How to Ace Your Next Job Interview

Your education and experiences may match the job description requirements, but even if you seem perfect on paper, you need to enthusiastically articulate your skills to an interviewer. It’s time to get intentional about interview preparation.

First impressions make a difference, so don’t overlook the importance of a professional wardrobe and a firm handshake. Beyond this, it’s up to you to shine verbally during the interview.

According to an AgCareers.com survey of agricultural hiring managers and HR professionals, the best way candidates could stand out from the crowd is researching the organization before interacting. Where do you start?

Candidates today have access to many online resources. If you make it beyond the application stage and secure an interview, a potential employer will want to know you have a basic understanding of their organization. Some things to consider include:

• What products and services do they offer?
• What is the company’s history?
• What are the company’s core values?
• Has the employer or their employees received any recent awards?

An employer’s website is often the most reliable source for their mission statement and history. Before your interview, follow the company on social media platforms to stay current on what it is doing, how it is communicating, and to receive any breaking news alerts.

Learn About the Company Culture

Do you know anyone who works for or has interned at the company? As them about the organization’s culture and any information that might be useful. 

Search for information about your potential interviewers to better understand their roles in the organization. During the interview, you could ask questions about the recruiter’s background or interests. For instance, if you discover they went to the same school as you or were involved in the same club or organization, bringing it up may establish common ground.

Anticipate Questions

Many interviews start with the same basic questions. 

Even if the interviewer doesn’t ask these questions precisely, preparing your answers will allow you to tailor your responses. Those questions might include:

• Tell me a little about yourself. 
• Why are you interested in working for our organization? 
• What skills do you have that are relevant to this role? 
• Where do you see yourself in five years? 

AgCareers.com recently surveyed agriculture employers about skills they look for in potential candidates and what would set someone apart. Leadership experience was identified as the most critical factor in a hiring decision. Tell your interviewer about any projects, clubs, or teams you lead, and the skills you developed as a result. 

Other top responses were problem-solving and decision-making, along with teamwork and communication. Consider how you can demonstrate those skills with real-world examples, and the best way to relate them. 

Ask Questions

Remember, an interview is not only about the employer evaluating you; it’s also about you evaluating the employer. When the interviewer asks if you have any questions, be sure to have at least one prepared. For example, ask how the position contributes to the organization’s overall goals. To foster a more personal connection with the interviewer, consider asking about their favorite part of the job. 

Exiting the Interview

Be sure to thank the interviewer for their time and consideration. We also recommend following up within 24 hours; send an email expressing your interest in the position and reiterating why you are a good fit. This is also an opportunity to express something you may have forgotten to mention during the interview. 

Being intentional with interview preparation can boost confidence and allow you to showcase yourself. Find more tips on job search and career success at AgCareers.com.