Make Money Online - Latest Scam Disclosed

Before we start, I want to make it clear that this article is about scammers that affect people who make money online by selling digital products, like e-books, software, etc. and have a refund policy, because we have a rather long way until the end and, if you are selling physical product or you money online through affiliate programs that don't involve a refund policy it's probably just a waste of time.

In this article, I'll talk about the "refund policy scammers". Lately, more and more people started to talk about them on forums and came out with different solutions, which we will discuss in the second part of the article, "Make Money Online - Defend Against The Latest Scam"."Refund policy" scammers, as I stated in the beginning, affect the people that make money online by selling digital products (software, e-books for eg.). Now, you're probably wondering what's their "modus operandi". Well, it's very simple. They just find websites that sell digital products and have a 100% money back guarantee, buy the product and then they tell you they want a refund because of crappy reasons, sometimes even impossible ones (they ask for a refund only minutes after they bought the product), but in the same time they keep the products.

More and more people who make money online with this kind of websites are complaining about these incredibly immoral scammers. You will find posts like: "I received this e-mail just one minute after they bought my e-book: "I am really disappointed about your e-book, I read it and it doesn't say anything new for me. Please give me a refund." And my e-book contains 80+ pages", "I am sorry but your script doesn't show me any results. Please give me a refund." I received this e-mail just one day after he bought and my script usually show results after about 30 days "Now, you're wondering: "Does this affect my make money online business?". You bet it does.

Some time ago, it wasn't such a big problem, because only few people did it. But, nowadays, more and more people are complaining about these scammers, indicating that this refund policy "virus" is spreading quite rapidly. Today, we can even talk about professional refund policy scammers, who put up lists of products worth thousands of dollars and do "their thing". And this is nothing. Some of these scammers have an incredible nerve. Not only that they scam you, but then, they start selling your products claiming it's heir own (this happened with simple products like e-books and scripts) which is a major problem for your make money online business.

Now, you're probably asking yourself: "Can I make money online by selling products and, in the same time, keep this scammers away?". Well, there are several solutions, but not without consequences. The obvious solution is to get rid of the refund policy, but this will probably decrease your conversion rate. We will discuss this and some other solutions in the next part of this article. Stay tuned, we're half way there.


Author Info:
Online Internet Marketing & Home Business Resource Center Make Money Online with our unique money making opportunities.

10 Ways to Make Money with Your Website

Listed below you will find ten different ways to make money online with your site.

1: Sign up for Google Adsense and place Google ads on your site. Google will display the most appropriate ads according to your content and you will get paid for every click on an ad. People are making thousands a month with this.

2: Sell ad space on your site. You could sell banner or text ads. To make more money, sell top placement or best exposure ads at a premium.

3: Charge a fee to access part of your site. A recuring fee is best. People will pay for your site content if it's valuable to them. This could be a members forum, ebooks, software, reports etc.

4: Hire out pages on your site to other people. You could also give them away for free and make money by including your ads on the pages.

5: Sell your own products or services. They should be related to your audience.

6: Make money online selling other people's products and services through affiliate programs. You will get a unique link to enable you to track your sales. You can be paid per sale, per click or per sign-up.

7: Publish an e-zine from your web site. Have visitors subscribe to the e-zine right from the site. You could sell sell ads in the e-zine. The more subscribers you have the more you could charge.

8: Sign up with a site offering a datafeed of their product range. You can have a whole store implemented on your own site through this datafeed and all you need to do is drive traffic to it. You get paid a commission per sale.

9: Does your site have a good Page Rank in Google? You could auction off text links across your site. There are a number of text link broker sites about now to allow you to do this.

10: Create an RSS(Real Simple Syndication) feed with up to the minute content. If you have valuable information e.g. stock related news, business charge a subscription fee


Author Info:
How-to-make-money-online.info is a site focused on Making Money Online listing the many and varied ways of making money online. This article comes with reprint rights. You are free to reprint and distribute s you like. All that we ask is that you do not make any changes, that this resource text is include, and that the links above are intact.

How Selling Vitamins can bring your Financial Freedom

Most people are becoming more health conscious. Many of the baby boomers are looking for ways to look and feel younger. This is where selling vitamins comes in.Vitamin sales are growing each year, and as people become more health conscious, it will continue to grow. This is why so many people who want to work from home are looking at a vitamin business opportunity as an option. It is very likely to succeed.

There are many ways to start a vitamin business. Some require very little up front money, while others require a substantial investment. Research the companies and find one that suits your needs best.

When you begin your search, decide if you want to work with people in your community, on the internet or both. Many vitamin business parent companies are based on the business owner working personally with people. They want the business owner to get clients to buy the products and other people into business. This option usually has large start up costs. You are required to have inventory on hand for your clients. Depending on the number of clients and the amount of space in your house, this may or may not be a problem.

Some offer training, support, and tools to help, but you will have a lot of footwork to do yourself. Your main advertising campaign will be word of mouth. However, you can ask local gyms, salons, and spas if you can leave flyers or brochures at their front desk. However, your happy clients will do more for your vitamin business in the end.As mentioned, some of these parent companies ask you to sign up other people for selling vitamins under your guidance. You should not view these people as competition, but as an additional source of income. Everything they sell and the people they sponsor add to your income. These companies are Multi Level Marketing companies and with hard work, you can make your vitamin business very profitable.

Many companies offer the owner the option of purchasing a web site. This helps your business grow with an extended, possibly international, clientele. You will also usually get other people interested in selling vitamins to sign up under you.This is not the only option. Several vitamin business opportunities are completely internet based. They do not require you to keep any inventory and their start up costs are usually minimal. You can sell to people face to face, but you would direct them to your website to place their orders, which are shipped directly to them.These companies are usually vitamin distribution warehouses. They help people to set up a virtual home business to move their stock. The web site of the owner is connected to the warehouse, and orders are processed immediately. There is actually very little the owner needs to do.

The main focus on the internet business owner is marketing of their web site. It is a good idea to join affiliation programs, which will allow your vitamin business to advertise on other web sites in the form of a link. It helps to bring more people to the web site then just relying on search engines.However, you have to make sure that your web site is search engine optimized. By placing keywords used by search engines in the content of the web site, you will be higher on the results lists and bring more prospective clients to your site.

