Quizzical Questions

Quizzical Questions
Insight from Employers on Those Tough Interview Questions!
from http://www.agcareers.com/ newsletter 12/17/09

If you’ve done much interviewing or are preparing to start, you’ve probably run across questions that get asked in most every interview. Of course it is great to practice what you might respond with, but what is it that employers are really looking for when asking that particular question? Well, we’ve found out! We’ve asked several industry experts to provide us with points on what they are looking for in a response when asking some of the more difficult interview questions.

Tell me a little about yourself.

Wrong: My name is Pat Smith and I like long walks on the beach and Monopoly. I want to work for your organization because I think you could use some help with your advertising campaigns and I’m much more creative than the team you currently have.

Correct: Mary Birley, Talent Recruiting Consultant at Cargill offered the following insight on the best way to respond to “Tell me about yourself.”

“The purpose of this question is to make you (the candidate) comfortable and start off the interview by getting to talk about yourself without having to answer a tough question right away.” She says to touch on what you’re doing in school, some past jobs you’ve had, some extracurricular activities, and your career goals. She also mentions that it is good to explain how the position you are applying for fits into your career goals.

This question is a hard one for some people because you don’t really have an idea how long they’d like you to speak. Take the advice above for your content and try to keep your response between one to two minutes. To wrap up the conversation and turn it back over to the interviewer, share what you feel you can bring to the organization and/or why you are excited about the position.

Are you willing to relocate?

Wrong: It depends on where the location is and if you are willing to pay to help me relocate.Right: From Human Resources Generalist at Becker Underwood, Kathry Lenz, when responding to this question she is looking for an enthusiastic, but sincere “yes.”

“There is nothing more frustrating than to go through the whole process and make an offer, only to have the candidate decide they don’t want to move after all,” says Lenz.

She says that it is also good to hear if the candidate is familiar with the town where the position is or that the candidate has at least researched the area and like what they’ve found. Lenz says that tells her that the candidate is serious about the job. Also, she says it is nice to hear questions about the town or area, such as what are the schools like, cost of living, etc. Again, another way to confirm the candidate is serious.

If you are really not willing to relocate, don’t apply for the position or if you find out that relocation may be necessary during the interview process, be honest and upfront about the fact that you are unwilling to relocate. It will save both parties time.

What is your expected salary range?

Wrong: I’d like to come into the organization at a managerial level, so therefore I think I should be between $80,000 and $90,000.Correct: “This is a very tough question for most people to answer—not just new graduates,” shares Shannon Blacker, Human Resources Manager with Syngenta Canada. “The main thing is to come into the interview prepared. Do some market research. What are other companies within the industry offering for this type of role? What would similar positions in a different industry pay?”

Blacker advises that most university and colleges have information on typical starting salaries for graduates from each program so use those resources that are available to you.

“Our assumption is that most individuals have an ideal starting salary, valid reasoning behind it and willingness to discuss it,” says Blacker. “If you are the top candidate, most companies will want to make you a fair offer that you will be happy with.”

Blacker also says, regardless of the actual salary range you propose, it is always a good idea to reassure the hiring manager of the main reasons you have applied and let them know that salary is not your only motivator. Reiterate your interest in the position and the company, and let them know you are confident you could come to an agreement that is fair for both parties should the opportunity be presented to you.

What are your weaknesses?

Wrong: I’m not a morning person, which makes me late for work nearly every day. Also, I have a hard time working with people who don’t like my university sports team.Right: “For answers to this question, we always hear ‘I work too hard’, or ‘I’m a perfectionist’, and those are weaknesses that they are trying to make into strengths,” Birley says. “Everyone says them, and it is just annoying to hear.”

She suggests that it is best to be completely honest and think about the feedback from past employers or coworkers, or just something you know you have to work on.

“A great response to this question would be to show that you are self-aware in that you know your weaknesses, and then show what you’re doing to address them or improve upon them,” says Birley.

What will you offer our company?

