Are Network Marketing Meetings Necessary?

Now, before I get into a long-winded answer I'll give you my answer in a nutshell.

Absolutely, YES, network marketing meetings are necessary and very important. But, they are important in a different way then what most people use them for.

Let me explain:

There is this debate that is circulating in network marketing about whether or not the internet is "good" for network marketing. I often hear remarks from people against using the internet, such as, "network marketing is about relationships".

To which I reply, "Yeah... who said it wasn't?"

Why do people assume that the utilizing the most leveraged marketing tool on earth means that relationships are no longer a part of the picture? I think I know why...

There have been many people that have abused the internet. They use it as a way to "hide" behind a so called, "automated system". In other words, they think that they can use technology as a substitute to relationship building. You've probably seen an ad before that goes something like this, "Automated system, no need to call, no need for meetings, just sit back and watch the people come in".

It isn't hard to figure out that without some sort of relationship most businesses fail. Even commercial businesses build relationships with their customers. And since network marketing is a "relationship business", it is that much more important to emphasize the relationship aspect.

So how do you build "community" within network marketing? By having meetings, conference calls, webinars, sending emails, writing on your blog, etc. People need a sense of belonging. They need to know that they are part of a community that stands for good things.

Never underestimate the importance of community within network marketing. Without community (relationship building), you're not going to go very far.

So what about the internet?

Why do people assume that using the internet means that relationship building is out of the picture? Doesn't every MLM'er need leads? Network marketers have been using all kinds of different methods for decades to generate leads: referrals, family and friends, contacts, magazine ads, brochures, bill boards, news paper ads, etc.

So if you get a lead from a magazine ad does that mean it is any different than if they are from your contact list? Don't you still build a relationship with them and plug them into a "community"?

Now, if the internet gives you one of the most leveraged ways on earth to generate prospects for your business- wouldn't you use that as one of your tools for recruiting? Is that "method" different than any other? Wouldn't you still build relationships with all your prospects and new distributors? Is it not possible to build relationships with people in a different state or country?

Generating leads and building relationships go hand in hand. There are all kinds of methods to generate your leads, but in the end, they are methods to get "new" people. How can you build relationships if you don't have people to do it with?

Let me ask you something. If you are currently using one method to generate new leads for your business and you find out that another method gives you 100x more leverage... would you not utilize that method? Does that change anything with regards to the relationship building?

Here's an illustration to convey the point: You go on a holiday 500 miles away. To get to your destination you decide to use a horse and buggy. Yes, you will get there, but it will take you 50x longer than if you used a car. But, why stop at a car? What if you used an airplane? Unless you want to waste weeks in traveling, you would probably utilize the advancement of technology to get you to your destination a heck of a lot faster.

In the same way, everyone has the same destination in network marketing- to build your business by adding more people to it. If the advancement of technology allows you to market your business more effectively and efficiently wouldn't you take advantage of it?

Therefore, the internet does NOT take away the relationship aspect of network marketing. If used correctly it will only enhance your ability to form new relationships with people around the globe.

Hope this helps with some of the confusion :)

Have a great day!

Ps. Meetings, in my opinion, are BEST at creating culture, community and a sense of belonging. They are not the only way to do this, but they definitely are very good at it. Plus, they help motivate you as you see others in the room from all walks of life, that are building the same business as you!

Pps. I personally love meetings because I get to meet you all! And speaking of meetings, make sure you are at the May conference. It is going to be unbelievable. Whatever it takes, PLEASE be there!