I'm sure by now you've seen advertisements all across the net for "fake college degrees Andre Smith Jersey ," or even "loophopes exploited; get your degree immediately."

Clearly, these companies are all advertising mail-order diplomas. Some are higher quality than others, but it all boils down to the same thing: a means for those who didn't complete school to show an employer or a prospective employer a sheepskin (or should it be a 'snakeskin' in this case?).

Quality varies, from cheaply photocopied rags to extraordinarily well-produced document sets with seals, and in some cases transcripts and even phone numbers for the 'registrar' to verify attendance. Caveat emptor.

If you're inclined to take this route, be certain you're aware of the risks as well as the benefits. the obvious benefit is that you may well gain enhanced prestige Bravvion Roy Jersey , pay, or promotions by virtue of your newly acquired Bachelor's or Master's degree. On the other hand, the significant risk is that of losing not only your credibility but your job and prized benefits if you're caught. You may well find yourself blacklisted within your industry, if your transgression is severe enough.

We won't discuss the moral implications here. I believe everyone should be accountable to their own conscience in matters like this. Your mom doesn't live with you any more. You might find it worth the risk, in order to move closer to your desired goal or lifestyle - others may well not.

About the author:
Mark Rigney has been an entrepeneur for over two decades. His experience with hiring and with the education system led him to investigate the college diploma industry. Learn more about fake college degrees at
Like many, I watched the 134th Belmont Stakes hoping to see the first Triple Crown in 24 years. Instead Yetur Gross-Matos Jersey , I saw the 70-1 long shot, Sarava, appear from nowhere to win. We should take heart from this unlikely victory. As small business owners, managers, and entrepreneurs, the "big shots" often see us as long shots -- worth a cursory notice Derrick Brown Jersey , but rarely more.

As I listened to trainer Ken McPeek and jockey Edgar Prado after the race, I realized their win was not a fluke. Victory was the result of several intelligent, small business management and decision making. Apply these same actions consistently, and you can win your own "Belmont Stakes:"

Learn from your mistakes.

Just before the Belmont, Ken McPeek was fired as Harlan's Holiday's trainer (the "better" horse). Instead of becoming bitter, McPeek learned a management lesson from the experience. He analyzed his past actions and took steps to improve. As a result Cheap Marquis Haynes Jersey , he brought Sarava in days early so the horse could get a feel for the track. After the race, it was noted that all three of the top Belmont finishers had trained on the track days before the race.

We have all been criticized for our management performance, actions, or ideas. It is easy to become defensive, blame others, and dismiss the criticism as off base. Next time Cheap Rashaan Gaulden Jersey , when you receive a criticism or suffer a business set back, use it as a learning opportunity. Look for the grain of truth in the criticism or figure out what you could have done differently and take action to improve.

Have faith in yourself.

In each of two interviews, Prado's first point was that he and McPeek had kept the faith. They did not give up despite what others thought. This was not blind faith, however. They saw signs of a champion in Sarava that others overlooked. They developed those strengths and they persevered.

Critics are rarely as close as you are to a situation. They do not know all the details and cannot understand all that you are thinking. When you see an opportunity that others do not, take a cue from these winners and persevere.

Don't automatically dismiss the underdog.

Sarava was McPeek's third string horse. After losing two early favorites -- one to injury, the second when the horse's owner moved him to another trainer -- he was left with the underdog Cheap Ian Thomas Jersey , Sarava. It would have been easy to give up the dream. Instead, while others ogled expected winner War Emblem and superstar trainer Bob Baffert, McPeek looked for strengths in his own horse and saw what others did not -- a winner.

It is easy to look at the management superstars and reigning business champions in our own industries and become discouraged. Instead, look for strengths in your situation and take advantage of the opportunities they represent.

Know when to make your move.

Jockey Prado deliberately ran fifth, behind War Emblem, through most of the race. When the favorite choked Cheap Donte Jackson Jersey , weakened from a stumble at the gate, Prado was ready. He made his move, riding around War Emblem, and then pushing past others to earn the victory.

Strong competitors are not infallible. Look for chinks in the armor. Also, do not discount "Murphy's Law", which can strike without prejudice. When an opportunity arises -- whether one you created or one presented to you -- be ready to make your move.

Speak up but stay humble.

During interviews Cheap DJ Moore Jersey , McPeek pointed out what he had done to win the race, but he did not brag. His competitors are still major contenders. He knew that bragging about the Belmont win could mean eating crow after a future race.

The same philosophy holds true for our own successes. The business environment ebbs and flows. Today's management victors may be tomorrow's strugglers. Being humble and likable when you are in the spotlight can garner support through future difficulties.

Follow these five lessons from a long shot and I will see you at the races!

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To learn more about Ken McPeek, visit the McPeek Racing Web site, . As a side note, have a look at the "Points of Difference" page under "About McPeek Racing" for positioning and differentiation examples.