Wrong: I’m simply the best candidate that you will find and confident in my abilities!Right: While being confident is important, Lenz suggests that being more specific and providing examples of related experiences or education that relate to the job description and job duties listed are a more valuable response to this question and will help set you apart.

“Tell me why you chose this career path and demonstrate why you have passion for this type of work or position,” says Lenz. “Reiterate how you have prepared yourself for this type of work through related education, internships, etc. And, if they don’t have the related background yet, I look for an answer that suggests they have carefully thought through this career path and that tells me why they are choosing it.”

Do you have any questions for me?

Wrong: No, I think you’ve answered them all!

Right: “It always amazes me when people do not take the opportunity during the interview to ask questions,” says Blacker. “We want to know that people are just as serious about their careers, as we are about finding the right team member for our organization so we would hope they DO have questions!”

“Similarly, it is a major disappointment for me when the first or only questions a candidate has are: What is the salary?; How much vacation would I get?; and Can you please describe your health benefits?,” says Blacker.

Blacker agrees that those are details that are certainly open for discussion and are great questions to ask at a later stage in the recruitment process if they are not addressed by the hiring manager. Some topics (like vacation and benefits) may even be best discussed during the offer stage.

“My advice is to ask intelligent questions about the role and the company that show you have done your research,” says Blacker. “One caveat: limit your questions to three to five for the initial interview as most hiring managers are on a schedule and you don’t want to ask too many during the first round. If it is a single interview recruitment process, ask away!”

While we know you would never respond as distinctly wrong as the “Wrong” answers posed within this article, we do hope that the feedback provided directly from the mouths of those who could be hiring you will help prepare you so you are sure to achieve a successful interview and adequately answer some of those quizzical questions!

IMPRESSIVE QUESTIONS TO ASK AN INTERVIEWER1. Can you describe a typical day in this type of role?2. How long have you been at the company and what makes you stay?3. How would you describe the work environment and corporate culture?4. What are some of the goals for the company in the short and longer term?5. How would my performance be measured?6. What types of career opportunities may open up down the road for a person starting out in this type of position, assuming they perform well?7. What are some of the company’s initiatives regarding learning and development?

Job Outlook for 2010 Grads...Stinks, but Wait...

There is good news for those pursuing careers in agriculture, food processing and environmental science: http://money.cnn.com/2009/11/17/news/economy/college_graduates_jobs/index.htm.

Please let us know if we can help you to organize and launch a job or internship search! As we work with employers, we know the CNN Money article is right: There are jobs out there. We're glad to help you find them!

Stephanie Chipman
MU CAFNR Career Services

Dickinson Scholars

Last year, as a sophomore CAFNR student, I was looking to get more involved within the College of Agriculture as well as add intern and leadership experience to my resume. I had heard about Dickinson Scholars through a presentation in my Ag Econ 2183 class and decided that it could be a good opportunity to get involved and get some of that experience I was looking for.

The program fulfilled my expectations and more. I went in not knowing what to expect and came out knowing more about professionalism in the workplace, what steps I need to take as a student to ensure a great job in the future, and I also made some fantastic contacts. The program allowed me to network with alumni and get their opinion on attending graduate school as well as different companies and jobs. It was also a great opportunity to grow as a person in ways such as proper business attire and where to put your fork and knife once you are done eating.

I encourage all students who are interesting in working in corporate agriculture to apply to John Brown or Dickinson Scholars. A week of your winter break is definitely worth the experience!

-Danielle Bellis
Junior, Agribusiness Management

John Brown Scholars-Finding Career Success

As a college student, I've been involved in lots of things. Campus organizations, internships, and part-time jobs have kept me busy during my time here at Mizzou. Of all these great experiences, I'll say the John Brown Scholars program tops my list of greatest experiences when it comes to career opportunities.

Who doesn't want to meet potential employers and learn what it takes to succeed in the professional world? This week-long opportunity partners CAFNR students with leading companies working in agriculture, food, and natural resources.

