I am NOT an internet marketing "guru" but I know a thing or two about internet marketing and network marketing. My knowledge did not come from reading a ton of ebooks about internet marketing, although I have "been there, done that". My experience came to me via the University of Hard Knocks where I was a student for over 10 years! Let us just say that I have lost quite a bit of money on the internet trying to make money in various affiliate programs and that it took me a long time to figure things out. ( I hope my wife doesn't read this!) So what are the pitfalls that the newbie needs to avoid?

While the internet is an actual and potential gold mine for network marketers, it is also a potential jungle for newbie marketers. The first pitfall is the sheer number of programs out there crying for your attention and saying :"Join me! Join me!" Some of them make outrageous claims like "If you join this program you will make $12,500 in your first week and $500,000 a year on auto-pilot". Run away form these programs. But also avoid the ones that ask for "an investment of only $75 one time and the potential to earn up to 1 million dollars a year". The "small investments of $45 or $75 or $100 quickly add up and before you are aware there is a big hole in your wallet and bank account! I have fallen for all kinds of scams including "stuffing envelopes" so I know what of I speak. The best thing the newbie can do is to FOCUS. Don't be too impressed by the claims of marketers. Here is a list of do's and don'ts that will help protect you from unscrupulous marketers who are intent on separating you from your money.

1. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Stay away.

2. Before you join any program, don't only look at the great compensation plan but check to see if they actually have a PRODUCT. If the "company" or program does not have a product, the great compensation plan may just be a Ponzi scheme.

3. Look for programs that will build up steadily, even if slowly. They are likely to remain in existence long after the other ones have disappeared.

4. Always check the name of the company and the leader of the program to see if they are legitimate. Just google the names. Example: "Is 'widgetmillionaire.com' a scam?" You will be surprised at what you can find by this method.

5. Resist the temptation to join too many programs all at once. Join 2 or 3 good programs and work them like a business rather than joining 13 programs and hoping you will get rich by next Thursday!

Anyone who promises you a program where you can get rich without any work is lying to you. Yes, it is true that you may find several good programs that are automated but you still have to work hard at these to make money. Indeed it is true that "money does not grow on trees!"

Newbie marketers beware! Don't let unscrupulous marketers pick your pocket on the internet!

For more information on internet marketing and great solid programs that will build a sustainable residual income, click on the link below. Happy marketing!