Raising pheasant and partridges is the easy part of our job at MacFarlane Pheasants. We hire talented employees who enjoy working outside and are knowledgeable or willing to learn about game birds. The real challenge on a game bird farm, or in any business is to figure out how to help employees be successful at their jobs.
Our mission statement at MacFarlane Pheasants is “sustained profitability focused on integrity and accountability to employees, vendors, and neighbors, with respect for our birds and the environment.” We have Town Hall Meetings with employees and owner Bill MacFarlane, every 6 months. Managers do not attend these meeting but all crew members are in attendance. This is an opportunity for employees to share their needs and concerns.
- What equipment/tools do you need to do your job?
- Are the processes of your job clear so that you can do it correctly?
- What changes would you make to the farm?
- What makes a quality/professional farm?
In order to help employees succeed we need to get to know them as individuals. We figure out individual limits and interests by being in constant communication. We set goals with individuals and teams. Our Town Hall Meetings help us to meet this goal and to understand individual mindsets and strengths.
Managers celebrate accomplishments. Sometimes it is as simple as a pat on the back, a “thank you,” or “good job.” We have also celebrated teamwork and individual accomplishments by providing lunch, going to Badger games, Mallard’s games, tubing on the lake or a day of fishing. The most important part of employee success is to have goals and have your accomplishments celebrated.
