Human Resources and Labor Management for Farmers

Every producer knows that their team can make or break their business. In addition to being a critical element of any agricultural business, labor also typically comprises the greatest business expense. However many farmers are drawn to their work because they love the production process, not because they enjoy -- or even have experience or skills -- managing people. Yet management remains one of the key elements to building a successful business. NOFA-VT, Vermont Technical College and the Vermont Agency of Agriculture are offering in-depth skill building workshops on labor management and human resources this fall and winter. Farmers and producers will have ample opportunity to consider their approaches to hiring, motivating, communicating and delegating. You wouldn't run your equipment without regular and necessary maintenance, would you? Well, neither should you continue employing staff without reviewing your policies, leadership style and pay scale, to name a few topics. Next week, from the Vermont Agency of Ag, is a full-day workshop called "Build a Strong Workforce on the Farm." This workshop is being held in Burlington on November 10 and in White River Junction on November 12. Click here to view the Agency's flier. Starting in January, NOFA Vermont will be offering a series of three half-day trainings on Labor Management and Human Resources for Farmers. Each workshop will be held at two different locations to make them more available to all Vermont producers. We will also be holding two additional workshops at the Winter Conference. Take the time to invest in your most valuable and expensive tool -- your crew!