Finding Suitable Candidates | Equine Recruitment

Equestrian Employers Association Employer Conference 2020

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd 31st January 2020 News and Updates

Caroline Carter Recruitment is delighted to support the Equestrian Employers Association Employer Conference, on 25th February 2020.

Caroline Carter is a guest speaker at the conference, answering your questions on the staffing challenges with the equine workplace in the session, How to attract, recruit and retain excellent staff.

Caroline says, “I am really looking forward to this conference. It represents a groundbreaking opportunity to eyeball the ‘issues of the day’ surrounding attracting, recruiting and retaining staff. With a recruitment industry ‘in crisis,’ we must all grasp these opportunities to look at strategies which could positively impact change.”

Read on to find out more about this interesting event and its aims…

Brexit – Information for Employers and Grooms in the Equine Industry

Kelly Wallace Horne 29th January 2020 Articles

As Great Britain leaves the European Union at 11pm on 31st January 2020 and “Brexit” dominates our news headlines, what can we expect within the equine industry? As an international recruitment agency, we place many British Grooms in jobs within the EU, and many EU citizens into jobs within Great Britain, so… what about information for Employers and Grooms in the equine industry?

New Years Resolutions for Equine Employers: How to ensure a strong start to 2020

The Grooms List Team 30th December 2019 Employers

The early part of the year can be one of the busiest times in equine recruitment. The blank canvass of the new year stretches ahead, full of potential, promise but let’s face it, sometimes dread to as finding good staff these days can be somewhat…er…challenging, to say the very, very least! Having the right team around you to fulfil that potential is paramount to any person’s (or business’s) success. As equine workers resolve to move on at the start of the year, January is a prime time to assemble that team. To help you make the most of this busy period we’ve put together a quick guide to the key points – if you like, some New Years’ Resolutions for equine employers!

Tips for Employers on Managing Job Applications

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd 20th September 2019 Employers

There is more to managing job applications than you might think. The whole point in advertising a job vacancy is to receive applications from job seekers yet, once they start to come in, many employers lose out on their ideal candidate by making simple, easy to make errors when managing them. As seasoned recruiters, we regularly see or receive feedback from employers on the way they approach their job applications and, in turn, we see what works for them and what doesn’t. Here, we put together the do’s and don’ts of managing job applications.

HELP! Why can’t I fill my equine job vacancy?!

The Grooms List Team 22nd August 2019 Employers

Sometimes your recruitment drive gets stuck in a rut and needs a shove in the right direction to get things moving and pick up the momentum needed to fill an equine job vacancy. This is where The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment can help. The Grooms List seems to be the ‘go to’ equestrian recruitment agency these days for the majority of savvy employers and little wonder with over 20 years experience in FILLING EQUINE JOBS which is at your disposal when you subscribe to one of our recruitment packages, either our DIY website package or our bespoke equine recruitment services. This article is written specifically for employers using a DIY website recruiting route who, sometimes, can find themselves at an impasse finding suitable candidates and receiving applicants from appropriate job seekers.

Making and accepting a job offer – the do’s and don’ts!

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd 4th July 2019 Articles, Employers, Jobseekers

Sometimes, making and accepting a job offer can be somewhat rushed and not treated with the formality it really does require. Whilst it’s a huge relief to have reached this stage, it is by no means the end of the process! There is still time for things to unravel and go wrong, and sometimes badly wrong, which it’s why it’s so important for both employers and job seekers to approach this stage with care and to put aside a little quality time to get it spot-on! Read our guidance on making and accepting a formal job offer…

What happens when a job offer is withdrawn?

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd 4th July 2019 Articles, Employers, Jobseekers

Offering and accepting a job offer can be a time of mixed emotions – happiness, relief, anxiety, and even confusion in some circumstances. But occasionally things go wrong when they’ve barely begun and the job offer is withdrawn. Where do employers and job seekers stand when a job offer/acceptance is withdrawn?

