On the Job by Anita Bruzzese Working From Home

On the Job by Anita Bruzzese Working From Home Working from HomeIf youre considering working from home, you need to do your homework. First, what would you like to do? What skills do you have? What do you feel passionate about? How many hours can you devote to it? Are you willing to persevere when the going gets tough? Do you have a support network set up?Once youve answered these questions, then its time to do some homework. Heres the big thing: Dont jump into any business enterprise even if it comes recommended from a seemingly reputable source until youve checked it out yourself. One way to do that is by checking out the Federal Trade Commissions Web site at www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/invest/homewrk.shtm. It will educate you about work from home schemes, and what to avoid.At the same time, dont forget to look at the Better Business Bureau Web site for scam alerts: http://www.bbb.org/Alerts/article.asp?ID=436%20. Its also worth calling your state Secretary of States office to get the latest information on any schemes poppin g up in your area. (You might also want to read about one mans work-from-home scam investigation, at: http://www.cockeyed.com/workfromhome/workfromhome_s.html)OK, once youve cleared away all the scam artists, then its time to get more information about how youre going to make all this work. Remember: working from home often means challenges such as promoting yourself, finding child care, networking and a lot of self discipline. Here are some places to look for job opportunities, online support, professional associations and publications. Check out:* http://www.wahm.comWork at Home Mom magazinecheck out the message board and find out what other moms are doing* http://www.hbwm.com/Home Based Working MomsProfessional association and online community* http://www.drphil.com/articles/article/494Advice and tips from Dr. Phil for work-at-home moms* www.sba.govSmall Business Association, providing tips on starting and maintaining your business* http://www.score.org/SCORE allows you to ask ex perts for free business advice