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In a pitch right now? Words you can use →

Recruiting phrase

What if an MLM pitch says it is not a pyramid scheme?

Also heard as: is it a pyramid scheme · this is not a pyramid · are MLMs pyramid schemes · legal not a pyramid

If you are being pressured right now: You can pause the conversation without debating the opportunity. Ask for written documents, take time away from the pitch, and decide later.

Words to use now Before You Pay

What to do next:

  • Skip the label debate and ask how compensation is actually earned.
  • Ask what share of pay comes from customers who are not participants.
  • Ask what typical participants keep after expenses.

What the phrase usually means

The phrase may be used to reassure a prospective participant that the opportunity is legitimate.

The useful next step is to review the compensation plan, income disclosure, expense expectations, and customer-sales information.

Why it matters before joining

A label does not answer how a specific opportunity works for typical participants.

Written information is more useful than a verbal reassurance when money, purchases, recruiting, or relationships are involved.

Questions to ask in writing

Documents to request with your questions:

  • The current income disclosure or earnings statement.
  • The compensation plan or business plan.
  • A full first-year and recurring expense list.
  • The refund, cancellation, subscription, and inventory return rules.

You can ask to read these away from the pitch before paying, ordering product, joining a subscription, attending a paid event, or contacting friends.

What this does not prove

The phrase does not decide anything about the opportunity. It is a reason to return to written disclosures and public sources.

Related questions

Helpful next pages

Slow the conversation down

Check the numbers and documents

Sources