For reasons that escape me now, I kept sort of a diary during my first full year of working at a home based business. It was nothing close to being a complete daily diary, but was more of a collection of scribbles about things that I felt were worthy of note at the time. Since quite a bit of time has passed since then, I decided to revisit these notes.
In no particular order, here are some of the things that I had made note of.
Choosing the path...in the beginning, my enthusiasm was very high (perhaps too high?) and I was chasing off on several different home-based business opportunities at the same time (exhibiting the "dog in a meat market" syndrome, I suppose) and not focusing my efforts enough to be successful at any single one of them. I finally reigned myself in and focused on a single work at home business opportunity.
In other notes I find reference to emotional and/or psychological issues that I experienced and are probably typical for most people when starting a home based business. When working at home a person can, at times, experience a feeling of isolation which is probably brought on by the lack of interaction of a work force environment.
There were also periods of doubt in the early going...did I pick a viable business opportunity?...am I doing the right things to develop my business?...when will I start making a profit?, and so on.
Many of the entries in my so-called diary had to do with the proverbial "two steps forward and one step backward" thing and the ever-looming temptation to become discouraged. Although I didn't appreciate it at the time, it is now obvious that as long as you have more steps forward than backward you will eventually get ahead! Isn't hindsight wonderful?
Other entries reflect the fact that relatively minor events can seem huge in the early stages of developing a work at home business and can really contribute to an emotional roller coaster ride. For example, if you are just starting out and you have two customers/clients and you lose one...that's a 50% drop! However, if you fast-forward in time to the point where you have hundreds of customers/clients and you lose one...that's just a mere fraction of 1%! Same event, just at a different point in time.
Looking back on it now, some of the stuff I recorded now seems humorous, but I'm pretty sure that was not the case at the time I made the notations.
About The Author
Kirk Bannerman operates a successful home based business and resides in California. For more details, visit his website at http://business-at-home.us
Monday, February 27, 2006
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Selecting Your Work At Home Business Opportunity
I started looking for viable work at home opportunities back in 2001. It was a time consuming process, but in retrospect, I give myself a pat on the back every month when I cash the check from my home based business. The purpose of this article is to perhaps help others make their selection with a little less time and effort than I had to expend.
Having spent many years running traditional "bricks and mortar" type businesses, I didn't buy for one second the numerous heavily hyped, or worse yet, scam operations that touted the instant and fantastic riches that could be achieved (often with little or no effort required). While doing my research as to which business I would eventually pursue, this type of claim became an instant trigger for me to move on to check out some other "opportunity".
I mean, give me a break, if those claims were close to being true, why would they share their "secret" with anyone else? They would just execute their "magic system" and in short order would have made all the money that exists in the world...yeah, right!
In the course of my investigations, a few other natural filters surfaced to help me narrow down the realistic and legitimate opportunities from among the far too numerous unfounded offers. Early on, I determined that the "get in on the ground floor" offers were essentially smoke. After all, if I wanted to take a chance on the lottery, I would have purchased a ticket. Because of my business management experience, it soon became clear to me that three of the primary factors that would influence my choice would be:
* successful longevity (how long has this particular company been successfully doing business?)
* reasonable income expectations touted by the top management of the company offering the opportunity.
* support systems and training resources available to help the participants succeed.
One thing that really struck home with me was a statement made by the founder of the company that I eventually selected for my home based business. It went something like the following:
"Hardly a day goes by that I don’t hear from an affiliate questioning why he or she is not seeing a big check yet. More times than not, the person asking hasn’t even been involved for more than 90 days and is only barely beginning to even understand how the whole system works. And frankly, even if the number was six months, it’s still much too early to be expecting a significant income stream to have developed.
I always say that if you’re not willing to give a business at least a year, don’t even bother getting involved. You need to understand that it takes time to get to know all the nuances of the compensation plan. It takes time to determine which products you want to lead with. It takes time to develop a game plan. It takes time to figure out what marketing activities deliver the biggest bang for the buck. Anything worthwhile takes sustained effort. If you’re not thinking long term, you’ve set yourself up for failure."
To sum it up, the selection process should focus on reality (there is no "magic" in home based businesses) and reject any so-called "opportunities" that seem too good to be true.
About The Author
Kirk Bannerman operates a successful home based business and resides in California. For more details, visit his website at http://business-at-home.us
Having spent many years running traditional "bricks and mortar" type businesses, I didn't buy for one second the numerous heavily hyped, or worse yet, scam operations that touted the instant and fantastic riches that could be achieved (often with little or no effort required). While doing my research as to which business I would eventually pursue, this type of claim became an instant trigger for me to move on to check out some other "opportunity".
