How should I go about writing a resume for possible groom positions if I don’t have any job experience in this field (looking for my first real job in this industry). I do have some good references but I’m not sure what else to add. Thanks:)
when I am looking for barn help I am more than happy to take on someone without experience as long as they have the right attitude and willingness to work hard and learn. State any horse experience you do have and any jobs you have had previously and the responsibility you had. Stating your education gives employers an idea of your learning skills. Mentioning that you are a non smoker, drinker, drug user is also a good idea!
Get a referance. big name barns or even large facilities of any kind LOVE referances. its good to have some one to vouch for your skill and trustworthyness. Make sure its from a former employer not a family member(unless you worked for a family business).
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Old thread, but I’ll add a few things.
Understand what qualities make a good groom, such as, attention to detail, self-starter, able to take direction, good attendance record, ability to learn quickly, ability to get along with others, ability to work hard, etc. When building your resume, think about how you can best highlight that you possess these desirable/necessary traits while you outline your work history and develop the “objective” section of your resume.
If you have no experience as a groom or horse owner, consider “getting your feet wet” before jumping into the deep end. Ask to volunteer for a few hours a week at a rescue, a therapeutic riding center, etc. You’ll learn a lot and have something to add to your resume. If you ride at a barn, ask the trainer or BO if you can barter some work in exchange for being taught some new skills. For example, you might agree to pick paddocks or stalls for X number of hours, in exchange for being taught how to drive a tractor or clip a horse for Y number of hours. If the barn is going to a horse show, offer to tag along as a “gopher” in exchange for being “shown the ropes” of what duties a horse show groom might be expected to perform.
From an employer’s perspective, there are challenges associated with hiring individuals with limited/no groom experience. The applicant often under-estimates the fitness the job requires; grooms are typically on their feet eight hours a day mucking, sweeping, turning out, turning in, grooming, feeding, haying, bathing, etc. If you don’t have prior experience working as a groom, consider a part time situation to start out. You’ll give your body a chance to adapt to the rigors of the job while you learn the skills required to perform the job, without being overwhelmed.
^^^ reported
