It might be an idea, a business, a product or, in my case, an online tool for offline networking, that you are looking to sell. But whatever it is, spend some time trying to pitch your idea face to face. I was reminded of this early this week when I attended a great networking event for women business owners. I had the opportunity to speak individually with women looking to build their businesses and explain how MeetingWave can help grow a business, service or even a cause. In person, I had the chance to present a customized pitch about the value of MeetingWave for professionals.

While there are a lot of innovative ways to provide targeting marketing via email, direct mail and online ads, I believe that they do not compare to face to face networking. Moreover, you receive immediate feedback about your product or service, including the facial expression, tone of voice, and general reaction of your potential consumer.

If you are looking to start pitching your product, service or idea, MeetingWave is a great place to start. Post an invite and be specific about the type of people you want to meet. You can decline anyone who doesn’t meet your criteria, before you ever meet, and the meeting is only confirmed if you approve at least one acceptance. Good luck!

Tina

Marketing Director

Although there are legitimate work-at-home jobs (I’m currently working from home), many are scams. So, if you see an invite to discuss a “work-at-home” job or other opportunity, please be careful. Google “work at home job scams” to learn more.  In the meantime, here are some tips:

Don’t send money for “startup kits” or provide your bank information (i.e., bank account numbers, social security number, etc.) even if they say required to pay you. If you really think it’s legit and they require this information to pay you, set up a new account with no funds available to siphon out.

Check references: Ask for a list of employees, customers or clients to contact.

Don’t believe Get Rich Quick Offers. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Business models that the experts say are particularly likely to be scams include envelope stuffing, assembly jobs, craft making, data entry, mystery shopping, coupon marketing and online ad posting.

Finally, if you do get scammed (e.g., work but don’t get paid when promised), stop working and file complaints with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (affiliated with the FBI), the Federal Trade Commission and the Better Business Bureau.  For more information, please review:

Work-at-home jobs don’t always work by Diane Stafford of the Kansas City Star

http://www.kansascity.com/196/v-print/story/1148319.html

Work at Home Scams by Alison Doyle

http://jobsearch.about.com/cs/workathomehelp/a/homescam.htm

Work-at-home job scams

http://money.cnn.com/2009/02/12/pf/saving/toptips_jobscams_willis/index.htm

Work At Home Jobs: How to Avoid Getting Scammed

http://www.scambusters.org/work-at-home-jobs.html

Finally, please contact us about or “Flag” any invites posted on MeetingWave that you believe may be Scams.

Thanks,

John, founder

www.MeetingWave.com

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, you should read Dave Pollard’s brief article “Six recession-proof steps to becoming a natural entrepreneur,” published in Ode Magazine this month. His second point addresses the need to find business partners to help your with your venture. I also believe this is critical to being successful, and it is important to understand early on that one person cannot be an expert on every aspect of a new business.

If you’re having trouble finding partners or complementary talent to your own, try posting an invite on MeetingWave. Be specific in the talent you are looking for. Also, you might consider trying a broader range of geography if your need is very specific – you can arrange a Skype or online chat with candidates.  See Find the Right Job or Opportunity Using MeetingWave or MeetingWave Dilemma: Chicken or the Egg? for tips.

Good luck!

Regards,

Tina