I have a client that keeps wanting me to listen to her presentation on some nutrition products she "sells as a side business." I have told her no already, because my professional association doesn't allow this. (It's the truth and a VERY convenient way out). Yesterday she told me that her "representative" has said that LOTS of people in my profession are distributors for this stuff. The client then asked if she could have this person call me. Finding myself in a delicate situation because this is a client, I said, "OK" as it would be easier to say no to a non-client.
So this person called me today and I had the receptionist take a message. I regret telling this client it would be OK to give her my number, but I have trouble saying "no." (Which is why I like this forum!!)
I have in the meantime used Google to find out something about this person and her "nutritional products." First off, the woman (not the client) is into all kinds of astral stuff that is not my bag and pretty bogus in my opinion (charging people big $$$$ for "energy healing" over the phone or by proxy, for example. In other words people fork over their credit cards so that she can "tap into their energy fields" without their having to even be present). Maybe some people think this is legit but she doesn't sound like someone I want to know.
Second of all, this line of nutrition products is indeed a multilevel marketing scheme, just as I suspected, and I will not be getting involved in that. End of story. Even if our professional association did allow vitamin sales, and if I DID want to get into it, I would be going to a reputable wholesaler for quality stuff at a fair price.
I do have to phone this person back now, given that the original client will probably ask about it, and that I did allow her to give out my phone number.
I just know that she will try to talk me into at least attending a "presentation" or "meeting for coffee."
Here is where I have to practice. "No." "I'm afraid that won't be possible." "I'm afraid my schedule just won't allow it." "I am not interested." "No, I won't waste your time because I won't be buying or selling vitamins." "Our association doesn't allow it." "No." "No." "No."
Perhaps I should look on this as an opportunity to practice saying no.
