Is the term MLM being replaced by network marketing, social selling, or direct sales?

I am a current distributor and I have to admit everything here is accurate. I still believe in my products but the business model has serious flaws that the industry needs to address.

What would you say to someone who is 3 months in and has not made any money yet? At what point should they evaluate whether to continue or cut their losses?

I joined Amway in college because a senior student recruited me. Spent $2,000 I did not have on products and tools. Made $47 in commissions over 6 months. Dropped out of the business but the experience taught me to always research before investing in anything.

Reading all these comments makes me realize how many people have been through similar experiences. Maybe we should start a support group for former MLM distributors. Not to bash the industry, but to help people process their experiences and move forward.

Thank you for your vulnerability in sharing this. The shame and embarrassment after leaving an MLM is real and not talked about enough. You are not stupid for joining - these companies spend millions on making their opportunity look irresistible. You were targeted by professional marketers.

I have noticed that MLM companies are increasingly avoiding the term "MLM" and rebranding themselves as "social sellers," "brand ambassadors," "affiliate partners," or "micro-influencers." Is this just a marketing tactic to distance themselves from the negative MLM reputation? Or are these genuinely different business models? When a company tells you it is NOT an MLM, but the structure looks exactly like an MLM, what should you think?