Depending on the type of vitamin business opportunity you choose will change your compensation. It can range from a few cents to a few dollars depending on the product. Check out the compensation plans of each company you are interested in. Make sure you are comfortable with it before signing up.One thing you should do is keep up with trends by getting in on conference calls or seminars, if the company offers them. Read industry newsletters, periodicals and books. Periodically talk with your clients to see if they are following trends or are interested in specific items.

If you carry inventory make sure you have the newest items. If something is going to be discontinued, let your clients know. You have two main goals for your vitamin business, which are interdependent. Keep your clients happy, to keep your profits high.


© Copyright Randy Wilson, All Rights Reserved.
Author Info:
Randy is owner of http://www.profitable-home-businesses.com where you will find further tips on starting dozens of profitable home based businesses. Randy also owns http://www.planning-a-baby-shower.com.

Freelance Productivity: Do One Thing Extra Each Day

This may not sound like a big deal. But it's amazing how completing one extra task each day can quickly add up and make a difference.Here's how it works for me...Each day I look at my 'Today's Things To Do List'. Oh yes, I have a list. Without it I would be lost. I schedule upcoming work. I list deadlines. I make notes of the people I should be calling or emailing. I look for the spare moments when I can write an article or two. I list all my personal and family commitments too.

>> And then I add one thing more
In addition to my daily list of things to do, I also have a general 'Needs to be Done' list. These are items that don't really have delivery dates or deadlines, but should get done. Examples? Maybe a follow-up email to a company I worked for a while ago but haven't heard from since. Maybe a note to myself to get back to a happy customer and ask for a testimonial. Perhaps a reminder to myself to check out a particular website or new service. That kind of thing.These are all things that are important, but not urgent.

>> Important, but not urgent
This is worth dwelling on for a moment. For many of us freelancers, our days and sometimes nights are filled with completing tasks that are urgent.We have deadlines to meet. We have to get the work done.And for most of us, we have only ourselves. No assistants or office managers to take care of the paperwork, administration and bookkeeping. So we rush, rush, rush and feel that our day is complete once we have completed all of the urgent tasks.

>> Time for one more thing
But before you close down your computer, do that one extra thing. It's important.Often that one final task will take just a few minutes. I'm not talking about spending another hour or two at your desk. I'm talking about tackling a non-urgent, but important task.

>> Will it make a difference?
Yes, it will. At the end of the month you will have completed 20-30 important things that otherwise would never have been done. Perhaps just one of those things will lead to an extra contract.Now keep this habit going month by month, year after year. If just one in fifty of these extra tasks completed leads to a new client or job, think of what that means in new income over the next few years.

>> Concluding thoughts...There is no magic about doing one thing extra each day. It's just a simple, useful discipline and habit that could end up making a big difference to your future income.Try it.


Author Info:
Nick Usborne is a copywriter, author and speaker. You'll find more articles and resources on how to make money as a freelance writer at www.FreelanceWritingSuccess.com

Direct Sales vs. Network Marketing

A direct sales company is very similar to a network marketing company in that you are still working as an "Independent Associate" for a larger company. With direct sales however, you are not required to develop a "downline" or recruit other members. All you really have to do to make any money is sell whatever the product or service is that the company offers. It's really no different that being one of those Avon ladies. Or selling cars. Or selling real estate.

Yes, the company will likely encourage you to recruit other associates and there are two reasons for this. One, it provides the comapny with more sales people, giving them greater exposure and making more money. Two, they will pay you better if you recruit other associates and YOU will make more money.

Once again, like network marketing, there is a system already in place for you to duplicate. This is why direct sales organizations and network marketing companies are so appealing. You don't have to do any of the trial and error stuff to get your business going. It's already been done for you. All you have to do is follow the system in place and you are on your way to making money.

A legitimate direct sales organization will tell you up front that you might not even make any money whatsoever. Should that put you off? No. It shows integrity in their business. They understand that some people will not follow the system, try to change the system, or simply quit the system. They also understand that some people will make money faster than others because some people will have a shorter learning curve than others.

There are numerous other reasons direct sales is more appealing than direct marekting, but we'll get into that in more deatil later. But there are numerous other similarities and understanding them will assist you in figuring out which is better for you. Or if you should look for another opportunity altogether. But coming up, why do you have to PAY to get involved with one of these home based business and why doing so is not a scam . . .

Is Network Marketing the Right Home Business for You?

Don't get me wrong. Network marketing is great. Even Robert Kiyosaki, in his Rich Dad book series, recommends getting involved in a network marketing company as a means to earn money and learn how to run a business. (And if you haven't read Robert Kiyosaki, put him on your must list, NOW) But network marketing is only great IF you find the right company and the company is right for you.

Isn't Network Marketing a Pyramid Scheme?

Let's get one thing straight. A legitimate network marketing company is NOT a "pyramid scheme." A pyramid scheme is designed to allow only those at the top to make all the money and those poor suckers who bought in at the bottom to do all the work and pass their money up. Pyramids like this are illegal. Network marketing is not. "But wait," I hear you protest. "Network marketing has a pyramid structure. Doesn't that make it a pyramid scheme?" No. EVERY company has a pyramid structure. Take a look at a grocery store, for example. The one person who owns the store is at the top and makes the most money, yes? And the numerous employees who actually work in the stores working the registers, bagging the groceries, and collecting the carts from the parking lot don't make nearly as much money, right? Pyramid. Period.

How Do I Know If It's Legit?

A legitimate network marketing company has a compensation plan that guarantees that anyone working the business can make money. It doesn't guarantee that they will, just that they can. Making money is up to you. Also, if they're legit, they have an actual product or service to market. If you get the vague sense that you're handing over your money and you're not sure why - run away. You should see a tangible product or service being offered for you to market. Their business records will also be available for you to look up.

What's So Great About It?

The greatest thing is that the business system is already in place. All you have to do is duplicate the system. You might have to carry some inventory, depending on the company, but all of the gnarly business-y sides of things are usually handled by the company. You just have to market the product or service. And if you work the system, there really is the potential to earn some substantial money. I know. I've done it.

What's Not So Great About It?

