5 General Rules for Aspiring Professionals in the Equestrian Industry
I’ve only worked at four barns consistently, not consecutively, for a culmination of what would probably estimate at somewhere between 6–7 years. Four of them were intentionally sought out career choices (when I believed in stories like The Eighty-Dollar-Champion, and still do to some at extent at present day) were a tangible possibility. The last three were a right-place-right-timing situation for someone I had done previous consistent work for, and finally asked me to step up to the payroll on a part-time basis. I consider this position a blessing, and therefore treat it as one. Looking back at the times when I was working at barns from the age of 18 to approximately 23, I learned quite a few harsh lessons that I believe what were ultimately what brought me to my current position. With that being said, here are 5 General Rules for Hunter/Jumper Grooms:
1. Always dress in a way that wouldn’t embarrass you to be seen in at a top horse show. If you ride as a part of your position, that means a pair of breeches, a belt that fits, a tucked in polo or long-sleeve-quarter zip (for all my Florida friends). You can switch between muck boots and riding boots, but you had better go out of your way to change into your riding boots if you are asked to attend the show grounds for any reason. If you don’t ride, that means clean muck boots, tucked in jeans (with no holes or rips and NEVER shorts or leggings, I don’t care what the heat index is) and a tucked in polo shirt or long sleeve shirt with a reputable neckline (but preferably always with a collar when possible). Remember, you always dress for the job you want. So if you want to be sweaty-groom-that-gets-bad-tips-forever, then by all means, wear what you want.
2. Always follow instructions, and don’t ask questions unless it is of urgent matter or something you know to be detrimental to the horses. Obviously, this does not apply to any illegal or shady activity. That should always be reported immediately. Your boss is your boss. You are not the boss, and you will not be the boss until you prove yourself and/or are footing the bill. Most likely, footing the bill. End of story.
3. Show days are sacred. When your boss has clients and/or horses showing, it is not the time to ask questions or favors. Make an effort to go above and beyond your horses’ everyday grooming. They should literally sparkle in the sunlight from ShowSheen, their hooves should be polished, and all of their tack must be clean and well-fitted. Does the horse need to be lunged before he goes into the ring? It should have been done an hour ago. A braid out of place? You had better have fixed it five minutes ago. There is nothing that will upset a trainer more than having a dirty horse walk in the ring or a client that was on too late to get a proper warm-up. Everyday at the barn is practice, but shows are game time.
4. Never get caught unprepared. You put a horse in turnout without his boots on? Go put them on the second you notice. You forgot to clean the tack before leaving for the night? Leave your dinner outing early and take your personal evening time to clean it. You forgot to paint a horse’s hooves until he is only one trip out from his first round? Hustle to the ring with your groom’s backpack in tow (everyone should have one of these) and get his hooves painted before the judge can see. Everyone makes mistakes, but many trainers don’t need the headache in being involved in them. If you mess up, remedy the situation before it is too late to fix, most preferably, before your boss/trainer/client will notice. Only get the trainer involved when you have exhausted all other options and/or it is an emergency or urgent situation. You should be able to rely on your co-workers, and if you are in the unfortunate situation of not having that luxury, then you must rely on yourself.
5. Never assume anything. Always go over any questions or concerns you have at least 24 hours in advance with your boss and/or trainer. Have them draw you feed and turnout diagrams, address your work schedule, and take note of show days that require early arrival. Don’t have a good memory? Invest in a planner. It will become your personal companion.
Looking for more tips on how to make it in the industry? Stay tuned for more.
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