1 A PLACE FOR EVERYONE 2024/2025 | U.S. 18th EDITION INSIDE: CAREER ADVICE INDUSTRY INSIGHTS EMPLOYERS HIRING FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE FEATURING: How to Use AI in Your Job Search Finding Mentorship in Your Career Journey Avoiding Distractions and Focusing on the Job
AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 2 Empowering Careers in Agriculture and Food: A Commitment to Community and Sustainability. The global agricultural industry is a cornerstone of society, meeting essential needs worldwide. Within this diverse sector, many job opportunities exist for individuals from various backgrounds and experiences to carve out a meaningful career. AgCareers.com, alongside our affiliated Talent Solutions brands, including FoodGrads, Advancing Women Conferences, Grasslands Recruitment Specialists and De Lacy Executive Recruitment, dedicates itself to supporting this dynamic industry, giving back to our communities, and fostering its future leaders. Whether you’re a student embarking on your educational journey, a recent graduate eager to enter the workforce, or an experienced professional seeking a new opportunity, AgCareers.com is your partner in success. Our commitment to enhancing career prospects has been unwavering for over twenty-five years. The Food & Agriculture Career Guide, a cornerstone of our efforts, continues to evolve annually to reflect the changing landscape of job markets and trends. This comprehensive resource is vital for those exploring careers, education, or internships in the industry. It provides practical advice tailored to early careers, including resume tips, interview strategies, and insights into setting realistic salary expectations. Building Sustainable Futures Through Collaboration. AgCareers.com proudly showcases leading food and agricultural organizations in this publication. These employers actively seek new talent for internships and entry-level positions, contributing to the industry’s growth and innovation. We constantly consider ways to collaborate with partners for career connections and development. Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders. With a team spanning North America and the globe, we unite to cultivate a robust talent pipeline to the industry. Through partnerships with educational institutions and industry stakeholders, we offer scholarships, internships, coops, and mentorship programs to empower aspiring professionals and equip them with the skills needed to thrive. Our Passionate Team Making a Difference. At the core of AgCareers.com and the Talent Solutions brands is an enthusiastic team committed to making a difference. We actively support initiatives that foster growth, sustainability, and innovation in our industry. With expertise and advocacy, we empower future leaders through community outreach programs. Together, we strive to ensure the sector evolves and thrives. Navigating Your Career Path. Explore our digital edition of the food & agriculture career guide at www.AgCareers.com for an enriched experience featuring online resources and direct links to employers actively hiring. Sign up for our Career Success Kit to receive exclusive content directly to your inbox, including videos and tools to boost your career readiness. AgCareers.com supports you no matter where you are on your career journey. Explore our resources, connect with industry leaders, and take proactive steps toward a rewarding career. Join Us in Shaping the Future. Together, we commit to nurturing talent and shaping a vibrant future for careers in agriculture and food worldwide. Thanks for exploring our career guide and embarking on your lifelong journey with us. Let’s cultivate success in agriculture and food together—join our AgCareers.com community today by signing up for our newsletter, following us on social networks, and applying for jobs for free! WELCOME KATHRYN DOAN CVO, DIRECTOR, AGCAREERS.COM COVER PHOTOS: valentinrussanov/ iStock/Getty Images Plus, FatCamera/ iStock/Getty Images Plus, Andrey – stock.adobe.com, 1.800.929.8975 WWW.AGCAREERS.COM AGCAREERS@AGCAREERS.COM AgCareers.com is not responsible for any mistakes, misprints, or typographical errors. AgCareers.com is diligent in checking all advertising copy for any errors, but no guarantee is given or implied by the publisher. © 2024 Published by Farms.com Ltd. FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE
3 AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 7 SENECA FOODS 8 BAYER 11 CLAAS OF AMERICA 12 SIMPLOT 14 HARTUNG BROTHERS INC. 16 GRIFFITH FOODS 17 AG PROCESSING INC. 20 NATIONAL FFA ORGANIZATION 22 LALLEMAND 24 PLANT PRODUCTS 27 AGRICULTURE FUTURE OF AMERICA 30 STINE SEED 32 BECK’S 35 KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY 36 NEBRASKA COLLEGE OF TECHNICAL AGRICULTURE 37 VIRGINIA TECH 38 OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY 39 NORTH CAROLINA AGRICULTURAL AND TECHNICAL STATE UNIVERSITY 40 UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT OLIVE 41 WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY 43 DE LACY EXECUTIVE RECRUITMENT 44 FOODGRADS EMPLOYERS & EDUCATION MEETTHETEAM AGCAREERS.COM U.S. TEAM MARY BAREFOOT RESEARCH & INSIGHTS MANAGER MAGGIE EARLE-SEXTON TALENT SOLUTIONS SPECIALIST KELSEY HUNT RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT & CUSTOMER CARE REPRESENTATIVE BONNIE JOHNSON MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER CLARA TAYLOR DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR KAILEY LARSEN TALENT SOLUTIONS SPECIALIST BRIAN CAIN DIRECTOR OF IT KIMBERLY TORRES TALENT SOLUTIONS REPRESENTATIVE KIM POTMAN RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT & CUSTOMER CARE REPRESENTATIVE 5 KEYWORDS: HOW TO USE & ADJUST FOR SUCCESS 9 USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN YOUR JOB SEARCH 13 ANTICIPATING SHORTCOMINGS AND OVERCOMING OBJECTIONS 15 FINDING MENTORSHIP IN YOUR CAREER JOURNEY 18 EXPLAINING TOTAL COMPENSATION 21 HOW DO I KNOW WHAT CAREER IS RIGHT FOR ME? 23 FINDING YOUR PLACE: TIPS FOR DISCOVERING INCLUSIVE WORKPLACES 25 PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE: 10 TIPS FOR SUCCESS IN YOUR FIRST INTERNSHIP 28 HOW TECHNOLOGY IS IMPACTING THE FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY 31 AVOIDING DISTRACTIONS & FOCUSING ON THE JOB 33 BUILDING A POSITIVE PROFESSIONAL ONLINE PRESENCE 42 GETTING STARTED WITH AGCAREERS.COM ARTICLES