Well, it's the nature of the Network Marketing beast. You have to recruit other people to become "Independent Associates." And often that means going after your "warm market" - your friends and family. And, let's be honest, most of them will look at you like you're crazy and you should get a "real job." But let's be honest - your real job is what led you to look into network marketing and a home based business to begin with!! While many companies tell you to go after your warm market, I recommend otherwise. It may seem more difficult to recruit people you don't know, but really, if they don't know you, you have the power. You have the authority to show them a business opportunity and it lends you credibility if they don't know up front that you're also working at the mall and living in a studio apartment with a mattress and a jar of mustard in the fridge. "Isn't that lying?" Nope. That's selling, baby. The other downside is the meetings. They don't like to call them "meetings." They prefer the term "Open House" or some such thing. Either way, you have to dress up and go to a hotel ballroom once, twice, three times a week and play excited to hear the same presentation over and over again until you are successful at the business yourself. Then you can call the shots.

So Is It Right For Me?

Ultimately, that's up to you. Go with your gut. Do you trust the company? Do you like the people who are already involved? Do you believe in the product or service you'll be offering? That's the biggie. If you don't believe in it, you won't be able to sell it. You might, but not as well. Do you have the time to devote to a home business? And are you willing to commit and withstand that negative berating you're likely to get? Don't let that put you off, though. People berated Bill Gates, too. Now look.If you decide to join a network marketing company, good for you. Give it all you got and you can be a huge success. If there are aspects to it you like but aren't sure, then maybe you're better suited for a Direct Marketing company. And we'll get into that later . . .

Home Based Business Article -Why Most People Have Business Success Backwards. by Nick A. James

Success and wealth are crazy things. You must first give something away for them to be obtained. It is like planting a seed. You must give away or plant that seed before it grows and multiples This sounds absolutely crazy. Most people think how can I have wealth and success if I give away the little that I have? After all I don't have much, therefore I must hang on to it if I ever want to have something.

Here's what the truly successful have found out - they only achieved enormous success after they learned to give even more of themselves. The more they gave the more they received back. This is the philosophy too many people have and it is the philosophy of those who remain poor. For two much of my own life I had this philosophy. Most people can't be blamed for having this way of thinking, as the secrets of success aren't typically taught. They must be sought out.First we must understand what wealth is, wealth is not money. Money is only paper. Ask a guy stranded on a desert island with 50 million dollars how much that money is worth. Not very much. Material wealth is only the items we can purchase with that money - cars, TV's, vacations, houses, you get the idea. So in this frame something of value (the car for example) must be produced for us to be able to use it. Thus the more value that a person can produce (cars, TV's, computers, even information and time) the more valuable you become.Think of it this way, if you were the only person who could do a very valuable task that many people wanted how wealthy would you be? Extremely to say the least. But that is all just background information.

Here is why people have success backwards especially in the area of sales and marketing. They mistakenly go about trying to sell their product or service, thinking people will want to buy from them. Instead of thinking how can I be of value to others. How can I give away my value so I receive even more in return.Here is where it really gets crazy. We already said we must give away our value to others to obtain wealth, and the more value we are able to give to others the more wealth that will come back to us.

Think of it like this. A doctor goes to school for many years to become a doctor. He gives countless hours of his time to you to learn to become a doctor. Many doctors will study/work 4000 hours per year times 10 years = 40,000 hours plus many hundreds of thousands of dollars in money spent on education. So when you go to the doctor he has 40,000 hours invested in you in a sense, as you are the only one he is dealing with at this time. For which he might charge you $100. Even if you were to go to him for $40,000 worth of services in your lifetime where can you get this kind of value for $1 an hour and he even pays his own education cost out of his pocket. The same thing can be said of a famous athlete, or musician, or actor, etc. who spends countless thousands of hours of practice perfecting their craft before you spent $15 on a CD or bought a ticket, etc. from them.

Think of someone like Bill Gates and Microsoft. He sells you a computer operating system like Windows, which has literally thousand of hours of development time in it, to you for $129. What an incredible bargain this is, somebody spends millions of dollars and thousands of hours to develop a product that you want for which you get for only $129. What a steal.The point is in all of these cases these people had the vision of giving away their talents (isn't our wealth really what we have the capability to earn with our talents), before they expected to receive anything in return. And yet in each of these cases the more value they were able to give away to people the more wealth they got back in return.The Bible talks about the principal of tithing. God says give me 10 percent of what you can do and I'll give you much more in return. God also says you can't out give him. I think he must see it as like a contest. He must be thinking, you think you are a big giver. "Check this out, look what I'm going to give you in return, try to top this."

The point is in all of these cases people first gave of themselves and then they received much more in return. And yet we too often as sales people simply go out and try to sell somebody on our product or service. And we wonder why the customer doesn't buy from us.Let's look at this from the customer's perspective-We're saying, "This is a great product." They're thinking, "I'm skeptical what's so great about it?"We're saying, "This product will make your life easier." They're thinking, "Okay, but I can get the same product somewhere else why should I buy from you?"We're saying, "You need our product or service." They're thinking, "Why, I've gotten along okay without it this long."We're saying, "In so many words and body language, I need you to buy this from me." They're thinking, "You're bugging me, I don't want to buy your product, go away."People have a built in radar that detects when they think you're trying to sell them something, and when their radar detects this it automatically raises this built-in defense barrier to protect them from buying from you. Some sales people are so obnoxious that people will actually lower this barrier and buy from the sales person to get him to go away. The pain of dealing with them was greater than the pain of buying.But they'll never buy again from these sales people. The remarkably successful people first find ways to be of value first, then people will want what they have because they sense they are getting back more in return. What they are getting is a bargain.

Having said all this, value like beauty is really in the eyes of the beholder. You don't have to become a doctor, athlete, or actor to be of value to others. Learn what people want and simply give it to them. There are certain basic human emotions that everyone wants but few provide them. So if you are one of the few who learn to give people these things doesn't this make you valuable to them? Doesn't this make people want to do business with you because you are providing greater value? Sure it does.Here is a list of some of the things that people desire:Make someone feel important, find someway to make them feel that they have a special way of doing something. Get them to talk about themselves. Find out something that they may have accomplished, no matter how small it may seem. And ask them to tell you about how they were able to accomplish this task. They will love telling you about it. You have to remember that to them their favorite topic is themselves.

The point is if you show genuine interest in them you are showing interest in their favorite topic. Automatically they drop their guard and will even discuss sales with you because, now you become more of a trusted friend - you are not just a sales person. But it can't be phony interest. People will see through that.

