As everyone knows these days, the global economy is in a mess. Consumers, retailers, suppliers and manufactures are all looking to save a buck. Or whatever their national currency is. And as I sit here enjoying a calm and thankfully cool Vermont evening I find myself working on two web design proposals. For a mix of cash and barter. Yes bartering for graphic design, search engine optimization and internet marketing.

Barter in a digital based economy? Trading web design, search engine optimization and graphic design services for digital trade beads. Certainly a bit of cash. But yes barter.

Seneca trade beads and axe heads of the 21st century? There is a rise in demand for what VermontDesignandMarketing.com does. Which indeed makes me smile. Seems that local and not local businesses certainly need the graphic and web designs. Trading work on their social networking and the Search Engine Ranks.Some Video production or digital photography. They just don’t have the funds to pay top dollar or probably even industry standard.

Since I love the work and like helping people when I can. And well I like their products. I put for the offer for barter and cash. Saves us both some money and helps to make us some money too. Both myself and the potential new clients.

It seems that despite the high-tech nature of it all. It comes back to trade and barter. Perhaps not sea shells and blankets. But none the less hard work and ability in exchange for goods and or services. And not everybody can do what I do. I certainly don’t do what some folks can either. Sure I’ve mastered a rather broad set of skills both on-line and off. But one can’t do everything all the time. There is no amount of education or renaissance that will change this.

Certainly bartering is an idea I am not new to. Having landed the Jimmzpizza.com gig originally as a free offer to support this places amazing pizza. Since they did not have any  sort of web presence. Then when the owner offered to pay. I suggested a trade to save him some money and gain myself some incredible pizza. Pizza and a bit of dosh for the design and internet marketing work. So it was a total win/win situation. Not to mention making some new great friends in the deal.

Maybe it sounds nutters, perhaps it doesn’t drop a line and share your thoughts on working for barter as well as money.Or if you’re in need of graphic or web design, internet marketing or search engine optimization work. Drop me a line and we can spread out the trade goods.