Pre Employment checks – Understanding a Driving Licence

Caroline Carter 30th September 2018 Employers

Many employers need their prospective employee to drive a car, tow a trailer, drive a tractor, a horse box or HGV lorry and, rather like reference checks, don’t always bother checking an individual’s licence for what they are legally able to drive, or even if they have any points or disqualifications. You need to know who is going to be doing the odd school run for you, transporting your horses, driving your tractor etc. Do yourself a favour, grab a strong coffee, take the phone off the hook for 10 minutes and have a read of this!

Pre-Employment Checks – References

Caroline Carter 21st September 2018 Employers

As we all know, recruitment is an inexact science and pre-employment checks such as securing valid and recent references gives us important information that helps us to decide if a candidate is suitable for a particular role.

Over the years I have taken references on behalf of thousands of employers and prospective employees as part of delivering bespoke recruitment services. This has lead me to have many positive, long-term placements and via the same established processes of due diligence, I have also diverted my clients away from certain disaster on more than one occasion!

Interestingly these days many grooms, having known me through their careers, give me as a reference to their ‘journey.’ Similarly, and not infrequently, employers will ask me for information about a particular prospective employee and of course, where I can fairly and legally comment, I do.

Over the years, more especially in the equestrian recruitment environment, I have been struck by how many employers who recruit for themselves or via other routes don’t seem to bother taking up references, opting instead to completely ignore these critical pre-employment checks just hoping for the best; many seem to live to regret this omission sooner or later…

How an Apprentice Groom can benefit YOUR yard

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd 14th September 2018 Articles, Employers

The Grooms List Apprenticeships Zone - How an Apprentice can Benefit Your Yard

In so many of the blogs and articles we write for equine employers, we find ourselves referring to common difficulties when sourcing, securing and retaining good equine career grooms. It’s reasonable to conclude the pool of experienced grooms wanting to remain working with horses and available to yards is diminishing as the years pass. Trainee grooms, including apprentices, are a lifeblood of the equine industry and the ins and outs of employing them need much more consideration than they currently get.

Taking anyone on as an employee is a big responsibility with plenty of legislation to adhere to along associated pitfalls, so it’s very tempting to aim to keep things simple by seeking to only take on employees with experience and a solid employment history. Not only could you find this attempt to keep things simple actually complicates your recruitment drive, as you struggle to attract and secure established, experienced career grooms in what is undeniably a very competitive recruitment market for employers, but by shunning the notion of taking on an apprentice, quite simply, you could be missing out!

A Sneak Peek at an equine Grooms Wishlist…

The Grooms List Team 26th August 2018 Employers

Last week we took a sneaky peek at an equine employers ‘wish list’, this week we thought we would do the same (only fair!) to give those employers who might need it, a gentle nudge towards a better understanding of what grooms are looking for when they make a job move. It is surprising how often we come across bewildered employers wondering why they are still groom-less months down the line. Apart from the fact that the reality is that good grooms are in really short supply, often on further investigation into the job vacancy details the reasons can be somewhat closer to home….

5 tips for a successful equestrian recruitment employer:agency relationship

Caroline Carter 17th June 2018 Employers

5 rules of successful equestrian recruitment client-agency relationships - get the results you want

In my experience, most employers want to find an equestrian recruitment agency with whom they can form an enduring relationship to weather the storm we all find ourselves in currently. But this isn’t always that straightforward. Following are five tips to building a strong relationship from the moment you have decided to entrust your job vacancy with Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and our services, including The Grooms List.

Employing an Apprentice Groom – Grooms of the Future Part 1

Kelly Wallace Horne 11th May 2018 Articles, Employers

Trainee grooms, including apprentices, are a lifeblood of our industry and the ins and outs of employing them needs much more consideration than they currently get – the yard junior, the trainee and of course the official and safeguarded version of the working pupil, the apprentice groom, are the future. What we all invest today could reverse the sometimes depressing current trends in the industry for tomorrow. If you are sitting comfortably with a large glass/cup of whatever keeps you awake and concentrating, please do read on. We hope you will be glad you did and that you will share this info to anyone you think might benefit from it – THE EQUESTRIAN INDUSTRY DESPERATELY NEEDS PEOPLE LIKE YOU!