4 Career Success Kit The Ultimate Career Guidance Resource SIGN UP FOR THE 8Pieces of Career Advice, Guidance & More - Reducing Interview Stress - Amp Up Your Career Exploration With AI - Effective Networking - Resume & Cover Letter 101 - Improving Communication - How to Stand Out to Employers - Cultivating Emotional Intelligence - Tips to Improve Work-life Balance THE FIRST 25 STUDENTS TO SIGN UP WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR A RESUME REVIEW FROM THE AGCAREERS.COM STAFF ENHANCE YOUR CAREER WITH ADVICE SENT RIGHT TO YOUR EMAIL! SIGN UP TODAY https://www.agcareers.com/ newsletter-signup.cfm AgCareers.com | agcareers@agcareers.com
AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 5 If you have ever applied for a job, internship, co-op or gone to a career fair, odds are you have a resume on file. And if you don’t, well, it is probably time to start one! The job application process can sometimes seem intimidating. You have to find the jobs, apply, send in a resume and sometimes even a cover letter, have the interview, and so on. Well, sit back and relax because we are here to help you with all of that! This article will break down resume keywords. Think of it as the survival guide for getting your polished, tailored resume on the hiring manager’s desk. OK, ready? Because here we go! THE BREAKDOWN OF KEYWORDS We hear “Make sure you have keywords in your resume” all the time. But what are these people even talking about? We all know general keywords, words we typically use to search for something in a search engine. For example, if you want to Google something, the odds are that you will type only part of the sentence or question. If you want a recipe for banana bread, you will probably type in “banana bread recipe.” Not typically typing in “What are the ingredients for banana bread?” Keywords in a resume are like this, recruiters and ATS systems look for similarities between their job description and your resume. Meredith Shepard, Recruitment Manager at De Lacy Executive Recruitment, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this topic. I had the privilege of sitting down with her to get her perspective and insights on resumes, specifically adding keywords. “Keywords are critical. They are how you are pulled into a recruiter search and how you can break through the ATS system,” Shepard explained.” WHAT IS AN ATS SYSTEM? An ATS is an applicant tracking system. Many organizations use this type of electronic system for their recruitment efforts. This software helps sift through resumes and other criteria the recruiter has set up. Your resume is often sent through an ATS system before it gets to an actual human. That is why you must implement keywords in your resume. Today, a large majority of recruiters and hiring managers are using some ATS for their recruitment efforts. It is just a checklist – don’t start getting nervous now. It is simple! Think of using keywords and aligning your resume with the job posting as a checklist. ADJUSTING FOR SUCCESS 1. HAVE YOUR GENERAL RESUME SAVED You must have a general or master resume saved to your computer. Check your resume occasionally to ensure it is up to date. This resume does not necessarily have to look super pretty, as you will never send this form of your resume, but use it as your base for building other tailored resumes. Keywords: How to use them & adjust for success by Clara Taylor, Digital Marketing Coordinator, AgCareers.com Illustration by Zuperia on Canva Pro >>>
AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 6 “I have a master resume today that goes back to my first job and has more bullets than I would ever use,” - Shepard. 2. ABSORB THE JOB DESCRIPTION Now that you have found a job you want to apply for read through the job description, read it all, and read it carefully. Note the qualifications / skills / experiences you have in common with what is already in the job description. Sometimes, the bullets at the top are most important to the employer. You want to ensure that your qualifications and skills in common with the job description are indeed in your resume. EXPERT ADVICE: WORDS THAT STAND OUT. It is also important to note that during this process, words/ skills that are listed in the job description more than once might be the most important. Keep that in mind when reading through the job posting. 3. TAILOR YOUR RESUME Say I want to apply for a marketing position. In the job description, this position lists that they would like someone with experience in Canva, Hootsuite, Email Marketing, Adobe, and so on. Since I have experience in some of those, I will ensure my resume reflects my skills and experiences and meets their specific needs. Keep in mind, if you can tell from the job description that it is vitally important that you have Canva experience, make sure that you list that skill/ experience towards the top and not bury it in the bottom half of your resume. EXPERT ADVICE: USING DESCRIPTORS Shepard advises making sure you consider the descriptors that will set you apart. “Help me help you by making sure there are various words in your description,” Shepard explained. Sometimes, the ATS system might not have been set up with the best attention to detail. Also, remember the skills/ experiences are not necessarily listed in the description but could be traits they are still looking for. 4. PERFECT IT AND MAKE IT LEGIT Once you feel like you have gone through your resume and job description, make sure you are perfecting your resume. Double-check things like: • Grammar/ Spelling • Dates / Timeline • Formatting / Consistency • Contact information is up to date Shepard also advised removing acronyms and assuming that the hiring manager will not know what the acronyms stand for on your resume. Break it down so it is easily understood. EXPERT ADVICE: MAKE SURE YOUR RESUME REFLECTS YOUR ONLINE PROFILE “When building out any type of online profile, it needs to be very similar to your resume,” Shepard explained. Recruiters may also search the internet for those keywords they implement in their ATS system.” I always recommend having someone you trust review your resume, such as a mentor, friend, or family member. 5. SAVING YOUR RESUME Make sure you save your resume correctly. You don’t want to save it and send it as just “resume.” You must save it as a PDF with your first and last name: Example: ClaraTaylor_Resume You could even go a step further and put the company name you are applying for in the title of the saved resume: Example: ClaraTaylor_ResumeAgCareers Pay close attention and do not send that same resume, saved with a previous company name, to a recruiter at another company. In hindsight, you might not think this is a huge deal, but it shows recruiters/ hiring managers you need to pay more attention to detail. By following these steps, I am confident they will provide you with a competitive edge in your job search. I encourage you to keep this checklist handy for your future job search! AG
