Network marketing is different than traditional jobs. I am sure you will agree. In the traditional workplace a worker shows up for an interview, establishes that he or she has certain skills that the employer wants, and bingo you are hired. You may not be making what you think you are worth but nonetheless, you have a job.

Network marketing seems so easy. Talk to a few people, they sign up, you make a bundle! Not so fast. It really isn't that easy when done using the standard MLM formula. Let's break down network marketing into the most important skill sets.

1. Making your list... Sounds easy enough. Put together a comprehensive list of the people you know. Make sure contact information is included and rate them as to how you think they will react to an MLM approach. Will they be big time business builders? Do they have any successful business experience? Or will they be part of your customer base? Simple enough. Most people can do a good job with this, especially if you keep after them.

2. Approaching these people...More on that later

3. Giving the business presentation...In my experience, most people eventually do a great job in giving the business presentation, especially when they realize shorter is better. And, if you aren't comfortable with giving presentations, whether it be one on ones, or in groups there is usually someone in your organization that is great at it. So this step is covered.

4. The close...This tends to be a sticking point as well, however, a third party, in many cases can do the close as well.

That's 3 out of 4, 75% success. However, the 25% that is missing is the MOST CRITICAL aspect of traditional network marketing. When you call your prospects, are you filled with a sense of dread? Are you nervous, wondering what they will think of you? Especially if you already have a good job. Do you hope and pray that no one is home when you call? Welcome to the club. I hated approaching people too, so you are definitely not alone.

Many network marketing companies produce tapes, CD's, DVD's, and the like to help make your approaches easier. Unfortunately, no matter what vehicle you use, you STILL have to approach them. "Hey, Bob would you take a look at this CD and let me know what you think about it? Bob then says, what is this all about? It's not one of those pyramid scams is it? And, at that point you feel like one of those airline commercials saying to yourself....Did you ever find yourself wanting to just get away?

Unfortunately folks, traditional approaches to network marketing require approaching people. No matter how fancy the DVD you still have to make that first contact......UNLESS you have a system in place that teaches you how to market yourself in a way that prospects get in touch with you first! When that happens you are in a position of authority, a consultant if you will. They want to see what you have because they are interested in you.