Tom Chenault: 3 Relationship Building Tips for MLM Success
Tom Chenault is a legend in the network marketing industry, having built a successful career by prioritizing relationships over transactions.
With decades of experience, he has earned millions in lifetime commissions and developed a people-first approach that has set him apart.
He's also a friend and one of the most amazing networkers I know and is incredible in how he stays in touch with people
Featured 3 Times on MLM Nation's Podcast
Tom has been featured on MLM Nation multiple times:
Episode 200: The Simple Coffee Shop Interview Method That Increased My Sign Ups To A 90% Success Rate by Tom Chenault
Episode 581: Contact Mapping and Relationship Building Secrets Everyone Must Know by Tom Chenault
Episode 817: How to Be a Networker Without Being Salesy and Pushy by Tom Chenault
Table of Contents
Who is Tom Chenault?
Tom is the creator of “The Coffee Shop Interview,” a strategy that focuses on genuine conversations to build trust and connections. He co-founded Contact Mapping with his son, Adrian Chenault, to help entrepreneurs and network marketers strengthen their professional relationships. He also hosts the Legacy Leadership podcast, sharing insights from top industry leaders.
One of Tom’s proudest achievements is maintaining 35 years of sobriety, a testament to his dedication, discipline, and commitment to personal growth.
How Tom Chenault Started in Network Marketing
Tom Chenault was not looking for network marketing.
He had a successful career in the restaurant industry and was known for his outgoing personality.
But behind the scenes, things were not as perfect as they seemed.
He was struggling with alcoholism, and his life felt like it was spiraling out of control.
One day, he was introduced to MLM.
At first, he was skeptical.
But something about the industry intrigued him.
He saw it as a way to take control of his life and build something meaningful.
So, he gave it a shot.
That one decision changed everything.
Major Lightbulb Moment: Relationships Over Transactions
Tom’s breakthrough came when he realized that network marketing success is not about selling products
It’s about building genuine relationships.
Instead of focusing on transactions, he made it his mission to have meaningful conversations with people.
He learned that:
- People don’t join businesses; they join people.
- Listening and caring deeply creates strong connections.
- Putting people first accelerates business growth.
By implementing these principles, Tom’s network expanded rapidly, and he became a top leader in the industry.
Biggest Challenge: Losing Everything and Starting Over
Tom has faced significant struggles, including financial losses that nearly ended his career.
However, instead of quitting, he doubled down on his strengths—his ability to connect with people and build relationships.
By leveraging his network and focusing on serving others, he rebuilt his business and came back stronger than ever.
His resilience is proof that network marketing rewards those who stay committed and keep pushing forward.
The Power of Conversations in Network Marketing
One of Tom’s core teachings is that success in MLM comes from mastering conversations.
He developed Contact Mapping, a system that helps network marketers remember important details about people and follow up in a meaningful way.
Key strategies Tom teaches:
- Listen more, talk less – Focus on understanding people’s needs.
- Build trust before selling – People buy from those they like and trust.
- Follow up consistently – Stay in touch and add value over time.
By applying these principles, anyone can build a thriving network marketing business.
What is Contact Mapping?
Contact Mapping is a simple prospecting tool that allows you to keep track of your prospects and is based on The Coffee Shop Interview. It is simple to use and will save you tons of time and make you more efficient with your prospecting.
The Million Dollar Question: If You Had to Start Over, What Would You Do?
If Tom had to start over in a new city with no connections, he would:
- Meet as many people as possible—both online and in person.
- Attend networking events, coffee shops, and gatherings.
- Focus on relationships first, rather than pitching a business.
This approach aligns with his philosophy that relationships drive success in MLM.
Tom Chenault & Adrian Chenault: The Next Generation of Network Marketers
Tom is excited about the future of MLM, especially with his son, Adrian Chenault, bringing innovation to the industry.
Adrian’s focus on technology and automation is helping network marketers build relationships more efficiently.
Together, they have developed Contact Mapping, a tool that simplifies relationship-building and follow-ups, making it easier for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.
Why Network Marketing is Still the Best Business Model
Tom believes that network marketing remains one of the best ways to achieve financial freedom. The industry offers:
- Low startup costs with high income potential.
- The ability to build a business from anywhere.
- A strong community that supports personal growth.
However, Tom emphasizes that success doesn’t come from just promoting products—it comes from investing in people and building lasting relationships.
Listen To Tom Chenault's Podcast Interview (2016)
Listen To Tom Chenault's Podcast Interview (2019)
Watch Tom Chenault's Podcast Interview (2024)
Favorite Quotes
“Love like crazy… and then love even more!”
“If you help enough people get what they want in life, you'll get everything you want in life.”
“Fire your brain and hire your heart.”
Must Read Book
Power of Who by Bob Beaudine
Go Pro by Eric Worre
4 Year Career by Richard Brooke
Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer
Reboot by Jerry Colonna
The Coffee Shop Interview
Who Not How? by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy
Raising a Giant by Bob Crisp
Feeding a Giant by Bob Crisp
Recommended Video: Your Perfect Day by Frank kern
Recommended Prospecting Tool
Short Online Video
www.coffeeshopinterview.com (Skip to: 31.09)
Recommended Online App
Contact Mapping
Sendhype
Nowsite (how he runs a Query)
Evernote
Contact Info
Tom Chenault on Facebook
Adrian Chenault on Facebook and Instagram
TheTomChenaultShow.com
Key Lessons from Tom Chenault
– Network marketing is not about selling; it’s about building relationships.
– Meaningful conversations lead to long-term success.
– Never quit—success comes to those who persist.
Your Action Steps
– Focus on building real connections. Listen more, talk less.
– Use tools like Contact Mapping to keep track of your network.
– Get out and meet people—networking is the foundation of success.
The secret to success in MLM is simple: Build relationships, have real conversations, and never stop growing.
Simon Chan is a business coach, podcaster, speaker and best selling author who helps network marketers recruit and build a team by staying consistent with a Simple Online System. Full bio
