Apr 27 2008
Bartering…Not Just For Pioneers and Hippies!
If you’re short on dough or just flexing your innovation muscles, bartering could become your new best friend. The act of bartering is fueled by balanced exchanges between people. These can be for services, goods or a mix of both and can be as conventional or kooky as your heart desires. With bartering, the only limits are in your mind-it’s a great exercise to think outside the box.
How do you start bartering? If you’re shy about money, it’s time to get over it. You need to be about to speak up if you’re going to barter. Another key point is to not bargain; with a barter, all services should be honoured and respected. If you want to trade, trade. If you don’t think the barter is equal, pass. You won’t win or influence bartering friends by devaluing what they have to offer.
If your curiosity is piqued and you want to test drive the barter system, start by getting an idea of what you have to offer. List concrete skills and abilities and be realistic about how talented you are. Also, itemize small and large objects you own that you’d be willing to part with in exchange for something needed. Successful bartering involves some degree of flexible and patience so you may have to wait a little while before finding a solid bartering match.
Clearly identify what you need and what you are offering. Follow through! In the bartering world, your word is your bond, so if you don’t want bad karma to haunt you forever, live up to your promises. Value the exchange and make sure that your other bartering partner is satisfied.
All it takes to test the barter waters is asking someone else if they want to trade. If not, it’s not a big deal. There are many, many people who live and love the barter system. If you want to, you’ll find them. Just ask!
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Not A Member? Register for Free!
