It’s great to have an online presence, as discussed in the February challenge, but often it is more important to be known locally in the horse industry. If you’re keen to acquire new positions and learn new skills, then make the effort to let the locals know about you:

• send out your resume to businesses you’d love to work for
• list your skills and contact details on local noticeboards, indicating you’re seeking opportunities to further your skills and work hard for a future employer
• attend local equine events and if at all possible, work or volunteer at these to raise your profile
• be sure to talk with those established in the industry as well as those starting out so that you’re building up a network of suitable contacts

If you are running a business, likewise contact the locals and offer your services if they are fitting. For example, someone starting up a farriery business may as well contact all local studs, riding schools, racing stables, riding for the disabled and performance stables to advertise their trimming / shoeing skills. Offer a discount for increased numbers – a great way to drum up business!

Whether you’re a business or an individual, it’s important to advertise what you have to offer to others. This could be skills that someone needs in the equine industry, so it’s important they know where to find you! For an individual, this could be on job seeking sites or a networking site for business individuals, such as LinkedIn.

Even if you’re currently in a job, it shouldn’t stop you from promoting yourself as a valuable employee. Other job options may come along because of it, or you may find that people connect with you as they’re keen to break into the field you’re already working in. If you can find your employer other valuable employees, that is a good thing!

For a business, it is important to have an online presence so that people from around the world can find out about you in a few clicks of the mouse. Develop a website, Facebook account and Twitter account to be able to reach current and future clients. Let them know what they want to know – what you can offer, your rates and success stories but also share what you want them to know – causes you’re passionate about.

For the month of February, work to establish yourself online. Provide quality content, not quantity and don’t be afraid to reach out and let people know about you. Include important links in the footer of any emails you send out.

Missed last month’s challenge?  Check out Reflect and Refresh.