This article was written by Jennifer Antos of Neighborhood Farmers Markets, Colleen Donovan of the Washington State Farmers Market Association, Heidi Peroni of Boistfort Valley Farm, Ryan Lichtenegger of Steel Wheel Farm, and Stacy Felure of Tonnemaker Farms. It was presented at the 2019 Tilth Conference in Yakima, WA, and can be downloaded as a PDF.
This guide is meant to help farmers and other vendors find, train, and keep employees who will help them do better at farmers markets. End game: Build your team. Grow your markets. Good sales. Loyal customers. Strong partnership with the market organizers and peace with other vendors.
There are options how to get help to grow your business. Think through what is best fit for where you are now and where you want to go.
The Washington State Labor Law sets salary levels for workers who are exempt from overtime.
Access: “Labor on the Farm,” part of the WSDA’s Handbook for Small and Direct-Marketing Farms, talks about labor laws and other useful HR topics.
You need to hire people who will represent your farm in the right way with customers and in markets; they need to be reliable, know your products, and stay.
Tips on Recruiting local people at farmers markets. Stacy Felure of Tonnemaker Farm (2017 WSFMA presentation)
References from current employees are very important. Current employees know the job and will only recommend people they think can do it.
References. “Resumes are only worth the paper they are written on if you don’t check their references. Buyer beware!” Stacy Felure, Tonnemaker Farm.
Tip: Washington State Patrol “Watch” aggregates criminal records and does background checks. To get started, you need the person’s name and birthday. https://fortress. wa. gov/wsp/watch/Home/Index.
There is a easy-to-follow overview of Payroll on the Governor’s Office for Regulatory Innovation and Assistance. It includes a reporting and tax responsibilities; record keeping; paycheck information; estimating payroll; and a payroll calculator. Access “Payroll Your Business” by clicking here.
Train employees to stay with the company longer and improve their skills, which saves time and money in the long run. Customers also notice high staff turnover. Adopt the mindset that training is ongoing process.
You need more than a love of fresh food and active communities to get your dream job as a Farmers Market Manager. It takes a special set of skills, like knowing about local farming and how to manage vendors while making sure customers have a great time. We’ve put together a complete guide with the most common interview questions and thoughtful examples of how to answer them to help you ace your next interview.
Unlocking the Secrets of Farmers Market Management:
1. Unveiling Your Passion and Vision:
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“Why do you feel you would be suited for this role?”
- “My heart beats to the rhythm of farmers markets. I’m not just passionate about fresh, local produce; I’m driven by the opportunity to create a thriving community hub where farmers, vendors, and customers connect in a vibrant symphony of commerce and connection. My experience in farm direct marketing, coupled with my deep understanding of farmers’ markets, makes me uniquely qualified to lead this market to even greater heights.”
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“What do you envision your work at the farmers’ market to be like?”
- “I envision myself as the maestro of this bustling marketplace, orchestrating a harmonious flow of activity. From fostering strong relationships with vendors and farmers to ensuring a seamless customer experience, my work will be a tapestry woven with dedication, innovation, and a genuine love for the community we serve.”
2. Demonstrating Your Agricultural Expertise:
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“Tell us about your experience with farm direct marketing.”
- “My journey with farm direct marketing began with a small, family-owned farm. I learned the intricacies of sustainable farming practices, the challenges of crop management, and the delicate art of bringing fresh produce from field to table. This experience instilled in me a deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication of our local farmers, a value I carry with me in every aspect of my work.”
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“Tell us about your experience with and knowledge of farmers’ markets and this market in particular”
- “I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the transformative power of farmers’ markets firsthand. I’ve seen them evolve into vibrant community centers, fostering economic growth and promoting healthy eating habits. My knowledge of this specific market, its history, its vendors, and its loyal customer base, allows me to hit the ground running and contribute meaningfully from day one.”
3. Highlighting Your Management Prowess:
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“Can you describe your experience managing a farmers market or similar operation?”
- “My experience managing a bustling farmers’ market has equipped me with the skills necessary to navigate the unique challenges of this role. From vendor selection and layout planning to ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for customers, I’ve honed my ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while maintaining a laser focus on the market’s overall success.”
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“How have you handled vendor disputes in the past?”
- “As a firm believer in fostering a harmonious environment, I approach vendor disputes with a calm and diplomatic demeanor. I actively listen to both sides, seeking to understand the root of the issue and find a resolution that respects everyone’s interests. If necessary, I involve a neutral mediator to ensure a fair and amicable outcome.”
4. Showcasing Your Marketing Magic:
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“What strategies have you used to attract new vendors to a farmers market?”
- “My approach to attracting new vendors is a blend of targeted outreach and creating an irresistible market environment. I actively engage with local farmers and artisans, highlighting the benefits of joining our vibrant community. I also focus on making the market itself more attractive by organizing special events, providing vendor support, and ensuring a diverse product range.”
