That’s how a recent email began.
‘Kelly, I know you probably get emails like this all the time.’
And another addressed to a business partner and I started like this:
‘I’m sure you get a lot of e-mails like these, and I hope I don’t waste too much of your time, but. . I have a proposal for the two of you.’
What are these moms writing me about?
Swaps and Barters.
If you’ve ever been in the situation where you wanted something real bad but didn’t have the resources to make it happen, you know that it makes you get creative.
When I first tried to make a few bucks online I worked barter deals with other work at home moms all the time. It’s a great way to get something you need when you don’t have the cash to pay for it.
For example, one mom had a mailing list of a thousand work at home moms. I had a service to offer them. I offered the service to the list owner for free in exchange for a mention in her next mailing. We both benefited. She didn’t have to pay for my time and I gained three paying customers from her mailing.
I bartered for advertising, learning resources, tools and more. It helped me to make progress in my business and get to the point where I could afford to pay for what I needed.
Operating on a Barter Economy
When you have a marketable skill to leverage, barters are easy to find.
Some skills in high demand these days are writing, graphic design, blog design, wordpress customization and search engine optimization.
Your level of skill and experience will correspond directly with the value of the resources you’re able to swap for. When you’re new and inexperienced, you have to make your barter offer especially attractive. This may mean that you give more than you get.
What if you’re starting from ground zero? No skills and no experience, just a huge desire to start a business and make money online?
Believe it or not, there are even opportunities for a newbie. You may not have marketable skills (yet) – but you do have time and that in itself can be valuable to the right person.
Actually, even among more established mom marketers bartering is still a popular way to save money and achieve goals. We have a barter board at Mom Masterminds so that we can swap specialties and find other ways to benefit from each other. I’ve seen quite a few great arrangements made there where a barter gave a mom access to something that wouldn’t normally be sold at any price such as a great plug on a high traffic blog or a link from a high PR website.
Do I Still Swap?
I sure do. When I get an email like those I mention above I am reminded of my own determination to break into business. If the offer seems genuine and I have something they need, I’ll look for a way to make it happen. I have enough projects underway that we can usually find some mutually beneficial arrangement.
Let me ask you – do you have a need that you’d like to barter to have fulfilled?
Let’s have a swap meet right here on the WAHM 2.0 blog. Leave a comment and let us know what you’d be willing to barter, what you’d like to receive in return and how to contact you about it.
Who knows what sort of great connections we’ll make?
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Leslie Truex is the pajama-clad work-at-home mom dedicated to helping other moms live and work comfortably. She's the author of The Work-At-Home Success Bible and owner of 
Laurie Ayers is a WAHM from Michigan and a Star Director with 
Hey Kelly great idea! Now I shall think on what I would like to bartar! Sometimes we forget about doing this, it’s a super way to make great connections together. (Vera’s off thinking….)
Vera Raposos last blog post..You can’t create cool. Can you?
Yes Kelly, love this idea! I have done it before in my other groups where we swap with each other. It’s a great way to try new products and learn someone new.
But I have never traded services before which is a brand new idea!
As Vera posted above I will be back in a few days to see what people are offering and what their needs are.
Thanks again
Maiken
Great idea ! I would love to do some bartering !
I own several reed diffusers and home fragrancing products websites. I would be willing to barter reed diffusers or room or linen sprays for other items.
Some ideas of what I might like…
Baby items (My brother and his wife are expecting)
Custom Rubber Stamps
Prim or Americana type items (home decor stuff)
Advertising or Ad packages for my website(s)
Fragrance Oils
Christmas Gifts for family members
Avon
Laser Printed Stuff
Customer Appreciation Goodies
Gift Cards
Yikes..my mind is now blank. I am sure there are some other things that would appeal to me but that are not coming to me at the moment.
Please get in touch with me if you have ideas for bartering !
Great idea. We tried something like this recently with a wood order that we ended up only getting half of. That didn’t work out well, but I’m not soured to the concept, and actually think we’ll be seeing more and more of this if the economy continues to do poorly over the next few months.
Ms last blog post..HouseCall Free Scan
What an awesome idea!
I make jewelry and I’d love to swap jewelry in exchange for V.A. help, article writing, and other ghostwriting.
