Communication and stress go hand in hand. Whether with a spouse or farm business partner, communication is the largest issue Pennsylvania farmers report during farm family meetings facilitated by PA Farm Link professionals. Stress caused by poor communication is a substantial factor affecting human risk management.
Farm women play an intricate role on farms and improved communication skills will garner increased respect in interactions with ag businesses, farm families and employees.
This multi-faceted project addressed effective communication skills that will assist farm women with conveying thoughts, concerns and needs to those in their family and farm businesses, particularly those whom it is difficult to speak with. Participants were encouraged to openly share struggles they face during five webinars and an in-person workshop. Professionals shared communication and stress reduction skills with participants through the webinars and workshop.
A series of three articles were developed and published in American Agriculturist magazine and a blog post published. Videos focusing on communication and stress were produced and uploaded to the website for 24/7 access.
Farm women are vital to the success of farming; better communication skills will greatly reduce stress leading to a happier, healthier farm family and farm business!