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9 AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE by Veronica Hislop, Content Creator and Podcast Host, FoodGrads Photo by Tara Winstead from Pexels How to Use Artificial Intelligence in Your Job Search Finding your first job or internship can be challenging and overwhelming, especially when you’re new to your career. Landing your first job can be difficult, as it isn’t uncommon to encounter stiff competition. However, with the latest technologies emerging within the artificial intelligence (AI) field, many opportunities exist to leverage these tools and help you stand out. This article will help you navigate using these tools while providing some factors you should consider. WHAT DOES ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE COVER? Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a broad term that uses algorithms, machine learning, and related technologies to automate tasks that typically require human intelligence. AI is ubiquitous in our daily lives, from recommendation systems to facial recognition to banking. In the job-seeking world, for example, companies commonly use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to examine resumes, identify specific words and phrases, and rank them based on how well they match the job description. This information will help you tailor your resume. HOW CAN YOU USE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN YOUR JOB SEARCH? Looking for your first job can be challenging, especially for students unsure about which jobs are relevant to their degree. While plenty of resources are available to help you start your job search, such as AgCareers.com Career Profiles, it is often helpful to use AI tools to identify effective keywords that can aid you in finding relevant roles within a specific industry. You can use a large language AI model like ChatGPT to generate a prompt that asks for keywords you can use to search for jobs in a particular field. For instance, you could ask ChatGPT: What keywords should I use on job search sites if I am looking for work in (industry), particularly in (specific interest)? After you complete this prompt, ChatGPT should provide you with a list of keywords that you can use on job board websites such as AgCareers.com. While AI-generated career recommendations can offer helpful insights, verifying these recommendations with human judgment and your research is crucial. Consider AI recommendations as one factor in career exploration instead of conclusive decisions. Engage in conversations with mentors, career advisors, and industry professionals to give context to AIgenerated suggestions and to make well-informed decisions about your career path. Bullet points are essential components of your resume. They help convey and highlight important information while making it easier for the hiring manager to read. For example, consider using bullet points in the education section to share additional information about courses taken or major projects performed when creating your resume. ChatGPT can be used to craft compelling but also authentic bullet points for your resume. To do so, provide ChatGPT with specific responsibilities from your past jobs or internships and ask the tool to generate bullet points demonstrating your achievements and metrics. Alternatively, you could provide it with some bullet points you have already created and ask it for ideas to improve on them or alternative points. >>> IDEA FORMATION CONSIDERATIONS CREATE A RESUME
AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 10 What should you do if you are applying for your first job? If you have no work experience, you could prompt ChatGPT with: What bullet points could I use on a resume if I am applying for a (position) with no work experience but currently am a student in (educational programs)? ChatGPT should provide multiple examples that you can use on your resume. If you want to take this further, paste the job description of the position you are applying for into ChatGPT. Remember that ChatGPT isn’t the only AI tool available to craft your resume. You can find specialized online services to help create or update your resume/cover letter. Because of the specialized nature of these services, you may discover responses of higher quality than ChatGPT. However, these services usually come at a cost, so keep this in mind. Additionally, many of these tools are only as effective as the information that you provide. Before crafting your resume, take an inventory of experiences and skills you could build on, as this will help you better. Be careful with the information that you provide ChatGPT. It is an excellent practice to keep specific personal details out, as your contact details and transaction activities might be shared with affiliates, vendors and service providers, law enforcement, and parties involved in transactions. After you have completed your resume, it’s time to write your cover letter. For some, the process may feel even more time-consuming than the resume itself. If you already have a basic cover letter, you could work through it and ask ChatGPT to provide sentence alternatives line by line. Alternatively, if you need inspiration, you could use the prompt: Create a compelling cover letter for a [job title] for [company] that incorporates these experiences [provide a few job experience sentences] for a graduate [program] You can run multiple iterations to see which versions you prefer. Once you find a version you like, rewrite the letter in a tone that matches yours and ensure that all the information is truthful. Once completed, edit the letter by copying and pasting the information into a document editor like Word or Google Docs and format everything correctly. Grammarly is another service that has been around for a while but also uses AI. When finishing up your resume, insert it into Grammarly to proofread everything. Please keep in mind that even though ChatGPT can help you with prompts for writing cover letters, the actual