If anyone is interested you can email me here:
christine.mailme(at)gmail(dot)com
I want to swap Accounting, Tax services and QuickBooks Training (Remote or in person if local).
I need editing for newsletter, online marketing for getting more attendees for my Live QuickBooks Training Online.
Seminar Online-I have one upcoming Nov 12&13 10am-1pm CST each day.
Feel free to contact Tel 630-618-6008 or email Info@jnkcpa.com http://www.JNKcpa.com
This is a great idea! One thing I do need is SEO and/or general internet marketing for my site. I am not sure what I can offer but I’m sure something can be worked out (writing, etc). I can be reached at Carla@greenandchic.com
carlas last blog post..Cautious or paranoid? Finding balance with green living
I have Scentsy wickless candles to offer in exchange to receive advertising and links! You can review what I’m offering and contact me through http://www.Scentsy.com/LA
What a fabulous idea!
I need two things:
- First, I have a new product that just came out, Holiday Survival to Holiday Delight (see at http://www.dailymastery.com/holidaydelight/) and I need to spread the word. I’d be happy to offer this program for free to anyone who is willing to promote it on their website and/or newsletter.
Second, I’m starting to be in need of someone to help me with basic administrative issues, such as keeping track of my contact management. I’d be happy to barter those services in exchange for time management and productivity training.
Thanks,
Karin
Hi Kelly!
Barter: I need an awesome,educated writer to write 1 Press Release and 2+ articles for my VA business.
We can barter my services by the hour, that way its an equal exchange.
stephanie@buckeyeva.com
Stephanie Fishs last blog post..Feeling The Holiday Stress Already?
I can trade marketing services (press release writing, newsletters, etc). I’m not sure what I need. Nothing anyone has commented on yet is something I need (and I see they ALL need marketing!). Keep sending ideas!
Susan Payton, The Marketing Eggsperts last blog post..How to Network
PS You can contact me at susan @ eggmarketingpr .com
I’m willing to offer any of my VA services in exchange for a new template design for my personal blog, http://ojoyofmylife.blogspot.com
I love this swapping idea, and think it’s a great way for WAHM’s to both get what they specifically need for their business, and some needed exposure. Yay! for cross-marketing!
I need a ghostwriter and could offer wordpress customization services or an ad spot on MomGiveaways.com.
Courtneys last blog post..Topics You Should Blog About
Oh I’m definitely a big believer in the Bartering system.
I often trade my web design/development services to startups, designers who need the development help, etc.
great way to start something from scratch.
I can offer professional writing, articles, web content, etc.
I need a 125×125 ad designed for two of my blogs and could also use some advertising space or backlinks.
You can contact me at athomemomblog@gmail.com
i have 2 home businesses that i am looking to get others involved in. i am an independent avon rep and am looking to get others to sell the wonderful items that avon has to offer.
i also have a newer business that has a catalog that has well over 1,000 products to offer. i am looking for businesses that need to get great qualilty items for wholesale deals. or if you are just looking for gifts for christmas or birthdays. i offer FREE $10 gift cards for first time customers.
is there anyone who has any ideas for me? i am willing to give anyone who can help a wonderful deal on the items that i have to offer.
This is a great idea Kelly.
I can offer Wordpress Customization/installation, Blog critiques, Social Media/Networking consulting, podcast/audio editing, and WP plugin installations.
I need some VA assistance with my meal planning site.
LaTaras last blog post..Breaking News: And Now This Special Report
I love the bartering system! I’m a Virtual Assistant, and I’m offering any one service – like desktop publishing, word processing, editing/proofreading,spreadsheet design, contact management, seminar organization – etc, for some help with blogger template design for my personal blog, which is looking kind of “blah”.
hmmmm, I forgot to add my contact info.
http://cmwpro.com
cmwheeler@cmwpro.com
Great idea, Kel. As you know, I do a lot of bartering, too.
I’m usually looking for gifts that I can give for the holidays (candles, natural beauty lotions and potions, etc), although I sometimes will barter for a service if it’s something that I can not do (or don’t want to do) myself.
Can offer business coaching in return or a copy of one of my products.