You'll have the chance to explore the real-world, while applying the lessons you learn in class everyday. Not only did I learn valuable professional lessons, but I really enjoyed the helpful insight and advice from recent graduates who are now young professionals with full-time careers.

So how can you get involved? Simply turn in your cover letter, resume, and list of three references by noon, Thursday, October 15 in 2-64 Agriculture Building. A panel will review the resumes and hold interviews October 20-22.

Here are the qualifications for the program:

• Be of junior or higher standing (at least 60 hours completed by end of fall semester) and enrolled in CAFNR.
• Have a 2.5 minimum GPA while enrolled at MU.
• Be available the entire week of the program (Jan. 10-15, 2010).
• Have completed Ag Econ 1041 and 1042. (Ag Econ 2183 is highly recommended.)

Don't have 60 hours of college credit, yet? I encourage you to check out the Dickinson Scholars program, which is a great stepping stone to get involved in John Brown Scholars. I participated in this program during January 2008, but read about the 2009 program here.

Dickinson Scholars-A Growing Experience

This past Winter Break I had the privilege to spend a week with the Dickinson Scholar program in Kansas City. The program is designed for CAFNR students to network with leaders in agriculture, and see opportunities in the industry. I was able to spend my week with talented leaders from John Deere, while my peers and I learned from their insight. Not only was it educational and fun, but I've always been partial to green tractors!

While visiting John Deere, I learned about all aspects of marketing in the company. We spent time traveling to local dealerships, followed by visiting the corporate headquarters. The program was well-rounded and opened my eyes to the many facets of the Deere Company.

A few of the highlights of the Dickinson Scholars program for me included meeting with the Dickinson family, the owners of Bank Midwest, and then also the final presentations. The Dickinsons assisted us in learning about the banking industry, but we also got to see their passion for agriculture and reasoning behind starting the Dickinson Scholars program. The final presentations are a fun yet professional evening when professors, industry professionals, and all participants join to learn about the different parts of the Dickinson Scholars program.

The Dickinson Scholars program was a great way to spend my winter break, and I encourage all undergraduates to apply! While some application and interview processes can be stressful, the Dickinson Scholars application was simple and the interview was with respected professors from the college with whom I was already acquainted. Seeing familiar, smiling faces made the interview comfortable for me. I hope you see how valuable the experiences are, and choose to apply now!

-Charlotte Jackson

Junior, Agricultural Education

Now's the time to submit your cover letter and resume to apply for this year's program. For details, click here. Also check out the John Brown Scholars program, which is a similar opportunity for CAFNR students, typically juniors and seniors. If you have questions, CAFNR Career Services is here to help!

Who wants a popsicle?

I'm not sure I've ever seen popsicles in the professional world. That is until this week! CAFNR Career Services is handing out these frozen treats to remind students to avoid letting brain freezes lead to hiring freezes!

Our team will be handing out more sweet treats in the ag building today from 2-3 p.m. and again Monday from 2-3 p.m. Take time to come visit us between classes to stay cool, and also find the resources you need to start the semester on the right track.

Just take a look at the pictures to see how much fun we're having!

These CAFNR students say goodbye to summer with a yummy popsicle and helpful career advice!

Here are some common cures we think can help you avoid any hiring freeze:

-Register at Hire Mizzou Tigers.
-Build your resume.
-Attend CAFNR Career Fair 10/7/09.
-Get an internship.
-Utilize Career Services.

No matter your age or year in school, it's never too early to start building your professional experiences.

Here's proof that CAFNR Career Services is a fun place to be!

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Making Dreams Come True

Have you ever gone to Disney World? Played in a big sports game? Sang in front of hundreds of people? Or done anything so exciting you couldn't fall asleep because your mind was so busy dreaming already?

I had that same problem just last night as I laid in bed trying to get some sleep before my very last, first day of school.

Just like a trip to the amusement park, or another exciting adventure, I was so preoccupied dreaming up great opportunities that I could hardly fall asleep. We tend to expect that anticipation and excitement from students starting their first day at college...but a senior, REALLY?