5 Top Tips for Finding a Good Groom

Caroline Carter 30th March 2018 Employers

Finding decent equine staff in this very tough equestrian recruitment market is not easy, it can be very time-consuming, costly and not least of all incredibly frustrating. Trust me, after 15 years as a professional equine recruitment specialist, I know! Follow my 5 simple tips to get the best out of your equestrian recruitment drive – save yourself time, a considerable amount of money, and an awful lot of headaches!

10 steps to successfully recruiting a Super Groom!

Caroline Carter 2nd March 2018 Employers

10 Steps to recruiting an everyday Super Groom

This article is designed to share just a few useful hints and tips if you are about to embark on filling an equine job vacancy, or for those who have been looking for a time and don’t feel they are making the progress they should be. I have recently fulfilled a long-held ambition to sponsor the British Grooms Association in all they do on behalf of the grooms. We work closely with the BGA but independently we have published a lot of very supportive articles/blogs which are being shared far and wide and which promote change with well-researched advice and views on current issues. So, this week we start to turn our attention a little to the other side of this equation, the employer. Employers get tired of hearing “it’s a groom’s market” right now, I know I seem to say it several times daily, but really, it is. Here I will share with you some of the benefits of my many years as an equine recruitment consultant…

About Freelance Grooms and Freelance Groom Jobs

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd 23rd February 2018 Articles, Employers, Jobseekers

Ever wondered who and what Freelance Grooms are, or are you considering setting yourself up as a Freelance Groom? The appeal of a working life flitting from yard to yard, meeting many, many new horses (and people of course!) is understandable but is this perception realistic? You know that according to British Grooms Association guidelines there is no such thing as Freelance Groom jobs? So how does that work? In this article Emily Taylor has put together a go-to guide of facts and info, including some of the real considerations that Freelance Grooms or anyone wanting to become a Freelance Groom should be aware of, not to mention some of the semantics associated with this title which can really matter when it comes to employment law and the taxman…

How to negotiate a salary in the equine industry

Caroline Carter 8th January 2018 Articles, Employers, Jobseekers

There are of course many factors which influence the longevity and success of any working relationship. Between grooms and employers, none of these are more hotly debated these days than that of grooms’ salary and the general package. You don’t have to look too hard on social media to see the disgruntled outpourings from all sides and every day I have conversations which clearly demonstrate much is still left to be done for this situation to become resolved. I don’t pretend to have an answer as to how we raise the income levels of this particular sector, (which is in many ways is similar to many of the “caring professions”) but I believe how and when the topic of salary and terms is covered within the whole interviewing process, if addressed, could have a positive impact on the longer term security of those involved.

In this article, I give both grooms and employers my advice on laying the foundations of long-term, happy, healthy and successful employment.

Why use an Equestrian Recruitment Agency?

Becky Parker 21st October 2017 Articles, Employers, Jobseekers

Finding your way through the minefield that is job hunting is a tricky task. Some may liken it to the proverbial hunt for a needle in a haystack, but No! let’s not bring that kind of negativity here. Undeniably there are many shady employers around but equally, there are still quite a few good, generous, kind-hearted and appreciative ones too. Becky Parker outlines the role we play in the recruitment process of both employers and jobseekers in the equestrian industry.

How to write an effective equine job vacancy advert

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd 20th October 2017 Employers

Advertise-an-equine-job-vacancy-The-Grooms-List-by-Caroline-Carter-Recruitment-Ltd

Finding and employing a new member of staff for your yard can be a daunting prospect, with so many possible routes to consider and potential pitfalls along the way. Whichever route you choose, to stand the best chance of success you are going to have to write an advert for your job vacancy. To help you out, Caroline Carter Recruitment has put together a suggestion for the recipe to a good job vacancy advert. This will not only help you not only attract equine jobseekers, but will help you to define your needs and your wishes regarding your next equine employee.

