, ask about their lifestyle, their sleep habits, and their overall well-being. Perhaps they need stress management techniques or a referral to a health professional more than a product.

Provide value beyond your product or service

Your assistance shouldn’t be limited to your business. If someone needs a recommendation for a reliable service provider, a helpful resource, or simply a word of encouragement, offer it freely. Make yourself available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer support. Your goal is to be a go-to person for your network.

Since you’re focusing on service, provide value to your network and team on a consistent basis, whether through insightful content, helpful resources, or personalized support. This establishes you as a reliable and trustworthy resource.

Focus on help over reciprocity

Offer your assistance freely, without expecting immediate returns. This builds goodwill and fosters genuine relationships in your network and beyond. Also, encourage your team members to adopt a similar mindset, creating a culture of generosity and support within your network.

Remember, when you consistently provide value and support, reciprocity will naturally follow. People will be more likely to support your business, refer you to others, and become loyal customers or team members.

Build connections

Building genuine connections isn’t just about collecting contacts; it’s about fostering relationships that are mutually beneficial and built on trust.

Practice active listening 

Active listening involves paying attention to verbal and nonverbal cues, including tone of voice, body language, and unspoken emotions. Most of us hear what the other person is saying but we don’t really listen. When you actively listen, you focus on the other person to build the relationship and see how you can serve them. The key is to ask questions. Don’t just settle for surface-level answers. Ask your team follow-up questions to delve deeper into their thoughts and feelings.

Then, show that you’re listening by summarizing what they’ve said and reflecting back on what they said. During the conversation, pay attention to seemingly casual remarks or offhand comments. These can often reveal underlying needs or challenges. For example, if they mention they’re “too busy,” don’t just nod and move on. Ask, “What’s taking up most of your time?” or “Are there any areas where you feel you could use some support?” Then, offer a time management app, or offer to help them brainstorm ways to free up time. 

Be a problem solver

You don’t have to solve all of their problems; however, you may know someone who can help. 

You have a diverse network of contacts in various industries and fields. This allows you to connect people with the resources and support they need. If your network is small, make it a goal to expand and diversify your network. It’s important to focus on providing solutions to their problems, even if those solutions don’t directly involve your business. Don’t be shy about sharing your knowledge and expertise to help others overcome challenges. This establishes you as a trusted advisor. After making an introduction or offering a solution, follow up to ensure it was helpful. This shows that you genuinely care.

Look for ways to make their day

When you reach out to your network and team, look for ways to brighten their days. Share inspiring quotes, uplifting stories, or humorous content that will make them smile. Also be sure to send personalized messages to your contacts, acknowledging their achievements or milestones or just express gratitude for their support, their time, or their friendship.

Don’t forget to ask for introductions!

Identify and nurture your strongest advocates. They are the most likely to provide valuable referrals. Stay in regular contact with your network, even if you don’t have a specific business proposition. Then give them the tools and information they need to easily refer you to others. When they introduce you always thank your advocates for their referrals, even if they don’t result in a sale. When you consistently help someone and build a strong relationship, they will naturally want to introduce you to others. You can then say something like, “Who do you know that could benefit from this as much as you have?” They may not have a name right away but if you follow up, they will have time to think of someone. 

Turning connections into team members

Moving beyond simple connections to building a strong team requires a deliberate and thoughtful approach. It’s about more than just recruiting; it’s about creating a partnership. Pinpoint those in your network who have extensive reach and influence. These individuals are your most valuable sources of introductions. Then ask your closest advocates, those who already understand and believe in your vision. Their enthusiasm for your business will be contagious.

Identifying potential team members

However, don’t just ask for anyone. Tell them about your ideal team member profile. This helps your advocates make targeted introductions. Then explain why you’re seeking introductions and how you believe it will benefit both the potential team member and your existing network. You might say something like, “I’m looking for new team members who are passionate about [your industry/product] and have a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Do you know anyone who fits that description and might be open to exploring a new opportunity?”

Answer why they should join your team

People want to know why they should join your team. You have to understand the potential team members’s needs and aspirations and then highlight how your business or opportunity aligns with their goals. Listen to their goals, answer their questions, and address their concerns.  Emphasize the problem your business solves and how it will empower them to achieve their desired outcomes. Then share more about their income potential, personal growth opportunities, and community benefits of joining your team. You can illuminate your point by using real-life examples of team members who have achieved success to illustrate the potential of the opportunity. 

Don’t forget to follow up

They may need time to mull over the Invitation to join your team. Don’t let potential team members fall through the cracks. Set specific times to check in and provide additional information. If they have questions or concerns, listen carefully and provide thoughtful responses. Share relevant articles, videos, or resources that will help them learn more about the opportunity. Be sure to follow up to build a genuine connection; this will show that you care about their success. Remember, building trust and commitment takes time. Don’t give up after the first few follow-ups.

Teamzy can help you grow your team

 Building a successful network marketing team goes beyond simply recruiting. It’s about building genuine relationships, providing value, and fostering a supportive community. When you shift your mindset from self-serving to service-oriented, you can attract and retain top talent. Teamzy can help you grow your team. Stay on top of connections and follow-ups, maintain information, and more. Click here to learn more.

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