It's no secret, I've always liked school, but as a veteran here at Mizzou I expected today to be like any other day in my college career. I was so comfortable, I didn't look up the location of my 9 a.m. class until 8 a.m., right before leaving my apartment to pick up my parking pass, both things that most students did at least seven days ago! So it's easy to see I wasn't awake because of nerves, but more for excitement.

Like other students here at Mizzou, and more specifically in the College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources, I am confident my college experiences have prepared me to succeed after graduation. While I certainly plan to savor every last minute I have on campus, I can't help my excitement for the world that awaits me beyond Columbia.

Call me biased, but I've found this mindset to be unique when I look to other schools on our campus. The CAFNR family nurtures students to help us build the experiences and skills to be successful adults.

One example of this nurturing comes in the form of professional development, offered right here from the folks at CAFNR Career Services. Because of the networking and lessons I've learned from their programs, services, and advice, I know transitioning from college to career will be an experience to help make my dreams come true!

Telling the Truth?

Employers tell me that integrity and ethics are traits they seek in a new hire. Yet, how can recruiters and hiring managers test for this? Yes, they ask the behaviorial-based questions like "Tell me about a time your ethics were challenged." Yes, they check references. But, once hired, the true test is applied. Will you become known as an employee with integrity and ethical high standards?

If you're thinking of being less than honest, check out 4 Lies that Can Cost You Your Job.

Federal Jobs

Excerpted from NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers, online at www.naceweb.org) Spotlight Online 2009:

With nearly one-third of all federal employees (nearly 1.9 million employees) eligible to retire in the next four years and new federal jobs being created as a result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the federal government is currently looking to hire a significant number of people. So how can you enhance your chance of being selected for a federal position?

Brooke Bohnet, associate manager for education and outreach with the Partnership for Public Service (PPS), offers the following tips for landing a job with the federal government:

Plan ahead—The application process itself can take time; to improve chances of getting a job, allow plenty of time to thoroughly complete the application.

Select carefully—Applications tailored for specific jobs that are a good match for skills and talents will be more successful than sending out a standard resume for many jobs. Read about building federal resumes (see www.makingthedifference.org/federaljobs/usajobsresume.shtml) and KSA writing (see www.makingthedifference.org/federaljobs/ksa.shtml).

Prepare for a wait—It can take weeks to months before you hear back about your application, and, during this time, there may be little or no communication from the agency. Every federal job requires a background check before the agency can make a job offer. If the position is related to national security, applicants will be instructed to complete the security clearance process once they receive an offer. Apply for positions without security clearances about four months prior to their start date and six to eight months in advance for national security related positions.

Follow-up with the agency—Contact the identified representative to learn the status of your application or to find out more about a job about a month after the closing date or, if the closing date is extended, about a month after turning in the application.

The Partnership for Public Service's (PPS) web site—www.makingthedifference.org—offers a variety of information on federal job and internship opportunities, as well as resources to help job seekers understand where jobs are in government that fit their needs/interests and tools to help them navigate the federal application process.

To find job openings, Bohnet advises jobseekers to visit the federal government job web site—www.usajobs.gov.

Jobs with the federal government are attractive because of competitive salaries, a solid benefit package, meaningful and challenging work, and opportunities for advancement and professional development. (For more details, go to www.makingthedifference.org and click on "Why Federal Service.")

Managing Gen Y

I just returned from a roundtable where Gen Y was, of course, discussed. Several people, faculty, recruiters, managers, and Gen Y'ers themselves, have talked to me about the challenges of working with generations that have different defining experiences and, as a result, different expectations and behaviors. See the article below from AgCareers.com to illuminate some of the reasons behind these differences. What do you think? Managers of Gen Y? Gen Y'ers?

Managing Generation “Why?”

