When a friend gets involved in a multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme, it can be a tricky conversation to navigate. On one hand, you want to be supportive of their entrepreneurial endeavors, but on the other hand, you may have concerns about the legitimacy of the business or the impact it may have on your friendship. Here are some strategies for handling conversations effectively when a friend is involved in an MLM scheme.

First and foremost, it’s essential to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. Avoid being judgmental or critical, as this can put your friend on the defensive and make them more likely to dismiss your concerns. Instead, start by expressing your support for their business venture, and then gently express your concerns.

For example, you could say:

I’m really proud of you for taking the leap and starting your own business. I’m a little worried about the potential risks involved with MLMs, can you tell me more about what drew you to this opportunity?

Alternatively, if your friend is pushing you to join the business or buy products, you can say:

I appreciate your enthusiasm for the business, but I’m not really in a position to join or make a purchase right now. I’m happy to support you in other ways, though! Let’s catch up soon.

If your friend is using high-pressure sales tactics or making exaggerated claims, you can say:

I understand that you’re excited about the business, but I’m not comfortable with the way you’re presenting it. Can we focus on having a more balanced conversation about the pros and cons?

It’s also essential to set boundaries and prioritize your own needs in the conversation. If your friend is dominating the conversation with talk of their business, you can say:

Hey, I love hearing about your business, but I’d love to catch up about what’s been going on in your personal life too. How’s your family/friends/hobbies going?

Or, if your friend is pushing you to attend meetings or events, you can say:

I appreciate the invite, but I’m not really interested in attending a meeting about the business. Let’s schedule a time to grab coffee and catch up just the two of us.

Another common challenge in these conversations is when your friend starts to make unsolicited advice or tries to recruit you into the business. In this case, you can say:

I appreciate your willingness to help, but I’m really not interested in joining the business. Can we focus on supporting each other in other ways?

Or, if your friend is making unrealistic claims about the business, you can say:

I understand that you’re excited about the possibilities, but I’ve done some research and haven’t found any evidence to support those claims. Can we take a closer look at the data together?

It’s also important to be aware of your own emotional triggers and boundaries in the conversation. If you start to feel uncomfortable or pressured, it’s okay to say:

Hey, I appreciate your passion for the business, but I’m starting to feel a little uncomfortable. Can we take a break and revisit this conversation another time?

Remember, the goal of the conversation is not to convince your friend to leave the MLM scheme, but to maintain a healthy and respectful friendship. By approaching the conversation with empathy, setting boundaries, and being honest about your concerns, you can navigate these tricky conversations with ease.

Here are some additional example sentences you can use in your conversation:

I’m happy to help you brainstorm ways to promote your business, but I’m not comfortable promoting it myself.

I’m not really interested in buying any products right now, but thanks for offering.

I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I’m a little skeptical about the business model. Can we discuss the pros and cons?

I’m not really comfortable with the emphasis on recruiting new members. Can we focus on the actual products or services?

I’m worried that the business is taking a toll on your relationships/health/finances. Have you considered seeking outside help?

I’m not really convinced that this business is a good fit for me. Can we talk about other ways I can support you?

I appreciate your confidence in the business, but I’m not ready to make a decision right now. Can we catch up again soon?

I’m not really comfortable with the sales tactics being used. Can we discuss more transparent ways to promote the business?

I’m worried that the business is causing more harm than good. Have you considered the potential risks and consequences?

I’m not really sure that I agree with the business’s values or mission. Can we discuss our differing opinions?

By being honest, empathetic, and setting boundaries, you can navigate conversations with friends involved in MLM schemes with ease. Remember to prioritize your own emotional well-being and maintain a healthy, respectful dynamic in the friendship.

Be kind ❤