What would you look for in an ideal groom?

[steph91]

Not sure if anyone remembers but was having difficulties with a groom, long story short she stormed off the yard today after a disagreement with a family friend who we have got in to exercise the horses while the groom was unable to due to a back problem. She quit the job by text this evening, saying she can not be spoken to like that and who did she think she was etc. (big ego problem with both). Personally i think it silly to quit a job over an argument with someone that is not even a permanent person on the yard, but that was her decision.
Anyways now i am on the hunt for a groom again, so what would you look for, certain qualities, experiences, age etc.

 

[Spit That Out]

Personally i would look for someone who is honest, reliable, knowledgeable and happy doing what they are doing.
In return I'd offer fair pay, accommodation and or room for their horse, a 5 day week and I'd be honest about what the job/hours entails.

There's no point promising a job that doesn't exist.

I'd also rather get someone older as i find the younger girls that have just left college arrogant girls that think they know everything...and normally still too in to boys and drinking than mucking out and grooming.

Not trying to tar all college leavers with the same brush, just my experiences with the ones I've met and tried to give work to.

 

[simplyhunting]

What type of groom are you looking for?

As above fair pay and accom help. Am keeping an eye out for a nice job atm , though many don't seem to offer accom or be able to bring a horse and these are the first things I look for really.

 

[Chestnutmare]

I would also ask for reference's too, and from experience the older person is slightly more mature although having said that I do know of some girls that are younger who are brilliant at what they do.

Detail what it is you are looking for what you are offering pay and if you can accomodate the groom and or horse etc.

Hours to be worked and days

 

[eggs]

I offer my groom cottage accommodation and livery for up to two horses.

In return I expect a 5 day week to include one weekend day, to care for my horses as she does her own and to be pleasant to be around.

I have had two grooms in 11 years. I don't look for anyone who has not previously worked as a groom and both grooms were in the mid 20s when they came to me. They need to be reasonable riders as I have a few youngsters. They also need to be confident to take sole charge.

I don't expect them to do anything I won't do (except jumping!).

My main requirement is that they have to want to do the job and be genuinely concerned about my horses' welfare.