Contrary to popular belief, starting your own business is not all fun and games! Often outlined are the potential pitfalls of failing businesses: poor documentation, inadequate leadership, etc. Now, with the onset of the online incorporating process there are more personal businesses than ever. Others are keen to this and realize that there are a great deal of “green” business owners who are not privy to the business management process.

For example, I recently received a document in the mail addressed to my business. It looked very official, almost as if it were sent by our friends at the government. Upon inspection, I read through an enclosed form which gave details about California corporate law and the necessity to keep corporate minutes. The document also requested that I mail $150 to the pseudo-federal return address. I was confused, wondering if I had overlooked something in the incorporation process. None of the content I received looked like marketing content…except for the 6 point text at the bottom of the document that read, “This is a solicitation for business services.”

Lesson learned, I will now use my better judgment and instinct when faced with similar future situations. I believe this is just the beginning, long gone are the days when all the junk mail your business receives is for office furniture and stationary. The predators are out there and they are sophisticated as ever; looking for a quick buck.

Don’t let them fool you; it is without a doubt that these business spammers are making money off of their unethical practices. Caveat emptor, our duty as the self employed is to be aware than this and force these spammers into chapter 11 bankruptcy!