work still needs to be done by you. It is important to remember that if you don’t edit and personalize your letter, it may end up similar to other applicants’ letters and might not accurately represent you. If you cannot access paid services like Grammarly, contact your campus careers center for assistance. Another area where AI can be helpful is when preparing for job interviews. There are a lot of commonly asked questions you may encounter during a job interview. For a more comprehensive approach, you can provide ChatGPT with a job or internship description, which will generate interview questions tailored to that position. Use these questions to determine if you feel confident in your response. If not, you can ask ChatGPT for sample answers. You can also share your experience to prompt ChatGPT to provide more relevant responses to a question. Moreover, you can input your responses and request ChatGPT to provide feedback, which can help you refine your communication skills and build confidence as a candidate. It isn’t just your verbal answers that help you get a job during an interview. There is also a human component, including the tone of your answers, body language, and how you act with the interviewer. AI-driven tools are meant to supplement your interview preparation, so engage in mock interviews with peers, mentors, or career advisors to receive personalized feedback and guidance. ChatGPT is open to everyone, but for more unique outputs, prompt the system with specific questions. CUSTOMIZING YOUR COVER LETTER CONSIDERATIONS CONSIDERATIONS PREPARING FOR INTERVIEWS CONSIDERATIONS AG Every day, more and more tools are available for job seekers to help them in their job-seeking pursuits. As these tools become available, it is important to take the time to understand them and how they work. Understanding your boundaries and what you value as a service is also important. With a balanced combination of technology and ethical principles, you can navigate the job market with confidence and success.
www.claas.jobs Become part of a thriving, international organization that employs over 12,000 people in over 140 countries worldwide. For over 100 years, CLAAS has contributed to feeding the world. The company embraces the latest technology and invests in the development of our CLAAS employees. Opportunities are available in a wide variety of fields, from local manufacturing to experiences abroad. We offer company paid medical, dental and vision benefits, competitive wages, generous vacation packages, and 401(k) match. See how you can become a member of our CLAAS Team! Learn more about our company at: www.claasofamerica.com Feed the World. Fuel your Career. www.claas.jobs Become part of a thriving, international organization that employs over 12,000 people in over 140 countries worldwide. For over 100 years, CLAAS has contributed to feeding the world. The company embraces the latest technology and invests in the development of our CLAAS employees. Opportunities are available in a wide variety of fields, from local manufacturing to experiences abroad. We offer company paid medical, dental and vision benefits, competitive wages, generous vacation packages, and 401(k) match. See how you can become a member of our CLAAS Team! Learn more about our company at: www.claasofamerica.com Feed the World. Fuel your Career.
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13 AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE W hy apply for a job if you know the potential employer may doubt your qualifications? It’s one of the most common dilemmas for students and entry-level job seekers: how do you secure a job without experience, and how do you gain experience without a job? It’s the age-old question that has haunted every generation. However, I encourage you to consider applying regardless—do not underestimate your value, and prepare to address any objections that may arise. Think of shortcomings as areas of opportunity! “If you have familiarity with a job’s required skill set, don’t let your lack of experience deter you from applying. A company may pivot based on their candidate pool or may identify you for a different role,” shares Emily Fullmer, Global Talent Program Manager, J.R. Simplot Company. In fact, J.R. Simplot, the Company’s founder, struck out on his own at age 14 set on becoming a farmer. While he had just an eighth-grade education, he had business instincts, curiosity, energy, and a drive to succeed. Where J.R.’s lack of experience (and young age) could have held him back, he succeeded by believing in himself, preparing for opportunities, and working hard to achieve his dreams. PREPARATION Addressing shortcomings requires research and preparation as you set out on your career path. First, you must be willing to self-reflect and admit you may have some weaknesses. Secondly, you need to investigate a particular job’s requirements and work out your plan to overcome missing qualifications. A section of this preparation is brainstorming your volunteer or club involvement, coursework, projects, and how these activities can relate to the job. All of these experiences involve teamwork, where everyone has a role to play. “Are you the person typically leading, presenting, gathering data, or creating a social committee? Becoming self-aware of your strengths in a team environment allows you to articulate your job fit in an interview,” added Fullmer. You may also have relevant coursework that can translate into experience. Your cover letter is an ideal spot to highlight your organizational involvement and classes to bulk up your qualifications. THE INTERVIEW You successfully passed stage one and have an interview booked. You know you are missing some of the required or preferred qualifications listed in the job description. How do you confidently go into the interview? It’s prep time again! Fullmer had a prime example of a candidate nailing the interview despite lacking some preferred qualifications. “When the panel of interviewers asked the candidate about their specific qualifications, the candidate was upfront and honest that they didn’t currently have that qualification, but they had taken the time to research what they needed to do to gain those skills and prepared to do so,” said Emily. The panel in turn was able to share some training resources with the candidate. “The candidates’ lack of skills became more of a conversation rather than a make or break,” added Emily. In this case, lack of