Don't jump!

Take a breath and look where you're going... you'll get there a lot faster.

Before you find a web designer... or create a product... or waste any time and money on complicated software... start with the fundamentals.

1. Starting an Internet business means BUILDING it from the ground up and that takes some elbow grease

When you put in the effort, the rewards can be everything you've ever dreamed of. Everything you've heard about starting your own business online is true: you can earn more money, have more free time, and spend your days doing something you love (and getting paid for it!).

Don't believe anyone that tells you can just put up an "instant" website that will instantly make a fortune. The only profits there are the ones you give to the con artist who sold it to you.

There's no free ride.

But if you're willing to learn and you know where to look for information, you're already ahead of the crowd.

The truth is, there are more Internet business opportunities out there than any one person could possibly find, and some of them are perfect for YOU! It's up to you to find one.

2. Your online business only needs to give the people what they want

I'll let you in on the number one secret of Internet business: know what your customers want BEFORE you build your website.

This one simple tip will save you more time and money than any other piece of advice. Don't think of the Internet as another place for you to sell widgets - it's so much more than that.

Search engines have made it possible for almost anyone, anywhere, to find what they're looking for online... if it's there.

Before you commit yourself to a specific product or service, find out if people are looking for - and not finding - it. If people are searching for left-handed bowling balls, then give them left-handed bowling balls. But DON'T just open "Lefty's Bowling Site" without making sure there's a market!

Your goal is to find an underserved niche market and become the go-to guy before someone else does. And when you do that, you've got yourself a genuine Internet business!

3. Do it right the first time -- get expert help

Experience is the best teacher, and that's the way I learned the business. My company, The Internet Marketing Center, is built on the idea of trying something, learning from mistakes, and doing things better each time.

Butt you probably don't have the time to try, try again... and failure is expensive! That's why so much of what I do is trying to get people to learn from my mistakes instead of making their own.

Its absolutely essential to arm yourself with information and knowledge. You can read articles and blogs, join a discussion forum where experts share information, or get your hands on online marketing courses, videos, and guides that teach you what you need to know.

You're going to need to know the basics of website building, writing salescopy, and search engine optimization. Without a structured plan and a little help, that could take a while.

The good news: if you're willing to learn, you can find teaching tools and resources in every shape, size, and learning style. Whether you want everything you need in a book so you can learn at your own pace, or you'd prefer having a mentor looking over your shoulder every step of the way, it's up to you to choose the method that suits you best.

It can be a fun and rewarding experience. And when those rewards are sales, you'll be laughing all the way to the bank!