Now imagine that a business owner sat down and mapped out exactly what services and products she personally needs, or those that would benefit her business, and then went through the phone book and found small businesses that offered what she needed. Then she decided how, exactly, she could benefit those business owners. She also figures out exactly how much time she can dedicate to serving other businesses in a barter situation, without crossing the line from cross-marketing into losing money building someone else's business.
When she's got it all worked out, she asks around town, particularly from those folks who already provide good customer service to her or have been referred by friends and colleagues, as to who offers the best quality of work. Once she's got her list of businesses narrowed down to one or two of each service provider, she drops in, schedules a meeting, and has a chat with them about bartering. She doesn't just ask them to consider it; she lays out a concrete plan. She makes an offer, first, of what she can do for them. Then she describes what she needs from them. (Remember, it's all about "me"...what are the benefits to "me", the business owner? What can you do for me, if I do something for you for "free"?)
I'm sure you can see where laying out an agreement that truly benefits both parties, rather than just gaining you something for very little or nothing, will be accepted and adhered to faster, right? Don't try to cheat other business owners, because they, too, have to earn a living in their small- or home-based venture.
On the other hand, they want something free too -- and they are willing to give you something to get it. So why not figure out what you need, what you can give away for "free" without cutting your own throat, and make an offer? Start with one barter agreement and see how it works out. Remember that it won't always be as large of a benefit from one service provider to the next, but in the end, it'll be worth your while.
Just think: you coffee hounds could get in friendly with the local barrista if you can provide their patrons with free entertainment, thanks to your up-and-coming band. You never know who might be willing to discuss these options...just remember that the IRS does consider certain levels of bartering to be income, so check with your accountant.
Better yet, barter with him. He can check your records after you fix his computer!
Comment Preview