If you had roughly a 95% chance of being hit in the head by a large rock when stepping out of your house, would you perhaps think twice about going out? Or, at least, be very prepared to elude that rock?
By many estimates, that 95% is also meaningful when looking at the success rates folks have when they embark upon myriad ‘business opportunities’ which are Internet based, offering, among other things, freedom from tedious and inconvenient commuting to work. Work from home. What could be better?
The big draw, however, is the enormous amount of money a person can earn, highly touted by most of these programs. Not only that, a great number of these opportunities promote the notion of ‘automated, recurring income’ with only a few hours work per week necessary to become wildly successful. It is not uncommon to find programs which claim monthly income possibilities of 10-50 thousand dollars. Or more.
And that plays particularly well to the disabled population, those who have to work from their home computer due to physical or medication issues. “As long as you can point and click and follow a few basic instructions, you will make thousands!’ This mantra has been around for quite a few years now, and is growing in sophistication. It is easy to be fooled into believing you have found that perfect opportunity.
Over the past nine years, I have conducted extensive research into income generating programs which are Internet based. Most of these opportunities involve sales in some form. Sometimes, they simply sell the same opportunity, with no real product or service, and involve thousands of individuals trying to develop a ‘downline’ of potential customers. Sooner, rather than later, most of these programs disappear like a puff of smoke. No substance, no longevity, no credibility. The result is that the 95% are left holding the bag, if you will, while a small percentage of people pull in the money.
However, there are real business programs available, and they will require an individual have good computer skills, coupled with marketing /sales knowledge, and a budget for advertising. Any company that promises a great return within 30 days without any business knowledge required, and little or no marketing budget is simply lying to its potential customers/affiliates. And the Internet is teeming with liars.
While the expenses involved with an Internet business can be way less than a traditional brick-and-mortar business, there are still expenses. And, one needs specialized knowledge regarding advertising methods. There is a lot to learn, and do not let anyone convince you otherwise. You will not make any money with any so-called ‘plug-n-play’ systems.
So, it’s all about research. If you find a company that looks promising, the absolute first thing to do is establish that company’s credibility. Due diligence. Sometimes a long and tedious process. Make sure and personally contact the company. Speak to folks who are currently working with this company. Search out business forums. Ask questions. Get a feel for how the business operates. Ask yourself: can I do this?
Here are a couple of recommended forums:
http://www.friendsinbusiness.com/board1 They have been active for over five years and have a great reputation. MaaMaw is the site owner.
http://www.howtocorp.com Michael Green has been at it for almost ten years now. Here, you will find some of the most successful home business operators. Whatever one does, do it with care, and be thorough. Don’t jump into something just because it sounds good. Trust me, some of the best written marketing pieces represent companies which are part of that 95-05% ratio discussed earlier.
Next time, I am planning on giving you a list of legitimate work from home companies. And I will provide some ideas about re-working your resume and cover letter.
These are companies which have real work you do from home, such as being a customer service representative. These companies do not charge you to apply (a big no-no) and are fairly flexible as far as scheduling work for their telecommute positions.
Until then,
Advocate