I mean, give me a break, if those claims were close to being true, why would they share their "secret" with anyone else? They would just execute their "magic system" and in short order would have made all the money that exists in the world...yeah, right!
In the course of my investigations, a few other natural filters surfaced to help me narrow down the realistic and legitimate opportunities from among the far too numerous unfounded offers. Early on, I determined that the "get in on the ground floor" offers were essentially smoke. After all, if I wanted to take a chance on the lottery, I would have purchased a ticket. Because of my business management experience, it soon became clear to me that three of the primary factors that would influence my choice would be:
* successful longevity (how long has this particular company been successfully doing business?)
* reasonable income expectations touted by the top management of the company offering the opportunity.
* support systems and training resources available to help the participants succeed.
One thing that really struck home with me was a statement made by the founder of the company that I eventually selected for my home based business. It went something like the following:
"Hardly a day goes by that I don’t hear from an affiliate questioning why he or she is not seeing a big check yet. More times than not, the person asking hasn’t even been involved for more than 90 days and is only barely beginning to even understand how the whole system works. And frankly, even if the number was six months, it’s still much too early to be expecting a significant income stream to have developed.
I always say that if you’re not willing to give a business at least a year, don’t even bother getting involved. You need to understand that it takes time to get to know all the nuances of the compensation plan. It takes time to determine which products you want to lead with. It takes time to develop a game plan. It takes time to figure out what marketing activities deliver the biggest bang for the buck. Anything worthwhile takes sustained effort. If you’re not thinking long term, you’ve set yourself up for failure."
To sum it up, the selection process should focus on reality (there is no "magic" in home based businesses) and reject any so-called "opportunities" that seem too good to be true.
About The Author
Kirk Bannerman operates a successful home based business and resides in California. For more details, visit his website at http://business-at-home.us
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Work At Home, But Don't Become A Slave To Your Business
Although the expressed reasons for wanting to work from home are many and varied, most home based business owners cite the ability to set their own hours as a major factor in their decision to work at home. However, many people that have work at home businesses often fall into a trap that flies directly in the face of their stated desire for time flexibility.
The strong growth in home based business activity continues and, according to the Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy, fifty-two percent of ALL small businesses are home-based.
Some home based business owners have been known to become "workaholics" because their office is so accessible. Don't become a slave to your business...get out of your home office regularly to renew and revitalize yourself.
Close the door to your office or otherwise remove yourself from your designated "work area" and go into your "home" area to live your personal life. If your business involves the use of the telephone and you find it difficult to ignore a ringing phone in the office, simply turn the ringer off and turn the volume on the answering machine way down. If your business is internet based, just turn off your computer (or at least get away from the monitor and keyboard).
As a work at home business entrepreneur, you certainly aren't required to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week just because your business is located in your home. After all, your office or workspace is just an area in your home...its not your home itself!
Working and living under the same roof has a host of advantages, but it can present some challenges (in addition to the workaholic syndrome mentioned, above) and stress factors.
Here are four ways to create a less stressful home business environment:
* Remember why you wanted to become involved with a home-based business (i.e. more time for family, work schedule flexibility, etc.)
* Have discussions with your family members and get their input about the working arrangements and the amount of time they want with you.
* Use good time management techniques. Keep a list of tasks by order of importance. There are many low cost and effective "day planners" or "organizers" readily available today.
* ALWAYS take a little time to "smell the roses".
While not experiencing the negatives common to a corporate office working environment, the home-based business owner may occasionally experience stresses and frustrations that are unique to working at home. Networking with other home-based and small business owners provides an opportunity to connect with others who may be experiencing the same stresses/frustrations that you are. Sharing stressful and/or frustrating issues with someone else in the same situation can relieve your stress and may bring you good advice from a different point of view.
As a final note, remember to observe Home-Based Business Week (it is always the week of October that includes the second Tuesday).
About The Author
Kirk Bannerman operates a successful home based business and resides in California. For more details, visit his website at http://business-at-home.us
The strong growth in home based business activity continues and, according to the Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy, fifty-two percent of ALL small businesses are home-based.
Some home based business owners have been known to become "workaholics" because their office is so accessible. Don't become a slave to your business...get out of your home office regularly to renew and revitalize yourself.
Close the door to your office or otherwise remove yourself from your designated "work area" and go into your "home" area to live your personal life. If your business involves the use of the telephone and you find it difficult to ignore a ringing phone in the office, simply turn the ringer off and turn the volume on the answering machine way down. If your business is internet based, just turn off your computer (or at least get away from the monitor and keyboard).
As a work at home business entrepreneur, you certainly aren't required to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week just because your business is located in your home. After all, your office or workspace is just an area in your home...its not your home itself!
