Frank VanderSloot, became a success story what he took Melaleuca from the brink of bankruptcy and facilitated its growth through some very great Network Marketing Leaders.
However, in the process he has ruled in some cases out of fear and intimidation.
As a former executive of a successful network marketing company I fully understand the strategic partnership that must be forged between the distributor and the company.
And in the last few days I have written about how EGO’s, both distributors and company executives can get in the way of the good of the profession.
But, this new Idaho law really takes the cake, and causes one to ponder if distributor’s are truly “INDEPENDENT” or are they “Statutory Employees.” If the IRS decides that Independent MLM Distributors are really some type of employee of the company, we could see a huge change in the entrepreneurial spirit of this great profession.
To read this new Idaho MLM Law called the Melaleuca Bill, read here…
And if you would like to see a little more on how Frank has branched out into multiple streams of income you can check out his business holdings.
Cattle Ranching:
Radio Stations:
Blackfoot, KSSL(AM), KFTZ(FM) and KTHK(FM) Idaho Falls, Idaho
PRICE: $13.5 million
BUYER: Riverbend Communications LLC
(Frank L. Vandersloot, manager); owns no other stations
SELLER: Bonneville International
Seems to me, if the owner of Melaleuca can be in multiple streams of income, then he should allow his distributors to do the same.
I would love to hear some comments on this post.
Never Give Up,
Troy Dooly
The Navigator
Hi Troy:
First, let me say how much I enjoy this site!
The quality and timeliness of your information is second to none.
I do have to say that, after 20+ years as a Professional Business Affiliate in this great Network Marketing industry, it still continues to amaze me when it comes to the heavy “imbalance” in the Policies & Procedures between Company Owners and their Business Affiliates!
Nothing much has changed — the “companies” own the assets — the “companies” own the downlines — the “companies” make all the decisions — the “companies” have all the control.
RISKS – This doesn’t mean that all companies are BAD – No! But it does mean that we are closely tied to their INTEGRITY – and we better pray that they “never invoke” the many GOTCHAS in those P&Ps!
Because of this, I have always coached my Business Partners to ((1))- never “wrap themselves around” their company[s] – always keep ‘at arms length’ — ((2))- always “diversity” — and ((3))- always pursue “self-branding”.
In any event – many thanks Troy, for being who you are, and for your excellent leadership in, and contribution to, this industry.
Sincerely / Peter A.
Peter Arnold, CLU, CFC / Founder
Business Achievers Academy / Canada
It’s important to understand that Melaleuca’s pitch is that the financial opportunity is a way to supplement your current income. “Don’t quit your day job.” Frank says. Policy 20, of which you are referring, I know very well, sounds harsh and all encompassing but it makes sense on a few different levels. First, it’s next to impossible to build one successful network marketing business, let alone two. In that regard it’s protects people from their own misguides ideas about multiple streams of income. Second, Melaleuca does a great job of distinguishing itself from “that industry”, semantics I know, but they take every possible step to separate themselves from an industry that outsiders view as a pyramid and that even insiders like you and I end up having a “I’m sick of MLM” moment. Melaleuca’s policies are strict, but Franky know best. Additionally I don’t think Melaleuca would care if you opened a car wash with your brother who is also in Melaleuca. The policy is more so a deterrent against magic juice, miracle water, overvalued coins and obsolete technology creeping into Melaleuca, which as a customer I can say is a real company with a real product, it makes sense to be a customer.
Royce Reed
Business Development
Rastelli Direct
(877) 686-EARN
Royce,
Thank you for stopping by and adding value to this community.
You add some valid points!