There is also the trainer who is qualified even brilliant but just unable to communicate effectively. The ability to coach riders to top levels does not necessarily include business acumen.
I had the luck to have exposure to several great role models. Accomplished, educated, horse people. The ability to ride and train does not directly correlate into the ability to tell someone else how to do it. There are trainers who have charm, wit, leadership and business smarts who are not great riders. There are amazing riders who should be gagged in public spaces and would never be allowed to have a checking account.
The correct coach/trainer for a rider/horse is one that improves them, that can communicate effectively with the rider/horse bringing them to the next level. Coaches and trainers are not a one stop shop. Look at top riders, how many coaches have had a hand in producing them? Why do we not follow the same route?
As a very good trainer once told me " learn from every person who has anything to do with a horse. Keep your mouth shut, ears and eyes open. Then judge accordingly because learning what does not make the horse better is often more valuable than what does make him better"
The pricing thing to me is easy. Professionals charge what people are willing to pay. That amount is different in Wellington than it is in Wherever. If Trainer is getting a $100 bucks to ignore you on flat, then trainer B must not be as good because he is only charging $95. So many factors decide price, but we are all guilty, if something feels too cheap, it must be somehow less than ideal. I think anyone who price shops trainers is starting on the wrong foot. Yes, budget is key. Set budget parameters, then look for all options within that budget. Then forget price. Then it is about communication, improvement and enjoyment. If you are not getting all three it is time to move along to the next candidate.
I know that many have had bad experiences, we all have, this industry is full of posers, wanna be’s, control freaks and worse. We are not alone, try to get your car fixed or your house remodeled. This is just more personal to us because it involves hopes, dreams and living creatures who are so fragile. So for them, we have to be careful…