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Monday, May 14, 2001
Searching For A Home Business? Tips For Checking Out Your Prospects.
by Bob Osgoodby
So you think you found this really neat business on the Web you can run from your home. Just think, no more boss, and as the ad said, "you can work in your bathrobe and slippers - when YOU want to." Let's face it - hold off on buying a wheelbarrow to carry those $20 bills from your mailbox to your house.
Be careful of any ad that promises disproportionate income in a short period of time without you having to actually work. The only people who will make money the one selling the "opportunity."
"But they must be honest" you say, "I saw their web page." There is no magic on the web. I can put together an impressive looking web site with the investment of just a few hours work. Does that make me honest?
If you want to set up your Home Office, the first thing you have to do is find a reputable business. "Are there any out there?" you might ask. Sure, there are plenty. But for every good one, there are many that are not.
The first thing you should do is to get yourself involved in a business that has a shot at success and won't put you in legal jeopardy. I'm not even going to pretend to recommend a business as technology changes so fast no-one could keep on top of all the opportunities, but there are plenty available out there.
The following guidelines have been issued by the FTC:
- Make sure the company has a phone number that you can call back.
- Check with Information to see if that number belongs to that company.
- Contact the Better Business Bureau in the area of the company you are about to deal with - (obviously you need their physical address to do this).
- Check to see if the company/firm has a pattern of bad complaints at the Attorney General Office.
- If you're sending in payment try to send it to a physical address instead of a P.O. Box Number. (Some parts of the country do not deliver mail to a physical address - if a PO Box is listed, ensure that there is other contact information available)
Above all, use common sense. If you wouldn't spend your money for a product or service, why would you think otherswould if you were selling it? If you can buy a product at your local convenience store, do you really think people will pay double the price if you promise them an income?
Bob publishes the "Your Business" email newsletter and offers a wide range of business support services including web design and hosting, telemarketing, and valuable advertising options.
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