I'm not active in the timebank because ...

We are going through our membership right now, checking in with people who have not yet logged in to our "new" system.

Why the quotation marks? Well, it has been almost a year since we changed over to our new software. Does that surprise you? 

Just in case you need the link, that software is accessible at www.timetrader.timebanks.org.

And yet, a significant portion of our membership has not accessed the new site, despite emails, blog entries, and numerous requests for them to do so.

Why is this so hard? I don't know. In fact, I would love it if you have a response to that question. Please feel free to leave a comment. The feedback will help me improve in my job performance. Part of my job is to make Time Trader and its software, Community Weaver, user-friendly. I don't have a lot of control over how the software functions, but I am available to help people navigate through it. I just don't get many requests for that help. Instead, people don't log in, and when they are asked, "Why haven't you logged in?" or "Why have you not been active in Time Trader?" they offer answers like:

• No one has contacted me for my services.
• I'm just too busy.
• I need help with things in my own life; how can I help others?
• I don't know anyone in the timebank and am uncomfortable contacting people I have never met.

Let's take those responses one at a time and see what we can do about them.

First, if no one contacts you for the services you've offered, switch it up! Offer something different. Contact the Coordinator to see if she can help you come up with some different offers. Contact another Time Trader for writing help in spicing up your listings, making them more interesting or adding some flair to the wording.
Next, think about things you could use yourself, and see if someone out there is offering a service you need. Many Time Traders think of this as a "give only" equation, but the community only functions well when we are all giving and receiving services, keeping the currency flowing.

Too busy? That is a common problem in today's world. But instead of stopping there, think about how the timebank can make your busy life simpler. Perhaps someone can make some freezer meals for you, to use on those REALLY crazy days. Or maybe you could find someone to help you tackle that overwhelming organizational project in the basement -- or just someone to watch the kids while you tackle it.

The third one can be solved just like the second -- if you need things, look to the timebank FIRST. If you can get the help you need without spending money, maybe you will free up some time to earn more time dollars (TD$) and make someone else's life easier in the process. How's that for a win-win situation?

The last concern is valid, but here's the simplest solution. Find a friend and invite them to join Time Trader. You will earn 1TD$ when they become a member, and you will have a friend you trust in the timebank. You can exchange child care or business services, home maintenance or baking -- think of all the people you know who have skills you need! Maybe a talented DIY household repair person, a massage therapist, an accountant, a skilled mechanic -- the possibilities (and the needs) are endless!
The next solution to the "I don't know anyone" dilemma is to attend a member event. Share a potluck meal, attend a class, meet other Time Traders, and have a conversation about what you need and what you can offer. Many exchanges are born from conversation at member gatherings where people are just chatting, and suddenly they discover that they can help each other out with installing or fixing computer components, configuring home theater systems, and much more.

Please contact the Coordinator at timetrader@familyservicerochester.org for more information or assistance with the software or anything else.

And stop in at our birthday open house this Friday -- details are in your email inbox, and we'd love to have you!