How To Quickly Separate Real Prospects From Time-Draining Opportunities

Interest does not equal opportunity. Sometimes interest simply reflects interest. There are certain tale-tell signs you should look out for regarding which opportunities not to pursue.

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What Is A Mirage Opportunity?

It’s an opportunity which was never really there

Two years ago, I was approached by the founder of a new organisation to build a definitive online community for a sector exploding in popularity. He spoke at length about the connections he had, the investors he had backing him, and the quality of sponsors who were signing up to be involved in what he had planned. He even introduced me to a couple of contacts.

After 2 to 3 calls we agreed on a fee and I sent over the SOW. He signed it that same day and I went to work.

Two weeks later I noticed we hadn’t received the initial 50% deposit. I chased him up, he promised it was coming, and I continued with the project.

3 weeks became 4 weeks and then 5, 6, 7 weeks went by…he came up with all the excuses and none of the deposit.

Eventually, he mentioned he needed his investors to come through before he could pay me.