Featured Job Vacancies

JL64259 Somerset -Experienced Groom/Rider to work with Event Team

Blackford Eventing

Live in Somerset, UK

Job Description *5 day week. *Shared distribution of weekend work with other staff *Bonus scheme in place for competition travel *Own horse considered *Accommodation can be arranged The job entails working with a range of horses ranging from advanced event horses, young stock, brood mares, retired horses and everything in between. We are looking for a capable groom who must be able to work as part of a team, have a sense of humour (essential) and be willing to learn. We have excellent training in place, and help will be given if you wish to develop qualifications. It is also important that you are happy not to ride all the time but be able to undertake all aspects of equitation from the ground. Must be willing to travel to competitions and be away for several days at a time Must have a current passport Must be able to drive and have own transport The benefits of the job are: 5 day week. 9.5 hours per day Shared distribution of weekend work with other staff Very good salary depending on experience Statutory holiday Time off in lieu of working on bank holidays or double pay Pension scheme if required Bonus scheme in place for competition travel Subject to discussion at interview it may be possible to bring a horse Accommodation (off site) available subject to discussion Minimum Requirements Must be a capable rider, with sound knowledge of all yard work. Must be presentable when at work or travelling to events. Must be able to be adapt and to work independently. Accommodation details Subject to discussion at interview offsite cottage accommodation available. Benefits

JL64226 North Wiltshire – Variety of roles available on World-renowned Stud and Semen Collection Centre (Sport Horses)

West Kington Stud

Live in Wiltshire, UK

*On-site accommodation available or live out *Set within 1,000 acres of farmland *Riding optional *Part-time & full-time positions Stud in North Wiltshire are looking for additional team members for the 2020 breeding season. A good attitude, horse sense and ability to work as part of a team are essential to all roles. Experience of stud work, especially stallion handling and foaling would be hugely desirable. Plenty of learning and on the job training available in these varied roles on a busy stud and semen collection centre. Salary dependent on experience, single on-site accommodation is a possibility.

JL64191 Oxfordshire Stud Groom required – Hunting Yard.

Heythrop Hunt

Live in Oxfordshire, UK

*Competitive salary * Onsite modernised estate cottage with a private garden. *Partners welcomed *own dog and horse considered Well known, Oxfordshire based Hunt Yard requires a responsible, experienced person to fill the role of stud groom for the 2020/21 season. This managerial position will be based at our brand new site with a purpose built indoor yard, all year round turn out, covered horse walker, 20m x 60m outdoor arena and miles of off road hacking. The role will require management of a small team of people. You will be responsible for all aspects of horse care with the high standards associated with this prestigious pack. A licence to drive a 7.5 ton lorry is essential for this role. Accommodation offered is an onsite modernised estate cottage with a private garden. Competitive salary offered for the right candidate.

JL64118 Wiltshire -Yard Manager/Rider (optional) for Sport Horse Stud and Producing/Sales Yard.

Amy Derber Equestrian Ltd

Live out Wiltshire, UK

*Salary IRO £21k *Own horse and dog considered *Opportunities to compete and progress riding for the right person. *Live out or accomm. locally Job Description Looking for a right hand wo/man! Very rewarding job for the right person who wants to be part of a team. Ideally someone who can manage the yard on a day to day basis and lead the other staff. Looking for someone with high standards, pride in their working environment, who is in it for the long haul and will love and care for the horses as their own. We are a sport horse stud and producing yard, also providing sales, schooling, breaking livery. Usually out training or competing several times a week and draghunting in winter. We are a busy and varied yard with no 2 days the same. Need to be confident with youngstock. Competition grooming is a plus but not essential. Someone who can ride is a bonus but not essential – the more capable you are the more will be available to you with opportunities to progress and compete for the right person. Or just hack if that’s what you prefer! We back all our youngsters in house so some experience in this area is preferred. Minimum Requirements Some kind of professional experience on a yard High standards and attention to detail No formal qualifications necessary Accommodation details No accommodation provided, lots of accommodation available locally. Benefits Full contract with pension scheme, holiday etc Own horse welcome Very varied job with lots of opportunity to learn and gain experience in new areas Opportunities to compete and progress riding for the right person. Mostly indoor facilities, friendly working environment.

