Today’s article is sure to create a storm of questions so I’ll be sure to do my best to answer them as we move along. But this is a very critical article that is being written with a heart of compassion and understanding for a very specific group of people.
In the world of network marketing, there is a saying that goes like this, “If someone has a pulse, is breathing and is within 3 feet of you, they are a possible candidate for your business.” Knowing that if you don’t have prospects you won’t have customers, I plunged head to foot into this “3-foot rule” concept like most new marketers do. To put it bluntly, what I experienced was disgusting! Even when someone gave me the ‘right words to say’ or told me ‘how to get people interested in what I offered’ it always felt slimy and self-focused.
The reality is, the 3-foot rule can be self-focused because it doesn’t take into consideration any of the standard business 101 practices of demographics, psychographics or customer desires. In other words, it doesn’t take into consideration that the woman I am about to speak to might not be interested in hunting equipment. She might not have one male relative in her life who hunts and very few friends who would fit the product I’m looking to market. Therefore, she would not understand what I was offering and would miss the conversation altogether. There is a skill that needs to be learned for this to work well.
Business 101
Business 101 would teach you to seek out those who are interested in hunting, have parallel interests and a buying pattern that includes hunting goods. It would not include harassing friends, family or neighbors to see if they might like to take an interest in said hunting gear.
And… we wonder why the average person in network marketing makes less than $500 per month and many people who ‘try’ to find success in the industry plain and simple… DON’T! They need to learn a few skills.
Introduce the world of social media marketing and we have a VERY big problem on our hands, ladies, and gentlemen! Because social media is completely 100% built on common interests, likes, and desires. If you attempt to apply the 3-foot rule that most people use to an online group of people through social media you will look slimy and at best, like a jerk!
In my early days of network marketing, the only lessons I learned was how to coerce people, manipulate and create a fake image so that you can succeed were just some of the lessons learned and regretted. I also learned that if you said things to people in just the right way, they would do what you wanted. So control was another lesson learned. That was totally not my style and I didn’t do well using it either.
I learned that many times I only wanted to work with people who were LIKE me and that judgment existed inside of me that prevented me from working with other people, who were not like me. It was a good thing this lesson was not only learned, but overcome.
My mission when I was in network marketing was to be the best I could be, honestly and genuinely and after hiring the best trainers in the industry, like Ray Higdon, there is so much to learn in the first 90 days of network marketing it was a complete life change that occurred. So please don’t get me wrong when I say that not everyone is cut out for MLM or a home based business such as this. My point is this- it was a life-changing experience for me and a platform for where I am today.
The 3-foot rule is not what got me to where I am today. Nevertheless, there are hundreds of people I meet each month who feel lost because they can’t make ‘it’, the 3-foot rule, work for them. This article is for them.
Brand you
Social media has changed the marketing world as we know it and it’s not going back. Period, end of story. So not only is it faulty to keep marketing in the ways we’ve always done, it’s ridiculous to think that people will welcome or tolerate it.
Social media puts the consumer in control, not the business owner. This is a critical fact that so many people just don’t understand. If you are going to be successful online you’ll have to learn and master the skill of serving, not selling.
The 3-foot rule is based on sales quotas, goals and self-focus. It is not based on helping another person acquire what they have already indicated they want. Social media is the tool for connecting with people who not only want but are LOOKING for what you have.
Social media brings the skill of writing to a whole new level! With email marketing, social media, newsletters, autoresponders, sales pages and MORE, almost anyone with a strong desire to succeed and who is willing to learn can quickly learn this skill and succeed!
There’s no phone prospecting and if you don’t want to tell your friends, neighbors or relatives, you don’t have to!
Business 101 demands however that you realize to make any money online, you’ll have to work. Most of the ‘cake walks’ you’ll find online are illegitimate and most of the ‘get rich’ plans out there are just plain ridiculous.
But if you’re willing to work and you’re willing to give it a try, you can learn to serve others, write words and prosper, all from the comfort of your home!
The 3-Foot rule has been abolished with the honesty, integrity and ‘Enchantment’ as Guy Kawasaki puts it, of the internet. Learn how to market with our feeling for a pulse on every person you see – Draw people to you – it is true Grab the details here.
My friends, we can’t keep doing what we’ve always done and expected for things to change.
