Small Business Blog

The Internet may be a land of opportunity for entrepreneurs, but most newbies still need a map to help them find their way to success. The best “map” comes in the form of real-world instruction that entrepreneurs can easily implement, and then refine according to their own objectives.

If you’ve tried to find this type of instruction, you’ve likely found yourself wondering how to tell the difference between scams and legitimate opportunities. Believe it or not, there’s an easy answer to that question, and it lies in your expectations. No business system you buy or invest in will make money for you. At the end of the day, you still have to do the work, solve the problems, make the adjustments and persevere through challenges.

Said another way, the service providers that offer to help you make money online are educators, not miracle workers. You still have to be the student and put the lessons into practice.

Take the Maverick Coaching Plan as an example. This program provides you with training on starting and operating a home-based, Internet business, which you can do “on the side” or as your full-time job. The program is geared towards real Internet newbies: those who don’t know much about html, Web site building, PPC campaigns and the like. The business model focuses on affiliate marketing, so you only need your computer, an Internet connection, and the right know-how to get started. Training consists of detailed video instruction and 24/7 access to a support team, in return for your monthly subscription fee. Interestingly, though, the Maverick Coaching Plan offers you a money-back guarantee. If you don’t make money in the first 60 days, you can get a full refund.

Now, if you view an opportunity like this as the road map to easy money, you’re going to be disappointed. But if you are highly motivated to launch an Internet business and clueless on where to start, this type of coaching plan may be a good fit. Consider the alternatives. You can get a master’s certificate in Internet Marketing from University of San Francisco, which will cost you about $6000. You can get a master’s degree in Internet Marketing from Full Sail University. That one will cost you about $30,000. Or you can educate yourself, which will be free, but time-consuming. All of these options have advantages and disadvantages — it’s up to you to pick the one that suits your learning style, time line and entrepreneurial objectives.

For additional insights, consider reading my series on evaluating franchise opportunities; many of the same concepts apply here. To learn more about the Maverick Coaching Plan and to watch sample training videos, visit http://www.MaverickEarningPlan.com.

*This is a sponsored post. All opinions are mine.*