Some farms get the same seasonal workers back year after year, while others have to start over every spring. The difference is rarely luck but three things that the most stable farms consistently do.
1️⃣ Plan early and recruit for the role, not just the numbers
The farms that succeed best start recruiting early, sometimes already during the winter. This gives time to interview, explain conditions, and create a realistic picture of what the work actually involves. It is not enough to count heads. Recruitment also needs to consider the demands of the job, the pace, the weather, the long days, and the teamwork required. Some people thrive in a high pace and the sense of community in the fields, while others prefer calmer tasks. By seeing the difference early, you reduce the risk of misunderstandings and drop-offs.
A simple checklist can be helpful during both selection and onboarding. The most important things to look for are:
- Punctuality and sense of responsibility
- Ability to collaborate in both everyday pace and stressful situations
- Physical stamina for outdoor work
- A positive attitude, even when the weather is challenging
When the matching is based on these qualities, both the teamwork and the season become more stable.
2️⃣ Make the start understandable, not just completed
Many seasonal workers come from other countries and are often unfamiliar with both the language and the way of working. The first week can therefore feel uncertain not because the willingness is lacking, but because many things are new at the same time. This is where communication plays a crucial role in creating security, understanding, and motivation.
How to make the start clear:
- A structured introduction where tasks and routines are shown at a calm pace.
- A contact person or mentor who can answer questions and provide language support when needed.
- A shared review of goals, schedules, and rules, both verbally and in writing.
Experience shows that when new employees get a clear start and feel welcomed, both engagement and quality increase whether the work takes place in an office or in a field. A clear beginning lays the foundation for a team that works well, feels good, and stays longer.
3️⃣ Lead the daily work in a way that makes people want to stay
Finding people is the beginning; keeping them defines the season. Farms that succeed over time do more than pay a salary; they create a daily work environment where people feel safe, recognized, and included. Often, it comes down to small, consistent habits that make a big difference in the long run.
Practical ways of working:
- Short morning briefing: the day’s plan, roles, safety, and a positive example from the previous day.
- Visible leadership: being present in the field, catching questions early, providing quick feedback.
- Simple signs of appreciation: “thank you for today,” a coffee after a long shift, checking in on recovery before the next day.
- Fairness and clarity: clear information about working hours, breaks, housing, and compensation, the same for everyone.
- Early support when issues arise: address small issues immediately, before they turn into conflicts.
When people know what is expected, receive support in time, and are treated with respect, the pace becomes more consistent and more of them choose to return the following season.
The long-term gain
A strong seasonal team is not just about how fast the berries are picked, but about the atmosphere, the collaboration, and the predictability.Farms that recruit for the role, make the start clear, and lead the daily work with small, consistent habits avoid having to start over every year and gain in the long run, both humanly and financially.
Would you like to exchange experiences or see simple templates for morning briefings, onboarding, or job requirements?
Feel free to get in touch: contact@tmconnect.se.
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