When a ‘next generation’ farmer is coming back to work on the family farm, they often have some questions and concerns about their new role and how they’ll be received by others. One of the top concerns I hear from these farmers is: How can I become more of a leader on the farm, in Dad’s – or the current leader’s – eyes?

I believe this is the right question. They’re not asking to waltz back into the operation and immediately be handed all of the leadership roles and responsibilities. Instead, they’re looking to earn their way into a bigger leadership role and prove their commitment and effectiveness while doing so.

It’s also right because it’s proactive. It’s not sitting back and wondering, ‘When is Dad going to train me?’ or ‘I wish I could be getting more exposure working with the farm’s finances.’

Seek education
I understand the worries of these farmers returning to the operation – they’ve heard the horror stories of the younger generation working as ‘hired hands’ well into their 40s or 50s because the older generation won’t release any of the decision-making.

Those scenarios do happen. But I also believe both generations play a role in helping to determine and demonstrate when the right amount of preparation to lead is occurring. Often, there’s a point when both generations feel comfortable enough with that progress for leadership handoffs to start happening.

Thinking about how you can become more of a leader means following through and doing whatever you can, right now, to enhance your own capabilities as a farmer and future business leader. It means becoming more educated in the wide variety of skills and behaviors you’re going to need to lead the farm – and practicing them now in your current role.

Ready yourself
Below are a few questions you can ask as you prepare to demonstrate your readiness for leadership. If you’re the older generation on the farm, consider whether your successor leader is preparing themselves in these ways, and how you can encourage their development.

Read the current issue of the Smart Series publication, bringing business ideas for today’s farm leader. This issue includes perspectives on what to do when a landlord asks for higher rent, how to find the right new employee, a farm business checklist for the spring season, and more. Get your free online issue here.

The opinions of the author are not necessarily those of Farm Futures or Penton Agriculture.