You have skills that other people and businesses require. So it makes sense to barter freelance services you offer in exchange for things you need as a business owner. It can be a good way to get things like website design done (if you’re not a designer), or maybe copywriting for your website (if you’re not a writer). But there are a few things to bear in mind as you consider this option.
First and foremost, ask yourself: are you willing to barter your services? It’s not necessary, and no one can force you to do so. So, once you’ve decided you wish to trade service for service—rather than money for service—follow these guidelines to set yourself up for success.
1. Confirm the Barter is Useful to Both Parties…Before Reaching Out
The point of a mutual exchange of talents is, of course, the mutual part. When you propose a barter, think it through from the other person’s perspective. Is this a win-win situation?
Here’s an example of how this can go awry. Years ago, a new writer asked to exchange his copywriting services for my feedback on his writing. And while it’s true that it never hurts to ask, it’s easy to see this wouldn’t have been a good deal for me at all. I’m a copywriter myself, and so there’s no real benefit for me to get copy from someone who is going to need feedback on what they turn in.
You’re much more likely to get a yes when the other person actually needs what you have to offer.
2. Barter Freelance Services One-on-One
It’s much, MUCH more difficult to barter services with an entire company than with another freelancer like yourself. For one thing, a company is likely to have firm policies about exchanging services. And for another thing, it’s just simpler to make the offers compatible if you’re balancing one-on-one offers.
3. Give at Least as Much as You Get
Make sure the service you’re asking to receive is of the same value as what you’re offering to give. For example, if you’re offering to create someone’s logo, it might be reasonable to ask for a photo session for your headshots. On the other hand, getting a photo shoot in exchange for a couple of icon images is an unbalanced barter.
4. Be Clear on the Terms of the Barter
You’ll want to avoid any misunderstandings when entering into a barter agreement. Be super clear about your expectations of the other person, and about their expectations for you. This advice includes things like:
- Ensuring you’re on the same page about deliverables.
- Understanding the process for and limitations to any edits or changes.
- Setting a reasonable deadline you’re both comfortable with.
Humans are notorious for miscommunicating. Make sure you spell everything out.
5. Set a Reasonable Timeline
Let’s stick with the example above, where you’ve agreed to create a logo in exchange for a photoshoot. You should know when, exactly, they are expecting their logo. And you should also know when to expect your edited photos.
Here’s another example from my personal experience. Once I sent copy to a designer, hoping they would get started on designing my portfolio site right away. They didn’t. In fact, I’m still waiting for that deal to come through…
6. Leave Room for Second Thoughts
This can be a simple sentence—preferably in writing—that allows either of you to change or cancel the deal if necessary. Something like, “We’re agreeing to barter these services, but both of us should feel free to speak up if anything isn’t working. No hard feelings.”
This helps both of you. You don’t want to burn any bridges, but you also don’t want to get ripped off. Establish an expectation of clear communication.
Your turn! Have you bartered freelance services? What was the experience like and what tips did we miss? Let us know in the comments below!
Last Updated on July 1, 2023.