By showing interest in them you are providing value to them. And remember everyone truly is special. Don't ever judge someone by appearance by thinking, "They can't help me, no need to be nice to them." If you do this eventually other people will see this in you and think, "He is such a phony, he is only acting like this with me to get my business. He doesn't really care about me, only my money."The point is people who really do want to provide others with value will develop an attitude of caring. When you show people you care you can't help but be rewarded and you mind will become conditioned to liking this caring and being of value to others as it will come to enjoy the associated rewards.In this regard we are almost like trained animals. Animal trainers get animals to do the things they want by rewarding them when they do good and withholding rewards for incorrect behavior. Like animals don't we like doing things for which we receive rewards, of course we do.Other tips I have found useful.Smile and be courteous - remember what there is very little of, people cherish and crave it.

I know this is hard and I have done it but please resist the urge to one-up or outdo the other person. Let them have the high ground. If they tell you about their weeklong Caribbean cruise resist the urge to blurt in about your 2 week Caribbean cruise. You won't score any points doing this. Let them have the glory.

And one last point, you don't have to be world famous and have the secrets of life to give value to others. Remember most people have it backwards and are out just trying to sell others instead of offering them value.In the land of the blind, the one eye'd man is king. People always want to buy value and if you offer value you will never have a shortage of customers.

Author Info:
Nick A. James offers informative tips and information on nutrition, health and working from home. His many years of Internet Marketing expertise puts him in unique postion to help others starting a home business. For free newsletter, free reports and amazing info contact him at: http://www.health-goji-juice.com

Guidelines for the Ideal Home Business by Rob Hall

There is bad news and good news in starting a home business.

The bad news is 95 % of all new businesses fail within a short time.

The good news is the home business industry has reached $427 Billion annually, and is growing at an amazing rate. And, 80% of all millionaires today are self made.

So, there is a chance your home business will succeed but only after you have given careful thought as to what that business will be.

Here are some of the attributes of an ideal home business that will improve your chances of success.

The Ideal Home Business:
1- Sell to the Entire World. The ideal business must have an unlimited global market,not just local or regional exposure.
2- Is not cyclical. Your product/service does not rely on cycles to be in demand. The demand is constant, regardless of time, or price.
3- Product is Original. Your product must be unique. It cannot be easily substituted or copied.
4- Minimal Labor Requirements. A large portion of capital is not tied up in high labor costs.
5- Low Overhead. Total overhead cost must be minimal. No high priced rent, power, labor, shipping, etc.
6- Does Not Require a Large Cash Outlay. The ideal business does not tie up capital in all kinds of equipment.
7- Cash Only. The business should be cash only. No money is tied up, or lost,in accounts receivable, and bad debts.
8- Free of Government Regulations. No business will ever be 100% free of all government regulations, but these should be kept minimal.
9- Portable. The ideal business should be easy to relocate, and can be operated from anywhere in the world.
10- Intellectual Satisfaction. It must be a business that challenges your intellect in order to provide self-satisfaction.
11- Free Time. The ideal business should allow you to have lots of free time for other interests that are important to you.
12- Unlimited Income. Your income is not limited to your direct output. In other words, you work less...but earn more.
13- Easy to Learn. The ideal home business should be one that is fairly easy for anordinary person to learn, no matter what their age, or level of education.So far I have found only one business that fits the above criteria, and that is trading the futures markets.

Author Info:
Rob Hall is a successful futures trader, President & CEO of his own investment firm, and international author. His books on learning to trade futures markets are distributed through Sumas International Sales Ltd. View them at http://www.futuresopps.com/Comm.htm

Improve Your Home Business With New Ideas

Generating new and fresh ideas is paramount to running a successful home business. Ideas are needed for developing, marketing and advertising your products or services, and used for resolving different problems you may encounter. Below are three ways for generating new ideas that can help improve your home business.

1. Communicating with other business people on a regular basis can generate many ideas. There are a number of resources available online and offline that will allow you to meet new people. These include seminars, chat rooms, discussion boards and trade shows. By participating in these types of forums, you will stimulate your mind and develop new ideas.

2. If your preference is to not communicate in this manner, you can generate countless ideas by reading. Many types of reading material are readily available both electronically and in paper form. E-books, e-zines, web sites, newspapers and magazines will all stimulate your mind. Fresh ideas can be generated regularly by reading often.

3. If you don’t have a lot of time to read, you could listen to audio recordings. Books, seminars and business courses are available on cassette or cd. This can be done while driving in the car, as you’re exercising, or while working in the yard or doing house work. By using this technique, you can save time and generate new ideas simultaneously.You can use one, two or all three of these techniques and apply them directly to your home business. As you’re absorbing all this new information, it’s helpful to take short breaks to brainstorm ideas. And, since new ideas can come at any time, it’s a good idea to keep a notepad and pen handy.

It is often said that one idea could be the difference between the success or failure of a business! By continuously generating new and fresh ideas, you can help your business stay ahead of the competition.


Author Info:
John Purdy is an affiliate marketer and operates his own internet home business. For access to affiliate programs and resources on the home business industry, visit his website at: http://www.home-business-concepts.com.

Watch Your "Posture"

Mom was always telling me to sit up straight and stand up straight and watch my posture. While she meant that I should be physically aligned, little did she know that her words would affect my home based business.

Posture in business is more than just sitting up straight. It's who you are. When you "posture" yourself, you are showing yourself to be a person who is a leader and has the answers - or at least the means to get the answers. And it's especially important when dealing with customers and clients.

Let's say your prospecting for customers, or even for new associates. They can read your signals a mile away - even over the phone. Someone with poor "posture" isn't sure of themselves. They sound timid or unsure. They ask questions instead of demanding answers. I'll get into the difference in a second. They come across as needy.

On the other hand, someone with good "posture" is always in control of the conversation. If the customer isn't going where you want them to go, you redirects them or cut them loose. That's powerful. A client or a prospect will suddenly think that they deserve whatever you are offering if you show that you don't need them. And of course you need them. But you don't need that particular one if they're being difficult. Is that someone you want to do business with? Of course not. Someone with good posture demands answers instead of asking questions. Your clients or prospects do not get a choice. It's your way. Why? It's your business. If a client or prospect comes to you looking for a product or an opportunity, tell them how it is. As soon as you ask "Is Tuesday or Thursday better for you?" you've lost them. The ball is now in their court and they have an "out." If you have good posture, you say, "Be there at 4:30 on Thursday." That leaves them no choice. If they are truly interested, they will be there. If not, someone else will.

