In Part One we learned that then only way for most of us to enjoy wealth in our retirement years is through having a business of our own. In Part Two we looked at 3 different options for getting into your own business. These included starting from scratch, buying a franchise, and network marketing, and we explored some of the pros and cons of each.

Now we will explore network marketing in more depth, and in particular, what to look for in a good solid network marketing company.

There are 7 key elements of a great network marketing business.

1. The business should be in front of major market trends. We are all familiar with the how changes in technology moved music from vinyl records, to tapes, to CD's to music downloaded from the internet. There are new, growing areas, make sure the company you decide on is out in front of a developing market.

2. Look for products that are consumable and unique. For example, everyone purchases food each week (food is a consumable) but a new television is expected to last for years, and is obviously not consumable. Customers will purchase consumable items on a regular basis. Unique products that no competitor has are a strong advantage.

3. A strong capital partner is critical. A large, public company listed on a major stock exchange is open to a level of scrutiny that a small, privately held company is not. A company that has been in business for more than 20 years has a track record you can look into. Large companies have the financial resources to carry out significant research and development, and are better able to take advantage of emerging market trends.

4. Excellent compensation for your effort is very important. There are 4 or 5 major types of compensation plans, and some are much better at rewarding volume and performance. Check this out carefully.

5. Local and international business. A large company that operates in many different countries will offer opportunities that a smaller company in a limited market will not.

6. Support system. When you start a network marketing business, you want excellent training, information about the company products, a great company website, telephone and email support from the company, and the chance to visit the head office to see everything for yourself.

7. Excellent timing. A company that has accurately predicted market trends, and made an early launch of unique, high quality, consumable products to meet that market need is what you are looking for.