The Battle of Telecommunications – 5Linx Vs. ACN

After recent review of the two telecommunications giants in the MLM industry, it seems like there are some serious similarities between the two. So what’s the real difference between 5Linx and ACN? And how can network marketers choose which to invest in?

What’s the better opportunity?

ACN

ACN came first. It was started by 4 entrepreneurs in 1993, with headquarters in Concord, North Carolina. Since inception, it’s grown to 23 countries, on 4 continents.

ACN has a close relationship with Donald Trump, who endorses their products and chose to recently feature their video phone on his show, Celebrity Apprentice. The boost in media attention has helped the company grow both in customer base and independent representatives. Just last year, ACN was on the Direct Selling Global’s list of top 100 direct selling companies. It seems that things are looking up for ACN and its four core founders (who still work for the company).

The products they offer range from mobile phone services, high speed internet, satellite TV, home security, VoIP services, and even energy.

5Linx

The story of 5Linx follows a similar, but more recent, path. Two of its three founders were actually in business with a man named Andre Maronian at ACN. They decided that they wanted to form another telecommunications company, and sold their shares to Maronian. They eventually built a huge network and became Inc. 500’s fastest growing company for four consecutive years in the late 2000’s. Product offerings are nearly identical to ACN’s: mobile phone services, high speed internet, satellite TV, home security, VoIP services, and, yes, even energy.

A Booming Industry

After the recent deregulation of the energy industry, it’s going to become a bigger and bigger part of both companies businesses. Right now, ACN is leading by offering more energy services in more states. With only 4 states available at the moment (but more coming in 2011), 5Linx proves to be a competitor in the game.

The two companies are giants in the industry, and both are well-respected for the services they provide to small businesses and individuals. But who really comes out on top?

Which Opportunity is More Lucrative?

A leg up may go to ACN, for its recent boost in PR and feature alongside Trump on a highly rated NBC reality show. But, 5Linx isn’t far behind with its own marketing techniques (including a company magazine available to the public.)

The truth is that both are viable options for network marketers. But in order to succeed in either, it’s imperative for network marketers to learn the tools of dominating cold markets, setting up credible web presences, and adding reps into their downlines. Both could be great opportunities for the right person – the person who is willing to learn in order to create a great business.