So because I’m on the internet a lot lately, searching for something to do at home in order to make some money, I came across a website that advertised a home based business.  I found this site on Craigslist where I was searching for a job.  The writer on this website convinced me enough to spend $10 in order to receive a packet that would have a step by step proven system that I could learn from to start a business from home.  He even offered to pay back the $10 for shipping if I wasn’t satisfied.  So I thought, Hey, why not?  If this all seems to just be a scam, at least I only spent $10.  What convinced me most was that the company was aproved by the better business borough.  I became excited.   This might be what I was searching for; an online home based business that would be taught to me.  They also promised me that someone would call me within 24 hours to be my mentor.  Doesn’t that sound good?  So, I signed up. 

My mentor called me the next day.  I missed the call and he called again the day after.  Such persistance was reassuring.  He said I’d be getting the packet in the mail the next day and I should read it, watch the DVD and then we’ll talk again and he’ll answer any questions I have.  During this time, I dreamed of all the money I would make, and how I would spend it.  They advertised this fool proof system so well.  All I needed to do was follow thier detailed instructions…. what could be difficult?

The packet came in the mail.  It was much smaller than I expected.  I thought, how could a fool proof system fit in such a small booklet?  I read it and watched the DVD.  Once again, it was the same advertising.  Other people’s success stories, and a vague explanation of a home based business.  One thing I detected (although they, in no way, directly said it) was that whatever this system was, it included me selling something that had to do with dieting.  That’s when I became sceptical.  What was this product? why were they taking so long until they revealed it to me?  I couldnt wait until I spoke with my mentor again.

The next day my mentor called.  He had a system of his own that we were to go through before I hammered him with my questions.  Lucky for me, his audio program was not working and I got to ask them. 

What was this product nobody was mentioning?  Herbal Life!  Well, why didn’t you tell me to begin with?  I wouldn’t have wasted mine and your time!  I’ve tried the diet and it didnt’ work for me, and I know how much money you have to shell out initially on all thier products, and I was not willing to do that either. This “fool proof system” was not for me.

This made me wonder: why did they keep the product a secret for so long?  Is there something about this method of marketing that works to get people to sign on?  How can I use this learning experience in my own business?

In the meantime, I’m trying to get back my $10.  Wish me luck!