Kim Madsen: “People believe in proven concepts”

Originating from Denmark, Kim Madsen has 25 years of network marketing experience. An internationally-recognised network marketeer and Founder of a not-for-profit organisation, he is helping street and slum kids to build a better future. He is also the official advisor of Forever Living and author of bestseller book ‘How to create your own success.’ During a recent visit to Mauritius, Kim Madsen spoke about network marketing, sales, coaching, how to motivate, inspiration, management, and charity with 100% transparency. The business world has been experiencing a slowdown and many businesses are facing a crisis. Kim Madsen explains that there are various reasons why businesses are not succeeding, despite being equipped with the best practices, best strategies and best products. “If the mindset is wrong, you will never succeed. I always put emphasis on the mindset during my coaching. Nothing is easy in this world. We cannot ignore the fact that there are too many scams. Many companies are promoting easy money. When it comes to success in any sphere of life, there is no easy way. We have to be ready to change, as the world is changing drastically. Businesses are opening and closing down in just three years,” he says. Kim Madsen reveals that the key to be successful in business today is to work with a proven concept. “A proven concept refers to concepts that have succeeded in other parts of the world. People believe in proven concepts more than a new one.” He believes that it is better to create jobs and fight unemployment. “It is not always about the money but also about personal development, skills enhancement and getting to know new people. Business networking is the key today. Moreover, housewives who are at home can start a small business. It helps them earn an extra income. It is not realistic to make everyone rich but everyone can earn residual revenue.” Traditional Marketing Despite the fact that digital marketing and social media marketing are taking over the business world, Kim Madsen believes that traditional marketing will maintain its position and it is also booming. “There is no competition among the different types of marketing. There will always be companies who advertise on and use billboards.” Social media marketing According to Kim Madsen, we are living in the digital era where social media has become predominant. “Now businesses have to work with social media. Little by little, everyone is becoming more active there. If your business is not there, your customers and business partners will not find you. Recently, my wife and I did a small test. We had put a one and a half minute video on Facebook. In two days, it got 24,400 views only in Mauritius. Interesting to see so many clicks on this video. Any business in Mauritius can reach 24,400 views in just two days. Businesses here have a very big potential when it comes to social media. A business cannot survive if it does not have an online presence.” Kim Madsen advises Mauritian business persons to increase their online presence. “There is no doubt that with social media, the world seems small. The strategy is to work local but thinks global. With social media, you can start a business without any office, without any big investment.” Home tourism Being a multi-cultural country, as highlighted by the marketing specialist, Mauritius can introduce the concept of ‘Home Tourism.’ “Why not have some families invite some tourists at home for a cup of coffee? This is a unique concept allowing Mauritius to become a safer island and to attract more people coming to Mauritius. Making friends with the local people will make tourists want to come again.” Advice to young entrepreneurs “Focus and self-confidence” are two ingredients young entrepreneurs should have. “Young entrepreneurs should only listen to successful people who have life experience. Listen to people who will show how to walk the talk instead of just talking. Always build a team of people who are better than you. The sky is the limit. They need to aim higher and become role models.” For young people who want to start their own businesses but do not know where to venture, Kim Madsen advises them to join various groups on social media platforms, to analyse the ideas and to connect with others. For him, if a young person is unable to come up with any innovative concept, it is better to choose a proven one, as there is no risk of closing down.