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Communication Tips for WWOOFers |
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WWOOF involves close interaction between strangers and hence WWOOFers as well as hosts should ensure proper communication with the other party.
Given below are some communication tips for WWOOFers:
- Do not call the host at odd times: Farmers normally prefer an early to bed and early to rise kind of lifestyle. And no one wants to get disturbed while he/she is sleeping. Hence, whenever you call the host, make sure that you do so at a time which is appropriate for the host; always check the local time at the host’s location before calling.
- Use emails for introduction: Many hosts prefer email communication when the WWOOFer contacts them for the first time. Email communication gives ample time for the host to check their availability and give a reply to the WWOOFer.
- Always keep the host updated: When a host agrees to accept you on his/her farm, you should not leave it there. Some hosts may forget about your arrival and may plan their own vacation or business trip when you are expected to arrive. Hence, when you book your tickets, give a status-update to the host by sending an email. Similarly, when you are about to start for the host location, call the host and remind him/her about your arrival.
- Do not interfere: Remember that you are staying at the host’s farm and house throughout the day and at times the host may require some privacy. In short understand the limit where you interaction may become interference and do not cross this limit.
- Give suggestions, but in a subtle manner: Understand that your host is practicing organic farming since many years and there is a reason for doing thing the way they are being done. If you think that something can be done in a better manner, place your suggestions in a subtle way. Finally, would you like an outsider to come to your office and tell you how to run your business?
Further, it is necessary to select your host appropriately. Check the description of the host farm before sending an email or ringing and ask questions to get more details. Some common questions that WWOOFers can ask while selecting a host include the following:
- How long can I stay?
- How many hours a day do you expect WWOOFers to work?
- What type of work do you have?
- What skills can I learn at your place?
- What type of accommodation do you have?
Is WWOOFing Always a Pleasant Experience?
Tips for WWOOFers
Myths about WWOOF
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