Don’t forget to communicate

With prices as low as they are in the dairy industry today, and no miracle on the futures horizon, it’s important to keep everyone in the loop on your farm. “Communication should not stop at the barn door,” says Julia Nolan Woodruff, Extension educator with The Ohio State University. Woodruff explains in a recent Dairy Issue Brief that you should keep the lines of communications open with your lenders, nutritionist, veterinarian, and others. They might be able to offer suggestions in this difficult time. This can also help develop a strong relationship for future business.

Woodruff says that a lack of communication sends a clear message to your family and employees of a negative outlook for the future. Communication does take some effort and time. Calling a family or business meeting can be a way to convey what the current situation is. Finally, Woodruff explains that everyone communicates differently, so it is important to adjust your message to everyone’s communication styles.