The words daunting, fulfilling, empowering and petrifying can all describe the emotional and mental process of starting a freelance grooming business. Those feelings can come in waves, one after the other, or they can feel like a hurricane downpouring on you all at once.
While all those reactions are normal, Instagrooms provides 10 tips of advice to keep in mind as a guidepost when those overwhelming emotions kick in. As an online platform streamlining and connecting grooms with clients, Instagrooms sees the power of freelancing in the grooming industry and wants everyone who is stepping out on their own as a groom to succeed. Click here to download.
Have a Clear Focus
There are many facets of the horse industry from eventing to racing to hunters to dressage–and more. Find your niche and start developing in that specialty. By making that crucial, first decision, you’ve established your target market.
From there, you need a business plan. Start establishing goals, pricing strategies and business financials. All those nitty gritty details can help you stay focused on your objectives. Then it’s time to start promoting your business by creating an online presence in the form of social media and a website. Toot your horn with pretty pictures and testimonials!
Keeping The Business Going
As with life with horses, the work never stops. And the same is true with managing a freelance business. Once you set clear boundaries and terms for your business, it’s off to the races! Continue to expand your horsemanship knowledge by educating yourself on the latest techniques, products and best equine care practices. Go out in the community and network yourself because you are your business. Then continue to keep track of your finances, protect yourself with insurance and contracts and invest in quality equipment.
Most importantly, be receptive to feedback. Good or bad, feedback helps you grow and become better.
From the Client Perspective
As a platform connecting grooms with potential clients, Instagrooms also understands the owner perspective. They provided a downloadable PDF of tips for owners looking to hire a freelance groom here–and the PDF is just as helpful to grooming professionals so that they know what dialogues should be articulated during the hiring process.
To begin, requirements and responsibilities should be clearly laid out. Each perspective client has a different set of specific characteristics, skills and backgrounds they require at their barn. All parties being clear about the expectations is an important place to start.
Clients need to research and read reviews on perspective freelance grooms. Collect feedback, verify their qualifications and experience and conduct interviews.
For the well-being and safety of both sides, terms should be explicitly discussed. Before the first day of work, settle on payment, work hours, any living arrangements–and if possible, have a written agreement or contract.
Feature photo courtesy of Kind Media LLC.
Instagrooms is the premier online platform for freelance equestrian professionals, connecting skilled grooms and equine service providers with clients in need of top-notch care. Our mission is to empower individuals in the equestrian industry to showcase their expertise, expand their client base and maximize their earning potential. With transparent pricing tools, marketing features and a user-friendly interface, Instagrooms makes it easy for professionals to manage bookings, build their reputation, and grow their business. Whether you’re a seasoned groom or a specialized equine service provider, Instagrooms is your go-to platform for unlocking new opportunities and achieving financial success in the equestrian world.
