I have often asked myself why it is that so many direct network marketers are still locked into the old ways of doing business and not taking advantage of all that the internet offers to build multiple streams of income. It’s probably because that’s how they learned the business and they have never taken the time to consider any options.

Today many things have changed in the direct network marketing business. Anyone who has been in the business for awhile knows how much it has changed. It’s harder to find good qualified leads. There is more competition for leads. New members don’t stick with one opportunity for very long before they are off trying the next big opportunity that comes along. So, you have to find more new prospects to replace the turnover in addition to trying to grow your downline.

While it may seem like you keep falling farther and farther behind, there is a way to dramatically enhance the results you are getting. The solution may seem obvious when you think about it, but very few are actually implementing it. The solution is adopting a business model that combines direct network marketing with affiliate marketing. It will allow you to build a valuable business asset and develop multiple streams of income.

Here’s how it should work. Build a web presence that allows you to build a list of subscribers independent of any direct network marketing opportunity. Provide value to your list by providing education or training in something they are looking for – i.e. starting and building an online home business.

Your list now becomes your most valuable asset – a list that you have developed a relationship with. You now have the basis for multiple streams of income. You can certainly promote your primary business opportunity to them. After all they are on your list because they were trying to start and build they own home business. Now everyone won’t join your business opportunity. But you don’t care because they are on your list and they can still earn you money.

You can also recommend to them as an affiliate, products that would help them build whatever their business might be. There are many very good internet marketing products that you can sell as an affiliate and receive a commission. If done properly it will help to build trust and confidence with your list. Now you have multiple streams of income even when they all don’t join your primary business.

The importance of building that list apart from your primary business opportunity can’t be over emphasized. Your primary business may change. New network marketing opportunities will come up. The one thing that will stay the same is your having a list. They will always be source of income and who knows, if you do move to a new opportunity, they may choose to join you there as well.

Todd Gleason is a frequent author on small business development and internet marketing. You can learn more about the new skills needed for direct network marketing and get a free copy of “7 Secrets to building a Productive Downline” here.