If a deal sounds too good to be true, it is. Stay away from a smooth operator who wants you to invest in their business. It's better to keep your hard-earned cash in the bank, where it belongs. Beware of accepting a job offer before doing research into the company in question. After a quick online review, you'll hear troubling stories from former employees. The last thing you want is to leave a secure company for a troubled institution. If you're unemployed, think about starting up a business from your home.