Think of it like this. When you go to the grocery store, you go when the store tells you - because that's when they are open. They don't give you a choice. Sure, you can choose any time frame within their operating hours, but they don't say to you "Shop with us at 10am. Or 4 am. You let us know and we'll open for you." Nope. They are in charge. You also pay their prices. Sure you have a choice to wait for a sale, but they are the ones setting the sale price, too. The ball is always in the seller's court. Your court.

Have confidence. That's really all good posture is. People are looking for leaders to show them the way. If they are skeptical and asking too many questions and not listening to the information you are providing them, send them away. You are a busy leader and do not have time to deal with wishy-washy people. Direct them to the information and have them come back to you with a decision. If they do, great. If they don't, so what? Someone else will. If I don't shop at the corner market, they don't care. Someone else will. They're doing business with people who want to to business. You are no different.

Now that may sound like I'm suggesting you be belligerent and short with people. On the contrary. Be polite and respectful and people will respond in kind. All good posture means is you are confident and in charge. Customers and sales will follow.

Home Based Business - Why Starting Part-Time is the Smart way to Success

With the development of various technologies and with low start up costs it has become much easier today for Entrepreneurs to start a Home Based Business. It is estimated that in USA alone there are over 40 million Home Based Businesses. Home Based Businesses represent 63% of all Small Businesses. Furthermore over 75% of these businesses are operated on a part-time basis.

Some of the reasons generally attributed for starting a Home Based Business are; the fulfillment of a dream, the necessity for an additional income or to have a back up income in the event of losing the present secure job. A reason that is more universal is that most people love to own and run a Home Based Business and would like to experience the thrill and excitement of operating a business from home either full- time or part-time. The majority of those who come under the last category are often under the misconception that it needs very little effort to operate a business from home.

If you have an idea of starting a Home Based Business it is advisable that you should start by running it on a part-time basis while continuing to work on your full-time job. There are several very compelling reasons for adopting this part-time business strategy. I shall enumerate the most important ones below.

1. In spite of your enthusiasm and determination to succeed in your Home Based Business, your attempt could end up in failure for various reasons. In such an event you could always fall back on your full-time job. Talking about failure can be disconcerting to some but you have to be prepared for any eventuality.

2. By starting as a part-time business, your investment both in finance and time will naturally be small thus minimizing the risk involved.

3. While in the process of establishing your Home Based Business, you still have to settle your monthly bills. It is the full-time job that can help you tide over this situation especially during the early months of your part-time business. If you start making profits early in your business then build up a reserve fund to start your full-time home based business.

4. The very thought of your having a regular full-time job with a steady income will give you the confidence to take a reasonable amount of risk in your part-time home based business. This will not be possible otherwise.

5. The presence of a full-time job means that you will not be under excess pressure to perform in your pat-time business for your survival. You can learn business skills, acquire business knowledge and grow gradually at your own pace.

6. By holding on to your full-time job you can continue to enjoy the benefits of health insurance, leave and other benefits till you establish yourself in your part-time business.

7. In the event of sustaining loses in your business during the first year or two; these could be written off when submitting your tax returns.

8. It is much easier to obtain bank loans, credit card facilities and other financial benefits for your business while you are in employment. Why not take advantage of this and grow your home based business while you are in employment.

9. If your intention is to become a home based business entrepreneur one day, then make use of your full-time job and lay the foundation for your home based business by making the necessary contacts with people who could be useful to your future business and could also end up as customers. You should of course ensure that your actions do not come in conflict with the Management policies of your employer.

10. Quitting your full-time job one day and starting a full-time home based business the following day could end up in chaos and disaster unless you have very strong support from experienced entrepreneurs. On the other hand if done gradually transition from full time job to full time home based business becomes much easier.Having said the above, it has to be mentioned that there are ofcource certain disadvantages in the method indicated.

Doing a full-time job and running a part-time home based business can be strenuous and you can experience burnout and consequently neglect either you business, job or even both. Excessive indulgence in your part-time business can eventually lead to under performing in your full-time job, thereby creating problems with your Boss or Employer. You will have to sacrifice much of your precious family time for the sake of your home based business.

Success in your home based business or for that matter in any business does not come easily. It requires hard work, sacrifice, dedication and determination. Above all you have to be passionate about what you are doing.Many great businesses have grown from small beginnings including the Giant Amazon.com. Start sowing the seeds of your home based business while you are in employment, watch it germinate, look after it with tender care, be passionate about it and watch it bearing the fruits of your labor. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and when the time is ripe, quit your full time job. That’s it, keep growing and establish yourself as a successful home based business entrepreneur. This then is the Smart way to Success.


Author Info:
Kanaga Siva has a wealth of experience in running a Home Based Business. He now operates his Internet Marketing Business. Visit his website http://www.business-fromhome.com for Articles, Resources, and Ideas to start a Home Based Business and for other recommended Programs.

Nothing Beats Working From Home

Working from home - do you have what it takes?

According to a recent Harris poll, 72% of American households are thinking about starting a small business, home based.

This statistic left me wondering if they have what it takes? So I quickly ran through one or two questions in my mind and decided to set them down. Hopefully you will find some positives.

Which business is right for you? Do you have a real idea of what you want your business to be or are you just seeking a business as an escape from employment?

A vital question which needs the positive response.

Capitalising on your natural talents! You are going to use your talents and experience so where ever possible stay with what you know. You will know more than you think!

Right off, how about these business ideas?

Work from home on contract with you previous employer(s). Go on to cultivate new clients using your skills. Acquire additional skills. Cultivate more clients usng these new skills. Bingo you’ve got your business!

Use your home PC as a profit generator. You can do this part time, acquire new skills and reach your target market. Hard copy or electronically. Create a business around a;Craft, say woodworking, there is great market for traditional rocking horses and they sell at premium prices. Hobby, flower arranging, I have two friends who are in constant demand for weddings, parties etc. Vocation, I have friend who is very un-happily employed. He is a superb model maker, e.g. scale models of steam locomotives, and he has all of the necessary equipment. He could offer a range of manufacturing services. Despite his employment situation he will not go it alone – nor should he if it’s not right for him. Nevertheless you get my point? Profession. If you have a profession what is it? Can you offer products or services? Yes if you think about it and you want to. Decide clearly and without emotion what it is you want to do and do it, focus on it and provided there is a market use innovative methods to bring your goods/services to the market. If there isn’t a market do not become a missionary. It won’t work – no matter how much you would like it to and no matter how hard you try. That part is only the start! You will have issues.