qualifications allowed the candidate to showcase their resourcefulness, drive, and determination. As you launch into your career, I encourage your curiosity, innovation, and commitment to lifelong learning! Transfer your thinking from a focus on shortcomings to a view of opportunity! Reviewing a job description lets you quickly identify the qualifications you are missing. When encountering acronyms or certifications listed in a job posting that you’re unfamiliar with, it’s essential to research and understand their meanings to comprehend the job requirements better. Abbreviations such as CCA, PMP, SHRM-CP, CDL, ServSafe…the list varies depending on the industry sector and career type. Even if you haven’t earned those qualifications behind your signature, it’s ideal to understand what they are before the interview. Let’s say you are applying for a job that lists CCA as a preferred qualification. Exploring the AgCareers.com Crop Advisor Career Profile and a simple online search will inform you that CCA is a Certified Crop Advisor and briefly explain what it entails. Then, if the interviewer asks if you have your CCA, you can honestly respond you don’t but quickly follow up with your understanding of the Certified Crop Adviser designation, why it is valuable, and your plans for attaining it. Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels ANTICIPATING YOUR SHORTCOMINGS AND OVERCOMING OBJECTIONS by Bonnie Johnson, Marketing & Communications Manager, AgCareers.com AG
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15 AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE Regardless of what phase of your career you are in a mentor can help you throughout your career journey. WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER FINDING A MENTOR? As you enter your career, a mentor can be someone you lean on as you try to make decisions on your path. You may be deciding what industry sector you want to enter, what specific company to apply to, or even advice on setting off on the right foot in the industry. A mentor can help you to make connections and give you advice, sometimes they might be someone who is in the same field as you are, for example, if you are looking to get into marketing and communications and are trying to figure out the best path, finding someone in a job that you think you’d like to be in eventually could be a good person to connect with, they might have good insight as to how they got where they are and the steps you can take to get yourself there in your career. A mentor can advise from an outside perspective and help you make life choices or decisions. WHEN IS IT IMPORTANT FOR ME TO HAVE A MENTOR IN MY CAREER? Throughout your career, your mentors might shift. When you graduate from college, you might have a professor, a 4-H leader, or an FFA teacher who was influential in your life and would mentor you, helping you find that first career. Mid-career your needs in a mentor might change; you might know the path you want to take for your career but are looking for more opportunities to develop as a leader or fine-tune another skill, at that point, you might look to someone within your organization who could help give you advice about becoming a leader and growing your skillset. Or maybe you are looking for a way to volunteer and give back to your industry; perhaps they could advise you on different ways to get involved. There are many people inside and outside of the organization that you work at that you could look to be a mentor for you. Later in your career, even though you have already gained a wealth of experience, you can still learn things from others. Leaning on mentors and peers for advice can help you learn continually and grow. Perhaps as you enter those later career phases and have the knowledge to share, you could consider mentoring others to help develop young talent entering the industry and taking on a mentee of your own. WHO WOULD BE A GOOD MENTOR? Before looking for a mentor, consider those around you and in your circle who might be willing to mentor you. You might already know someone in your community, in your place of work, or at your college who could be an excellent person to ask to mentor you. If you don’t already have someone in mind who could be your mentor, some things you might want to consider in terms of what you are looking for are: 1. People in the industry you want to work in. 2. People with skills or qualities you admire and would like to have yourself someday. 3. Someone who works in a role you hope to work in eventually. 4. Someone willing to be a positive influence who has time and interest in helping you to succeed. by Katie Hunter, Talent Solutions Manager, AgCareers.com Photo by treety on Adobe Stock Finding Mentorship in Your Career Journey A mentor is someone who sees more talent and ability within you than you see in yourself and helps bring it out of you. – Bob Proctor “ >>>
AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 16 At Griffith Foods, we’re more than just a company—we’re a purpose-driven organization dedicated to blending care and creativity to nourish the world. You’ll find more than just a job here; you’ll discover a place where you can grow, thrive, and contribute to a better future. Join our amazing team and help us create better together. Learn more here HOW DO I FIND A MENTOR? Sure, finding a mentor and someone to go to for advice sounds great, but what if I don’t already have one? How would I go about finding one? For some, your mentor might be a professor you had that you really enjoyed, a club leader that you look up to, or perhaps even a senior student above you in your program or a recent alum who has gone down the career path you are looking to follow. But what if a mentor isn’t something you can easily find? What steps can you take to find a mentor if there isn’t already someone in your world who has naturally become a mentor to you? 1 . Get involved in industry. What part of the industry do you want to enter? Are you looking to work in the food and beverage industry? If so, attend industry events for the food and beverage industry employees or networking sessions put on by an industry organization. Are you looking to enter the plant science sector? Attend a farm show and meet the people working the booths for crop science companies. There are industry events specific to the various sectors; find out what those events are, attend, and make connections. 