Inter-trading and "Thinking Outside the Box"

Q:  Can I do exchanges with people from other timebanks?  What services can we trade if we don’t live near each other?

A:  Yes! The hOurworld software allows us to do “Inter-trading” (a.k.a. “Global”) exchanges with members of timebanks all over the world!  Inter-trading widens your audience for your local offers and requests. Inter-trading is also a great way to earn hours if your special talents aren't in demand locally – or to receive services that aren’t offered locally. In addition, inter-trading helps you connect with the broader timebanking community; it brings the world a little closer.

Inter-trading is most often used for services (1) fulfilled from afar (by email, phone, zoom, etc.) and (2) in the areas of writing, clerical, classes, tech, or other specialized knowledge areas.  

But with a little creativity, there are untold possibilities!

Examples of “Outside-the-box” Inter-trading Offers and Requests:

∙         Join me for a foraging tour of New England: I’ll show you edible plants you’d normally overlook.  

∙         Would you be our tour guide for our vacation in Auckland NZ this summer?

∙         I'll be driving cross-country, and I'd love to have home-made vegan meals in [these cities] on [these dates]. 

∙         Help with the oil spill cleanup in the Gulf! I can’t get there, myself, but I can give you hours.

∙         Send me a photo of your home. I’ll send you a pen and ink drawing of it.

∙         Is there a book lover near Missoula MT who can visit my grandmother once a week? She likes historical fiction, and she’d love to chat.

If you want to try your hand at Inter-trading but have questions, please reach out to your Member Mentor. We hope you enjoy connecting with the broader timebank community!