So, you’ve graduated farrier school or finished an apprenticeship and are ready to launch your own farrier business. You might be thinking, “What are my next steps? How can I stand out from other farriers? What does it take to run my own business?”

You’re not alone. Many farriers have these same questions as they begin their careers. Running your own business may seem daunting, but if you are aware of common business mistakes other new farriers make, you can avoid them and start off on the right foot.

Learning shouldn’t stop after you’ve graduated, though. Many farriers make the mistake of not working on their professional development and getting their name out there.

Richard Duggan, director of the Minnesota School of Horseshoeing in Ramsey, Minn., says that new farriers should apprentice with an established farrier after they graduate and also establish a professional development plan. They should seek certification through the American Farrier’s Association and “be active, be visible” by attending farrier/vet clinics, workshops, conventions and other horse events. The more events and workshops you attend, the more visible you will become in…