2. Step out of your comfort zone. If you don’t already know people in the industry, step out of your comfort zone and reach out to people in the industry who might be good mentors. Fine-tune your LinkedIn profile and use LinkedIn to search for people who are working in the field you want to get into and reach out, maybe they attended the same college as you or are from your same hometown; reach out and ask if they’d be willing to chat, many people happy to help someone excited about the industry. 3. Be respectful of your mentor’s time. If you’ve found someone who would be happy to help be a mentor and help guide you, remember that they are likely busy and are doing this as a favor to you; perhaps ask them to connect for a video or phone call or even meet for coffee. If they commit to a time, be sure you respect how much time they say they have available for you, be punctual, and come to the meeting prepared. If you want their advice on your resume, interviewing, or the next steps in your career, send them some questions and details ahead of time so that they can think about it and you don’t waste their time when they are with you. 4. Be open to feedback and opportunities to learn. Remember that your mentor is generously giving you their time; when they share feedback with you, be sure to thank them and use that feedback to shift and grow! Throughout your career, there will always be value in having a mentor, a person you can go to when looking for advice, or someone who can help you advance and grow. There is something valuable we can learn and gain from every interaction. Taking the time to learn from others will continue to benefit you throughout your entire career journey. AG
AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 18 Discussions about salary and benefits are inevitable in the employment process. As an employee, it is essential to understand the entire compensation package during the job search process and throughout our entire career—not all compensation packages and extra perks are created equal. In the whirlwind of a busy workplace, conversations about compensation often linger in the background, yet they hold significant weight for every employee, especially in the agriculture and food sectors. It’s easy to overlook the intricacies of what constitutes our pay and benefits, but understanding the total compensation package is crucial for our financial wellbeing and job satisfaction. Consider this scenario: A former staff member jumps ship for a new job promising higher pay, only to realize later that they’re actually earning less. It sounds perplexing, doesn’t it? Surprisingly, such situations are more common than one might think. Not everyone possesses an innate affinity for numbers. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of your compensation plans and fully recognize the extra perks you receive for being an employee with your organization. Compensation encompasses far more than just a paycheck; it includes numerous benefits and perks that add value to our work. By comprehending these components, we gain clarity and assurance about what we receive in return for our efforts. When evaluating a comprehensive compensation package, looking beyond the salary to the non-monetary perks is essential. We often focus on salary, incentives, and benefits; however, studies show that non-monetary perks can have a longer-lasting impact on employees’ motivation and satisfaction. Non-monetary benefits, such as extra days off, team meals, health and wellness challenges, and volunteer days, can significantly contribute to a positive work environment. Keeping these perks simple ensures they are well-received and easily integrated into employees’ schedules. Perks can motivate employees to deliver high-quality work and reinforce their perception of fairness and equity within the organization. So, what motivates you as an employee? Communicating our needs and preferences to our employers is essential, fostering a collaborative environment where our voices are heard. Ask your employer if there are parts of your compensation package you need help understanding. Share your opinion on whether there are other perks and benefits that you would find valuable to have as an employee. Perhaps it’s an idea your employer hadn’t thought of that could add value to the team and keep the team positive and motivated. by Kathryn Doan, CVO, Director, AgCareers.com Photo by lovelyday12 on Adobe Stock EXPLAINING TOTAL COMPENSATION: A Guide For Employees In Agriculture & Food >>> Better benefits are one of the top steps U.S. agriculture and food employers use to compete against other employers and a more common strategy than higher compensation. Employers also utilize additional benefits and perks to retain staff and keep them motivated. -AgCareers.com HR Review, U.S. Edition EMPLOYEE BENEFITS IN THE U.S. AGRICULTURE & FOOD INDUSTRY
19 AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE Here are some additional insights into why understanding your total compensation package is vital: ENHANCED JOB SATISFACTION When we understand the value of our compensation package, we’re more likely to feel satisfied and fulfilled in our roles. Knowing that we’re being fairly compensated for our work fosters a sense of appreciation and recognition within the organization. IMPROVED TRUST AND TRANSPARENCY Employers who take the time to explain benefits and perks demonstrate a commitment to transparency and fairness. This communication fosters trust between employees and management and creates a positive work culture where everyone feels valued and respected. OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH Understanding our compensation package opens opportunities for growth and advancement within the organization. By knowing what we’re entitled to, we can advocate for ourselves and negotiate for better terms when the time comes. Knowing the full scope of our compensation package goes far beyond just our salary. It includes benefits, bonuses, retirement plans, stock options, and other non-monetary perks. This information helps give us a clear picture of our financial situation and allows us to make more informed budgeting decisions, saving for the future, and investing. To effectively plan a career, you must ensure your compensation aligns with your career goals and current and future aspirations. This is essential for our financial well-being and job satisfaction. By decoding our pay and benefits, we empower ourselves to make informed career decisions and advocate for our needs within the organization. You’ll find more helpful tips for understanding salary and your total compensation in the AgCareers.com online Career Success Library. AG A TOTAL COMPENSATION CASE STUDY Meet Brynn, a passionate software developer at Reid Grant Holdings, an agricultural technology company dedicated to advancing precision farming. As Brynn delves into her role, she realizes the importance of comprehending her total compensation package, which consists of various elements crucial to her financial stability and career growth. 