The Power of Barter

I was a little concerned going into the holiday season that I'd have too many barter sales and not enough cash sales.  This has not been the case. 

I've done an amazing amount of business through my barter networks this holiday season; both buying and selling.  Not once have I had to set foot in Wal-Mart or the mall.  I've always abhorred mall shopping, but send me to a thrift shop, food or wine shop, or flea market, and I'm thrilled. 

There are a few cool things about the local barter networks I belong to:

1) I've met local small business owners who I might not have met otherwise.  These are the people who have similar business struggles and wins to me.  Instant support group, great networking opportunities, all-around nice people to know!  Next time I need a printer, I'm more likely to use the local guy on my barter network than the big online service I've been using for years. 

2) It's increased my cash revenue.  Here's an example.  I did a barter transaction for 6 gift box shortbreads.  The buyer then gave them away as gifts.  One of her gift recipients called me after receiving one and said, "This is the best shortbread I've ever tasted.  How do I order?"  She immediately placed a cash order with me.  She's a customer in Virginia I would have never known otherwise.  This is not an isolated case.  It happens frequently.

3) I've earned a lot of barter dollars now that I can spend with local merchants.  I intend to use my barter dollars for printing services, painting the interior of my house, some massages, house cleaning, and maybe a meal or two out!  The possibilities are endless and I feel good about spending my money locally. 

Comments

[Shey]

You know I loved reading this! I was so thrilled when my friend's friend called you from Va to place that order. She loved your shortbread so much. She is already planning on giving some to everyone she knows for the holidays next year! I am also pretty confident that she will be purchasing some more for herself soon. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to work with you, it has been such a pleasure! I am so happy that I get the opportunity to help local businesses like yours everyday. Thanks for making me feel like I can make a difference! I look forward to what we will accomplish in 2006!
Shey