We all have a message to share with the world – lets get started!
Angela Brooks Author
Email: Contact Angela
Blog: Retired Nurse talks business
Facebook Page: AngelaBrooksBiz
Twitter: @angelabrooks
Great article, Angela it screams the truth. “Make a list of all of your friends and family and call them now!” I duck when I see this and know by your teachings that there is a better way. Looking forward to the call and thank you!
Wow, I’m inspired. This sounds like my style of helping people.
Angela is such a trailblazer in everything that she does. She says exactly what she does and who she is. So, I am definitely looking forward to learn from you Angela!
So agree….can’t wait for the class!
It is so true, things are not the same now as they used to be.
Looking forward to this call. I have tried the “3ft rule” and hated it – was not successful at it at all (maybe because I hated doing it so much). You are right in that it feels so self-focused and sleazy. I am looking forward to learning a much better way where I can focus on other people’s needs rather than trying to just fulfill a goal.
The 3 foot rule..everyone is a prospect thinking always made me feel like a dog viewing everyone in my path as a pork chop. Was never able to prospect anyone because of that feeling.
The 3 foot rule..everyone is a prospect thinking always made me feel like a dog viewing everyone in my path as a pork chop. Was never able to prospect anyone because of that feeling.
I’ve been burned out in sales for a long time and this is exactly why. I cannot wait to hear what she has to say. I would much rather help someone than sell them something they have no use for.
I’ve been burned out in sales for a long time and this is exactly why. I cannot wait to hear what she has to say. I would much rather help someone than sell them something they have no use for.
Not a good feeling at all – thank goodness there is a better way
Not a good feeling at all – thank goodness there is a better way
I have also tried MLM before and not found it to be a comfortable fit. Helping others discover their value would be something I could LOVE.
Wow it NEVER occurred to me I may not be DESIGNED to prospect! Cause it sure seems like it! LOL Thanks for this powerful article I have a symphony concert tonight. Thanks Angela!
Love learning to Read Their Minds. Thanks Angela.
We have tried MLM after MLM with no success. We hated bothering friends and neighbors with what we were trying to sell. We felt like sleezy-door-to-door salesmen. I’ve seen it work already… I can’t wait for the call!
80% of my new business was generated through social media in 2011 I can’t wait for this class.
This is great! It is true…I just write how things are working for my family and people are coming to me! So cool!
I was attracted to Angela’s training because I have realized for a long time that the 3 ft. rule did not work and was refusing to use it. I like the idea of using social media and blogging.
Looking forward to growing my business using social media!
I am so looking forward to more of your writing!
I always look forward to your blog post
Looking forward to this refreshing way of doing business! I Do not like “selling” to friends and family. Mostly use it for myself and share when I feel it is appropriate.
Looking forward to more of your blog post
Can’t wait to read more from you
I am looking forward to the blog and all the wonderful information that’s going to be coming! Thank you so much. 🙂
I have recently begun to follow Angela, subscribing to her newsletter. She speaks to me! Really looking forward to this call!
Not sure yet Laura – maybe you can call in as soon as you get in the car and listen in – I have done that alot!
Angela has opened up a new world to me.Glad I am on this blog
Can’t wait. Thanks for including me!!!
So glad you finally made it in!
So true! I have paper & pencil ready to take lots of notes from you!!!
I have been in serval network marketing companies and it is always 3 foot rule or the frank list. I am ready to learn new way.
I totally agree with your statement “it always felt slimey and self-focused. ” I feel the same way and know this is one reason I have not yet grown my network marketing to where I want it to be.
I don’t like the 3-foot rule… Please tell me the new/better way to market my products 🙂
Kari
I would love to learn more! Social media has changed the face of democracies and societies. It’s logical it would the same for network marketing.
People on higher rank had said to me that they talked to anyone they came to contact. But that was over 10 years ago where SNS wasn’t really the thing. I’ve talked people online about the products when I feel most appropriate. SNS is where I feel great, and I feel comfortable and confident. (I’m also having fun and making friends). It also let me do the first rule and my desire, to help people. I can’t wait to learn exactly what I have to do next to boost my business via SNS. Thanks for the opportunity!
I’m ready to learn more! Social media has never appealed to me but writing does! All I ever wanted to do is help people
I never felt comfortable with the 3 ft rule when I was in MLM. I look forward to learning more from your class.
