How Much Must They Know?

In every business I think there is the question of how much the customer or prospect must know. How much am I responsible for telling? I mean, if they don't ask do I really have to tell them? With all of these questions comes also the question of liability.

The bigger and I believe the more important question is this: what's more important to you -- people or things? I mean, is building your business fast really more important than giving your prospects all the information they need to make the right decision? Is the sale of your product more important than the customer?

I would rather build my business the right way slowly then do it the wrong way fast. Why? I want to work with people who know all they need to know coming into the business so they are prepared for the "cost of doing business". Besides they have families and debt just like I do. It is not okay with me to take advantage of their eagerness to get started. It is to their benefit -- and in the long run to my benefit -- to give them ALL of the information. Especially the information surrounding the business operation expenses they may have no idea about. Are there any additional fees or expenses not discussed that they need to know about so they truly are prepared to build a strong and stable foundation on which to build their business? Other than the initial investment, what MUST they know in order to begin that strong foundation?

I must remember that I am dealing with people. They are looking to start their own business because they need additional cash flow NOT additional expenses. Nothing sounds better than having a prospect make comments like "thanks so much for your honesty", "I'm glad I know about that so I can prepare myself ", etc. We are attempting to serve others but we can only do that when we educate them. To do anything less is a dis-service and something I want no part of.

So, how do we or rather; how should we begin that process? When do we mention any extra that might apply? It is my opinion that all must be divulged prior to the initial investment being made. I don’t like surprises in the business world. Sometimes those surprises mean a delay in business or the closing of business. I did not appreciate the missing information when I was sponsored into a business therefore I have vowed to give all the information up front. I have been pleasantly surprised but more importantly I continue to like the person I see in the mirror.

You see I have to live with me. My husband and children may not know how the business is being built but I do and I must be okay with that. I must be able to like me at the end of the day. I must be able to feel good about what I’ve accomplished in my business. It doesn’t matter what incentives the company may have going or what you may receive should you reach a certain level within a certain timeframe. All that matters is how you got there. Your answer should include integrity. My team will know that they are working with someone with integrity. My team will know that they are working with someone who understands that life happens. My team will know they are safe in my business and that their goals and whether or not they reach those goals is important to me as well. We are in this together – with integrity.

Businesswoman, Friend, and Team player Angie Taylor assists Women to be success stories and inspiration to others. The fact that you are investigating the home-based business industry is a sign that you have dreams and trust in those dreams. Let me assist you: go to my website and register for the FR.EE newsletter and receive a copy of the FR.EE “Building Business Report”.Visit: Be a BraveHeart Woman