Dumb and Dumber – What are My Chances?

Dumb and Dumber, a hilarious cult film of the 90s featured Jim Carey and co-star Lauren Holly.  In this clip Mary tells Lloyd his chances of them ending up together is 1 in a million.

Speaking of dumb and dumber, people gamble away millions of dollars each year on lottery tickets and slot machines with the hopes of hitting the jackpot.  I’ll never forget a business trip to Las Vegas several years ago. While finishing up dinner at the casino I heard bells, whistles and cheers hailing from the gambling floor. A few minutes later, I witnessed the aftermath of a 10 million dollar slot machine winner. Whoa, now that was impressive. Everyone showed up with their hands out, including; security, family, friends , girl friend and even the IRS.

I wonder if he’s still a millionaire? “Pity the man who inherits a million dollars and who isn’t a millionaire. Here’s what would be pitiful: If your income grew and you didn’t.” Jim Rohn

Don’t leave your network marketing business to chance.  For Jim Carey, prospecting his dream girl from a position of neediness and outright desperation was a definite turn-off. None of us enjoy walking past five desperate car salesmen unless you’re a glutton for punishment.  Desperation isn’t a good business posture.

When you’re prospecting for business, learn how to increase your odds for success. Some prospects may give you the impression  they’re interested when in fact, they’re  not. What I’ve discovered over the years is like Mary, people don’t enjoy saying NO. At least not right away. Better to break it to you easy. Your hopes could be tired up for weeks or even months with lots of busy activity and what appears to be progress. In fact, you’re sure this person would be great for the business. Weeks go by as you wine and dine your prospect but the end result is NO.  Even worse, your prospect mysteriously vanishes.

Increase your odds of this NOT happening again.   Qualify them first.  Ask them if they’re looking and if they’ll look at your information right away, like TODAY!  Also,  pursue more than one person at a time. Create a continuous flow of prospects because everyone’s timing is different. Your sense of urgency may not line up with theirs.  Create tons of activity and keep moving forward. With lots of irons in the fire you’ll be confident, not desperate.

Take charge.  Set the pace during the discovery process with your prospects. Serve your prospects but don’t jump through hoops for them. Give them homework and notice if they complete it in time.  Find out ASAP if your business or product is a fit for them.  Ask qualifying questions. Interview your potential business prospects.  It’s good to give them permission to say no.  “Hi Bob, this may not be for you but…” Get referrals. Ask them who they know that’s always wanted to start their own business or has previous direct sales experience.

Success is never a random chance incident. Be consistent and persistent. Increase your odds by planning, using time wisely and following a measurable process.  By the way, one in a million is pretty good odds compared to the Power ball jackpot with a 1 in 175 million chance.