Network marketing sounds great. You network, market products using the Internet and...presto, produce income.

Would that it were this simple. For most, network marketing becomes a money sink. It did for me. I am still counting my losses and wondering whether to go forward. I may, I may not. But a few lessons learned the hard way are worth sharing.

1) Every opportunity is presented as the best, the greatest, and the next sure thing.

2) The only 'sure thing' is that once you spend $39, $79 or $479 on a subscription, software tool, advertisement or distributorship position, it's not coming back. Well, it might if you try for a refund...

3) Most network marketeers do not focus their efforts. As I did, they bask in the promises of riches and become frustrated when these do not arrive. Instead of 'milking' the first opportunity longer - or just giving up the game - they dump diminishing funds in another...and another.

4) It is vital to network, vital to work with others. Yet it is even more vital to get to know people before signing on to a 'joint venture' or another project.

5) You must know your strengths and apply them. Know your weaknesses and don't apply them.

Most importantly, decide if this is what you want to be doing. Even if you are sure you can make several hundred dollars per month at the game (and not many do), it won't continue unless your heart is in it. The 'game'is largely about prospecting, hustling potential new program recruits, and spending large amounts of time organizing your marketing/sales efforts.

Too little time is spent selecting a viable and legitimate product. You should ask yourself if you feel good selling a product or program, and move on if you don't. If you find the rare, credible program then 'work it' with integrity, but do not expect riches to come your way.
About the author:

I am a freelance writer and amateur jock. I write fiction and non-fiction. Currently I am writing a book on tennis technique that I am looking to publish.