Mark Murphy, Founder of Leadership IQ

Today thousands of managers are sitting at their desks both puzzled and annoyed at the three-letter-word that keeps getting thrown at them by their young workers. Baby Boomer and Traditionalist leaders describe this word as sounding, as one manager told us, “like nails on a chalkboard.” What, you might ask, is this word? And, if you’re a Generation Y-er, you might ask, “Why is it driving you crazy?”

“Why.” It seems like such a small, innocent word. However, it is actually a loaded term that has different meanings depending on which generation you belong to. In this article, we’ll spell out what “why” means to both the older, seasoned managers, and the young, new workers. And, we’ll give you the tools to overcome your distaste for “why” and embrace it to your managerial advantage.

For those of us raised before the era of “free love” or even “disco”, we were taught not to question our elders. As children we were to be seen and not heard. As school-age children we were taught to take what we were given and not complain about it. And, as adults we were supposed to do our tasks solely because they needed to be done. We understood that we were cogs in a wheel, and if we just did our job, everything would work out fine. So, to us, the word “Why?” denotes challenging of authority, thumbing your nose at the rules, and general disruptiveness. Even in its mildest interpretation, we see at as annoying. When we tell one of our young workers, “finished documents must be printed in triplicate on blue paper,” we want them to say, “Yes, of course! Consider it done!” Not, “Why?”

However, for Generation Y workers, “why” is not a dirty word. They were raised in different times. These adults grew up in a period where parents not only focused on their children, but set them on a pedestal, told them they were unique and important, and fought for them to be not just seen, but heard as well. Generation Y children were also taught that there is learning value in everything they do - so that every job that must be done has a reason, meaning, or significance. They were taught to look at the “big picture” and how their contribution fits in with everything around them. So instead of just being content with knowing they are a cog in the wheel, they need to know, “Why am I this cog instead of that one? Why are we turning slowly? Why, why, why?”

Overall, our research found that there are two big reasons Generation Y asks “Why?”
Reason #1: Big Picture “Why?”Generation Y workers want to know how they, as well as their work, fit into the whole. They want to know how the tasks they do affect the department, organization, field, or world as a whole. They’ve grown up wanting their lives and work to be meaningful, and they want to see how meaningful it will actually be. Generation Y workers have little patience for tasks that are rote and, as they see it, meaningless. So, as a manager, you need to make their work fit into the big picture. The clearer you make it, the more productive they will be. Pre-empting the “why?” question by assigning tasks AND giving the big picture up front is a trick that top managers have learned.

Darren Griffith, a top sales manager at an auto insurance agency tells it this way, “When I give my Gen-Y sales reps a task, I let them know how it affects everyone of us here. For instance, I asked two of my reps to read through about 200 surveys and pull out all the written comments. I knew they’d ask why because it is such a boring task. So I just said right away – I told them ‘we need to find out if any of our customers are unhappy with anything we’ve done in our sales process. We need to go through those surveys to get those negative comments so that later we can all sit down as a team and figure out what we need to do better.’ That was just what they needed, and they got right on with the task.”

Reason #2: Significance “Why?”Employees from Generation Y are typically more than enthusiastic to do something when they know the reason behind why they need to do what they need to do. Their parents taught them that rules and instructions are important and good, but only if they make sense and fit the situation. They also taught them that every rule and instruction is an opportunity to learn more. For example, if one of their parents said to them, “Bedtime is at 9:00 P.M.” and, the kid asked “Why?” – they would not typically get the response (as most of us non-Gen Y-ers would have), “Because I said so.” They would more likely get an explanation of how the parent came up with the rule and why it is important. Further, the parent would actually have a “good” reason much of the time (from reading all of those research studies and parenting books and magazines that were so popular at the time). For example, the parent might say, “Because kids your age need at least 9 hours of sleep, and you have to get up at 6:00 A.M. - so 9 P.M. is the latest you can go to bed and get the required amount of sleep.”
That’s the reason this particular “Why?” can be more of a challenge. It forces us, as managers, to question the reasoning and significance behind what we want our workers to do and how we want them to do it. It becomes tricky when there are procedures or policies in our companies that we have absolutely no idea why they are in place and they don’t make a lot of sense to us either.

