Whenever you get the chance to exchange your services with another expert, how do you react?
It’s easy to come out on the wrong side of a cashless deal, so here are some tips to help make it work:
- Check it’s something you really need or want. Ask, would I buy this anyway?
- Is the other person equally skilled in their field as you are in yours?
- What does the value balance look like? Are their “rates” similar to yours?
- Always look for a fair exchange of effort. There’s no joy in working more or less than the other person
- Even if you don’t have a formal contract, agree by email what’s expected from each of you
- Try and get them to refer you to paying clients, and you them
Finally ask, would it be better if you pay for their services, and they pay for yours?
Jonny