Setting Up Your Home Based Small Business, have you got room?

I have come across an addition to the SOHO (small office, home office). How about SOGO – small office, garden office. Apparently there is strong demand for garden offices.

I love it, another innovative market opening up; it’s all around us. The knack is to see it.

What's in a NAME? Don’t try to flatter yourself by using your name. Your business name should wherever possible describe what your business does because you need your client targets to know with the minimum of effort. You only use your name if you have a particular reputation well known in your market. It’s best to be as descriptive as you can. Creating a budget you can live with. You won’t start earning immediately so you will need reserves and a Business Plan to project the cash demand on your business. This is a big issue and a vital topic.

Carving your NICHE. You will also need a sales and marketing plan to ensure a steady stream of customers/clients. When you are busy operationally you will be in danger of not marketing and selling. This is the real dilemma for all small business owners, so really work out where your regular stream of business will come from and make it a priority. No clients/customers, no business.

Running Your Business. Administration/accounts can deflect you from developing the business. If you can get reliable help – spouse? Do it. You work on developing your business. Note the expression work on. It is a key objective to stop being employed by yourself working ‘in’ the business to working ‘on’ developing the business. Try to have this in mind at all times. Creating prosperous relationships. Your contacts are vital. Nurture them, grow them and never ever ignore them or take them for granted.

Share your knowledge with others. You are unique; you and only you know what you know. When you think about carefully it you will realise that you know more than you thought you knew. Recognise it, cultivate it and share it with others. This is your USP (unique selling point). Give it serious thought you will find it!

Marketing when you are not working. Never stop thinking, doing marketing. As you become more experienced in your small home based business your entrepreneurial instincts will become very sharp. You will start to recognise opportunities that you would previously not have seen. When you do act on them. Action is the key.

Promoting Your Business. It’s a continuous process. Find a process that works with the minimum of effort and cost and keep it going, going, going!WOW them with quality service. No matter what, over deliver. You will be amazed and delighted when you and your business get recognised and you start getting repeat business and referrals. Try to know where your new clients come from.

Build trust. Integrity is all. Never be tempted to compromise, stick to your principles and you will stand out from the crowd. Be quiet about it. Some of the most brilliantly successful business people are very un-assuming. But they really know what works.

Publish your way to sales. I was recently with a new friend in his business. The business is 35 years old and is going through a lean time even though it provides very innovative manufacturing solutions. I asked, “do you publish your achievements and contact businesses which are potential customers for the product you have developed by solving the problem?” You don’t need me to tell you the answer. My friend has since indicated that he will act on my FREE consultancy. I hope he does because it can only help. He was too much working ‘in’ the business and not ‘on’ it.

If you are seriously seeking a way to start your own home based business I hope these points will help you. If you have an established business I hope there is something here which has triggered your imagination so that you can and will apply it to your business.

As we proceed we all need reference points, reference points to give perspective to our thinking. We need to be able to refer to relevant, sound, proven business building information to help us succeed.

We need help and a plan to avoid 'blind alleys' which helps us get our fledgling business to fly or our existing business to soar. You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do! You can build a business, a successful business if you want it. It takes hard work, persistence and stamina; but it’s well worth it. It all adds up to the exciting prospect of going forward to a more rewarding life where you are in control as you establish your exciting new life - working from home.We would love send you your personal copy of our news bulletin. You can subscribe at http://www.be-your-own-business-expert.com/Bulletin.html
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Resource Box:Article by Michael Harrison, Author, Publisher and Business Consultant. Learn from an expert: Go to: http://www.be-your-own-business-expert.com/
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Author Info:
Michael Harrison is an author, publisher and business consultant specialising in helping business owners and individuals to realise and release the full potential of their situation. He has helped many people to improve their business situations and advised and supported individuals to embark on new directions in their careers.

A Picture Paints a Thousand Words and Creates Auction Euphoria on eBay

Ever since I sold my first item on ebay I have been addicted to the site and I have steadily developed it as a supplementary source of income over the last two years. As I gained experience from listing items, I rapidly became aware that the inclusion of pictures in the listings was a major selling point as buyers could literally see what they were buying and as such create a greater interest and desire within them which in turn led to greater selling prices.

To sum it up in one sentence :Pictures attract attention, help explain details and more importantly stimulates desire which leads to Auction Euphoria.

Auction Euphoria is that process whereby the desire to own an item is that great that all logic goes out the window and the buyer rebids to ensure that they win it, thus increasing the selling price.

This simple bit of knowledge has allowed me to push my final selling prices up on average between 10-30% and as such it amazes me that so many listings do not include one picture and just type out the details in one long line of text (usually all in capitals!). I am not complaining however because this fact alone has allowed my auctions to stand out and make the money.

I started off using eBays add additional photo service to include extra images in my listings which people could use as a reference point and I found out the following :

1. Always make sure that the image is clear and of the actual item for sale, otherwise what is the point of including it? You will find that poorly presented pictures suggest that the seller doesn't care and hence will devalue the potential selling price of the item which is of no use to anyone.

2. Never use a stock photograph of the item for sale, with the increase in fraudulent transactions (especially on the higher value items) this will serve to put the buyer off, again serving to devalue your final selling price. Taking a little extra time to get an actual photograph shows yours buyers that you care and will endear them to you.

3. Where possible use a digital camera, these are very easily accessible nowadays and relatively cheap and they produce excellent images. A webcam can also be used but does give a grainier picture. Remember the cost of the digital camera can be offset by the gain in final selling prices.

4. Have good lighting on your images a poorly lit image may as well not be there. Where possible I take mine outside into the garden, put it onto a chair with white paper behind it and take advantage of the natural light. Its a few minutes work that pays dividends in the end in cold hard cash!

5. Never just use one image, always use at least two. I tend to use one image for every one of the details (or faults) that I mention in the listing. This illustrates what you are actually trying to describe and helps to prevent the dreaded negative feedback of 'the item wasn't as described'.

