But sometimes an area of equal if not greater importance gets overlooked – farm staff. While some dairy farmers are excellent people managers, others feel at a loss and question whether they have the skills to be able to deal staff in the way they would like to.
The start of a new season is a great time to be thinking about beginning as you mean to go on, so our special report this month, Train and retain, is very timely. Getting off on the right foot can pay huge dividends later on, avoiding the huge costs of replacing staff and the training involved for those new to the property and herd. There are simple ways in which new staff can be made to feel welcome, resulting in them wanting to take up future training opportunities and stay put on the farm in years to come.
New Waikato Federated Farmers president, Chris Lewis lists three areas he wants to focus on in his new position, putting staffing issues right up there with the environment and the federation engaging more proactively with the rest of the community.
He employs eight full-time and part-time staff on his farm and said the last few years had been enjoyable with systems he’s put in place working well. But he’s warning other farmers they and the federation need to be vigilant when it comes to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s interpretation of farm staff contracts when onfarm accommodation is included. With changing times seeing more workers wanting to live off-farm and be paid an hourly rate it’s important that these arrangements are fair to everyone at all times of the year.
Chris reminds farmers that all staff must keep their hours worked on the timesheets they’re given, be aware of health and safety policies and wear helmets on farm bikes at all times.
And to welcome newcomers on board there’s nothing better than introducing them to neighbours as well as to members of the local discussion group.
“Get them to like you.”
Glenys Christian
Editor
