This post may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here.

According to the Direct Selling Association, 15.1 million people in the U.S. are involved in direct selling. That’s a lot of people in this industry, and new people are joining party plan companies every day.

More consultants means more competition for you.

In fact, competitors are everywhere – on different teams, working with different companies, or even on YOUR team.

Don’t sweat it though. Friendly competition can be healthy.

Not Everyone In The Industry Will Like You

Of course, not all competitors are friendly; some will view you as the enemy simply because you’re not in their downline or with the same company. You may even have some of your own team members or customers who don’t think you’re all that wonderful.

So what?

Just accept that you can please some of the people some of the time; but you’ll never please all of the people all of the time.

And when it comes right down to it, the only people you really have to please are your customers.

If you are running a business of integrity, you just keep doing what you’re doing. Don’t change who you are or what you are doing simply because someone doesn’t like it. Change if you need to for continuous improvement; otherwise be true to yourself.

Unfortunately, not everyone operates with the same principles.
Some people will try to sabotage your business.
Some people will call you a liar.
Some will try to get into an argument with you on a public forum.
Some people may even do something that you could never imagine.
So what?

Keep on keeping on and do not let others determine the fate of YOUR business. Don’t spend too much time worrying what others think or say about you – and NEVER stoop to their level. Remember, those who talk badly about you only make themselves look ugly. By taking the high road, you can keep your integrity in tact.

Not Everyone Outside Of The Industry Will Like You

This one is most likely, the one that most of us run across. You are so excited that you are starting a new business, and you can’t wait to tell your friends and family the good news!

That is, until you hear the famous words, “Oh, isn’t that one of those pyramid schemes?!” Ouch.

Needless to say, our profession has a bad reputation, and it is certainly the little foxes that spoil the vine on this one. Those distributors who have relegated to tactics of bothering, desperation, bullying and breathing down your neck to make a sale are plenty out there. You know the type.

But, just because this is how SOME business owners in this profession have chosen to operate doesn’t mean that you have to! In fact, DON’T!

Conduct yourself 100% differently than the majority of other people, and eventually they will start to change their tune. Instead of harassing or being aggressive, simply share your passion and enthusiasm for the products and build relationships, but don’t expect it all to happen right away.

It may take some time for them to come around, but consistency and kindness go a long way! And, if they never change their tune, it’s ok. There are ALOT of fish in the sea!

It Doesn’t Matter What They Think

All that said, lest you think direct sales is all cat fights and mud slinging, you will find that most people in this industry are inherently good.

Like you, they’re simply too busy running their own business to be all up in your business. Most are very helpful and supportive, and will freely give advice when asked. When you do run across those Negative Nellies, just walk away.

You should be aware, though, that the more involved you are in your business, the bigger the target on your back. The best way to deal with competition and those who have made it clear they are not a fan, is to politely ignore them and focus your time and attention on growing your business and delivering exceptional customer service.

As in everything you do – church, school, work, and even family gatherings – you will meet some people who like you and some who don’t. Concentrate on building relationships with people with whom you have a connection, and ignore the ones who are just looking for trouble.

You’ll have much more success – and a lot less stress – in every area of your life and business.

To Your Success,
xoxo Leslie