JL62612 Buckinghamshire Groom/Rider required for private yard on a family farm.

Hawthorn Farm

Live in Buckinghamshire, UK

*Own horse and dog very welcome. *Cottage available on farm. *Top of range salary. *Partner, own horse and pets welcomed. Job Description We have 5 lovely hunters and team chasers and are looking for a full time groom to help with the horses on our 300 acre family farm. Very experienced equestrian family with two international riders. When time permits help with farm, garden, driving or dogs. Own horse and dog very welcome. Excellent equestrian facilities – indoor school, cross country jumps, gallops, etc. Good free cottage available on farm. LGV driver an advantage. Top of range salary. Minimum Requirements Drive Horsebox Lunging Bandaging Plaiting Clipping Trim/Pull Sole Charge Exercising Natural Horsemanship Confident rider Hunting Hacking Accommodation details Own farm cottage Benefits

JL63828 Nr.Ledbury, Herefordshire – Short Term Groom Required 16th &17th February 2020.

Olivia Towers Dressage

Live in Herefordshire, UK

* Dog considered * Accommodation available if needed *Bring your own bananas Professional Dressage rider, coach, and ‘a social media influencer’ known for Vlogs, podcasts and for her love of banana pancakes is urgently looking for yard cover for her Dressage Yard….. THIS WEEKEND! Duties include general mucking out, handling young horses etc all working alongside an experienced Team. Must be used to fit competition horses.

JL62336 Gloucestershire – Dressage Groom

Jackie Siu Dressage

Live in Gloucestershire, UK

*Excellent accommodation on site. *Pets considered *Riding optional Job Description We are an international dressage yard and stud in the Cotswolds seeking a reliable, committed, and competent person to join our team. The role has plenty of variety as we have competition horses up to Grand Prix level, youngsters and breeding stock. Minimum Requirements A good work ethic and appreciation for high standards are essential. Accommodation details Excellent accommodation on site. Benefits Outstanding facilities, and opportunity to be part of an ambitious team and gain experience in several aspects of sport horse management.

JL63654 Nr. Chichester, West Sussex – Event and hunt Groom/Rider.

Sophie VDM Eventing

Live out West Sussex, UK

* 5 day week *Opportunity to hunt and have dressage/ jumping lessons *Live-out position Job Description I am sad to say to that after 2 1/2 years Fred is leaving. So I am looking for a new full time groom to be part of my team, a small yard of event horses currently up to international 4 star level and hunt horses. Opportunity to groom at International events, hunt and have dressage and jumping lessons from me. The right person must be hard working, have high standards, trustworthy, honest and have previous experience working on a yard, to have an HGV licence is a bonus but not a must, opportunity to gain HGV license. Duties include general yard work , hacking and galloping event and hunt horses. Its a small yard of 6 lovely quality horses with a well kept, smart yard to work in and a friendly team. Hours are 8am – 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday, when grooming at a competition days off do change. Minimum Requirements Previous experience working on a yard. Accommodation details None Benefits Opportunity to hunt and have dressage/ jumping lessons

JL63589 Switzerland – Short term family groom required.

Chemin des côtes

Live in Switzerland

*Flexible hours so you can enjoy Switzerland! * 5 hours a day/5 or 6 days a week neg. *Couples considered * Could be a long term opportunity *Accommodation is the whole top floor of beautiful Swiss Manor House *Transport provided (vehicle) *Pets and own horse welcomed Job Description Small private yard in Switzerland seeks a temporary horse loving groom ( couple considered ) to help care for four horses.Duties include mucking out turnout lunging and hacking. Flexible hours . We are looking for an independent person who is happy working on their own. Opportunity for position to become long term. This position would suit a candidate who would like to experience living in a foreign country and care for horses. Minimum Requirements Mucking out grooming turnout lunging /walking horses Driving license Accommodation details Top floor of beautiful Swiss Manor House bedroom with en suite bathroom Large sitting room small kitchen Benefits Food accommodation and use of a car provided. Competitive salary. Opportunity to explore Switzerland and its culture. Flexible work environment

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