I can remember sitting down to reconcile my checking account and getting a hard reality check. This reality check was the result of the negative balance I found. I thought that I had a balance of $120.00, instead it was -$76.21. This was about three years ago, when I was trying to start a legitimate Home Based Business. Being a "newbie" is a hard and confusing time. I am writing the Best Home Business Idea series to share my experiences and hope that I can help others avoid some of the setbacks that I experienced when I started. The most important thing that I hope to accomplish is to prevent you from spending money with no return. Times are hard and every penny counts!

Being a "newbie", you will spend a lot of time reviewing offers and opportunities. There are so many out there today,it can be overwhelming. One vital rule of thumb is "TAKE YOUR TIME and DO THE RESEARCH." First, you can go to Google and read reviews, then check with the BBB.Another really good place to check out offers is in forums. If you treat a forum with respect, it can be a great asset. In the evaluation phase, I rely on them. If you go to google and search "work at home forums" the top five are excellent. They will also serve as a vital tool when you are ready to promote yourself and your business. Once you have done the research and you feel comfortable, then make your move.

I would strongly advise that before you spend any money, make a budget. I don't care how small or how neat, make the budget and try your best to follow it. One of my problems was that I would get one venture started and then I would hear about another one I had to try and before I knew it, I was over budget. For example, I set a budget of $300.00 per month and signed up for programs that totaled over $600.00. I am college educated and have a background in accounting, however, I got caught up in the hype. Have you ever heard the term Guru? There are many legitimate Entrepreneurs out there and there are many who prey on us. One tip that some one gave me was to watch for certain words in an ad.

When you see or hear words like, work minutes a day, make money overnight, easy money, limited time offer, limited positions available and special discount, be aware. Again, do the research! Going back to my checking account, if I would have done this it would not have been negative. I can say this with certainty, there are no shortcuts and success in this business does not come easy. You have to really work hard. On the other hand, nothing feels as good as when you start to make sales on your own. Once you get established, you will see that the work was worth it. Think of this business as a marathon, not a sprint and you will find success. Look for Best Home Business Ideas part 2 soon.

To your success,

John Ditta
President

Don't forget when you are researching and budgeting, you need to think about costs of advertising as well as your startup costs and monthly costs of the business.

Max-Gxl1

I agree, which is what I like about my company - you can get in for no money, but start making commissions on sales immediately and businesses want an internet presence for a low monthly cost. It is fun to show them how they can be on the first pages of Google, Ask, About, etc. without having to pay-per-click. I am also so thrilled to be in on the beginning of a company that is just starting out and has the goal of changing the was advertising is being done on the internet. New technology is wonderful- especially if you are in on it and can profit from it - with hard work. I have been scammed too much!