One thing I am learning really fast about network marketing is to develop a thick skin. I'm sure this holds true for any business but with network marketing, you really have to be strong in mind with the types of people you may come across. When you are prospecting, the average person will probably not be interested in what you have to say. Some people have heard of network marketing and due to their impressions about it, will assume that you are trying to con them.
Why Thick Skin Helps
Developing a thick skin simply means that you need to be mentally tough to make it in this business. It is in our nature to want people to like us and like what we have to offer. Therefore, when faced with rejection, some of us tend ot take it personally.
When I first started marketing, I would create newsletters that would go out every once in awhile to people on my list. Some people stayed and some people would unsubscribe. I would get the unsubscribe notifications sent to my email. The first thing I would think was, "what did I do wrong? They must not like what I am sending." I immediately went into the "poor me" mindset wondering how anyone wouldn't like me and my newsletter.
Looking back that was completely silly! I unsubscribe from newsletters all the time - primarily to cut down on email in my inbox. I learned to stop taking every little thing so personally. I also filter out all unsubscribe notifications so I do not receive them in my inbox.
Another example is when I would talk to motivated prospects over the phone and they never sign up the way they said they would. Again, I wondered where I went wrong when the conversation went so well. If you're in network marketing, you will face plenty of that. This is where mental toughness comes in. It makes you learn not to take things personal and to move on. That is what I do anytime I am facing rejection - move on!
Becoming Mentally Prepared
You can develop a tough mindset that will prevent you from feeling sorry for yourself when rejection hits. If you're in network marketing long enough, trust me, you will be hit with enough rejection to make you wonder if it is even worth it. Being mentally tough can help you stick to it and continue to run your business.
Realize rejection will happen - It's a part of any business so come to terms with the fact that you will deal with rejection. Nothing is going to change that so get used to it.
Rejection can make you stronger - You will have people that blow you off and some that will even laugh at your opportunity. Use that negativity to work in your favor. Let it be the fuel you need to keep going every day and reach success.
Change your perception - 90% of the time when you're rejected, it's not you. Most people don't want to try anything new. They don't care about securing their future or owning their own business. Next time you're rejected, take a look at the prospect. They were probably not a good fit for the business to begin with.
Have you faced a lot of rejection in this business or other business in general? How have you dealt with it?