Sunday, July 27, 2008

Self employment opportunities - keep an eye out for scams

Self employment can be an exciting time in your career. The opportunity to work hard and see the fruits of your labour is very enticing. And it is no wonder that many women decide to work for themselves after having children - the ability to work your own hours is very appealing in the quest for work / life balance.

It is always important to do your research when you are looking to work for yourself. This includes self employment opportunities that are advertised on job boards and newspapers. Make sure you have full knowledge of what you are selling and the costs associated with it before you make any decisions.

There are some great websites that will alert you to any scams or pyramid schemes currently circulating in the market. Visit the Australian Security and Investment Commission's website on scams at http://www.fido.gov.au/scams or the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission scam watch website found at http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/693900

4 comments:

www.ANISEConsulting.com said...

I agree. It is really important to do your homework before you outlay money.

There are various opportunities out there from Tupperware to Amway to franchise that are not scams, but you should be clear on what your money is paying for.

I have seen franchise owners tell me they are losing money, and getting no support from the head franchiser, and I have spoken to people selling Tupperware, who agree they are not making financially much money, but they attend all the training sessions, they are learning skills, building a network, and gaining confidence.

Do you research, and understand how you will benefit.

Heather Smith FCCA, B.Comm (Acc & Fin)
BRISBANE MYOB Certified Consultant & MYOB Trainer
http://www.aniseconsulting.com

Anonymous said...

Interesting post. I'd like to become self-employed and run my own business since I'm tired of working for someone else. This is very helpful for obvious future purposes. I’ll have to keep this in mind. Anyway, lately I've become more interested in buying a business instead of starting one from scratch, with the possibility of a home-based business. Any suggestions? Advice? Thanks so much.

Anonymous said...

Carol, Check out BizTrader.com. It's an online global marketplace where you can buy or sell a business. You can also use it to find professional help, like if you need to find a lender, broker, accountant, etc. There are plenty of preexisting businesses available for you to purchase. It's a good place to find a small business on the Internet.

You can also check out small business groups in your area. They could help you out as well.

Good luck!

Anonymous said...

Hi Carol, you might try BizAg.com which lists almost 150,000 businesses for sale.