5 Tips for Rock Business Success
For the Stallings, traveling the country, mining the earth and selling what they uncover has presented them with the perfect way to work together, to do what they have come to love and make a living at the same time. They are, however, the first to point out that what they do is not without its challenges “There is a reason no one does what we do - because it’s really, really hard,” says Frank. Even so, in recent years digging for everything from fossils to gemstones has become attractive not just to rock hounds, but to anyone in search of a little adventure that could pay o big. So the Stallings oer their best advice to anyone who wants to give it a try.
1. GET PSYCHED
Before ever taking to the road, be sure to be genuinely self-motivated and prepared to meet the challenges that surely lie ahead. “Have an adventurous spirit, and have determination and endurance,” Frank advises. “Also, be aware that you will be uncomfortable - weather can be extremely cold or hot and you’ll be exhausted, dirty and sore.”
2. STUDY UP
Before digging for anything- whether fossils, minerals or gems - decide what to look for, research how it is formed, where to find it and how to properly dig for it. “You have to physically and mentally be able to dig all day, for several days, and you have to teach yourself how to find gems and where to find gems,” Stallings says. “We spend time every single day learning about new gems and where to find them.” Knowing where excavating is permitted, and learning to read a claim map is also key. “So that you don’t claim-jump,” he says.
3. BE PRACTICAL
On the road, be ready to log lots of windshield time, and be sure to have the driving skills and a vehicle hefty enough to match the demands of travel over rough terrain. Then know where to go to find the simplest of creature comforts. “Sometimes, you can’t stay at hotels or RV parks, so you need to know where you can camp or park overnight and if that location has shower facilities for example,” he says. Be aware that life on the road is not always idyllic. “Living on the road can be dangerous,” Stallings said. “We’ve been robbed, we’ve had our lives threatened, we’ve been scared, we’ve been lost.”
4. BE RESPECTFUL
Be mindful that other creatures were there first. “You have to have respect for the earth, especially digging in areas with snakes, bears, scorpions, mountain lions,” he advises.
5. BE BUSINESS SAVVY
If making a living is the goal, learning how to build a business is key. Know how to recognize which finds are suitable for the marketplace and what they are worth. Then cultivate the tech skills necessary to conduct online sales, including how to master social media algorithms, how to edit videos and be comfortable in front of the camera. Finally, acquire the “people” skills necessary to eectively communicate with mine owners, customers and social media followers. “You must treat it as a business and not a hobby or you’ll never succeed,” Stalling warns.