In network marketing, ethical practices sometimes fall into a gray area, leading to heated debates within the community. This article isn’t about pointing fingers at any specific person, group, or company. Instead, it’s a call to address a prevalent issue that affects us all: the apparent hypocrisy concerning the recruitment of distributors.
Understanding the Controversy
It’s a familiar situation in network marketing: companies and leaders rejoice when new teams come over from competitors, but when their own distributors leave for other companies, the reaction is starkly different. This contrast raises an important question: Is it hypocritical for companies to accept practices for themselves that they criticize when others do the same?
The 'How You Leave' Argument
I know many of you will nod in agreement and say it’s not about the act of leaving, but how you leave that counts. While this sounds reasonable, the reality is almost always messier. Almost inevitably, when a leader departs—no matter how thoughtfully they exit—the situation escalates. If other leaders choose to follow, it often erupts into a frenzy of accusations, with both sides proclaiming the other as unethical. This scenario is rarely void of conflict, regardless of the departing leader’s intentions or actions.
Understanding Why Leaders Leave
Leaders in network marketing leave for a multitude of reasons, ranging from upline issues to company culture misalignments, financial reasons, or ethical concerns. Sometimes, it’s simply the pursuit of a fresh start. As a generic coach, consultant, and keynote speaker, I’ve seen this play out countless times.
Personal Reflection on Leaders Leaving
Reflecting on my time as a distributor, it was initially tough when leaders left my team. I took it personally, feeling it as a threat to my income and dreams. Yet, I chose to help those who left, proving that my care for them extended beyond their role on my team. It’s about maintaining genuine relationships, even if the path diverges.
Maintaining Relationships is Key
Maintaining relationships, regardless of company affiliation, is fundamental. Our industry intertwines money with relationships uniquely, which can cloud judgment. If we can’t maintain friendships with those who move to other companies, it begs the question of whether the relationship was genuine or merely transactional. With that said I do fully well understand that although most prefer to not burn bridges sometimes it is absolutely necessary.
Moving Forward with Ethical Clarity
Now, removed from any company, the sensitivity of these issues remains clear. It’s a delicate subject that requires open dialogue and a readiness to embrace diverse perspectives.
Realistic Solutions to Ethical Challenges
So what’s my realistic solution? Unfortunately, just teaching what I think is ethical won’t do much, as the majority of the time both parties feel they are in the right. The simplest solution I can offer is to actually live the abundance mentality rather than just preach it. When someone leaves your company or team, stop focusing on the negative and giving them your negative thoughts and attention. Use the experience to make you better! As Jim Rohn said, “Don’t wish it were easier, wish you were better.” Play offense and focus on how you can progress and improve the cards you have been dealt. Tony Robbins says the definition of happiness is progress. Find ways to progress. Find the blessing in the trial. And lastly, don’t get dirty with the pigs.
One Response
Yep! “Don’t get dirty with the pigs.” Because no one will know the difference. My best advice: Try all you can to leave any company with “class”.