The week of June 10, Farm Journal is celebrating the next generation of American agriculture. Our goal is to encourage you to plan for the future and cultivate multigenerational success through the transfer of skills and knowledge. Think tomorrow, act today to align your asset, resource and financial legacy.
Each year, The Scoop names the top up and coming ag retailers to its list of 40 Under 40. Four of those industry leaders joined The Scoop podcast to share what has helped them truly become trusted advisers for their farmer customers.
To hear from more 40 Under 40 awardees, tune in to The Scoop podcast. And if you know someone who deserves to be recognized on the 2024 list, nominations are currently open.
Rebecca Schubert, irrigation water management specialist at Centra Sota Cooperative
Since starting in ag retail, Rebecca Schubert has found it’s okay to not have all the answers to all of your customers’ questions - but you shouldn’t let the conversation end there.
“It’s always best if you don’t know the answer to go find the answer, and then get back with your client or customer,” she says.
Tyler Mitchell, agronomy account manager at River Valley Cooperative
Getting out of your comfort zone and getting to know people has gone a long way for Tyler Mitchell.
“Be friendly with people,” he says. “I’ve never pulled in a driveway, or jumped in a combine and thought I wish I hadn’t stopped and talked to them. I always get back to the truck and think wow, that was awesome. Don’t be afraid. Just go.”
Kyle Meece, agronomy manager at United Prairie
Kyle Meece recommends taking the term “trusted adviser” to heart with farmers.
“Be honest. I tell guys all the time if I won’t use it on my own operation, I won’t recommend it to them,” he says. “Honesty is everything and those relationships you can’t ever get back. You’ll use them your entire life.”
Ross Bender, director of new product development for The Mosaic Company
Having worn the hat of both a farmer and an employee, Ross Bender has found the key to relationship building through communication.
“To be a strong employee and partner with a farmer, it requires a really strong relationship, transparency, offering solutions and ideas, and brainstorming with those customers,” he says.