For example, it might be easy to discuss company dress codes if they make sense. Ricki Archer, the director of a tutoring company, told us, “I discuss dress code with my tutors right away. I tell them that we have a strict white collared shirt, khaki pants, and closed toe shoe policy. I explain that the white collared shirt and khakis identify our tutors no matter what school we go into, and the closed toe shoe means that we are teachers and not students. We have to look professional and separate ourselves from the kids that we teach. Our tutors are young- but they ‘get it’. After we talk about it, they understand that they need to look like grown-ups to get the respect of the parents, teachers, and students. I’ve never had to discuss it further with any of them.”
What is more difficult is when it makes less sense. However, we did find one manager that handled the “why?” particularly well. David Kim, a department manager at a research firm, had many employees question their dress code. “We have a ‘no shorts, no sandals, no jeans, and no t-shirts’ rule at our company. And some of our new hires asked me about why that policy was in place because they all work at computers in cubicles all day and clients don’t see them. I told them that, in all honesty, I had no idea. Realistically, we are isolated from the rest of the company physically – we are in a different building. And, it is just me, my assistant, and eighteen associates who crunch numbers and write reports all day. So, I told them that they had my blessing in trying to get the policy changed if that is what they wanted. They could research it, draft a new policy, and get a petition and signatures – whatever they needed. And I would take a representative with me and bring it up to corporate. But they couldn’t do it during work time. I had to stress that! I haven’t heard about it in a few weeks, but I know there are a bunch of them working on it.”

Unlike the Big Picture “Why?”, the Significance “Why?” can’t always be pre-empted. This is because this type of “Why?” often takes us by surprise. Things we wouldn’t naturally question get questioned. This type of questioning, as you may notice, is not always a bad thing. In fact, employees asking, “Why?” can bring about significant change and growth and help us to look beyond where we might normally look. In fact, where would Microsoft be without Bill Gates asking “Why?” Or where would Nike, or Apple, or Starbucks be? These companies did not just allow “Why?”, they embraced “Why?”

Summing up the TechniquesIn short, Generation Y asks “Why?” for two main reasons. And, as our top managers have shown, there are two good ways to turn the “Why?” to your advantage. First and foremost, anticipate that your Generation Y employees are going to want the Big Picture. By knowing this, you can pre-empt questions by providing details of how their work fits in with the work of other workers, the department, organization, or outside world. Make what they are doing meaningful and relevant. Creative managers have a knack for making every job important.

Second, understand that Generation Y workers want to know the Significance of what they are doing. If you can anticipate their questions, then certainly pre-empt them by providing the reason. But, because these are often unanticipated questions, give yourself time to respond or put the work back on them. If you don’t know the answer, it is fine to say, “I don’t know, but I can find out.” It is also more than OK to give them permission to search for the answer themselves, or to try to change things (with you guiding the process, of course).

With this knowledge in hand, maybe we can reduce our annoyance at that little three-letter word. It is not there to usurp your authority. It is not there to make your life miserable. “Why?” is being thrown at you because you have curious, inquisitive, and intelligent young workers who want to learn and grow through their work with you. You may not love it, but with these tools you can turn it to your advantage.
© 2009 www.agcareers.com

Job Interviews: Weird Answers

Have you ever said something during a job interview, and after later reflection, felt pretty bad about it? Most of us, several hours after the interview, think about what was said and either hope that it wasn't misinterpreted or wish we would have said more.

Very few job interviews are perfect. Want to feel a little better? Read 43 weird things said in job interviews. At least you didn't say those things. Right?

For tips on interviewing, visit our webpage: http://cafnr.missouri.edu/career-services/interviews/. Also, feel free to schedule an appointment to talk about interview strategies!

