Choosing the Right Judge: One of the Most Important Decisions You'll Make
The success of any livestock show starts with the people behind it, and few decisions have a greater impact than selecting the right judge. A knowledgeable, professional judge helps ensure exhibitors have a positive experience while maintaining the credibility and integrity of your event.
Know Your Show
Every fair and livestock show has its own goals, traditions, and unique exhibitor base. Before reaching out to potential judges, consider the type of event you're hosting. Is it a youth-focused county fair? A jackpot show? A breed-specific event? Choosing someone whose experience aligns with your show's mission creates a better experience for everyone involved.
Look Beyond Experience
While judging experience is important, it's only part of the equation. The best judges are prepared, professional, approachable, and confident in the ring. They communicate their decisions clearly, treat exhibitors with respect, and keep classes moving efficiently.
When evaluating potential judges, consider:
- Experience judging similar events
- Knowledge of the species or breed
- Professionalism and reliability
- Communication skills
- Reputation within the livestock community
Think About the Exhibitor Experience
The best judges leave exhibitors feeling respected, even when they don't win.
Professional judges:
- Listen when appropriate.
- Handle difficult situations respectfully.
- Encourage sportsmanship.
- Take time to explain placing decisions.
- Represent the values of the livestock industry.
A positive judging experience can inspire young exhibitors to continue participating for years to come.
Ask for Recommendations
One of the best ways to find qualified judges is by talking with other fair managers, superintendents, and livestock committee members. Ask about their experiences, whether the judge was organized and easy to work with, and how exhibitors responded to their decisions.
Plan Ahead
Many experienced judges schedule their calendars months, and sometimes even a year, in advance. Contact potential judges early, confirm dates in writing, and communicate expectations such as arrival times, class schedules, and any unique rules or procedures for your event.
Create a Great Experience
Judging is a long day, and small details make a difference. Providing clear schedules, parking information, meals, and a designated point of contact helps your judge focus on what matters most—evaluating livestock and providing a positive experience for exhibitors.
Build Relationships
A successful judging experience doesn't end when the last class is complete. Follow up with a thank-you, gather feedback, and keep notes for future events. Building relationships with dependable judges makes future planning easier and helps create consistency from year to year.
Selecting the right judge is an investment in your show's reputation. Taking the time to find someone who fits your event, communicates well, and treats exhibitors fairly will help create an experience that participants remember for all the right reasons.
Start your search with Showman Judges
Showman Judges is a great place to begin looking for qualified judges for your show. This growing resource provides judges' contact information and showcases their credentials and experience.
Looking for more help managing your show?
Create your show on Showman to get more time and less stress at your next show! Streamline online entries, payments, check-in, show books & results with our built-in tools.
