In 2003 I fell victim to the charm of one Chris Sweis, the self proclaimed saviour of the barter business. Since my own barter company needed a lift in cash flow I agreed to handle the travel portion of his supposed portfolio.
It didn't take long to realize that his so called customer list was nothing more than a "prospective member list'. His theory that if someone got enough enquiries about barter they would investigate and join his organisation.
He asked real members (and reciprocal exchange members) to complete "Requests for purchase" which he would send out to all the people he could identify as being suppliers of the product or service needed. Their only qualification was that they were found in a search of Google or were members of some unknowing organisation willing to give out member lists.
In spite of this deception I was able, over 4 or 5 months to generate about $7000.00 US in commissions. I DID collect about $2000 (by processing to his credit card when promised check didn't show up) but the $5000 remains outstanding. SInce I am in Canada I have very little legal recourse other than warning others~! (BTW I know of at least 1 other employeee that left because payroll never made it to their hands)
If this charachter rips his employees off HOW can a mere member expect to be treated fairly!!! ] As the owner of a legitimate small trade exchange I feel this charachter needs to be exposed before his extensive self promotion causes further damage to the industry as a whole.
If approached by this snake oil salesman RUN... Don't walk in the other direction!!!
Don
Riverview, NorthWest Territories
Canada
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