604: Michael Shaffer on Finding Farmhands.
Connecting farmers with farm workers looking for jobs.
In This Podcast:
We learn about the Farm Post App created and designed by Michael Schaeffer, an entrepreneurial idea stemming from need to connect farmers with workers. While traditional ways of finding farm work have become obsolete, Michael has successfully implemented an easy-to-use app for farmers to post jobs and workers are able to apply directly through this app. Michael’s app was initially designed to support Iowa farmers, however due to its success the app is gaining momentum nationwide.
Our Guest:
Michael is an Iowa entrepreneur on a mission to close the technology gap in the farm employee market. With roots in farming and precision agriculture, Michael understands the challenges farmers face in connecting with the agricultural and urban farm workforce. After interviewing hundreds of farmers and ranch owners across the country, he developed the Farm Post App (Previously the farm hand app) to make it easy for farmers to connect with experienced help in their local areas. In less than two years, the Farm Post App has helped farmers fill thousands of positions in their farm operations.
Listen in and learn about:
- How did Michael develop his idea for the app
- What type of markets does the app serve
- Why are traditional ways of finding farm work not effective
- How does the app reach the desired target market
- What are the challenges involved with users of the app
- How does the app work for farmers versus workers
- How does Michael assist users with their profiles
- What kind of trust mechanisms are implemented for farmers
- The costs associated with building the app
- How does the app narrow down quality job applicants
- What are the new markets the app has expanded to
As well as:
His failure – The original idea would have potentially failed without his customer discovery approach
His success – Connecting farmers and workers every day to meet their needs
His drive – Agricultural life and working with genuinely good people
His advice – “If you’re interested in agriculture, download the app, no experience necessary, just get out and try something new.”
Michael’s Book recommendations:
The Startup Owner’s Manual: The Step-By-Step Guide For Building a Great Company 1st Edition by Bob Dorf and Steve Blank
How to reach Michael:
Website: farmpostapp.com (Click ‘Contact Us‘ on the app to directly message Michael)
Publisher’s NOTE: We have been advised that the app will be available later this week.
UrbanFarm.org/Farmpost
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Informative podcast and great hiring solution. If all else fails, there’s always sites like Indeed, Farmingwork.com, RanchWork.com etc. you can use to get good help.