Save the Family, Not Just the Farm

The awareness of human resource management issues in modem farm management is essential Each family farm has its own unique characteristics and differing roles and responsibilities of family members on and off the farm due to different factors, such as decision-making styles, knowledge base, attitudes, cultural differences and type of farm. Economic trends, demographic trends, and world markets are examples of external factors that apply pressure on farm managers, which, in turn, is reflected in their management approach. In Saskatchewan, Canada, statistics are available for agricultural population, employment, industry, farm vs. off-farm income, and education levels of farmers. The focus on farm business management has tended to be on production, marketing, and financial management, with somewhat less emphasis on human resource management. In the past, many farm labourers have been in-family employees. With the transition to larger and more diversified farming styles, farm mangers are recognizing relationship problems with employees, even to the point of legal action. Farm managers are now seeking information on human resource management in order to improve their management skills. Education and improved communication skills contribute to improved success both with the family and the business employees. This paper examines the links between a successful agribusiness operation and human resource management skills. Farmers who have taken a goal-directed management course, such as Farming to Win, The Rural Family, Taking Care of Business, or AgDirections 2000 have indicated a difference in their farm business management skills, including a noticeable improvement in the way they deal with people.