Not Everyone Will Be Your Fan

According to the Direct Selling Association, 15.1 million people in the U.S. are involved in direct selling. That’s a lot of people in this industry, and new people are joining every day. More consultants means more competition for you. In fact, competitors are everywhere – on different teams, working with different companies, or even on YOUR team. 

Don't sweat it though. Friendly competition can be healthy. Of course, not all competitors are friendly; some will view you as the enemy simply because you’re not in their downline or with the same company.  You may even have some of your own team members or customers who don’t think you’re all that wonderful. So what?

Just accept that you can please some of the people some of the time; but you’ll never please all of the people all of the time. And when it comes right down to it, the only people you really have to please are your customers. If you are running a business of integrity, you just keep doing what you’re doing.  Don’t change who you are or what you are doing simply because someone doesn’t like it. Change if you need to for continuous improvement; otherwise be true to yourself.

Unfortunately, not everyone operates with the same principles. Some people will try to sabotage your business. Some people will call you a liar. Some will try to get into an argument with you on a public forum. Some people may even do something that you could never imagine. So what? Keep on building your business and do not let others determine the fate of your future. Don’t spend too much time worrying what others think or say about you - and never stoop to their level. Remember, those who talk badly about you only make themselves look ugly. By taking the high road, you can keep your integrity intact.

All that said, lest you think network marketing is all cat fights and mud slinging, you will find that most people in this industry are inherently good. Like you, they're simply too busy running their own business to pay much attention to your business. Most are very helpful and supportive, and will freely give advice when asked. When you do run across those naysayers, just walk away. 

You should be aware, though, that the more involved you are in your business, the bigger the target on your back. The best way to deal with competition and those who have made it clear they are not a fan, is to politely ignore them and focus your time and attention on growing your business and delivering exceptional customer service.

As in everything you do - church, school, work, and even family gatherings - you will meet some people who like you and some who don't. Concentrate on building relationships with people with whom you have a connection, and ignore the ones who are just looking for trouble, and you'll have much more success - and a lot less stress - in every area of your life and business.