"My experience in the equine industry and knowledge of horses was the main skill I needed for my job. The equine science degree was an added bonus for me and that is what gave me the knowledge I displayed at the interview and that I use in my day to day job. I have to be able to discuss how arena surfaces effect the horse and rider and converse with equestrian people. The knowledge of horses I show to customers definitely gives them more confidence in me and the product.
Whilst studying my BSc Equine science I gained BHS Stage 3 Coach in Complete Horsemanship, the skills I took from training for these exams and using them practically gave me the opportunity to use them whilst speaking to my customers and training my own horses. I can give customers advise on their surfaces and also speak to them about their horses’ way of going and how the performance of their horse can improve by changing the surface.
My BHS qualifications have given me the skills to confidently and openly speak about horses and the equine industry to customers and colleagues. The equestrian knowledge I display to a customer gives them more confidence in me and the products I sell.
My advice for anyone looking to get into this career path;
- Go and find a company you would like to work for
Phone the company, ask if you can come in to see them and to give in your CV. If they say no, phone again in a few weeks.
- Be persistent
Once they have your CV, phone them back every month to see if anything has come up.
Never ask if there’s any jobs. Tell them you want to work there and when a job comes up you’ll be ready.
- Volunteer for a month (if you can afford it)
If the company still don’t have a job for you then showing enthusiasm and dedication to a company is massively important to improve your chances of getting a job.
- Most of the equestrian business owners/managers will know another company in the industry
If you show enthusiasm and dedication to a company and they still don’t have any jobs for you, there is a chance they will recommend you to another company.
- Act as though you are in the job role
If it’s a sales job- sell yourself, be confident, provide sales ideas.
If it is marketing, ask them if they would like to set you a task so you can prove to them you will be a good addition to the team.
(they all know when we walk into the office we don’t have any experience so we have to prove it).
- To a lot of companies’ experience is a bonus
Every company is going to advertise for experience because usually, someone with experience is best. However, if your other qualities outshine your lack of experience then you’re further down the road towards a job than you think.
- Allow what experience you do have to be important
You have bar/hospitality experience? Great! You have great knowledge of customer service, people skills and customer relations.
- Never say you’re something that you’re not
You helped plan an event? Great, say that. Don’t say that you planned the even because the employer is probably going to ask which event and details!
- Its ok to be nervous
Being nervous is normal, it’s better to be nervous than cocky.
- Get a referral if possible
Being recommended is always a good sign. If you know anyone who works at the company, ask them to put in a good word for you. Friends, tutors etc.
And go with a reference.
- Always apply!
Even if you don’t think you’ll have a chance of getting it. I went to the interview for my job completely convinced I wasn’t going to get it.
- Even if you’ve not finished your degree
Some companies like to train you for a couple of days a week whilst you are still at Uni so when you leave you’ll be fully trained for the full-time job.
- AIM HIGH!!
There is no harm in giving your CV to The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace. The worst that could happen is you don’t get an interview."
