Finding competent, willing workers is a constant challenge for a farm business that needs to hire employees. The problems of finding suitable employees can be similar for small and large businesses. The challenge exists as to finding the prospective employee, and then keeping them on your work force.

A farm business needs to hire the best people available because they can make or break the business. There are basically four steps to the hiring process.

The first step is to determine what you really need an employee to do. This requires you to analyze the job to determine what skills the person will need, the number of hours that they will be employed, and if this is to be a full-time position or just part-time. During this process you should also analyze the work place and compensation to insure that the job and pay are compatible and competitive.

The second step is to create a position description. This will detail the purpose of the job as well as the specific duties and responsibilities of the employee. The position description will also detail the authority the employee will have and to whom they are accountable. The position description will note the type of qualifications that are required, along with the compensation that is planned. Good managers will build in incentives with the position and responsibilities.

The third step is to determine how your present staff will work with the new employee. Family member's opinions should be considered at this point.

The hiring process is the final step and can be the most complicated. Recruiting candidates involves advertising your available position and receiving referrals from your grapevine, be it your neighbors, veterinarians, or suppliers. Once you have a group of applications you need to interview the potential employees. Select a time and place that works for you and the potential candidates. Prepare questions that allow the candidates to express themselves and provide you with information on their skills and attitudes. After the interview, check their references. They will have provided references who will be able to give background information to their past work experience.

Select the candidate that best fits your farm business. Remember, you can train an employee but it is very difficult to change their personalities or attitudes.

When the new employee starts on the job, be sure that they are introduced to their fellow workers and attempt to make them comfortable in their new surroundings.

There are many other strategies connected to employees in relation to compensation, work regulations and safety. If you have further questions on some of these items, feel free to contact the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Labor Division or the nearest Minnesota Extension Office.