Apart from paying our bills on time, there are many other things that can separate an average client from a great one. Most of the time, clients grow close with their trainers, as horses are our passion and it is their job to keep them show ready. Since a healthy trainer/client relationship is important, there are always things we can do to improve the relationship. Listed below are four tips whether you are new to a program or a long-time client.
1) Good Communication
While having good communication is a positive thing to have in any relationship, it is especially important to be on the same page with your trainer. Communication can be an important key during lessons and in the show pen because it will help the client become a better rider. Outside of the pen, it is always good to communicate well for the horse’s well being. Knowing when the horse needs vet appointments made, or any other care, is something that most owners should know before it becomes overdue. A good client will also make their goals known to their trainer and discuss what are realistic and attainable goals. Having good communication with your trainer will turn an average client into a great one because this also lessens the gap for any confusion during the training process.
2) Drama Free
Being a drama free client always makes a trainer’s life easier. When a trainer has multiple clients in such a competitive atmosphere, it can quickly become a place of jealousy and hostility, no matter what barn you are in. No trainer wants drama in their barn as training horses is already a hard enough job. Any added drama makes the experience a negative one on both sides as well as an uncomfortable situation for all. Though personalities may clash, a good client will remember that we do this as a hobby and for the love of our horses, and not get wrapped up into the petty barn drama.
3) Attitude
While many people may think that a trainer’s favorite client is the one who wins the most or brings home the most hardware, this is often a myth. Trainers will always favor the client who is the most trainable and brings a good attitude to each ride, no matter if they win or lose. It is much easier to train someone who is always looking at the positive side of things instead of nit picking on the negatives of each ride. A good client will always want to learn new perspectives and skills to better themselves as a horseman instead of the client who thinks he or she already knows everything and does not take criticism well. The arena is a place where constructive criticism should be welcomed, as their job is to train us to better ourselves, not drag us down. Trainers are here to help us, so we should take advantage and be willing to learn at all times.
4) Understanding
More than likely, your horse will not be the only horse that your trainer has in training. While everyone would like their horse to be the trainer’s number one priority, this is not always going to be the case. Trainers will need to have multiple clients with multiple needs, and often times, the game plan may change due to other circumstances. However, going with the flow will make the trainer’s job easier and as a result, give you a better lesson in the long run. Being flexible and understand with your trainer will make the process an easier journey to achieve whatever goals you may have. Having a sense of understanding will help to reduce any speed bumps along the way.
Do you have any tips for being a good client? We want to hear from you by commenting at the bottom of this story or on our Facebook page.
