Peter one of the questions asked to a person joining Masonary at their interview is what do you expect to get out of it.If his answer is an increase in business ,or to improve myself financialy, then he will be black balled (not part of the ritual).
My son does more business in the local pub than I have seen in my Lodge.What it will do however is give you confidence to attempt those things which you may have thought you were not capable of.Many Masons become successful business men because of that new confidence.
If you do require more detailed answers than I am giving you please write or Email Grand or Provincial Grand lodge.
Like music it is no good going into it without being fully committed to see it through.
Thanks for the link Jeanie.Some of the sentences of the ritual are just wonderful and make the hairs on your back stand up.I am not a Masonic Historian, but some of the lectures particularly connected to the construction of Cathederals is very interesting.The subject could be a full time job if you were that way inclined but I am not.
Al