In a recent Facebook post, I touched on a belief that has sparked some debate: the idea that success in Network Marketing/ MLM (Multi-Level Marketing) is more about the lack of a clear path or ‘track to run on’ rather than a deficit in hard work or motivation. This concept deserves a deeper dive, so let’s explore it further.

I recall Dale Calvert first discussing this, and his breakdown resonated with me. He suggested that people fall into three categories regarding financial security and independence.

pie chart showing the 3 - 27 -70 percent success in network marketing model

Three Groups of People

Firstly, there’s a large group, about 70%, who, for various reasons—be it work ethic, financial decisions, or sheer bad luck—may never achieve financial independence. This isn’t a judgment of their character; it’s just the reality of their situation. And frankly, there’s not much we can do to alter this.

Then, at the other end of the spectrum, are the 3%. These individuals are naturally endowed with the mindset and skills that almost guarantee financial success, regardless of their endeavor. They are the ones who can be dropped into any program and swiftly navigate their way to success, with or without a structured system or training. They’re the natural-born entrepreneurs.

This leaves us with the crucial 27%. This group possesses a strong work ethic, but they’re not natural entrepreneurs. They’re not the ones who will spontaneously create systems or intuitively find their way. However, if you provide them with a clear path, a ‘track to run on’, they’ll not only follow it—they’ll excel. They are willing to put in the work, learn, and grow a business, but they need guidance and a proven system.

Success in Network Marketing is Like a Franchise

Think of it like a restaurant franchise. The creators of the franchise, the ones who build the business from the ground up, are like the 3%. They’re the innovators, the natural entrepreneurs. But then you have the franchisees—the 27%. They may not invent the business model, but given the system and structure, they can take it and turn it into a thriving business. They thrive on a well-established track.

In network marketing, it’s these 27% that we can genuinely help succeed. They are the individuals who might struggle if left entirely to their own devices but can achieve remarkable success when provided with the right tools and systems.

So, while I certainly welcome the 3% when they come along, my primary focus is on empowering the 27%. By giving them access to a proven system, we can help them maximize their potential and achieve the financial success they’re capable of.

To learn how to incorporate this model in your business, I have another article, “Building a Team That Sicks”


If You Want Network Marketing Success, Our Team has a Track to Run On.

We show you how to build an audience, how to captivate and romance that audience and how to convert those folks into customers and business partners. We’re growing at the rate of hundreds of new reps monthly and new people are having success with our program. From social media posts to videos to calls and Zooms, we show you how to get the job done. If you’d like to know more, send me an email at steve@missingcomma.net or reach out to me on Facebook and I’ll show you what we have.


Steve Norris
Steve Norris

Looking for the comma that's missing from your retirement accounts? So was I. Together, let's fix that. We'll build cash flow through a side-business, use that money to invest and create wealth and build a legacy for our families.