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 How’s your peer network ?Every time you pick up this newspaper you are being challenged with new information to help you grow your farm business, and improve your family’s life. Do you sometimes wonder how to sift out what is truly valuable? Last month I met with the Agriculture and Food Council of Alberta for their annual “Agri-business Network forum” where peer networking groups are being promoted as a great way to manage farms and ranches more strategically, by meeting regularly with other farmers and ranchers. Peer networks expose and enable people to engage their peers in the industry and across industries to access more and better information, innovative perspectives on best business practices, and lifelong learning opportunities. “We’ve been meeting with a group monthly for 19 years, and it is the reason why we can expand our successful business today” quipped a Lloydminster area rancher whose holistic management group has supported his business ideas and growth. Donalda, Alberta farmer Heather Broughton drives 90 minutes one way, on a monthly basis to meet with her peer group. She says it helps her team achieve new goals, and grow their business. Her commitment is rewarded by her consistent involvement and a great arena to pick up new “best practices” for her operation. “Even CEO’s need someone to talk to,” says Rick Harvey of TEC. (www.tec-canada.com ). TEC stands for “The Executive Committee” and has 13,000 members, it’s a think tank, a mastermind group. Rick leads a TEC group , coaching for business success, and learning across industry groups. Call 1-800-661-9209. Someone once said that your life will be shaped mostly by “the people you meet, and the books you read.” My challenge to you is this…are you meeting people who understand your business, and are helping you to grow ? Why not ? Who do you share your deepest desires and business dreams with…confidentially ? Better decision making and clarity of focus for your business are two of the main benefits of having a peer network group. I belong to the Canadian Association of Farm Advisors (www.cafanet.com) This group provides insight on what is currently affecting farmers. You can access this group as a farmer and join their regular chapter meetings across Canada. Albertans can call the Agriculture and Food Council in Nisku at 1-866-955-3714, www.agfoodcouncil.com or email networks@agfoodcouncil.com What is your definition of success? Are you scared about the changes you know you need to make to move your farm forward ? A group of peers who are in the room to share, learn and hold you accountable to your dreams and plans may be just what you need to get your farm and ranch to the next level of success. Business networks are one thing, yet how are you doing with your friendships from the farm ? Many folks have confided in me that they really wish they could drop in at the neighbours and have a good old-fashioned visit. You can. It takes one phone call to connect. Spring tension and busyness drives some families crazy. You don’t have to let that happen to you. Have fun with your family and your friends. Think about the relationships and connections you have neglected over hockey season, or calving. Sure, business is important for putting food on the table, but we also need fun in our busy lives. For business growth, or for pleasure, I challenge you to look at your peer networks. Who do you need to network with today ? Just do it ! Elaine Froese is a catalyst for creative change. She coaches farm families and speaks on planning for change across Canada. Visit www.elainefroese.com or call 1-866-848-8311. Purchase her award winning book “Planting the Seed of Hope” for your peers ! |
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