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AGCAREERS.COM
AG & FOOD CAREER GUIDE
T
he interview procedure is very
routine. Fortunately, there are a few
things you can do to set yourself apart
from the rest of the applicants. These
tips are not the same as the standard
advice like “dress to impress,” “make
a good first impression” or “arrive
early.” Behold, the unwritten rules of
the interview process. These unwritten
guidelines can be applied in the two
main types of interviews: online and in-
person.
Know the role
and company
Before applying for jobs, you should
conduct research on the company.
Consider the company’s clientele,
products, and services as a starting
point. The company’s culture, mission,
and values are also important to
investigate. The most crucial item to
research is the position for which one
is applying. Not only will this save the
applicant’s time, but it will also save the
interviewer’s time.
Unsure if you
should apply?
It can be psychologically draining
and even daunting to apply for jobs.
You could be hesitant to apply for a
job because you do not meet all the
company’s qualifications. Do not let
this deter you from applying for the
job. You would be selling yourself short
if you did not apply. Nevertheless, do
not lie to your future employer. Instead,
discuss the prerequisites with them. If
the prerequisite is something you are
unfamiliar with, tell the interviewer that
you are eager and willing to learn.
Preparing for the
interview
Congratulations, you have been
selected for an interview! The first
thing you will want to do is see if you
will be having an online or in-person
interview. Now is the time to practice
answering questions about yourself, your
experience (internships or jobs), and
what is on your resume. After you are
satisfied with your rehearsal interview,
think of three to five relevant questions
to ask the interviewer towards the end of
the interview.
Is there a difference
with in-person and
online interviews?
The difference between in-person
and online interviews is minimal.
However, there are a few factors to keep
in mind when preparing for an online
interview. Make sure you have a quiet
area to go, make sure your internet is
up and running and ensure you are able
to access software like WebEx, Teams
or Zoom. Another thing to remember
is to use a background that is not
distracting. In addition, you may consider
overcompensating your body language
due to being online.
When the in-person
interview begins
When it comes to in-person
interviews, many individuals forget that
the interview begins when the applicant
checks in at reception. Some companies
will inquire about the applicant’s
demeanor from the receptionist. Another
thing to keep in mind before the
interview begins is the handshake. This
can demonstrate to the interviewer that
you are confident in your abilities.
Smiling can
improve your chances
Most people experience anxiety
before or even during an interview. One
may fumble over words, fidget and so
forth, and that is okay. You can combat
these nerves by remembering to smile.
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Photo by katleho Seisa/iStock/Getty Images Plus
by Allyson Hertz, Marketing Intern, AgCareers.com