1. Base Salary: Brynn’s base salary forms the cornerstone of her compensation package. Understanding the intricacies of her salary allows her to gauge her financial stability and effectively plan for her future expenses and financial goals. 2. Performance-Based Bonuses: Beyond her base salary, Brynn may have opportunities to earn performance-based bonuses tied to the success of her projects or the company’s overall performance. By grasping the potential for these bonuses, Brynn feels motivated to excel in her work, knowing that her efforts can directly impact her financial rewards. 3. Stock Options: Reid Grant Holdings offers stock options as part of its compensation package, providing employees like Brynn with a stake in the company’s growth and success. Understanding the value and potential of these stock options enables her to make informed decisions about her long-term financial planning and investment strategies. 4. Comprehensive Benefits: Brynn’s total compensation package includes a range of benefits, such as health insurance, a retirement plan, and paid time off. By understanding the details of these benefits, Brynn can access essential healthcare coverage, plan for her retirement, and maintain a healthy work-life balance, enhancing her overall well-being. 5. Professional Development Opportunities: Reid Grant Holdings invests in its employees’ growth by offering various professional development opportunities, including training programs, conferences, and tuition reimbursement. Recognizing the value of these opportunities, Brynn actively engages in skill-building activities, enhancing her expertise and advancing her career within the company. By understanding her total compensation package, Brynn can make informed decisions about her career trajectory and financial future. It empowers her to maximize the value of her employment at Reid Grant Holdings and thrive as a software developer dedicated to revolutionizing agriculture through technology.
AgExplorer is a robust, comprehensive career resource to help you explore the broad range of careers within agriculture. With over 320 careers to explore, find the one that best matches you with MyCareer Quiz; interactive Virtual Field Trips; industry career interviews; and more! DISCOVER EVERY OPPORTUNITY agexplorer.ffa.org
21 AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE How Do I Know What Career is Right for Me? Finding Your Future in Agriculture by Nicole Ward Beckley, Writer, National FFA Organization Do you like to build things? Are you someone who enjoys giving speeches and presentations? Is your goal to work with animals? What are your goals for continuing education throughout life? When searching for the perfect career, there are an overwhelming number of ways to go about it. A quick online search results in countless tests and quizzes, advice blogs, expert tips, and books and manuals promising to help. The quest can be a bit like the fable of Goldilocks’s trying out everything at the three bears’ home: some too big, some too small, but you keep trying, hoping you find the one that’s just right. Determining your career is a highly personal journey with no one-sizefits-all route. Finding just the right intersection of answers to “What do I like to do?” and “What am I good at?” and “What do I value?” can be daunting. Fortunately, for those looking to discover career, education, and job opportunities in agriculture and food, there are industry-specific resources that focus your search and guide you to take the next steps in determining what path is best for you. The National FFA Organization— which prepares its members for leadership and careers in the science, business, and technology of agriculture—provides an online resource called AgExplorer. AgExplorer is committed to helping you find your future in agriculture and is free for anyone to use. With more than 300 careers ranging in focus areas from agribusiness systems to sustainability systems, AgExplorer offers in-depth views into job descriptions, salary information, and necessary skills. “AgExplorer and the MyCareer Quiz allow individuals to discover careers they did not know existed in the agricultural industry,” said Megan McGrady, Senior Education Consultant (manager of the education development team) at the National FFA Organization. A key component of AgExplorer is its custom, interactive experience. Through MyCareer Quiz, not only do you respond to discerning questions, but also the results show more than just career suggestions based on your answers. MyCareer Quiz walks you through 16 questions ranging from “How interesting does each career route sound?” to “How would you like to make a living?”. Through MyCareer Quiz,” McGrady explained, “individuals will be able to hone in on careers that match their interests and skills, allowing them to find careers that may be perfect for them.” Several questions gauge your interest in diverse topics and your satisfaction involving a range of activities. One question asks what is most important to you when you think about your future. The quiz ranks whether you prefer working alone or in groups, whether you wish to work outdoors or inside, what topics interest you, such as STEM research, business, creativity, and wellness. Other considerations include how much time you want to spend working, and your preference for working remotely, entirely at a workplace, or on a hybrid basis. At the end of the quiz, you get your top four career matches based on your responses and the percentage to which you match them. You can then choose what you want to learn more about. Additionally, you obtain a further selection of career matches and the opportunity to explore those. You can have your results emailed to save the list for further reference and discovery. Furthermore, AgExplorer takes you on a deep dive into the careers MyCareer Quiz produces for you. Your results will help you to find out