Working and living under the same roof has a host of advantages, but it can present some challenges (in addition to the workaholic syndrome mentioned, above) and stress factors.
Here are four ways to create a less stressful home business environment:
* Remember why you wanted to become involved with a home-based business (i.e. more time for family, work schedule flexibility, etc.)
* Have discussions with your family members and get their input about the working arrangements and the amount of time they want with you.
* Use good time management techniques. Keep a list of tasks by order of importance. There are many low cost and effective "day planners" or "organizers" readily available today.
* ALWAYS take a little time to "smell the roses".
While not experiencing the negatives common to a corporate office working environment, the home-based business owner may occasionally experience stresses and frustrations that are unique to working at home. Networking with other home-based and small business owners provides an opportunity to connect with others who may be experiencing the same stresses/frustrations that you are. Sharing stressful and/or frustrating issues with someone else in the same situation can relieve your stress and may bring you good advice from a different point of view.
As a final note, remember to observe Home-Based Business Week (it is always the week of October that includes the second Tuesday).
About The Author
Kirk Bannerman operates a successful home based business and resides in California. For more details, visit his website at http://business-at-home.us
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Working at Home Doesn't Have to Mean Feeling Alone
Operating a home-based business may let you set your own schedule, spend more time with your children, and earn more money but it does have its own set of challenges. One of those challenges can be a feeling of loneliness.
Many home-based business workers spend all their time trapped within the confines of their house. They eat in their own kitchen, type email on their own computer, and socialize with their own family once they return from the outside world. At first, this might seem like a welcome change from the stressful interactions in the average workplace, but when continued day after day, it can dramatically affect your mood and your productivity.
Luckily, you can combat those negative feelings and keep your home-based business. Here are a few suggestions:
1) Establish a Routine
Very often the flexibility of working at home can deteriorate into disorder and chaos, which usually leads to longer hours and less socialization. A well-established routine allows you to get your work done and have time to mingle. For example, you could set office hours from 8 am to 5 pm. Once you finish working each evening, you'll be free to unwind and interact with people for the rest of the night without the distraction of your business. Plus, you'll be forced to use those time management skills which were so essential when you working for someone else.
2) Take a walk with a spouse, friend, or dog
If you visit any workplace, you are bound to find people walking on their lunch breaks. They don't just do this for the calorie-burning benefits, however. It's also a good way to release stress and to enjoy the company of other people. You can do the same thing, but you may need to schedule your outings so they are convenient for your “walking buddy.” Of course, if you opt to take your favorite canine companion along, he or she will be available whenever the need to wander strikes.
3) Join a health club
Exercise is an excellent stress reliever, plus it fights against two other common work-at-home problems: over-indulgence in food and sedentary lifestyles. But exercising on a stationary bike or treadmill in your bedroom won't be enough to fight that feeling of isolation. A health club, on the other hand, is a perfect answer because it provides lots of exercise opportunities and a chance to meet new people. Sure, club memberships can be pricey but your health and well-being are worth it.
4) Get a hobby
One of the bad things about owning a home-based business is that you probably turned your hobby into your livelihood which often takes a lot of the fun out of it, so now you need a new hobby. The best choice would be something that required you to get involved with other people, such as team sports. However, most solitary activities can also be used for socializing. For example, if you like to read, you could join a weekly book club.
5) Go to the movies
Chances are those people you love who spend 8-10 hours a day in the outside world probably want to rent a DVD, microwave some popcorn, and watch a film in the comfort of their living rooms instead of venturing out into the dark, crowded, and sticky-floored world of theaters. You, however, should resist the urge. Watching a movie in public with a group of people around is the ultimate socialization experience. Even though you don't know everyone in the theater, you are connected for those two hours (or however long the movie runs). Of course, if you can take your spouse, your friends, your children, or even your parents along, you definitely should. But if they'd rather stay home and vegetate on the couch, you can always go alone.
6) Buy a laptop computer
Owning a home-based business doesn't mean you are never allowed to leave your house. Of course, you don't want to miss out on valuable work, but you also don't want to a prisoner in your home office. If you buy a laptop, you can have the best of both worlds. You'll stay connected to your work and you can actually go out into the world. You can work while you sip coffee, relax at the park, or sit on your front porch. All of which will give you a much-needed chance to reconnect with the rest of the world.
7) Get a part-time job
You probably started your own home-based business to escape the rat race so you might be hesitant about getting back out there. Even ten hours a week is enough to keep you sane, but should not be enough to drive you crazy. One freelance writer I know who works out of her home also teaches a five hour weekly writing course to college students in order to rejuvenate after hours of isolation. The class lets her be social, do something she enjoys, and earn a reliable stream of additional income. The effects of a part-time could be equally beneficial for you.
