Scam-Proof Your Business You're an easy target for one of the most common-and costly-business scams.
Telemarketing scam artists sell overpriced, poor-quality officegoods to unsuspecting entrepreneurs. The Federal Trade Commissionrequires telemarketers to disclose certain information, includingthat it's a sales call, who they are, and the total cost ofgoods or services they're selling. So don't be afraid toask.
Keep track of all orders. And limit the number of staff memberswho are authorized to order items. If you receive merchandise youdid not order-and the seller cannot prove you did-you can keep thematerials.
Make sure your employees are scam-aware and establish aprocedure for taking and handling such calls. Remember, forewarnedis forearmed.
Excerpted from Get Smart: 365 Tips To Boost Your EntrepreneurialIQ
