7 Reasons Why You’re Struggling in MLM

Many people dive into multi-level marketing (MLM) with high expectations, only to face disappointment when they don’t see immediate success. MLM often gets a bad reputation because many join with inflated hopes of quick wealth without understanding the effort involved. While MLM can be lucrative, it requires strategy, dedication, and the right approach. If you’re not seeing the success you anticipated, you might be making some common mistakes. Here are seven reasons why you might be struggling in MLM and, more importantly, how to fix them.

1. You’re Pushing the Hard Sell

One of the biggest mistakes in MLM is pushing too hard to sell instead of building genuine connections. When you aggressively push products or opportunities, people often resist because they already have brands they trust. Instead of going for the hard sell, focus on building relationships.

Solution: Focus on Relationship Building

Shift your mindset from selling to sharing. Let your products and personal experience speak for themselves. For example, if you’re using health products and people notice a positive change—whether it’s weight loss, glowing skin, or more energy—let them ask you about it. Use that as an entry point to share how the products have helped you, rather than diving straight into a sales pitch.

Example: Imagine you recently installed an energy-efficient home system through your MLM company. When a friend complains about rising energy costs, you could casually mention, “Oh, I’ve actually been saving on my energy bills with a system I got through my business.” This piques their interest and opens the door for a conversation about how you can help.

Pro Tip: Let your results speak for themselves. The more you embody the benefits of your products, the more people will naturally inquire about them, making the sales process feel organic rather than forced.

2. You Lack Passion

If you joined an MLM just because someone promised you money, and not because you’re genuinely interested in the products or opportunity, your lack of passion will show. MLM isn’t about a quick buck—it’s about building a business that requires time, dedication, and enthusiasm.

Solution: Find Your “Why”

Why did you start your MLM journey? What motivates you? Maybe it’s financial freedom, more time with your family, or a passion for the products you sell. Whatever it is, focus on your “why”. This not only fuels your passion but also helps others connect with your journey. People are more likely to buy from someone who is excited about what they do.

Example: If you’re selling health supplements, but you’re not passionate about wellness, it will be hard to convince others. Instead, get behind the product by learning more about it, using it regularly, and experiencing the benefits yourself. Your personal story will resonate more than any marketing script ever could.

Pro Tip: Re-evaluate why you’re involved in MLM. If you’re not passionate about the products or the lifestyle, it might be time to reconsider or pivot to something that truly excites you.

3. You’re Not Being Honest

One of the quickest ways to lose trust in MLM is by exaggerating the truth about your products or opportunity. With so much information readily available online, people can easily fact-check what you’re saying. Honesty builds trust and credibility, which are essential for long-term success.

Solution: Be Transparent and Authentic

Instead of making outrageous claims, focus on the real benefits of your products. If something didn’t work for you, don’t hide it. Share your genuine experiences—both the successes and the challenges. This builds authenticity and makes you more relatable.

Example: If you’re promoting a weight-loss supplement, be honest about your journey. Say something like, “While this product helped me lose 10 pounds, it wasn’t overnight. I had to pair it with a healthy diet and regular exercise.” This level of transparency will gain far more respect and trust than promising a miracle product.

Pro Tip: Share both the pros and cons of your products. People appreciate honesty, and by managing expectations upfront, you’ll build long-term relationships with loyal customers and team members.

4. You’re Boring or Robotic in Your Pitch

Many MLM companies provide scripts to help guide conversations. While scripts can be helpful, reciting them word-for-word can make you sound robotic and detached. People want to connect with real stories, not sales pitches.

Solution: Personalize Your Approach

Make your presentations interesting by weaving in your own experiences and personality. Tell stories that people can relate to, and make sure you’re listening as much as you’re talking. Adapt your pitch to each individual, rather than delivering a one-size-fits-all script.

Example: Instead of saying, “Our products are the best and will change your life,” try something more personal like, “I’ve been using this product for six months, and it’s really helped me with [specific issue]. It might be exactly what you need.”

Pro Tip: Storytelling is key. Share personal anecdotes about how the products or business have impacted your life. This makes your message more relatable and engaging.

5. You’re Spamming People

Sending out generic, mass emails or messaging everyone on your contact list with the same sales pitch is one of the fastest ways to alienate potential customers. People are bombarded with messages every day, and they can spot a copy-paste sales pitch a mile away.

Solution: Personalize and Target Your Outreach

Instead of spamming your entire contact list, focus on building genuine connections. Customize your messages to fit the person you’re speaking with. Understand their needs and offer solutions that fit them.

Example: Instead of blasting your entire network with “Buy my product now!” emails, start by reaching out individually. If someone mentioned they’ve been struggling with energy, offer a personalized suggestion like, “Hey, I remember you saying you’ve been feeling low on energy lately. I’ve been using this supplement, and it’s helped me a lot. Would you like to try a sample?”

Pro Tip: Invest time in nurturing relationships before pitching. When people feel like you care about their needs, they’re more likely to trust you and your products.

6. You’re Not Taking Time to Learn

MLM is constantly evolving. If you’re not keeping up with new strategies, product updates, and market trends, you’re falling behind. Stagnating in your business means you’re missing out on opportunities to improve and grow.

Solution: Invest in Personal Development

The best MLM leaders are always learning. Sign up for webinars, attend training sessions, and read books on sales, leadership, and marketing. Stay informed about new trends in your industry and continually refine your skills.

Example: Many successful MLM professionals invest in personal development books like “Go Pro” by Eric Worre or attend leadership conferences hosted by their companies. These resources not only improve your skills but also help you stay motivated and inspired.

Pro Tip: Schedule time every week for self-education. Whether it’s reading a new book, watching a training video, or attending a virtual event, continuous learning is key to staying ahead in MLM.

7. You’re Lazy

MLM is not a “get rich quick” scheme. It requires consistent effort, dedication, and persistence. If you’re expecting overnight success without putting in the work, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.

Solution: Develop a Strong Work Ethic

Treat your MLM business like a real business, even if it’s part-time. Set weekly goals, create a daily routine, and hold yourself accountable. The more effort you put in, the more results you’ll see.

Example: Dedicate time each week for prospecting, follow-ups, and personal development. Even if you can only commit to a few hours a week, being consistent will yield results over time. Successful MLM leaders often recommend starting with at least 10-15 hours a week for part-time work and scaling up as you see more success.

Pro Tip: Use tools like Trello or Asana to keep track of your goals and tasks. By staying organized and holding yourself accountable, you’ll stay motivated and focused.

Conclusion

MLM offers incredible opportunities for those willing to put in the effort, but success isn’t guaranteed. By avoiding these common mistakes—pushing a hard sell, lacking passion, being dishonest, using boring pitches, spamming people, neglecting learning, and being lazy—you can turn your MLM journey around. Focus on building relationships, personalizing your approach, and continuously improving yourself. When you do, you’ll find that MLM can be a rewarding and lucrative business.