As you may have noticed, all of these ideas have one thing in common: they force you to leave your home. The reason is that the only way to feel like you're not isolated, is to not isolate yourself. Taking a few minutes each day to talk to your working friends on the phone, to stroll through nature, or to spend quality time with your family is all it really takes to keep your productive and happy.
About The Author
Vishal P. Rao is the editor of Home Based Business Opportunities - A website dedicated to opportunities, ideas and resources to help you start and run a home based business. Visit him at: http://www.home-based-business-opportunities.com
Many home-based business workers spend all their time trapped within the confines of their house. They eat in their own kitchen, type email on their own computer, and socialize with their own family once they return from the outside world. At first, this might seem like a welcome change from the stressful interactions in the average workplace, but when continued day after day, it can dramatically affect your mood and your productivity.
Luckily, you can combat those negative feelings and keep your home-based business. Here are a few suggestions:
1) Establish a Routine
Very often the flexibility of working at home can deteriorate into disorder and chaos, which usually leads to longer hours and less socialization. A well-established routine allows you to get your work done and have time to mingle. For example, you could set office hours from 8 am to 5 pm. Once you finish working each evening, you'll be free to unwind and interact with people for the rest of the night without the distraction of your business. Plus, you'll be forced to use those time management skills which were so essential when you working for someone else.
2) Take a walk with a spouse, friend, or dog
If you visit any workplace, you are bound to find people walking on their lunch breaks. They don't just do this for the calorie-burning benefits, however. It's also a good way to release stress and to enjoy the company of other people. You can do the same thing, but you may need to schedule your outings so they are convenient for your “walking buddy.” Of course, if you opt to take your favorite canine companion along, he or she will be available whenever the need to wander strikes.
3) Join a health club
Exercise is an excellent stress reliever, plus it fights against two other common work-at-home problems: over-indulgence in food and sedentary lifestyles. But exercising on a stationary bike or treadmill in your bedroom won't be enough to fight that feeling of isolation. A health club, on the other hand, is a perfect answer because it provides lots of exercise opportunities and a chance to meet new people. Sure, club memberships can be pricey but your health and well-being are worth it.
4) Get a hobby
One of the bad things about owning a home-based business is that you probably turned your hobby into your livelihood which often takes a lot of the fun out of it, so now you need a new hobby. The best choice would be something that required you to get involved with other people, such as team sports. However, most solitary activities can also be used for socializing. For example, if you like to read, you could join a weekly book club.
5) Go to the movies
Chances are those people you love who spend 8-10 hours a day in the outside world probably want to rent a DVD, microwave some popcorn, and watch a film in the comfort of their living rooms instead of venturing out into the dark, crowded, and sticky-floored world of theaters. You, however, should resist the urge. Watching a movie in public with a group of people around is the ultimate socialization experience. Even though you don't know everyone in the theater, you are connected for those two hours (or however long the movie runs). Of course, if you can take your spouse, your friends, your children, or even your parents along, you definitely should. But if they'd rather stay home and vegetate on the couch, you can always go alone.
6) Buy a laptop computer
Owning a home-based business doesn't mean you are never allowed to leave your house. Of course, you don't want to miss out on valuable work, but you also don't want to a prisoner in your home office. If you buy a laptop, you can have the best of both worlds. You'll stay connected to your work and you can actually go out into the world. You can work while you sip coffee, relax at the park, or sit on your front porch. All of which will give you a much-needed chance to reconnect with the rest of the world.
7) Get a part-time job
You probably started your own home-based business to escape the rat race so you might be hesitant about getting back out there. Even ten hours a week is enough to keep you sane, but should not be enough to drive you crazy. One freelance writer I know who works out of her home also teaches a five hour weekly writing course to college students in order to rejuvenate after hours of isolation. The class lets her be social, do something she enjoys, and earn a reliable stream of additional income. The effects of a part-time could be equally beneficial for you.
As you may have noticed, all of these ideas have one thing in common: they force you to leave your home. The reason is that the only way to feel like you're not isolated, is to not isolate yourself. Taking a few minutes each day to talk to your working friends on the phone, to stroll through nature, or to spend quality time with your family is all it really takes to keep your productive and happy.