Using the above meant my auctions stood out and I was considered to be true to my word by my buyers so much so that I have multiple return buyers and the Auction Euphoria effect is evident on my auctions as there regularly go for higher prices than similar items listed on eBay.

As I developed my auctions I realised that using eBays additional picture service was COSTING ME a large proportion of my profit so I looked into other ways of getting my pictures on my listings. I also realised that the format of the listings was another major factor. I wanted to use the additional pictures to illustrate a detail or fault but it was no use having the picture at the bottom of the listing away from the description as per eBays standard approach.

So I did some research and learned that the answer to my problems was HTML to generate a template for my listings and allow me to pull my images into them without having to use eBays image service, sure it was still gonna cost me to host my own images but no where near what eBay was charging me. Using this has meant that my eBay Listing Fees have dropped by nearly 90%.My buyers then started to ask me if they could use my templates and how they could include images on their listings, advice which I always gave to them. I then decided to put this advice together on a few webpages so that they could use it as a reference and to upload some of the templates that I have used in the past so that anyone can use them for FREE.

I hope that these simple bits of advice help you to take advantage of Auction Euphoria, and really develop your profits from the amazing, and addictive, animal that is eBay auctions.


Author Info:
Mike - Webmaster and eBay Power Seller. Online Auction Trader FREE eBay Selling Templates, can be used by anyone you don't need to ask my permission to use them anywhere you want.

Affiliate Programs - An Easy Start to Online Income

If you have been longing to start a business online you maybe coming across terms you've never heard before. You may also have found the opportunities available are overwhelming. Where do you begin?

AFFILIATE PROGRAMS - EASY START
Affiliate programs may be the easiest online business tostart running. Why? With any online business you must have a product or service to sell. First you must create this product or service and then you must be able to fill orders. Selling your own product or service also means creating a website, learning how to write ad copy, setting up a marketing plan, being able to accept payments online and obviously doing the work. If you're selling a physical product then you will need to make or buy the item, package it and pay for shipping costs. If you provide a service then you will likely have to start by doing free jobs to build your credibility and then when you are charging foryour service you are still limited by how much work you can actually handle.

THE MAGIC OF AFFILIATE PROGRAMS
Affiliate programs are a great way to get started in an online business. In fact there are even some 'SuperAffiliates' who are making fabulous incomes from affiliate programs. So, what ARE affiliate programs? Affiliate programs allow you to sell another company's service or product and make a commission on every sale or lead. You do not even need to build a website or handle the transaction. Your job is to drive traffic (customers) to your affiliate link. An affiliate link is a special URL code that will identify customers coming to the company's site from your advertising. It will likely be the website address with a code attached to the end. Some affiliate programs also have tiers. That means if someone who is interested in SELLING the product comes through your link and signs up you will also get a small percentage of THEIR earnings.

HOW DO I CHOOSE A PROGRAM?

You should research the popularity of some of your interests. Try to determine if people are buying that product or service online. There are many sources for finding that information including free ones such as the Overture keyword tool. When you have found an area that is popular then type the subject along with 'affiliate program' into your search engine and see which programs have services or products for that area. You can also use an affiliate program directory. When you have found a program that looks interesting you should read the terms of the program. Make sure that payouts are not based on a high commission earning or you may never see your money. Also try to choose programs with high commission rates. Often you will find ebooks and downloadable software has the highest rates as there is nophysical product to make or ship. If you are satisfied with the terms then you need to sign up - usually a simple process.

START MARKETING
The reason affiliate programs are so great for beginners is that you only need to focus on marketing - not making - your product. Many affiliate programs have information on how to market and give you tools such as banners, product feeds and more. You can also look for other information on marketing including writing articles, creating pay-per-click campaigns, commenting in online forums etc. As you gain experience marketing you will make adjustments to your selling and start creating a wonderful income!


Author Info:
Brennan Howe is the owner of http://www.opportunity4all.net Intenet Opportunities for the Average Person. Sign up to receive a 10 part internet marketing course and free downloads.

5 Ways to Increase Your Affiliate Sales

Most home business owners are involved with affiliate marketing. As an affiliate marketer, a combination of techniques can be used to promote your affiliate website and/or link. Here are five things you can do to help with your promotional efforts resulting in increased affiliate sales.

1. Become an “expert” on the product. The most successful affiliate marketers are “experts” on the products they promote. To become an expert, it’s highly recommended that you purchase the product yourself to gain first-hand experience using it. If you cannot purchase the product, you must thoroughly research it until you become familiar and knowledgeable enough to promote it.

2. Participate in chat rooms related to the product. You can start your own chat or join an existing one. Do not try to selling initially, but during your chat, mention the product you’re promoting and describe its benefits. If there is interest in your product, you can then refer them to the product through your affiliate link. The same concept holds true for forums and discussion boards.

3. Write your own affiliate program ads. Most merchants will provide pre-written ads for their affiliates to use. If you write your own ad, or make significant changes to the one that’s pre-written, your ad will stand out from the others. Done properly, this will give you a great advantage over those affiliates that are using the same ad as everyone else.

4. Create a free newsletter or ezine. Submit your newsletter to the ezine directories and promote it on your website. Keep in mind that most subscribers are interested in receiving “information” that can help them. If you use your mailing list solely for selling, you will never gain credibility and will end up with a high unsubscribe rate. After you’ve developed a relationship and the trust of your subscribers, you can then recommend the products you are promoting

5. Create a free ebook. As part of your ebook, include an advertisement and a link to your affiliate website. The ebook can be given away free or used as an incentive to sign up for your newsletter. Submit your ebook to the ebook directories and offer it to other webmasters for inclusion on their website. The more exposure your ebook receives, the more sales you can make.

By using the techniques outlined above, you will see an increase in your affiliate sales resulting in more commission payments. Be sure to become an “expert” on all the products you promote.


Author Info:
John Purdy is an affiliate marketer and operates his own internet home business. For access to affiliate programs and resources on the home business industry, visit his website at: http://www.home-business-concepts.com.

Yes, I'm Working In My Pajamas

One of the most overused catchphrases in home based business opportunities is "You Can Work In Your Pajamas!" Turns out, it's actually true.

