I like the mention of the occasional trade (barter) between two honest parties. I especially like it now that it's tax filing time. I don't mind paying my fair share of taxes. I just think it's criminal the way the government collects and spends my money.
A quote from wikipedia on barter - In the United States, it is generally not possible to avoid income taxes by bartering one's services. According to the IRS, "The fair market value of goods and services exchanged must be included in the income of both parties."
It's always nice to know where the non-value added middle man stands on this issue. Nice arrangement isn't it? Fill out the paperwork and send the money. Hmm ... whatever.
@Dan - Bartering is an awesome tool, but like Mark said, the IRS will want some coin out of the deal. That said, it's remarkable difficult for the IRS to track bartered deals, especially when it's on a small scale. Note that I am NOT advocating tax evasion here, but rather just making an observation.
@Ryan - Be careful of offering pro bono or very cheap work. While the occasional one for marketing purposes can be good, it generally devalues your services. Charge what you're worth, not what you think they will pay.
@Mark - It's too bad Ron Paul won't be sitting in the Oval Office next year. He stated that one of his first acts would be to disband the IRS, heh.
I can't think of a better arrangement, with the exception of the bar assigning some nice young ladies to provide you with the food, beverages and good company.
All joking aside, I know exactly what you're going through, and like you, I will often offer my services for free (typically in exchange for a testimonial provided they liked the information I provided).
It's a great way to over-deliver and ensure good word-of-mouth and continued business. Not only that, you still obtain the valuable experience, and most likely a valued customer.
When the results and the experiences speak for themselves over time I am confident that (both you and I) will continue to grow our businesses.
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3 RESPONSES TO "HOW I GOT FREE DRINKS FOR LIFE"
I like the mention of the occasional trade (barter) between two honest parties. I especially like it now that it's tax filing time. I don't mind paying my fair share of taxes. I just think it's criminal the way the government collects and spends my money.
A quote from wikipedia on barter - In the United States, it is generally not possible to avoid income taxes by bartering one's services. According to the IRS, "The fair market value of goods and services exchanged must be included in the income of both parties."
It's always nice to know where the non-value added middle man stands on this issue. Nice arrangement isn't it? Fill out the paperwork and send the money. Hmm ... whatever.
@Dan - Bartering is an awesome tool, but like Mark said, the IRS will want some coin out of the deal. That said, it's remarkable difficult for the IRS to track bartered deals, especially when it's on a small scale. Note that I am NOT advocating tax evasion here, but rather just making an observation.
@Ryan - Be careful of offering pro bono or very cheap work. While the occasional one for marketing purposes can be good, it generally devalues your services. Charge what you're worth, not what you think they will pay.
@Mark - It's too bad Ron Paul won't be sitting in the Oval Office next year. He stated that one of his first acts would be to disband the IRS, heh.
Dan,
I can't think of a better arrangement, with the exception of the bar assigning some nice young ladies to provide you with the food, beverages and good company.
All joking aside, I know exactly what you're going through, and like you, I will often offer my services for free (typically in exchange for a testimonial provided they liked the information I provided).
It's a great way to over-deliver and ensure good word-of-mouth and continued business. Not only that, you still obtain the valuable experience, and most likely a valued customer.
When the results and the experiences speak for themselves over time I am confident that (both you and I) will continue to grow our businesses.
Best of luck to you.
Ryan Stephens
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