About The Author
Vishal P. Rao is the editor of Home Based Business Opportunities - A website dedicated to opportunities, ideas and resources to help you start and run a home based business. Visit him at: http://www.home-based-business-opportunities.com
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Work at Home Business Ideas
Here are some excellent businesses that you can start, operate and grow from your home. All these work at home businesses have the following desirable features:
* Low Startup Costs
* Ease of Entry
* High Income Potential
* Home Based and Operated
* Worldwide Sales Potential
* Residual, Recurring and/or Passive Income Potential
1. Consulting
A consultant is someone expert in a field who, for a fee, advises businesses or individuals on various matters of concern.
Many times we tend to feel that our knowledge, skills or abilities are nothing unique. However, many lack those same assets and would gladly pay us for our knowledge and services.
Although it is possible to make a living from consulting with individuals, the big money is in performing services for businesses.
Do you have knowledge of bookkeeping, accounting, tax or similar business matters? Some have made excellent money specializing in small business consulting.
Are you a computer hobbyist with business or internet experience? You could make money in web design, internet marketing, search engine optimization, or some other specialty.
Some lawyers have combined their legal experience with their love of the Internet and specialized in intellectual property and computer law.
For further information and resources about consulting, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/consulting.html
2. Finding
A finder is someone who, for a fee, finds something needed by a business or individual. A finder`s fee is the amount paid to the finder for locating what was required.
Finder`s fees are paid for finding money (loans, equipment leasing, et cetera), equipment (mining, construction, et cetera), personnel, companies for sale, locations (fast food franchises, vending machines, et cetera) and just about anything else that people are willing to pay for.
Simply match sellers with buyers and you can earn finder`s fees.
For further information and resources about finder`s fees, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/finder.html
3. Auctions
An auction is an event where items are sold to the highest bidders. An internet auction, online auction or e-auction is an auction where you can buy and sell items on the Internet.
Many thousands now make their living or fortune from selling products and services on eBay and similar auction sites. So can you!
For further information and resources about auctions, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/auctions.html
4. Drop Shipping
Drop shipping is a method of selling products without stocking inventory yourself. When you make a sale you contact the manufacturer or authorized distributor who ships it to the customer with your invoice and shipping label. Advantages include no warehousing, shipping, or inventory costs.
For further information and resources about drop shipping, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/dropship.html
5. Affiliate Programs
An affiliate or associate program is a method of selling products on the internet through commission sales. When someone you refer to a website buys, the company you are an associate of (or affiliated with) pays you a commission.
In many cases, it is also possible to make money from the efforts of people that you introduce to the affiliate program. You can also expand your product line by joining and promoting more than one affiliate program.
For further information and resources about affiliate programs, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/affiliate.html
6. Webmastering
A webmaster is a an internet specialist reponsible for all aspects of web sites.
Areas where businesses need assistance include web site design, logo, banner or graphic design, web hosting, e-commerce, internet marketing, web programming, scripts, security, web site maintenance, copy writing, mailing list management, and many other areas.
For further information and resources about webmastering, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/webmstrbus.html
7. Self-publishing
A self-publisher creates, produces, and sells information products. Information products may be in the form of books, booklets, videos, audio cassettes, compact disks (CDs), electronic books, files, databases, private websites, and other media.
The information products that you create are unique. You have exclusive control and ownership of your own products.
For further information and resources about self-publishing, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/selfpub.html
8. Instant Publishing
An instant publisher sells information products produced by someone else who grants them reprint (or resale) rights. Often self-publishers will sell such products to complement their own information products.
For further information and resources about instant publishing, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/instantpub.html
9. International Trade
International trade involves importing and exporting. Importing involves buying goods and services from suppliers in another country. Exporting involves selling goods and services to customers in another country.
For further information and resources about import-export, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/impexp.html
10. Mail Order
Mail order is a method of conducting business through the mail. Goods and services can be sold through direct mail (and also via catalogues, magazines, newspapers, radio, television, web sites, and other media). Customers can order by mail or by other means (fax, telephone, internet, et cetera). Delivery of orders can be made by mail or alternative means (such as by courier for physical goods or by fax, e-mail, telephone, or electronic files for information).
For further information and resources about mail order, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/mailord.html
About The Author
J. Stephen Pope, President of Pope Consulting Inc.,
http://www.popeconsultinginc.com/ has been helping clients to earn maximum business profits for over twenty years. For valuable Work at Home Business Ideas, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/.
* Low Startup Costs
* Ease of Entry
* High Income Potential
* Home Based and Operated
* Worldwide Sales Potential
* Residual, Recurring and/or Passive Income Potential
1. Consulting
A consultant is someone expert in a field who, for a fee, advises businesses or individuals on various matters of concern.
Many times we tend to feel that our knowledge, skills or abilities are nothing unique. However, many lack those same assets and would gladly pay us for our knowledge and services.
Although it is possible to make a living from consulting with individuals, the big money is in performing services for businesses.
