As a private barn owner I knew finding the right horse trainer would be my most difficult task. Throughout my search I learned so many things and wanted to share what I valued most. These 6 points are what I found helpful and will hopefully help you!

Make a YouTube channel. Show your riding skills in as many ways as possible. If it’s training from the ground, video that too. Create folders of your different styles of riding and training. For example, one folder could be your riding skills on the flat. Show that you have mastered certain skills and can perform them on a horse. Another folder might be videos of riding youngsters. Another, might be show jumping at 1.20M Another show jumping at 1.35M. Give as many examples of your riding or teaching skills as you possibly can. Also show your mistakes. It’s helpful to see how someone handles a ‘not so perfect’ situation. We all know every ride is not perfect!
Make a CV or Resume Organize your information and experiences clearly. On this, give your Facebook account, YouTube (if you have set it up), Instagram and any other social media. And of course, your experience and references. If you’ve had a negative experience with your previous employer let that be known. It’s ok. Just say please contact my other references. No one is judging...or they shouldn’t be.
Be Honest! If the job description says you must have shown in the past 12 months at a certain level and you haven’t, then don’t apply. Read the job description very carefully and abide by it.
Be prepared to quit your present employment and or give notice immediately.
Educate yourself on types of employment. Will you be an Independent Contractor, Freelancer, Full-time, part-time, or a Consultant.
Communicate and ask questions. During the interview process be prepared to ask questions. Lots of them. What kind of program are you running? What type of clients do you have? Where do you get your horses?, What are my hours? Days off? Lodging? Veterinarians? Farriers? Dentists? Chiropractors? Message? The more questions you ask the better idea of what kind of barn you will be working for. And I would expect the employer to be doing the same.

Commentary:

The YouTube channel is easy to set up and an invaluable tool for you now and in the future, not only for your job search but for getting yourself out there as a person and showing who you are. This is not a time to be private. If you are confident in who you are and your skills, you should not be shy about this. It’s also a way to be honest (point number 3) As an employer, you do not want to be begging for videos or hearing that people have no videos. Your work should be easily accessible and show your skills . Not everyone is looking for a grand prix rider. There are so many different levels to the Equestrian world. There is a place for everyone. And, as I always say, don’t take a rejection personally. “It has to be the right fit”. Good luck in your search and I hope you find this helpful!