Posted by Meg Oliver on August 18, 2003 at 20:54:48:
In Reply to: Re: Trainer Badmouthing My Shoeing posted by Ray Miller on August 06, 2003 at 19:51:01:
: : : There is a horse trainer in my area who is badmouthing my work and abilities to horse owners in my area...mainly clients that I referred to her to train their horses! Pretty ungrateful, huh. She's an excellent trainer, but she now is under the false impression that she knows everything about horseshoeing and she refers em to her guy. I always try to learn from any mistakes I make (and I'm certain I've made a few in 12 years of shoeing), and I have given much thought to her claims. I tried to discuss this with her 4 months ago and she denied everything. The customers who did tell me what she said would have had no reason to make this stuff up. Should I confront her again, write a letter to the customers, or do nothing. I doubt seriously I can stop her, but I know I do a good job as a farrier. I have a booming business with more work than I could do in my lifetime, but I want to handle this in a professional manner. What do you guys think?
: : : Meg
: : Most trainers and even Vets have their own "guy" that they like to use. My Trainers will not use the other guys because I always keep the lines of communication OPEN! We talk about anything we do differant or the way each horse goes. You have to develop their Trust in you and your shoeing talents. And then if you have a full book don't sweat it, their "guy" will make a mistake just like we all do so just remember in this business you can go from Hero to Zero with one bad nail or one lick of the rasp too much! Good Luck! Gary
: Its been this way since I have been in the horse industry. They to it to vets as well as farriers. The best thing is to carry no tails (pun). Let then jack there jaws, soon they will hang themselves. Most of the time it is when they leave the horse business and go on to something else and you are still there.
: Can't even begain to count the number of "professionals" that I have know that have come and gone in my 44 years. Only a hand full remain and are making a true living at it. No second job, or wife or husband supporting there business.
: Let it roll off your back. I always told my clients: If you like the work I am doing and you don't have any problems. I guess we will continue. If we have a problem and we will see if it can be fixed. If it can't I will move on. Because I know where I have been, where I am at and I think I know where I am headed.
: Life is to short to worry about these jaw jackers.
: Just my thinking.
: Ray Miller
That's kinda where I was leaning. And I value your years and the wisdom you have about things. Plus, I think she's jealous of me. We women can be hateful. I try not to be...and I need to just go on being me. Thanks for your advice.
Meg