Do you have knowledge of bookkeeping, accounting, tax or similar business matters? Some have made excellent money specializing in small business consulting.
Are you a computer hobbyist with business or internet experience? You could make money in web design, internet marketing, search engine optimization, or some other specialty.
Some lawyers have combined their legal experience with their love of the Internet and specialized in intellectual property and computer law.
For further information and resources about consulting, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/consulting.html
2. Finding
A finder is someone who, for a fee, finds something needed by a business or individual. A finder`s fee is the amount paid to the finder for locating what was required.
Finder`s fees are paid for finding money (loans, equipment leasing, et cetera), equipment (mining, construction, et cetera), personnel, companies for sale, locations (fast food franchises, vending machines, et cetera) and just about anything else that people are willing to pay for.
Simply match sellers with buyers and you can earn finder`s fees.
For further information and resources about finder`s fees, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/finder.html
3. Auctions
An auction is an event where items are sold to the highest bidders. An internet auction, online auction or e-auction is an auction where you can buy and sell items on the Internet.
Many thousands now make their living or fortune from selling products and services on eBay and similar auction sites. So can you!
For further information and resources about auctions, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/auctions.html
4. Drop Shipping
Drop shipping is a method of selling products without stocking inventory yourself. When you make a sale you contact the manufacturer or authorized distributor who ships it to the customer with your invoice and shipping label. Advantages include no warehousing, shipping, or inventory costs.
For further information and resources about drop shipping, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/dropship.html
5. Affiliate Programs
An affiliate or associate program is a method of selling products on the internet through commission sales. When someone you refer to a website buys, the company you are an associate of (or affiliated with) pays you a commission.
In many cases, it is also possible to make money from the efforts of people that you introduce to the affiliate program. You can also expand your product line by joining and promoting more than one affiliate program.
For further information and resources about affiliate programs, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/affiliate.html
6. Webmastering
A webmaster is a an internet specialist reponsible for all aspects of web sites.
Areas where businesses need assistance include web site design, logo, banner or graphic design, web hosting, e-commerce, internet marketing, web programming, scripts, security, web site maintenance, copy writing, mailing list management, and many other areas.
For further information and resources about webmastering, visit: http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/webmstrbus.html
7. Self-publishing
A self-publisher creates, produces, and sells information products. Information products may be in the form of books, booklets, videos, audio cassettes, compact disks (CDs), electronic books, files, databases, private websites, and other media.
The information products that you create are unique. You have exclusive control and ownership of your own products.
For further information and resources about self-publishing, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/selfpub.html
8. Instant Publishing
An instant publisher sells information products produced by someone else who grants them reprint (or resale) rights. Often self-publishers will sell such products to complement their own information products.
For further information and resources about instant publishing, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/instantpub.html
9. International Trade
International trade involves importing and exporting. Importing involves buying goods and services from suppliers in another country. Exporting involves selling goods and services to customers in another country.
For further information and resources about import-export, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/impexp.html
10. Mail Order
Mail order is a method of conducting business through the mail. Goods and services can be sold through direct mail (and also via catalogues, magazines, newspapers, radio, television, web sites, and other media). Customers can order by mail or by other means (fax, telephone, internet, et cetera). Delivery of orders can be made by mail or alternative means (such as by courier for physical goods or by fax, e-mail, telephone, or electronic files for information).
For further information and resources about mail order, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/mailord.html
About The Author
J. Stephen Pope, President of Pope Consulting Inc.,
http://www.popeconsultinginc.com/ has been helping clients to earn maximum business profits for over twenty years. For valuable Work at Home Business Ideas, visit http://www.yenommarketinginc.com/.
Tuesday, February 7, 2006
Working At Home...Should It Be A Job Or A Business?
You have decided to work at home (either by choice or necessity) and now you are faced with the decision as to whether to pursue a work at home job or to start a home based business. That may sound like a minor distinction, but the differences can be significant.
A general psychological characterization of the entrepreneurial spirit, says they are typically people who have a high energy level, set long-term goals, feel quite self-confident, and view money and financial security as a measure of accomplishment and piece of mind.
They are further characterized as problem solvers, who take risks, learn from their failures (as well as those of others), accept personal responsibility, seize the initiative, and use all available resources to achieve their success.
Entrepreneurs compete with themselves and believe that success or failure lies within their personal control or influence. They do not see setbacks as failures, but rather as learning experiences. Most of all, they exhibit persistence and tenacity, never giving up and never quitting the quest for success.
If you fit most of these criteria, you would probably elect to start a home business instead of undertaking a work at home job.