Nicole Deans last blog post..What Makes Someone a Success? (aka. Congrats to Jimmy D. Brown!)
I’m in! I love swapping services/products!
I’m a ghostwriter and editor. I write (and edit) articles, ebooks, press releases…you name it. I can also offer up a review of your site or product or conduct an email interview of you (so you can promote multiple things/sites) and post it on my site – http://www.WAHMBizTips.com
I would be willing to trade for the following: coaching/mentoring on affiliate marketing, blog monetization, etc.; ad space on WAHM related sites; SEO and backlink assistance.
Tina McAllisters last blog post..Saturday WAHM Link Love #1
I was here earlier and got distracted thinking about the things I’d like barter! I’m in need of a few hours of VA services. I can offer a press release or article in exchange.
Bartering is “da-bomb”…(I know, pathetic!) Oh well…I need help with tweaking my (free)Wordpress theme template so my header fits right. I need buttons of various sizes for my two websites. AND in return: I can offer you something out of my Ebay store for free. Or, I could sell you (cuz its a dropship biz) something out of that store of mine at my wholesale price and I’ll pay your shipping. OR we can work out some arrangement. Contact me for the details…tracyzdelar@yahoo.com
Tracys last blog post..My blog-post on Mom’s Talk Network.
PS– and I absolutely could use some SEO assistance with keyword tracking, etc …just in case an SEO expert is reading this as well!
see my main post above tracyzdelar@yahoo.com
Tracys last blog post..My blog-post on Mom’s Talk Network.
Great idea, Kelly! I’d love to barter my VA or writing services for some help with Web site design (Wordpress site) or business coaching/mentoring. My email is mary@hoursbydesign.com.
I have two graphics sites and also Frugal WAHMS talk Radio! I can offer advertising on Frugal WAHMs Talk Radio or graphics from Heartland graphics or Pink Pixel Graphics!
I am looking for advertising for Frugal WAHMs Talk Radio and Pink Pixel Graphics!
Thank you
Angie
Angela Wenkes last blog post..Yummy Strawberry Banana Bread
Hi there!
I am a freelance writer who does a lot of Internet articles, as well as press releases, and I would love to do some writing for someone in exchange for a newsletter mention or other legit traffic getting tactics! Contact me here: writeabouteverything@gmail.com
Thanks!
Teresa Halls last blog post..The Best Part of All: Quit Your JOB Part Three
Great Idea!
Here is what I have to offer – Labels from Lovable Labels! Check out the site a http://www.LoveToLabel.com
What I need…
- ebook cover
- press releases
- ghost writting
Contact me for more information and we will try to work a deal out.
Karin
Oops – forgot to give my email k.magar@lovetolabel.com
I can provide personalized Christmas ornaments and whimsical jewelry from
http://www.cathyscreations.com
I can also write articles. You can see my work at: http://www.cathyscreations.com/articles.htm
I am looking for business coaching, SEO help, & a press release.
CathyBendzunass last blog post..Small Business Tip Tuesday
I can offer my VA service in exchange for some business coaching and/or a marketing plan.
Kelly I love this idea. Great things to do right around Christmas.
Tricias last blog post..Great Reasons to Create and Market an Ebook
dawn,
i can help you with a lot of the items you are looking for but there was no contact info. please email me at
coteangelboy@msn.com and we can talk
Cathy, I would love to swap for one of your cute peapod ornaments. It’s perfect for my niece’s quads
I have Lavender Comfort Pillows & Wraps and will swap them for any of the following business services:
coaching
blog/web design
web graphics
articles
bartering=:)
Just found your site through Nicole Dean’s. Wow, what a WAH resource!
Congrats on your five years time on this site. Let’s see, in Internet years that’s . . .
What an awesome idea! I’m a VA and a writer. I offer desktop publishing, writing services, editing/proofreading, database creation and management.
I will trade for just about anything…lol. If you need any of those services, let’s talk!
Maryj Lutzs last blog post..Testing
Contact info would help right? mary.lutz@provbs.com
Maryj Lutzs last blog post..Testing
Need: A press release written
Offer: Advertising on naturalmomstalkradio.com or carrielauth.com
Contact: clauth@gmaildotcom
Carrie Lauths last blog post..Did You See Me On MSNBC Last Week?
