I am first to accept that some of the worst scammers pass through the MLM industry, many are presently behind bars. This happens all because the business is very lucrative and the urge of unethical greed. Greed is good. Who can be against wanting more but not at the expense/hurt of others?
There have been many moments of distress regarding the acceptance and implementation of the model but I continue to be superb. There have been many defining moments in the last two weeks which have actually given me the feeling of profound and enduring comfort, namely: (1) introducing, on a number of occasions with tremendously flattering results, the ManOBiz Matrixâ„¢ as a Shepherding (action planning, gap analysis and monitoring) tool for enterprises; (2) the prospect of an engagement to train potential shepherds in Trinidad and Tobago in the rudiments of the shepherding process which mitigates the risk of business failure; (3) achieving recognition of the model in a Caribbean audience as having potential for solving problems not only in the Caribbean but beyond; (4) the opportunity to present the model to a Commonwealth audience later in the year; (5) getting the ear of a cabinet minister to convince him that the model can be a catalyst for diversified economic development in Barbados.
It is my sincere opinion that if there is ever an industry that can bring Caribbean people together, it is MLM! It is time for a Conference on MLM in St. Lucia. Welcome to the industry with a genuine level playing field. The success stories are not only limited to the well connected but from the little guys as well.
I will like to invite persons who have been involved in Multi Level Marketing and those who are currently building their businesses to share their experiences in no more than 300 words with me. I will be pleased to give credit to individuals for their contribution. MLM is good for everyone whether seeking out quality products or services and it is time those who know at first hand that it is a legitimate business – take a stand.
As an example of partnerships between social partners, in the early 1990s, a tripartite Barbados Social Partnership (government, trade unions and the private sector) was formally established to deal with the consequences of the economic crisis and to implement the Structural Adjustment Programme with the IMF without need for currency devaluation. The first Protocol agreed upon and focused on wage and price policy as well as fiscal adjustment but also established the National Productivity Board. On May 2, 2011, the Social Partnership signed its sixth protocol for a period of two years.
The Caribbean Centre for Organizational Excellence (CCOE) presented their inaugural conference in Barbados on March 12, 2013. This year’s conference, hosted under the theme “Achieving Excellence in Caribbean Organizations”, examined how organisational excellence contributes to organisational performance, the economy, trade and brand development. The rounds of discussions in the four working sessions of the conference were designed to go beyond examination to specific recommendations and actions.
You would have never imagined that those financially successful persons were once Elite Producers in the MLM industry. Many High Ranking Professionals, Hoteliers, Realtors,
Manufacturers, etc. were involved in Multi Level Marketing/Network Marketing and a new group is currently establishing themselves. So it is fair to say that MLM is not only for the little guys, many big guys have had their day in the industry. However, today, many due to lack of knowledge feel that the industry is only for the underdogs.
Lalu concluded by reporting on the implementation of the Revitalisation of Bridgetown Initiative, the long term goal of which is to transform Bridgetown, our capital city, into a green city of diversity, operating 24/7, blending commerce with culture, entertainment, hospitality, accommodation and heritage tourism.
It is time the leaders in the Industry start talking with each other and begin to make representation to Government for waiver of custom levies on Imports that are sourced under the MLM business model.
There are stories where the MLM industry has made significant contributions to communities by contributing to training, employment and the economy. The MLM business is a home based business where self motivated, purpose driven individuals prosper.
I see MLM as a boost to struggling organizations, many relying on government for subvention when they can generate their own funds through MLM. I feel there is an urgent need for a National Convention on MLM. This initiative is likely to sensitise leaders at all levels whose decision can impact upon the employment situation and the economy as a whole.