I completely agree with the point about choosing the right brand name. Have you noticed that the majority of MLM companies don't use the term MLM in their brand name and promotions? In fact some of them go as far as claiming that they are not MLM companies (just to try and reduce your skepticism).
Of course, you need to read beyond the brand name. The bottom line - if it sounds and smells like MLM, then it most likely is (which is not always a bad thing as some people believe). There are great companies out there (and a few terrible ones too!)