However, the decision to work at home does not necessarily mean that you want to be the owner of a business. You may prefer working at home for an already established company. This is often easier to do than owning a business yourself and you may not want all the headaches, responsibilities and obligations that come with owning your own business.
Regardless of which path (job or business) you choose, the first step is to figure out what business or work-from-home opportunity you want to pursue. There are many excellent information sources such as public libraries and Internet sites that list seemingly countless home business and work at home job opportunities. The abundance is so great that it might well lead to confusion.
One of the most important factors is often overlooked. This is your personal inventory. Often this will yield some direction and focus to the business or job selection process. Assess yourself and your situation. Write a resume for yourself that includes your background, education, training as well as any particular on-the-job skills you possess that could possibly be used in a venture or job. Also look at your leisure-time activities and hobbies, because many businesses result from a person following their "passion." Ask yourself how much time you can realistically put into a business venture, given your present commitments.
Once you have determined the general type of home business or work at home job that you want to undertake, it is of critical importance that you do your homework (research) to select the specific opportunity where you are going to make your “investment” (some combination of time, effort and money) in working at home.
About The Author
Kirk Bannerman operates a successful home based business and resides in California. For more details, visit his website at http://business-at-home.us
A general psychological characterization of the entrepreneurial spirit, says they are typically people who have a high energy level, set long-term goals, feel quite self-confident, and view money and financial security as a measure of accomplishment and piece of mind.
They are further characterized as problem solvers, who take risks, learn from their failures (as well as those of others), accept personal responsibility, seize the initiative, and use all available resources to achieve their success.
Entrepreneurs compete with themselves and believe that success or failure lies within their personal control or influence. They do not see setbacks as failures, but rather as learning experiences. Most of all, they exhibit persistence and tenacity, never giving up and never quitting the quest for success.
If you fit most of these criteria, you would probably elect to start a home business instead of undertaking a work at home job.
However, the decision to work at home does not necessarily mean that you want to be the owner of a business. You may prefer working at home for an already established company. This is often easier to do than owning a business yourself and you may not want all the headaches, responsibilities and obligations that come with owning your own business.
Regardless of which path (job or business) you choose, the first step is to figure out what business or work-from-home opportunity you want to pursue. There are many excellent information sources such as public libraries and Internet sites that list seemingly countless home business and work at home job opportunities. The abundance is so great that it might well lead to confusion.
One of the most important factors is often overlooked. This is your personal inventory. Often this will yield some direction and focus to the business or job selection process. Assess yourself and your situation. Write a resume for yourself that includes your background, education, training as well as any particular on-the-job skills you possess that could possibly be used in a venture or job. Also look at your leisure-time activities and hobbies, because many businesses result from a person following their "passion." Ask yourself how much time you can realistically put into a business venture, given your present commitments.
Once you have determined the general type of home business or work at home job that you want to undertake, it is of critical importance that you do your homework (research) to select the specific opportunity where you are going to make your “investment” (some combination of time, effort and money) in working at home.
About The Author
Kirk Bannerman operates a successful home based business and resides in California. For more details, visit his website at http://business-at-home.us
Sunday, February 5, 2006
5 Simple Techniques to Work at Home Forever
If you've spent any time online, you will already know that there are lots of scams out there! You might have even begun to doubt that there are any work-at-home positions available for serious jobseekers. If this sounds like you, you aren't alone!
Believe me, there are real home based jobs, but what most of the work at home sites omit in their information packages is that it takes work to get work. Finding a telecommuting job can be a full time job in itself, but if you don't have all the facts, you will be spinning your wheels trying to get somewhere or you will probably give up within a few weeks. That would be a shame, because there aren't enough high quality telecommuters as it is!
Look, I know you’re skeptical. So was I, a few short years ago. That was before I started implementing some very unique strategies that allowed me to generate so much work from my small home office, that I needed to hire extra staff just to keep up with it all!
The strategies I used are actually very simple, and you can duplicate these ideas to become a very successful telecommuter. In fact, I want you to copy my techniques, even if it means I create my own competition! Why? Because every time a new person starts to work from home more successfully and efficiently, that means one more employer is happy with the concept of hiring homeworkers! That means everyone gets more jobs, and more opportunities to do what we all love to do…working at home in our pyjamas!
So, let’s cover the top 5 simple techniques you can use to work at home forever, shall we?
1. Never pay for any job! There is never a good reason to pay for work, and I am amazed at how many jobseekers waste precious time and money chasing after schemes that will never pay. It wastes a lot of time you could better spend targeting your jobsearch to legitimate and valid work.
2. Get your materials ready! You are going to need to be ready before you start looking for work. You will need a specialized telecommuter’s resume, an excellent cover letter template, and an online portfolio that showcases samples of your work. Without these things in place ahead of time, you will not be ready for rapid response when an employer needs to see your stuff.
