For 50 years, Select Mating Service® (SMS®) consultants have used research, computerized analysis and cow knowledge to build better herds around the world. If you have a passion for genetics, enjoy evaluating cattle and a keen eye for leveraging data to make profitable decisions, genetic and reproductive consultation could be a fitting career. Learn from SMS Consultants Malissa Reed, Jerry Emerich and Henry Zapalac as they offer advice to future generations.
Malissa Reed stays grounded in her role as an SMS consultant and offers the same advice to those who may be coming into the role. “Remember that you’re never too good for any job, and the smartest thing you can do in this role is to listen. Spend some time building the relationship and gaining trust from your customers,” says Reed. “It feels good to work with producers who believe in the product we’re putting on the table and that we’re getting results.
“It’s our responsibility to help dairy producers breed a set of more profitable genetics,” notes Jerry Emerich when asked what advice he would give the next generation of SMS evaluators. “The most important thing is to listen to your customer. To ensure the program works, it’s important not to force your ideals. They’re looking for input, but you have to incorporate their goals and what they desire for their herd.”
To the next generation of SMS consultants, Henry Zapalac highlights the importance of listening to and working with the producer. “You may have ideas of what you want to do or how you want to go about doing things but listen to what the producer wants to do first. Keep your eyes and ears open, be willing to put in the work and always try to learn new things.”
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