Can’t wait. Ready to learn more.
Great I’m curious to find out more about it!
Great article! I have tried the “3 ft rule” and didn’t like it at all. Not my thing! I am so looking forward to the call. You rock!
I think I posted but just in case I “messed up” I am very excited about the blog post with Angela.
Thanks again
Thank you for this opportunity. I am looking forward to learning and growing…
I’m on my way to serial entrepreunerism as well, so I’m ready to hear more. I can’t wait for the call!
I’m willing to learn new ways that will provide help to all. You never know when that may happen. Looking forward to the information on January 31st.
This is the year it all changes for me! I can’t wait to learn how to impact more people without a 3ft ‘limit’ and watch them be blessed as well.
Thank you for offering this!
I need to find an easier way to market. I am looking forward to Jan. 31st.
I feel as though I am a bit behind the eight ball with not being immersed in online marketing. Terry
Can’t wait for more from this blog!
Can’t wait!!
I KNEW I wasn’t meant for MLM!!! Looking forward to the class…..
Whew! I was relieved to read your thoughts on the “3 foot rule” because if you had said “It works”, I was going to run screaming in the other direction. I’ve always cringed when I’ve heard this in MLM. I don’t want other people treating me that way, so there’s no way I’m doing that to others. Can’t wait to hear more. Excited for new, fresh ideas that will work in today’s marketplace.
I’m looking forward to learning something new and taking the knowledge learned to the next level. Can’t wait for more!
I agree, not everyone is right for your business…I really liked this article.
Poppy Simpson
Looking forward to this call because I’m ready to take my business up a notch. Glad the 3 foot rule isn’t the topic.
In the article where it says, “What if you were meant to write…” Absolutely! That has been my passion for years but I didn’t know what to do with it. This call and future events is what will finally give me the specifics I need to succeed with people who won’t yell at me, but will teach, guide, and encourage me. Thanks for doing this!
Awesome article! Can’t wait to hear more on the blog. I love the idea of connecting with people’s real needs – not just not to feel slimey, but because I really do want my business to be a blessing. I don’t want people to buy crap they won’t use or can’t afford; I want any product or service I provide to be something that truly provides value to others.
Blessings,
Pauline
I am very interested in learning more.
Great article. I can’t wait to hear more. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to learn more.
Great article Thank you for sharing Cant wait to hear your class
I have never been comfortable with the 3-foot-rule. It seemed self serving rather than from a place of caring & sharing. I shared what I knew based on what they said and still found there were those that assumed they were in the 3-foot-net even when just sharing that aspect of myself that was excited about the product and what it can do without any agenda.or attacment to what they did with it. I considered it planting seeds. What I have found is a few seeds are starting to sprout, but a small percentage with what I am doing. I am looking forward to finding out if I am on the right track with just some fine tuning needed or whether I’m looking for sprouts in a field I’ve tended, but the seeds I planted are in some other field. Looking forward to this class!!
I posted a comment before & my Blackberry rebooted itself after a long time. My message seems to have gotten lost in the ethers. I never felt comfortable with the 3-foot-rule. I simply planted seeds by sharing information based on what they said and without attachment to what they did with. While some of those seeds are starting to spout, but a small percentage. I am looking forward to finding out what I can do differently to increase my results while remaining in integrity with who I am.
Great article! Can’t wait for the next post!
I am so excited!
Love love love this article! I am so excited cant wait to hear more!!
Spot ON! Thanks- looking forward to the next post.
Steve
Very excited for you. Technology is wonderful and social media could be a wonderful way to connect with the right people, if we only knew the proper way.
Can’t wait for more on this blog! I KNOW this is the way I am running my business and it can only get better from here! Thank you Angela for joining forces so we will break all records currently held! You are doing a great job already, can’t wait to see what happens once we are all learning what you hace already learned! Woohoo!
Really looking forward to this class and so happy to be working with you 2 great gals. I have so much to learn and promise to be a sponge soaking it all up!
I think the 3 feet rule and the 100 people call list are for the birds; I’d rather talk or write.
How welcome to hear someone say, “here’s how to succeed” and not be self-focused. Looking forward to the class.
