Watch Your Step

This seems to be a no-brainer, but it's an easy trap for even the most disciplined person. When you're sitting in a sales meeting, dazzled by presentations given by ordinary people who've made it big in the business, you can hardly help but daydream about your own financial future. "Wouldn't it be nice to knock out my $10,000 worth of credit-card debt in one fell swoop," you imagine. "New cars, nice homes, the opportunity for me to cut loose from my day job and call all the shots. How can I pass this up?!" You feel an adrenaline rush and sense of urgency bubble up inside you as the person who brought you to the "party" explains the compensation plan in a one-on-one follow-up session right after the meeting. With the paperwork in front of you and pen in hand, you . . . STOP!

Just as with any investment decision, you must take time to evaluate network marketing opportunities. Seek objective feedback from your attorney, accountant, spouse or friends. The opportunity may very well be right for you, but confirm it with people you trust before you sign. If it's legit, the offer will still be there in a week or two.