Genesis 47:17 “So they brought their livestock to Joseph, and he gave them food in exchange for their horses, their sheep and goats, their cattle and donkeys.  And he brought them through that year with food in exchange for all their livestock.”

It was a matter of drought survival. Joseph bartered grain for food in exchange for livestock. An Egyptian family could milk the cattle until the cows ran dry. They could eat the livestock, but without refrigeration, meat only lasted so long. No need to saddle the horses to run away, the drought was “worldwide.” They made the best deal they could, and they survived and eventually thrived.

Principle: Bartering of goods and services can substitute for cash to everybody’s satisfaction.

Media companies exchange time or space with other media companies. Outdoor sign companies exchange billboard space for bargain television time from broadcasters. Radio stations exchange advertising time for event tickets and then use them for promotional purposes.

Bartering can also be used by companies in place of bigger paychecks. For example:

• Offer workers flexibility if they want to spend less time in the office and more time on family obligations. It may result in greater job satisfaction.

• Offer a plan for personal development such as skill training. This can benefit workers and be financially positive for the company.

• Cash exchange is not the only way to create win-win situations with employees and customers. Try public recognition with a trophy.

Discussion:

1. When have you bartered instead of giving/receiving cash payment?

2. How did it work out for you? How did it work out for the other person?

3. What employee benefit might be a substitute for a raise-in-pay?