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“Can you describe a successful marketing campaign you’ve implemented to increase customer attendance?”
- “One of my most successful marketing campaigns leveraged the power of social media. We created engaging content featuring our vendors and their products, shared stories about the produce’s origins, and highlighted the benefits of buying local. We even ran contests where followers could win free goods if they attended the market and tagged us in their posts. The result? A 30% increase in attendance over three months!”
5. Demonstrating Your Financial Acumen:
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“How would you handle a situation where the market is facing financial difficulties?”
- “In the face of financial challenges, I would first conduct a thorough analysis to understand the root causes. Then, I’d prioritize actions based on their potential impact and feasibility. This might include cost reduction measures, improving operational efficiency, or exploring new revenue streams such as partnerships or sponsorships. Communication is key in such situations. I would ensure all stakeholders are informed about the situation and our strategies for recovery.”
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“What experience do you have with obtaining necessary permits and licenses for a farmers market?”
- “My experience with obtaining permits and licenses involves researching local regulations, completing required forms, and maintaining open communication with relevant authorities. I have successfully navigated this process multiple times, ensuring compliance with health codes, zoning laws, and other regulations. My familiarity with these procedures allows me to efficiently secure necessary permissions while minimizing potential legal issues.”
6. Highlighting Your Technological Prowess:
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“What digital tools or social media did you use to spread the word about a farmers market?”
- “I’ve utilized social media to promote farmers markets by creating engaging content that highlights the unique aspects of the market. I’ve posted photos and videos of fresh produce, vendor profiles, and special events to draw in potential customers. Additionally, I’ve used targeted ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach a larger audience within our local community.”
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“Can you share a time when you had to deal with an unexpected issue or crisis at the market?”
- “During a particularly busy market day, our main produce vendor cancelled last minute due to an emergency. This was a significant issue as they were one of the key attractions. Immediately, I reached out to other vendors who sold similar products and asked if they could increase their stock. Simultaneously, I communicated with customers about the situation via social media updates and signage at the market. The quick thinking and proactive communication ensured that we still had a successful market day despite the unexpected setback.”
7. Demonstrating Your Sustainability Commitment:
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“What strategies would you use to encourage sustainable practices among vendors?”
- “To encourage sustainable practices among vendors, I would implement a recognition program that highlights and rewards those who incorporate eco-friendly measures in their operations. This could include using biodegradable packaging or sourcing locally grown produce. Additionally, I would provide education on the benefits of sustainability, organizing workshops or seminars to share knowledge about the positive impacts of green practices on both the environment and their business profitability.”
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“How would you go about securing sponsorships or partnerships for the market?”
- “Securing sponsorships or partnerships involves a strategic approach. I would start by identifying potential sponsors who align with our market’s values and goals. This could be local businesses, agricultural organizations, or even larger corporations interested in supporting community initiatives. Next, I’d develop a compelling value proposition that highlights the benefits of partnering with our farmers market. Finally, I would reach out to these potential partners, presenting them with our proposal and negotiating terms that are mutually beneficial.”
8. Showcasing Your Community Engagement Skills:
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“How would you ensure a diverse range of products are offered at the market?”
- “To ensure a diverse range of products at the market, I would engage with different local farmers and producers. Understanding their product offerings and seasonal availability will help in planning. I’d also consider customer feedback and sales data to identify what’s popular or missing from our current selection. Additionally, hosting themed weeks or special events can introduce customers to new products, promoting diversity in our offerings.”
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“Can you describe a time when you’ve had to adapt your management style to a particular situation?”
- “In managing a community garden project, I encountered diverse personalities and work styles. One member was particularly resistant to change and new ideas. Instead of imposing my decisions, I adapted by involving him in the decision-making process. We discussed his concerns, found common ground, and worked together on implementing changes. This approach not only resolved our differences but also fostered a more collaborative environment. It taught me that effective management sometimes requires flexibility and understanding individual team dynamics.”
9. Demonstrating Your Collaborative Spirit:
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“How have you engaged with local community organizations or businesses to support the market?”
- “In my experience, engaging with local community organizations and businesses is crucial for a successful farmers market. I have initiated partnerships with local schools to host educational workshops about sustainable farming and healthy eating. This not only increased our visibility but also created a sense of ownership among the youth. I’ve also collaborated with local restaurants to feature our vendors’ produce in their menus. This provided an additional sales channel for our farmers and promoted the market indirectly through these establishments.”
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“What experience do you have with budgeting and financial management for a farmers market?”
- “I have managed budgets for community events, including a local farmers market. My responsibilities included forecasting revenue, tracking expenses, and ensuring profitability. One strategy I implemented was negotiating with vendors to secure better rates, which significantly reduced costs. I also introduced new income streams such as sponsorships and partnerships that increased our revenue. In terms of financial management, I used software tools to monitor cash flow, manage invoices, and generate financial reports. This helped us maintain transparency and make informed decisions.”
**10. Highlighting