I love bartering!
I’m looking for gift items for both the holidays (mostly my mom and my kids) and my first grandbaby that’s due in January. I could also use some blog posts or articles.
I can offer VA services, WordPress installations and customizations, ad space or links/reviews, buttons/banners, and press releases.
This is a lovely idea! I’m a freelance writer and can offer my writing services – web writing, articles, blog posts, etc.
I’m open to bartering for just about anything. Send me an email if you need writing services! hollijkr@gmail.com
Hollis last blog post..Freelancing as a parent
I’m happy to swap advertising once in a while – especially for great stuff.
Please feel free to email me anytime if you’re interested – jill@cwahm.com.
Jill Harts last blog post..Five Tips For A Great Thanksgiving
Hi everyone,
I’m a bit late on this but I would love to participate! I have an unusual service, but I would love to work with any of you who are ready to break out of diet prison, overcome emotional overeating, get motivated to be active, and/or free yourself from the food and body obsession so you can focus on more interesting things (like your business!). I offer intuitive eating coaching as well as fitness motivation coaching. I also have a few ebooks and audio programs that I can trade. In other words, I’m flexible and open to ideas.
What I really need is lots and lots of content. Articles, blog posts, e-books, reports, etc. I have tons of ideas but no time or motivation to get them written!
I am also interested in working with someone who is very good at the e-junkie shopping cart and integrating it with my gateway, 2CO. I’m stalling because I know it’s going to take me hours to figure it out.
If you are interested in my services but don’t fit into these ideas, email me anyway, you may have something I need that I don’t even know I need yet!
Thanks!
Gillian
I have been looking for something like this for the longest time. Glad I found this post.
I can offer SEO content, desktop publishing, newsletter, and technical writing.
I need Wordpress customization help, graphic design for badges and banners, and VA services. I also would love help in getting the word out about my blog and the new ebooks I’ve written for single moms.
Contact me at samantha@richsinglemomma.com and lets talk. No offer will be rejected!
Samanthas last blog post..Rich Single Momma Has Moved!
I’m an experienced writer who does press releases, ad copy, articles, grant applications, etc.
I need a little VA help doing the things I keep putting off!
I was a single dad for 20+ years, so I think I qualify for this group!
Thanks,
Jim
jimkirk@charter.net
P. S. And I’m still a WAHD!
I use to sell Gold Canyon Candles and I have a lot of them in my home. I quit because I fell in love with Tastefully Simple and have been tracking well with them. I would love to Barter the candles for help on my wordpress site for my virtual assistant business I am starting.
I have free Scentsy Wickless Candles to trade for advertising space. There is also a directory where you can post your listing for free.
http://consultant-listings.com
Hello everyone. My name is Angela and I own Unique Art Design. I’m very blessed to work from home, but I sometimes need a little assistance. Occasionally my clients are in need of marketing, or business writing, and illustration work. From time to time I run out of ideas and I would love a fresh approach. Ex. My client wants three different logo concepts and my brain is fried at two. I would love to have someone design the third one for me and I would do the same for you on your projects. Well, I believe that’s it. I’m a graphic designer so I can swap design services. If you need me let me know. My website is http://www.uniqueartdesign.com
P.S. I can also use web design assistance.
FYI – Everything on my site was created by me. If you assist me on a project I would not post it as my own work. If you assist me with services, once my new site is complete, I will list you as a partner. Bottom line, I don’t take credit for other peoples hard work. I can’t help you build your business if I don’t acknowledge your contribution to the project. My goal is to gain lifetime partnerships.
Kelly, you are one creative woman! This is such a wonderful example of mutual support. I am a professional speaker for women (www.peggykline.com). I have coached many women in my 25 year career who were interested in promoting their business through speaking or who would like to add speaking as another branch of their business. I would be happy to support someone who would like to learn how speaking can take their business to the next level or generate another stream of income.
In exchange, I would so very much appreciate some internet support. I am NOT experienced but determined to embrace and learn internet marketing! I need coaching as I launch my first information product, or affiliate information, or setting up word press blog.
Much success to all of you!
Peggy Kline