From cranberry bogs to dairy operations, Wisconsin farm operations are diverse, and so are their employee needs. Managing a farm comes with a unique set of daily challenges. In the Badger State, your workforce is the backbone of your farm’s success, and taking care of your employees is vital.
To help local operations build stronger, safer and more productive teams, we consulted local extension and workforce consultants. Their insights focused heavily on how Wisconsin farm owners can rethink hiring priorities, structure onboarding, elevate employee training and provide tools for workplace success.
1. Rethink Hiring Priorities
Finding seasoned farm hands in Wisconsin can be tough. However, advisors emphasize that lack of prior agricultural experience shouldn’t be a dealbreaker when recruiting entry-level workers. Hiring managers are encouraged to look beyond technical skills, prioritize soft skills and put emphasis on employees who fit the operation culturally. The majority of on-farm tasks can be taught. It’s important to hire employees who demonstrate the same core values as your farm. If candidates display a mindset that aligns with your operation, they’ll be a natural fit.
2. Structure Onboarding
One of the biggest areas managers overlook is onboarding. Bringing a new member to the team requires far more than just handing them tax forms. Advisors emphasized the importance of the first day. As simple as showing the new employees where to find the restroom, adding careful emphasis to the basics is important. Onboarding should include, but not be limited to, establishing specific managers employees will respond to, providing clear expectations and providing resources. Advisors mention a basic tour is vital for employees to understand the layout of the operation, find the lunchroom and understand where to store personal belongings during their work shift.
3. Elevate Employee Training
Effective training is not a one-time event. Instead, it is an evolving process that protects both your employees and your farm operation. While a successful training program looks different on every farm, it is important to provide clear resources and learning opportunities. Training through multiple avenues is found to be the most effective.
- Hands-On: Learning by doing alongside an experienced manager or mentor.
- Written Documentation: Providing clear, step-by-step procedures in English as well as the employee’s native language.
- Visual Aids: Utilizing pictorial step-by-step guides for quick reference around the farm.
- Video Content: Leveraging short video snippets that demonstrate key tasks clearly.
It’s common for employees to start skipping steps six months into the job. Leaders and managers must view training as a continuous responsibility, regularly revisiting safety standards, farm protocols, and practical skills to keep operations running smoothly.
4. Provide Tools for Workplace Success
While farm employers are legally obligated to provide a safe working environment and necessary paperwork, providing comprehensive support is what separates thriving agricultural businesses from the rest. Delivering proper guidance, constructive feedback, open communication, and the right tools ensures your workforce feels valued and motivated to grow.
By investing time into structured onboarding and continuous training, you build a safer workplace, reduce operational risk, and position your farm for long-term growth.
As the number one farm insurer in Wisconsin, we provide knowledge and insight to help you make the best decisions to protect your farm and way of life. That’s why we go beyond the policy by providing educational content on best practices – from farm safety to succession planning. Reach out to a local agent to learn more.
