Professional networkers know that MLM thrives when the economy tanks. In effect, network marketing offers a way of surviving a financial crisis.

One of the secrets of network marketing is finding the people who are looking for you. In times of economic distress, a larger percentage of people are searching for extra income.

The key is helping those people find you. Here's six ways to make sure you make those connections:

• Build relationships. Listen closely to the people you meet. Ask questions about their life and their livelihood. Inevitably, they will let you know if they're looking for an opportunity.

• Don't treat people like they're a number. When you start connecting with someone allow the relationship to grow. Don't rush your presentation on them. If you're patient, they'll let you know when they're ready to hear what you have to say. Move any earlier and you're likely to turn them off.

• Get close to people. People join people they know, like and trust. So, be knowable, likable and trustworthy. One good way to accomplish this is to show that you know, like and trust other people. If you want to make friends, be friendly.

• Point to the near future. During shaky times, most people don't need to be reminded of the possibility of losing their job. Make sure, they also understand the importance of having something else on which to rely.

• Point to the distant future. Most people have a negative net worth when they retire. Help people see the wisdom of preparing for that now.

• Be positive. When people constantly hear gloom and doom, a hopeful word goes a long way. You can help people recover their dreams, but they must remember them first.

These strategies provide professional networkers will the tools they need to navigate through tough economic times. Michael Dlouhy's book, Success in 10 Steps, serves as a source for such methods.

Dlouhy has 30 years of experience in the network marketing profession. He knows the ins and outs of how MLM companies work and what it takes to be successful.

Many networkers have used the book to learn how to get ahead in network marketing. They use it to train their downlines to experience similar results. It's especially valuable to anyone looking for ways of surviving a financial crisis.