Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/142672
Massage therapists can utilize barter as a new vehicle for marketing their businesses, creating a wider customer base, and positively impacting their revenue stream. was too impersonal. I didn't know the person who was looking for massage. Since massage is such a personal service, I wondered what I was getting into." She did, however, barter for housekeeping services for a short time. Barter Gone Bad No matter which barter path an individual pursues, there can be some bumps in the road. Although Ramirez found his barter experiences mostly positive, he did encounter some challenges along the way. "Since I didn't create a written contract with my informal arrangements, I ended up with a surprising bill from my photographer and an unscheduled visit from a family member of my marketing agent," he says. "Both events were very unpleasant and created resentment on my part. Therefore, it made their massage appointments with me fast and furious." He points out the importance of basic communication, even with informal arrangements. Ramirez adds that scheduling demands can interfere with appointments for paying clients. "Now that I have built up a solid private practice, my regular massage clients prefer to come during prime time—after work or on weekends," he says. "This time is also preferred by my 'trading partners' and it makes it difficult when you have to turn a paying client away to accommodate your 'trader.'" Massage therapist Elizabeth Lalumia, who has her own private clientele in New York City, has bartered for haircuts, landscape services, and furniture. At times, Lalumia has felt that she is on the short end of the deal. "It doesn't feel like I'm fully compensated," she says. This happens a bit with friends. "But if you're going to count pennies, you shouldn't barter." Recommendations One of the most important criteria when considering barter is how well you know the other person, Lalumia says. She suggests a formal sit-down session in which you spell out all the details, including the product/ service, time frame, and estimated costs. "Be ultraclear about the monetary value of the exchange so it feels fair on both ends," she says. In spite of some negative experiences, Ramirez still recommends barter, with a few caveats. "Check your wallet or savings account first to help you decide if a barter is really necessary, then make sure you create a written contract specifying every detail, such as the exact amount and who's going to be covered, and be very clear with your massage hours," he says. "Before you commit to this contract, review it two or three times or share it with your business partner, lawyer, or best friend in case you miss an important piece of information. This will avoid headaches and disappointments down the road." Whether you opt for informal barter exchanges or the structure of an organized group, make sure you've explored all aspects of trading and asked the right questions before you jump in. By doing your homework and following the rules, you might find your client base growing along with your bank account. SPH Phyllis Hanlon is a Massachusettsbased freelance writer and writing instructor whose articles have appeared in numerous regional and national health-related publications.