In a business such as farming that focuses on producing a commodity, it might seem like there might not be a lot of differences or variances from farm operation to farm operation. But if you’re a farmer, you know that’s not the case at all.

It’s true that the goal, when you’re generating a commodity product, is always to be the lowest cost per unit (in the case of grain farming – per bushel) producer. That is the “bottom line” when you’re in a commodity-based business.

However, your farm operation is also probably very different from other farms in many ways. When it comes to competing for employee talent through recruiting, getting your operation’s name out there to potential landlords, or ensuring that lenders have a positive view of your operation, it pays to have a very clear understanding of precisely what sets your operation apart.

Discover and plan

What is it that makes your farm unique? How is it different from other farm operations that grow similar crops or are a similar size? As I said, knowing exactly what makes your operation “different” is what will allow you to play up those strengths to current and potential stakeholders – including current and potential employees, landlords, lenders – as well as your surrounding community.

Then you can create a plan so that each of those groups can clearly see and understand the uniqueness and positive strengths of your operation – and be drawn toward it.

Schedule time to work through these questions with your leadership team, business partners, or advisors. Your answers will help in setting forth a clear description about your operation that you can use with current and potential stakeholders.

Three questions to ask

2022 markets

Do you want to take your farm’s marketing plans and goals to the next level? What challenges and victories are you finding so far this year? This spring, the commodity markets seem to be more volatile than ever due to a combination of factors.

Consider working with our team of market advisors. They help farmer clients with planning and execution around marketing decisions and help keep them up to speed on the rapidly-changing grain market situation – and how it impacts their operation.

Get a free two-week trial of our marketing information service (MarketView Basic). Your free trial includes regular audio and video updates, technical analysis, recommendations and more. Or learn more about our market advisor programs and offerings at www.waterstreetconsulting.com.