TBF 048 :: Communicating With Your Customers, Lambing in January, and a Hard Lesson Learned

If you are a beginning farmer or a farmer that is looking to grow their operation you are well aware of the fact that land access is one of the number one issues facing beginning farmers. I know that we we began looking for land it was overwhelming. Not only was it difficult to find anything for sale that was actually in our area and in our price range, but there was a million other things to consider. Which bank will finance it? How far away from the job in town is too farm? Is it better to have a smaller piece of land with a house or a bigger piece with no house? Those are all questions that we faced, but looking back on the purchase there are so many other things that I should have considered or wish that I would have considered. So, what you will find below are my thoughts on what sort of things to think about when you are buying the farm ... or renting a farm.

How We Communicate With Our Farm Friends

Blogging :: One of the few things I did right as we started this farming journey was the starting the blog. This is a great way to practice telling your story and to share the journey.

Farm Website :: It doesn't have to be fancy, it doesn't have to be the best one on the block, but it sure is nice to have one to share with people when they ask about your story or how to purchase your products.

Facebook Page :: This one is a given in 2014, but it is very important that you make use of it in the best way possible. We've found that pictures, questions, and posts that allow your farm friends to interact are much better than posts that are just advertisements.

E-Mail List :: This is one of the most important pieces of "online communication" we have because the people that sign-up for the e-mail list are folks that really want to hear from us. We use this to share recipe ideas, farm news, and opportunities to purchase our products.

Face-to-Face Communication :: Nothing beats a good old fashioned conversation when it comes to sharing the story of your farm. But, even more important is the opportunity to listen to your customers and learn what matters to them.

Don't forget about the upcoming Practical Farmers of Iowa Farminar featuring "The Beginning Farmer," Ethan Book.

Tuesday, February 18th 7:00 - 8:30 PM CST "Making Niche Pork Work for You at Any Scale"

  As always, I want to thank you so much for listening and supporting the show with your encouragement and reviews on iTunes! I am continually working to produce a better show, and I'm thankful for all of the listeners sticking with me as I learn. If you do enjoy the show, don't forget that you can subscribe on iTunes and leave a five star rating and review (by clicking the link). If you are an Android phone user you can also subscribe on the free Stitcher App. It is so very encouraging to know that people are listening and enjoying the show! I would love to hear your questions, show ideas, or comments about the show. Feel free to shoot me an e-mail! As always you can follow along with "The Beginning Farmer" and Crooked Gap Farm by checking out these links ...

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