How To Become a Network Marketer: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a Network Marketer, including education, skills, salary and more.
Network marketing, also known as multi-level marketing (MLM), is a business model in which a company sells products or services through a network of independent contractors, also known as distributors. These distributors can earn commissions by recruiting new members to the network and by selling products or services to customers. Network marketing is a popular career choice for many people because it offers the opportunity to be your own boss and to earn a good income. In this article, we discuss what network marketing is, how to become a network marketer and the average salary you can expect to earn.
What Does a Network Marketer Do?
A network marketer, also known as a direct seller or independent business owner, is an individual who markets and sells products or services, usually through a network of friends, family, acquaintances and/or customers. Network marketing is a type of business model in which the company compensates its salespeople not only for their sales of products but also for the sales of other people they recruit to work for the company, known as their “downline.”
Network marketers typically work from home and use their personal networks to sell products or services, although some companies may require that they work from a physical office location. The duties of a network marketer include:
- Identifying potential customers and building relationships with them
- Selling products or services to customers
- Recruiting new members to join the network marketing team
- Training new members on how to sell products or services
- Motivating team members to reach sales goals
- Keeping up with trends in the industry
- Attending conferences and other events related to the industry
- Maintaining accurate records of sales and commissions
Network Marketer Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a network marketer is $68,495. This figure can vary based on the level of experience, education, industry and geographical location of the analyst.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for network marketers to increase at a much faster than average rate over the next decade. This is due to many factors such as the growing use of data analysis in marketing. Companies often need the expertise of a network marketer to gather, interpret and leverage that data into effective marketing strategies.
How to Become a Network Marketer
Here are several steps you should take to become a Network Marketer.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in marketing, business administration or a related field
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement for network marketers. A marketing major can help you develop your skills in areas such as research, strategic planning and customer relations. Some schools also offer specialized programs in network marketing or direct sales.
If you want to work for a large company, consider pursuing an MBA. An advanced degree can also help you advance in your career later on.
2. Consider completing an internship with a marketing firm
Network marketing companies often prefer candidates with experience in the field, but it is not always necessary to have an internship or other type of work experience. Internships can help you gain hands-on experience and develop your skills under the supervision of a professional. They also allow you to network with professionals in the industry who may be able to provide you with job opportunities after graduation.
3. Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills
Network marketers must be able to communicate effectively with others and develop relationships. Network marketing is a relationship-based business, so you will need to interact with your customers and build trust in order for them to buy from you.
You may also have to persuade other people to become network marketers themselves. This requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to listen to others’ concerns and respond appropriately.
4. Learn how to use social media for marketing purposes
Social media is an important tool for network marketers to use because it allows them to interact with potential customers and build relationships. Network marketers should learn how to create a professional-looking profile on social media platforms and post engaging content that will attract attention. They also need to know how to respond to comments and messages in a timely manner and encourage followers to take the next step, such as buying a product or signing up for an email list.
5. Understand the principles of search engine optimization (SEO)
Search engine optimization (SEO) is a process that improves the visibility of a website on search engines such as Google, Bing and Yahoo. It involves adjusting various aspects of a website to make it more appealing to search engines. For example, you can optimize your website by using relevant keywords in its content and selecting a title and description for each blog post that will attract attention from search engine users.
To become a network marketer, you should understand how SEO works so you can promote your business effectively online. You may also need to learn about other forms of digital marketing, such as pay-per-click advertising and social media marketing.
6. Stay up to date on changes in technology and new developments in the industry
Network marketing companies often use new technology to improve their services and reach more customers. For example, some companies have started using live video streaming to connect with clients in real time. It’s important for network marketers to stay up to date on these developments so they can effectively promote their company’s products and services.
Network marketers also need to keep track of trends in the industry. They should know what types of products are selling well and which ones aren’t. This knowledge helps them decide how to best market their own products.
7. Join professional organizations such as the American Marketing Association
The American Marketing Association (AMA) is a professional organization that offers networking opportunities, continuing education and other resources to marketers. To join the AMA, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field.
The association provides members with access to online courses, webinars, conferences and career development tools. You can also use the AMA’s job board to find employment opportunities.
