The Key to Good Barter Experiences

One of the basic principles IMS Barter has maintained throughout its existence is the belief in the need for communication and commitment from its members. Both are essential to good barter experiences and are established through the broker/client relationship.

COMMUNICATION IS ONE KEY INGREDIENT for successful trading. Success in barter opportunities multiplies when your broker has a clear knowledge of your business expenses. Call your broker at least once a month to establish barter needs. He/she wants to hear from you. Here are some questions to ask your broker: What companies are new? How can I expand my advertising campaign? How can I cut administrative costs on trade? Can I get assistance with collections? How can I relieve accounts payable? What kind of sales incentives are available? I need a vacation, or simply, where can I get my hair styled?

Remember, IMS’s aim is to get you 5–10% additional business. And in return, expect to give IMS 5–10% of your time. If you can't, delegate the barter part of your business to someone in your company who has the time.

We often find that a “window of opportunity” develops from frequent contact between client and broker. Many products that become available on trade are short-lived and may not be listed in The Exchange. It is important to maintain frequent communication with your broker so he/she knows your needs. All our brokers keep files on your preferences, and when something you want becomes available, they’ll call you.

THE SECOND KEY INGREDIENT to successful bartering is your commitment to the IMS barter principles. This helps your company to thrive on trade. This is your trade exchange—a club designed to give you advantages over your competitors. To help make the exchange flourish and prosper for all, IMS works to implement and maintain the barter fundamentals. With a committed barter account, you should strive to barter at 100%, pay your fees on time, have a fair market value on your pricing, follow up on barter inquiries, and supply leads to your broker.

Yes, the key to good barter experiences is simply maintaining frequent communication with your broker and committing to the barter principles.