Thank you for sharing this article! I was especially grateful to see the note that perhaps I wasn’t meant to do network marketing. And though I love Young Living Essential Oils, in my heart, I know I was meant to teach about them and natural healing principles. So I am going to learn to write about what I love!!
I think that the 3 foot rule (and others like it – making 100 people lists, etc) are for the birds. Way to demoralizing. I am looking forward to hearing about the alternative
Great article! I am excited to learn more. Thank you Angela in leading the way!
This is a great article, the 3 foot rule was the reason why I gave up a few years ago on trying to start my own business, Im looking forward to learning more from you!!!
The three-foot rule is one meant to be broken! I enjoy sharing my business professionally with qualified people I meet, however; verbally vomiting on any person I encounter is a quick way to become a pariah. Angela way is a powerful addition to a home business repertoire. Am excited to hear more!
Have you ever considered that maybe you were not designed to prospect? YES! Have you ever thought through the possibility that you were not designed to do MLM? YES! Have you ever pondered the notion that maybe, you were created for something more? YES!I can’t wait for this class! Thank you!
So honest and true. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for sharing this information!
I am looking forward to more. Thank you,
Angela is great, I am looking forward to learning more!
Looking forward to the blog
Great artice
Hi Angela….great wisdom thx for sharing your gifts with the world
Rev pat
My husband and I first met Angela in a limo on the way to the airport
after a Dani Johnson weekend. I can’t wait to hear how she has helped everyone
Looking forward to learning from you!
Can’t wait to learn more I have my pens ready.
3 foot rule!?
“Hey, I know you’re buying groceries, but wow is that child ever cute! Hey, I’m super positive!!!….Try my shakes!”
FOREVER, that’ll be how you met that person, and when they realize it’s multi level, they’ll realize “I WAS PROSPECTED!” …wayyyy prefer people who were looking for me!
3 foot rule is as bad as me dropping. It’s just so shameless and not even real! Who does that!? If you desire RESPECT and to be looked up to, stop sinking so low!!! DO what leaders do! I’ve done it a couple of times, but imagine living like that? lol….
I love all this great energy, been following Angela for a while now 🙂
CONGRATS ANGELA ON ALL YOUR SUCCESS!! WOOO HOOO!!!
Great info Angela can’t wait to hear more from you later !
People who are greedy may make money in the short term, but it doesn’t last in the long term. The 3-foot rule is a very selfish approach that people will see through, no matter how sincere you sound. I see it in business all the time, if you sincerely want to help someone, they will pick up on it and remain a customer for life.
Looking forward to more post
Inviting article to read, I’m looking forward to learning more!
So much of what was written in the article resonated with me. I really want to go ahead financially but to be honest MLM…i dislike big time at present! I do not like prospecting….but at the same time I am running a business that needs to attract clients and I need to learn how to do that in a positive way. Will look forward to the call today. I have soooo much to learn.
Never did like the 3ft. rule. Just seemed so unprofessional and sneaky.
Looking forward to this blog… and learning better how to serve others….
Looking forward to your classes
I am looking forward to your training! This article definitely sheds new light on my thinking about being successful in a WFH business.
Really looking forward to this blog and so happy I found a great gal. Can’t wait for more!
I’m excited to always learn more. I have my two pens and paper ready…wishing I knew shorthand 🙂
I am so excited to participate and really glad I read this from Sweden?
I love being others focused. That’s why Angela rocks!
Three foot rule!
I always HATED the 3ft Rule when I ventured into MLM way back in the day. I’m still involved in sales, but no cold calling, warm chatter, or whatever you want to call your prospecting. I look forward to the class.
Have you ever considered that maybe you were not designed to prospect? Yes cannot wait to hear what you have to day.
Looking forward to what you have to share. You put your focus on how you can help other to succeed and that’s priceless…
Amazing….now I see.
Thank you! And THATS why I never did MLM and knew it just wasn’t my ship to sail. Thank you. Looking forward to the content of this call.
I am eager to have you share your knowledge with me. Rock on Angela.
So very true to the core! Thanks Angela 🙂
I never liked the “3-foot rule.” I prefer to have people look for me, instead of me chasing them down. I believe this helped to make people not truly understand the concept and benefits of Network Marketing. People don’t like to be sold anything.
not near as fun as what I am doing now