WE have heard a lot about the shortage of staff in racing, and the switch from being an agricultural business to a leisure industry has done little to improve the image of a career in racing. Our working hours may by law match the statutory eight-hour day, but the spread between early mornings, late nights and weekends can still be seen as a deterrent to school-leavers faced with more appealing alternatives.

Low unemployment has led to greater choice for job-seekers and increased opportunities at third level mean higher expectations, but that doesn’t mean the thoroughbred industry can’t match those expectations and provide a challenging, lifelong career. Stable staff awards, Britain’s Team Honour, and industry training and personal career development are all helping to promote the industry as an attractive option.

What can employers do?

If job seekers are to recognise the wide variety of roles within the industry as attractive, then trainers and stud managers must also take that same view. It may seem a little petty to rename and rebrand traditional roles, but it does nothing but good to re-evaluate what those roles entail and how varied the tasks are. Each role has its own skill set and by better consideration of individual roles and skills, the working environment can be improved.

What do each of your staff do and what are your requirements when looking to recruit? What qualities should your yard staff, grounds people, maintenance team, stallion grooms, yearling prep team, foaling staff, work riders, stable grooms, racing grooms and administrative staff possess?

Are there any other roles you can offer and what job description and title best describes them? Present the career opportunities available in a positive way and recognise the true value of your staff.

How can job seekers enhance their chances?

The BGA (www.britishgrooms.org.uk) is the national representative body for all grooms working in Britain and British grooms abroad, and its website provides plenty of help and advice for those looking to work with horses.

Make a list of the things that are important to you, such as a desire to travel, live abroad or be close to home. Examine the many roles open to you and which you would be most interested in. Would you appreciate further training within the workplace and which employer can offer that?

Evaluate your current skills and be realistic. What are your strong points, weaknesses and where can you improve? Draw up a list of equine skills and see how many you possess, can work towards or cross off as not applicable.

Before dismissing those you believe you won’t need, consider if there’s value in learning such skills anyway – could they be of future use or offer personal satisfaction in accomplishing?

Many prospective employers will want you to email your CV outlining your experience and suitability for the position.

Keep this concise and professional, a maximum of two pages if possible, and check thoroughly for any spelling and grammatical errors before sending. First impressions are vital. This extends to your email address – ensure it is professional and assign a signature that includes your contact details.