Think about the reasons you got into network marketing; chances are, one of them was so that you could do something you love while making a difference in the lives of other people, usually the people in your tribe who you love the most. 

However, the traditional standard of network marketing isn’t conducive to this feeling. Traditionally, network marketers got sales by pestering their networks to buy all the time. It’s no wonder that instead of nurturing relationships, they end up turning people off, and the damage is sometimes lasting. It can devastate businesses – not only does this traditional method leave network marketers feeling frustrated, but it also makes it much more difficult to succeed (which is also frustrating in itself).

So, what’s a network marketer to do when they want to love their business, but the traditional method of selling leaves them feeling cold and frustrated?

Relationships build businesses

Let’s say it again: relationships build businesses, especially ones that stand the test of time and achieve success. It’s nearly impossible to lead a successful business if you don’t have a foundation of solid relationships made up of loyal advocates. And, it’s a challenge to get those loyal advocates if you’re turning them off with pushy sales tactics. No one likes to feel like a mark especially if your network consists of millennials and younger, who have a sixth sense about that sort of thing. 

That’s why it’s so important to nurture the relationships you have with the people in your network – your customers, prospects, and distributors. The stronger you build your relationships with them, the more solid the foundation of your business will become and more likely you’ll be to expand your business in the future.

Pro Tip: Strong relationships now are essential for a strong business in the future.

Why relationship marketing works

There’s a name for marketing to your relationships so that your bond with them is stronger each time you connect – relationship marketing. At Teamzy, we love relationship marketing and feel is the best way to build a business you love in which you have the opportunity to share that love with those you love (that’s a lot of “love” in one sentence!). 

In relationship marketing, you focus your attention on your customers and relationships, not on just making that next sale. Is it great when you get a sale right away? Of course! But, it’s more important to build the relationship by helping them instead, regardless of whether it leads to a sale right away. Instead of thinking, “I gotta sell, sell, sell!” each time you connect with a current or prospective customer, you’ll think:

• How can I help them with a current challenge or to achieve a goal?
• How can I serve them better?

After all, the more you serve, the better and stronger your business will be. Why? Your customers will know and understand that they’re more than a sale to you. They’ll appreciate how much you appreciate them when they do decide to buy or even join your team. Most importantly, they’ll see that you’re leading your network marketing business with heart, which is most likely the dream you have for your business in the first place.

Oprah said, “You know you are on the road to success if you would do your job, and not be paid for it.” Lead your business from your heart and running it will seem like less of a chore. “I’ve got to do my lead generation today…” will turn into “Yay! I’m so excited to connect with people today and see how I can help them!” Your entire perspective will change and that shift will put you on the right path to lasting success.

Achieving success in network marketing

Success is…. well, it’s a lot of things. Sure, there’s a set definition in the dictionary; however, what it means varies person to person. For example, for some network marketers, success is making enough money to take the family on a nice vacation every year and pay cash for it. For others, success is being the top distributor in the region. And, some may feel they’ve achieved success if they’re able to improve the life of just one person each and every day. 

What’s your definition of success? 

I’d bet that if you asked the question to 20 different people, you’d get 20 different answers. But, the answer that matters is what is YOUR definition of success? You see, it’s so easy to fall prey to others’ definitions of success and we lose sight of what really matters to us and our goals in life.

Unfortunately, traditional sales methods put a huge emphasis on numbers, which is fine if you define success the same way, but what if you define it by how many people you serve and on if you’re truly happy? When your idea of success doesn’t jive with the norm, you may feel frustrated or out of sorts. It’s nearly impossible to get motivated to do your thing every day to build your business if you’re just not feeling it.

That’s not to say that numbers aren’t important – they are. But they’re not the only measure of success in business. Money is step one, but steps 2 through infinity is developing a business you love that allows you to reach your goals and impact those around you for the better. 

Pro tip: Success is a concept that is unique to you, your values, and your goals. 

Why money isn’t the only marker of network marketing success

Think about someone you know or know of who’s achieved the traditional standard of success in their lives; that is, they have all the money they’ll ever need. Now, do they love what they do? Often, you’ll find that they do. They wake up in the morning eager to take on the challenges of the day because they love it. Sometimes, though, you’ll find that those who reach the pinnacle of their businesses money-wise may not feel joy or fulfillment in running their network marketing businesses. They don’t love what they do, but it pays well so they do it. Would you say they’re successful? Perhaps if money is the only metric; however, you may begin to feel pity for them that despite their riches, they’re still unhappy.

The happiness connection

When you love what you do, when what you do complements your values, when you feel fulfilled helping and serving others, you have the potential to achieve success beyond your wildest dreams. We love to work with and buy from people we like, who are a pleasure to do business with. When you focus on serving the relationship first, you’ll find that more people will want to do business with you. Your joy and happiness toward your business will be palpable and contagious. Current customers will not only seek you out – and be excited when you call to connect with them – they may also introduce the people they know to you (especially if you ask!). After all, they want to ensure that the people they care about receive the same great service that you offer. What a wonderful way to build a business, right?

Start by connecting with your network

Relationship marketing starts by checking in with your network. That doesn’t mean you have to contact everyone today – if you’re using Teamzy, just refer to your Dashboard for a list of folks to get in touch with today. 

Getting in touch is just the first step. Next, ask questions to help you get to know your customers, prospects, and distributors better. This will allow you to find ways in which you can help, whether it’s through your products or services or by connecting them with someone you know who can help. 

Then, it’s all about following up. So many network marketers forget this step for one reason or another. Teamzy makes it easy to remember to follow up with your network and continue to keep in touch. 

Sharpen your network marketing business and service skills

Learn to master relationship marketing so you can lead a business you love. The next session of Bootcamp is right around the corner. Over the course of 12 weeks, you’ll get the tools you need to build the foundation for a strong relationship-based network marketing business. You’ll connect with other like-minded folks for the encouragement and motivation you need. Stay on track to success (whatever your definition of success is)! The sign-up window is limited so register when you get the chance. Visit Teamzy.com for more information.