what level of education is required. Learn the expected salary, future job market projection, and typical employers. You will also see a list of responsibilities and peruse real-time open job listings related to the career. McGrady recommends the AgExplorer Virtual Field Trips and the video center as great resources to learn more about careers at various agricultural companies. “Virtual Field Trips go behind the scenes at several agricultural companies to be able to learn about different careers. The video center is full of interviews with professionals in the industry. In the videos they will discuss their career and how they arrived at that job,” she said. With help from the National FFA Organization’s AgExplorer and MyCareer Quiz, powered by career insights and job listings from AgCareers.com, you’ll be prepared for the next steps to get even closer to your desired profession. Finding your future career in agriculture is no longer just a dream or a fairy tale — it’s a real possibility. Learn more through AgExplorer and take the MyCareer Quiz AG
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23 AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE It’s tough to find something we can all agree upon. However, it’s hard to argue with this statement: We all want to feel respected, valued, comfortable, and welcome in our workplace. That is likely a shared foundation we can build on! Employees and employers find an inclusive work environment leads to higher productivity, increased job satisfaction, improved workplace relationships, and improved health and well-being outcomes for employees. Agricultural and food employers also know that diversity and inclusivity programs help them compete against other employers for talent and attract recent graduates to their organization. Both candidates and employers attempt to impress each other in the interview and recruiting process. So, how do you really tell if you’ll fit in at the organization? Will you feel comfortable and able to bring your true self to work? Will you belong? I spoke with Dr. Bill Hendrix, Interim Executive Director for Together We Grow about locating an inclusive workplace. Hendrix suggested that you begin finding your fit by leveraging your network. “Start making connections through professional societies or internships,” suggested Hendrix. “Each company has a ‘personality’ just like a human, and there’s nothing right or wrong about that,” shared Hendrix. “Find an organization whose personality is a fit with yours, and you’ll both be better for it,” added Hendrix. Your network and group involvement will often provide exposure to different potential employers and opportunities to assess companies’ personalities. RANKINGS & BENCHMARKS Another effective strategy is to consider external indicators, such as ranking guides and benchmark awards. Has an external organization recognized the employer for their DEI initiatives? This recognition can be a powerful indicator of the company’s commitment to these values. Here are a few ranking guides and benchmark awards to explore: Employment Benchmarks: • Great Places to Work • Top Workplaces • Glassdoor by Bonnie Johnson, Marketing & Communications Manager, AgCareers.com Photo by Tartila on Adobe Stock Together We Grow is a consortium of some of the world’s largest agribusiness and food interests focused on building the workforce of tomorrow and ensuring that the workforce is skilled, diverse, and inclusive. Previously, Bill concluded a 32-year career in the agricultural industry while also serving on boards for the Cultivating Change Foundation, AFA’s Executive Ambassador Program, FFA’s President’s Advisory Board, among many other volunteer commitments. Bill has testified before Congress twice on workplace equality and was recognized by Out and Equal with the prestigious Trailblazer for Workplace Equality award in 2010 and as GLBT Scientist of the Year in 2011 by the National Organization for Gay and Lesbian Scientists and Technical Professionals. Bill’s passion is increasing student opportunities in STEM and working to ensure that diverse voices are represented within this conversation. Dr. Bill Hendrix, Interim Executive Director, Together We Grow >>>
AGCAREERS.COM FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 24 Community Benchmarks: • HRC Corporate Equality Index • Forbes Best Employers for Women • Forbes Best Employers for Diversity • America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity • Fortune’s Best Workplaces for Women • Essence 10 Best Workplaces for African Americans Even if an employer is absent from a top list, they can still be inclusive and welcoming. Typically, these ranking lists feature larger corporations, but small companies may also foster a welcoming environment that you can evaluate in other ways. OTHER STEPS TO ASSESS EMPLOYERS Once you’ve identified a potential employer, you can better assess them through their company website. “The first place to look is if they have a space dedicated to D.E.I. on their website,” noted Hendrix. Look for a mention of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Diversity Councils. “It’s also important that these groups have a voice back to management, too,” added Hendrix. You’ll often find DEI information in corporations’ sustainability report. “Look for statistics, percentages, and metrics— these real numbers indicate that the organization is much further on in its diversity journey,” advised Hendrix. For corporations, it’s crucial to verify their EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) and diversity statements. These provide legal and official information about the company’s diversity practices. Also, consider their visibility within the local community and support of parity issues, additional indicators of their commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Remember you are also interviewing the company during the interview process. If you’re worried about getting a job and finding the right fit, there are other opportunities out there. Seek a place where you are fully accepted. Alternatively, if you find yourself with an organization that is still developing an inclusion initiative or doesn’t even have one, you can get involved and make a real impact! There’s a place for everyone in agriculture. Start searching for your perfect spot today at AgCareers.com. AG Be the change you want to see in the world – Mahatma Gandhi “
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