The Big Beginner’s Boo-Boo!

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A beginner or newcomer to the “inner circle” of mail order is originally introduced to us by some form of national advertising outside the circle. When they find us, many are overjoyed to discover this secret little hidden world of “inner circle” mail order dealers. But with joy comes much skepticism because they have had to kiss a lot of toads (rip-offs and junk mail) just to finally discover the hard-working class of people who normally do what they promise.

Unfortunately, since so many people are involved in 100’s of different network marketing programs these days, this is the first thing newcomers are hit with. To them - each program is something new (since they have no prior experience). They have no one to train them and are pretty much left on their own.

When they find a program that interests them, they will join and begin promoting it. The program developer should instruct any new member in his/her program that it is advisable to market the program “outside” the inner circle - then proceed to teach them how. (Remember, the more these new members sell, the more profit you make; so teach them how to sell it and make a profit. It’s to your advantage!)

Newcomers are then directed to print and mail their circulars to people who consistently advertise in the mail order publications. The only problem with this is that we have all seen these programs dozens and dozens of times. The newcomer doesn’t know this and can’t understand why they aren’t getting any orders. Instead - they’re getting Big Mails from us, trying to sell them on our own programs. It’s a vicious cycle!

Newcomers can help themselves by writing or calling experienced people who are in the mail order business already. The ones that put their telephone number on their ads are an open invitation that they expect phone calls from people like you. Never be afraid to speak up when you need help. There are a great many of us who would love to help you. I know you are probably scared or apprehensive about calling one of the experienced dealers. You think you will ask “dumb” questions and appear “stupid.” Nothing could be further from the truth!

You have to remember that we get phone calls from beginners all day long. We know what most beginners ask and the areas of mail order most of them have trouble with. Don’t be afraid. No question is stupid to ask because a question is the first step to learning.

So the BIG beginner’s boo-boo is in not arming himself or herself with information and not keeping in contact with people who have more experience than they do. A longtime mail order dealer can actually advance your business ahead by 10 years! How? By sharing their experience with you and telling you of the mistakes they made so you can avoid them too.

But also use wisdom when talking to dealers. Not everyone’s advice will be best for you. One mail order may tell you that you have to mail 5,000 pieces of mail per month just to make a decent living. Then you may find this line of “hype” is only a plug to get you to order their printing and mailing service. Another dealer may try and get you to join their latest multi-level program. Don’t be afraid to say “no” if you don’t want to join. Find out how much money the dealer is making in the program first. If he or she isn’t making anything why should you join?

In addition - remember that actions speak louder than words. If a dealer has been in business for 20 years and they are not making any money - something is definitely wrong. Find a growing and prosperous dealer who can give you solid and valid advice. One dealer we highly recommend who knows just about everything is Graphico Publishing, P.O. Box 488, Bluff City, TN 37618, phone: (423)652-2307. Of course there are others, but this company is easy to talk to and is very experienced with beginners.

If you find it hard to just call someone up and begin talking, try writing a letter first. Say something similar to: “I am new to the inner-circle of mail order and would like to obtain some advice. Since you have been in business for quite some time and are well known, could we schedule a time when I could call you? Please write and let me know as I am very interested in getting my business up and running. I value your time and effort and look forward to our phone meeting and discussion.” Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope to show your appreciation in hearing from them. This way, you’ll feel more comfortable when you call since you know they’ll be expecting to hear from you at a certain time.

After this discussion, contacting others will become easier and your experience will skyrocket!