Recruiting phrase
What does "not selling, just sharing" mean in an MLM?
Short answer: If someone says it is "not selling, just sharing," ask exactly what activity creates compensation and whether retail customers are required.
What the phrase usually means
The phrase may make sales activity feel more natural or less formal.
The actual compensation plan may still require product sales, purchases, referrals, recruiting, or volume.
Why it matters before joining
A person should know whether they are being asked to sell, recruit, advertise, host, message friends, or buy product.
Clear language helps avoid pressure on personal relationships.
Questions to ask in writing
- What exactly would I be doing each week?
- Do I earn from retail sales, participant purchases, recruitment, or team volume?
- How many non-participant customers do typical new participants have?
What this does not prove
The phrase does not prove anything improper. It does mean the work should be described plainly before joining.
Related questions
- Can you make money in an MLM without recruiting?
- What does volume mean in an MLM compensation plan?
- What should I do if a friend offers me an MLM business opportunity?
Helpful next pages
Sources
- Multi-level Marketing Businesses and Pyramid Schemes, Federal Trade Commission . Accessed 2026-06-14. Support type: Regulator guidance.
- Business Guidance Concerning Multi-Level Marketing, Federal Trade Commission , 2024 . Accessed 2026-06-14. Support type: Regulator guidance.
- MLM Income Claims Investigation, Truth in Advertising . Accessed 2026-06-14. Support type: Public-interest secondary source.