3. Make sure you have all the equipment and software you’re going to need! Depending on your skill set, you’re probably going to need special software and equipment to do your job right. Don’t expect an employer to pay for these things. A prospective employer is more likely to hire the next person who is properly equipped, rather than hire you if you expect the employer to pay for what you need to do your job.
4. Know what you do for a living! This is an absolute necessity if you want to work from home. You may think that you want to do “typing at home”, but if that’s all you can think of, then you’re wasting time. Think about how your typing skills will be useful to your employer, come up with creative applications of that skill, set up samples to show what your service looks like, and plan ahead on how much you will charge for that service. Be willing to tell prospective employers exactly what you do and how much you charge for it.
5. Change your strategy! Instead of looking for jobs that have already been posted online, and have already been taken, look for companies that are well suited for your talents. Create your own work by contacting companies that have not yet posted jobs online, and eliminate the competition. But, make sure you know exactly what service you plan to offer that company, and why it is useful to them. Don’t bother contacting companies by sending vague resumes. That technique never works! Contact targeted companies with specific services in mind, and let them know you are open to alternate suggestions.
These techniques work extremely well, and using them allowed me to build my home based service company from scratch, without spending a dime on advertising. I was broke when I started working from home, and I didn’t have a computer. Using these techniques, I was able to slowly build my business and develop a client base that has consistently earned me more money than if I was working onsite. You can do it too!
About The Author
Copyright © 2003, Sylvie Charrier, Author of "Telecommuters Work in Their PJs"
http://www.inyourpjs.com
Believe me, there are real home based jobs, but what most of the work at home sites omit in their information packages is that it takes work to get work. Finding a telecommuting job can be a full time job in itself, but if you don't have all the facts, you will be spinning your wheels trying to get somewhere or you will probably give up within a few weeks. That would be a shame, because there aren't enough high quality telecommuters as it is!
Look, I know you’re skeptical. So was I, a few short years ago. That was before I started implementing some very unique strategies that allowed me to generate so much work from my small home office, that I needed to hire extra staff just to keep up with it all!
The strategies I used are actually very simple, and you can duplicate these ideas to become a very successful telecommuter. In fact, I want you to copy my techniques, even if it means I create my own competition! Why? Because every time a new person starts to work from home more successfully and efficiently, that means one more employer is happy with the concept of hiring homeworkers! That means everyone gets more jobs, and more opportunities to do what we all love to do…working at home in our pyjamas!
So, let’s cover the top 5 simple techniques you can use to work at home forever, shall we?
1. Never pay for any job! There is never a good reason to pay for work, and I am amazed at how many jobseekers waste precious time and money chasing after schemes that will never pay. It wastes a lot of time you could better spend targeting your jobsearch to legitimate and valid work.
2. Get your materials ready! You are going to need to be ready before you start looking for work. You will need a specialized telecommuter’s resume, an excellent cover letter template, and an online portfolio that showcases samples of your work. Without these things in place ahead of time, you will not be ready for rapid response when an employer needs to see your stuff.
3. Make sure you have all the equipment and software you’re going to need! Depending on your skill set, you’re probably going to need special software and equipment to do your job right. Don’t expect an employer to pay for these things. A prospective employer is more likely to hire the next person who is properly equipped, rather than hire you if you expect the employer to pay for what you need to do your job.
4. Know what you do for a living! This is an absolute necessity if you want to work from home. You may think that you want to do “typing at home”, but if that’s all you can think of, then you’re wasting time. Think about how your typing skills will be useful to your employer, come up with creative applications of that skill, set up samples to show what your service looks like, and plan ahead on how much you will charge for that service. Be willing to tell prospective employers exactly what you do and how much you charge for it.
5. Change your strategy! Instead of looking for jobs that have already been posted online, and have already been taken, look for companies that are well suited for your talents. Create your own work by contacting companies that have not yet posted jobs online, and eliminate the competition. But, make sure you know exactly what service you plan to offer that company, and why it is useful to them. Don’t bother contacting companies by sending vague resumes. That technique never works! Contact targeted companies with specific services in mind, and let them know you are open to alternate suggestions.
These techniques work extremely well, and using them allowed me to build my home based service company from scratch, without spending a dime on advertising. I was broke when I started working from home, and I didn’t have a computer. Using these techniques, I was able to slowly build my business and develop a client base that has consistently earned me more money than if I was working onsite. You can do it too!
About The Author
Copyright © 2003, Sylvie Charrier, Author of "Telecommuters Work in Their PJs"
http://www.inyourpjs.com
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