With the negative turn the economy has taken recently, it is no surprise that thousands of people are now looking for legitimate work at home opportunities. You do a general search on Google and what you yield is nothing short of confusing. There are literally millions of websites, all promising to have the secret to your success, many of them promising 6-figure incomes within the first week.

Needless to say, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. So, what's the secret you might ask? Unfortunately, there isn't one. What I do have, though, are some suggestions on the best way to find a legitimate work at home opportunity, that once put to work, will yield great part-time, and eventually full-time, income. I know that doesn't sound as glossy, but at least it's honest.

Here are some guidelines to follow when judging the quality of an internet business program before you go and invest your life's savings in an internet business venture.

1. Is there an iron-clad guarantee? You'll be amazed at the kinds of scams you find on the internet. If a company cannot guarantee you all of your money back if you're not 100% satisfied, with their product then do not trust them.

2. A reliable company will always have real people available to answer and address any concerns you may have. Is there a support number or email address? Why would you just give your money away unless all of your questions are answered? Your money is to precious to be squandered away. If there is a program you are interested in, look in forums or online for people who have used the program and get feedback from them. You'll be surprised at the amount of feedback people are willing to give you.

3. Can you verify how long the company has been in existence? Usually, if a company has been in existence for some time, they must have a solid reputation or perhaps they wouldn't be in business.

4. Is there unlimited training and support? Not very many companies will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to really make money. Many of them just give you a product with no support or training. This is perhaps the most important criteria because unless you've done website marketing before, I'm sure you'll need and be grateful for all the help you can get.

5. Follow your gut instinct. If you don't feel comfortable, then don't buy it!

It doesn't take a genius to succeed online, nor does it take a Ph.D. You don't need to be a computer junkie, either. All you need is the willingness to learn, the drive to never give up, a great automated program that lets you work on your own time and schedule, and a helpful mentor or two to help you motivate and encourage you along the way if you have questions or concerns.