There is absolutely no point investing in a business opportunity just because it has a nice, professional looking website, or because sales letters/emails are well written. Both of these might stimulate you to investigate further, but they're not enough on their own.

You certainly shouldn't get involved with something just because some guru tells you it's next big thing - no matter how successful or famous guru may be.

There are 6 key criteria to be used when assessing a potential business opportunity. Apply these rigorously and you will avoid nasty surprises - and you may very well find perfect business for you.

1. The company. You need to be working with people who can be trusted, and who will be around to pay you in future.

2. The product. A good product is essential. Ask yourself if would you buy it if you weren't a distributor.

3. The payment or commission scheme. What do you get paid for? When do you get paid? How do you get paid?

4. The sales method. Are you comfortable with sales method? Can you produce your own adverts?

5. The level of admin required. This should be low. You don't want to waste your time on paperwork do you? 6. The cost - both startup and running. Is it affordable? Will others be prepared to invest when it comes time to build your own team?

Evaluate above points dispassionately before you commit yourself to anything. If you find it difficult to get enough information to make an assessment then that tells you all you need to know. Avoid any opportunity that won't give you facts up front.

Hamish Hayward This article is first in a 7 part series. Read entire series at http://www.perfectsystem.co.uk/articles.html

Whether you have limited resources or unlimited, whether you want to write your own book and sell it or sell a book written by somebody, you want to sell a software, new tactic, an idea, information, database... whatever. You can market it on your own, you can take help of professionals... options are limitless.... you can make money working on internet as you want. You could be a student, retired, a team of like minded people, some one who wants extra income and wants to work from home part-time in spare time... you just name it and possibility of making money online exists already. The World is Flat. One platform - for everyone and anyone. Equal scope- for a newbie or veteran alike. The timing and situation is perfect. The question is "Are you ready for it?" The suggestion is, give it a thought.

The author is Purva Mewar webmaster of Work at Home Based Business websites, www.yesearnformhome.com  and www.work-at-home-earn-extra-income.com