Receiving a service without paying a cent. Is it free then? No. Then how does this work? You pay the person back with a service. I myself first did "bartending" a year ago. For example, I made a moving banner and got back a comprehensive SEO analysis. Or I traded a logo for a personal training consultation. Or a website consultation for help with Public Relations. Very chill. So what specifically are the benefits of a barter deal?
1. No tax or bill
You don't have to prepare an invoice because you pay with a service and get paid with it. This saves you time in administration. You also don't have to pay or reclaim taxes. So saves money as well.
Edit: courtesy of smarter people who know much more about finance than I do, this point has been debunked. There definitely does need to be an invoice involved, including VAT. Thank you Xavier James via LinkedIn & CB in the comments!
2. Room to experiment
Let's preface by saying that you do have to take a barter deal seriously. You don't get paid with money, but then you still have to do your best. On the other hand, there is room to experiment. To do the service just a little differently than you would normally do it (for a paying customer).
3. Opportunity for exclusive services
That experimentation works the other way, too, of course. Who knows, you might get something really exclusive. Something the other is still working on, something in the BETA phase. And by "who knows" I mean, of course: ask about this! Take advantage of this.
4. Good for your network
This is the chance to put your best foot forward. Seize this opportunity and do your best. Have you done a good job? Then you have successfully increased your network.
Tips for closing a barter deal
Want to do a barter deal yourself? Then make clear agreements in advance. Put on paper what you get and what you offer. Be as specific as possible so there can be no miscommunication. And make sure the deal is fair. I always convert it to hours and then multiply it by my hourly rate. I ask the person with whom I make the deal to do the same. Fair deal? Then set deadlines and possibly agree on some things about communication. And then you're ready for your first barter deal!