Of couse I'd always heard the phrase "Dress For Success" so when I first started working from home, I would do just that. Dress for success. Figuring clothes really do make the man, I'd get up, shower and get dressed in something business-y so I'd feel like I was the professional I was telling everyone I was. But I found it was becoming a crutch for me. And if I didn't have anything that was business attire, I wouldn't work that day. And once I got my dry cleaning back, I realized I just wasn't comfortable wearing business clothes. I wasn't comfortable wearing them at my job, why would I be comfortable wearing them at home. So I decided to be comfortable. I decided to do my business in my pajamas. And you know what? I was more comfortable and ultimately, more productive. I felt like me, and that came across to my clients. I was more relaxed and my clients were more receptive to what I had to offer. I'm going to get a haircut now, so I should probably put something on besides my Snoopy pajamas. Until next time ...

3 Secrets to success in your home business by Joel Teo

Anyone believe it or not can be successful tomorrow in their home business. The problem is most people do not know where to start and what to do. This article will cover three secrets that any home business owner can use to vastly improve their home business.

Firstly, any successful person needs to dream of a future where there is more rather than less money on the table. Napoleon Hill of the “Think and Grow Rich” fame discovered that rich people become rich because of their mindset. If you want to be a really successful home business owner, you need to learn the mindset of wealth. Where do you see yourself in your home business in the next few years? Do you have clearly defined long term, medium term and short term goals? Spend time thinking and planning your strategy and you will be one step nearer your goal of making serious money in your home business.

Secondly, know the medium where you carry out your sales really well. Today with the advent of the internet, internet marketing is fast becoming a great way for a home business owner to promote his products online. A good home business owner today will therefore start learning how he can make use of internet marketing to boost his business products online.

Imagine making the sale while you are sleeping. Such is the allure of internet marketing today and if you learn some basic Search Engine Optimization you will be on your way to online profits. But it will be a long process but worth it in the longer term.

Thirdly, always remember that in any business whether offline or online, you focus should always be on generating the sale. The story that was related in Rich Dad and Poor Dad was quite poignant on this point. Robert Kiyosaki was telling of the class where one of his students was saying that he did not want to sell but wanted to be a CEO. Robert later told him that he had nothing to teach him if that was the case. The lesson here is clear, it does not matter what industry or what business you are in. Your job when you own a home business is to promote your services and build your client and customer base. While managing your business is true half of the time, the other half is building your own business. Most people just cannot get that and tell you, they hire this salesman or sales team. Like in most things in business building a client base is valuable, so spend time learning the art of selling whether online or offline.

In conclusion, a home business is hard work but like most other things in life, one has to focus on the important things rather than the less important things. These three secrets if focused on well will result in long term growth in your home business no matter what the sector or industry.


Author Info:
Joel Teo is a work at home business owner and runs the highly successful work at home business opportunity websites. http://www.instantbizempires.com http://www.makethousandstoday.info

Warm Market Reality Check

Yeah, this is a tricky one. We all know that your warm market is your best chance for success because these are the people who know you and love you and want you to succeed, right? Not necessarily.

Outwardly, your friends and family wish you the best. And inwardly, they do, too. They don't want to see you fail. But they don't want to see you get hurt, or take a risk, or get scammed. That's why I learned not to approach my warm market until after I'd had some success. Here's why.

When I first became an associate with a network marketing company, I took their advice and rushed right out to my warm market to sell and recruit. Everyone - and I mean EVERYONE - I knew looked at me like I was from Mars. Some went so far as to call me an idiot. These were my friends! They also got the sense that I was trying to "sell" them on something. And no one likes that - especially from your friends. Because if they don't meet with the same success as you, that friendship goes sour and you really do feel like an idiot.

So I learned my lesson and practiced on my cold market. People I didn't know and, more importantly, didn't know me. They had no preconceived notions about me whatsoever so I could be whomever I wanted. I never lied about my success or my earnings because I operated from place of integrity. But I never brought the subject up, either. I practiced my pitch with people at the mall, in the grocery store, at the amusement park. I even got a telemarketer to check out an opportunity I had - and they were trying to sell me first! Once I got my spiel down, it gave me more confidence. And more success. And I made some money. I made back far more than I invested. And I never spoke of it with my friends unless they brought it up. They'd say, "Are you still doing that thing?" And I'd say, "Yes." And when they'd ask me cynically how it was going, I could tell them things were great, it was everything I said it would be, I was having fun, and most importantly - making money. That's when they got interested and that's when they were a legitimate warm market. They were open to hearing more.

Why Do I Have To Pay Someone to Start My Home Business?

When you become an independent associate with a network marketing or direct sales organization, they will more often than not, require you to pay a "start-up" fee of some sort. But if the company is so great and you are sure to make money, why can't you just work the business and have them take the money out of your first commission? I've heard this question a lot. And if you;ve asked it, you've probably heard the answer that "It takes money to make money." And with that, most people hear "scam!" and run away screaming. Ignorant and screaming. Ignorant, still broke, and screaming. So here's a reality check.

Suppose you wanted to simply start your own business - all by yourself. Great. Apart from an idea and enthusiasm, what do you need? Money. You have to buy supplies, inventory, maybe a storefront, or put up money to start a website. Then you have to advertise to get people to buy whatever it is you're selling. But if you're so confident that you're going to make money, can't you just pay yourself back from your ... oh, right. You can't pay yourself back without any money up front. "Well," I hear you say, "I won't use my money. I'll get a loan. Or use my credit cards." Good for you. That's still using money to start a business. Are we getting it yet?

"But why does it cost so much?" Actually, in the grand scheme of things, it doesn't. Most network marketing or direct sales organizations will ask you to pay anywhere from $50 - $1500 to get started. Sometimes more. But what if you wanted to buy, say a McDonald's franchise. You'd have to pay the McDonald's corporation over 1 million dollars! And that's just to get started. Then you'd have to go to McSchool to learn every little detail about running a McDonald's, from crunching the numbers to flipping the burgers. And, if you're really, really good you might see a profit after about 5 years. Five years! After you've invested over a million dollars up front and who knows how much of your time! Makes a network marketnig company not seem to bad. Especially considering that you can often feasibly make a profit within a week after only investing a couple hundered dollars and only a few hours of your time.

Is it a risk? ANY new business is a risk! But are you more willing to risk a couple hundred or a couple million? And think about this - you're unwillingness to take a risk is what put you in a position to look for a home based business in the first place. Take a risk and give it everything you've got. It can pay off very handsomely.