National Statistics for the Class of 2009

The National Association of Colleges and Employers surveyed college students between Feb. 19 and April 30 about their career outlook. Here are some of the findings:

• 19.7 percent of 2009 graduates had a job lined up. That compares with 26 percent of those graduating in 2008.
• 59 percent of 2009 graduates had started their job search at the time of the survey, compared with about two-thirds of the Class of 2008 and 64 percent of the Class of 2007.
• About 27 percent of 2009 graduates reported plans to forego the job market in favor of graduate school. That compares with 24 percent of 2008 graduates.

The NACE Salary Survey, Summer 2009, reported an average starting salary for 2009 graduates of $49, 693 versus $49, 693 last year. For salary information for a specific major or career field, please contact CAFNR Career Services at 573-882-0088 or ChipmanS@missouri.edu.

Airport Etiquette

I just learned that another of our very creative and bright alumni is blogging. I particularly love her article on airport etiquette and encourage anyone who ever flies to read it: http://thetravelingcowgirl.blogspot.com/.

And, CAFNR students, Melanie also happens to be one of our CAFNR Connections mentors. Obviously, she has great advice!

Social Media Pitfalls?

We've all heard how important social networking can be to get a job, and especially so during this recession. However, check out the following blog for information about how DAMAGING online networking can be if misused: http://msn.careerbuilder.com/Article/MSN-1953-Workplace-Issues-Social-Media-Pitfalls/ sc_extcmp=JS_1953_advice&SiteId=cbmsn41953&ArticleID=1953&GT1=23000&cbRecursionCnt=1&cbsid=d50b16d017a7426eba4913a0f1aa6fe0-300534437-J6-5

Go Beyond the Borders
By AgCareers.com

AgCareers.com believes that students have numerous opportunities to build powerful career portfolios throughout their higher education experiences. One of these opportunities is traveling abroad. The life lessons learned while students are visiting other countries are valuable for personal growth, as well as preparation for future career opportunities.

“As we see our population growing larger, more and more companies are looking beyond our borders for resources to grow and produce food, fiber, and fuel,” said Eric Spell, president of AgCareers.com. “This adds to the need for graduates who have first-hand knowledge of agricultural practices abroad, as agribusiness can be easily observed at various levels in all countries.”

Traveling abroad can present challenges for many students including: fear of traveling, the possibility of getting behind in their graduation schedule, and the lack of funds. To help offset the financial constraints; AgCareers.com has developed the Agribusiness Beyond the Borders Scholarship program.

“At AgCareers.com we see the importance of investing in the students who are willing to step outside their comfort zone and take advantage of work experiences abroad,” says Ashley Collins Education Coordinator with AgCareers.com.

The program provides three $1,000 scholarships for students currently studying in North America who are embarking on a study abroad experience. One scholarship is awarded to a student each term (fall, spring and summer) to be used for their study abroad trip in the following term.

Since the launch of the Agribusiness Beyond the Borders Scholarship Program in early 2009, AgCareers has had to opportunity to assist two students with trips to other countries. Matthew Groen, a rising junior at the University of Guelph majoring in Animal Science, traveled to Costa Rica for ten days during the Spring of 2009.

"I choose to go to Costa Rica to learn more about alternative agricultural practices,” Groen said. “In Costa Rica, I got to experience and learn a lot about organic production of coffee and many other fruits that we consume on a daily basis.”

He said the experience taught him how organic production practices affect not only his health, but the entire economy of developing countries.

This summer, Kristen Gossett, a senior at NC State University double majoring in Agriculture Extension and Communication, will spend one month in Australia. She was chosen as the recipient of the summer term scholarship.

Gossett shared her motivation behind choosing this opportunity in her scholarship essay, “This trip can only strengthen my expertise and experience in the field of agriculture, which I hope to work in one day. I had always hoped that I could bring something to my job that was different…that would stand out and bring more to the table. I think the experience of studying abroad can help me do that.”

Gossett added that, "Although studying abroad is an amazing opportunity, the cost is usually pretty high. It's great to have scholarship opportunities like the one through AgCareers.com to help offset some of that expense."

To apply for the Agribusiness Beyond the Borders Scholarship, students need to complete a simple online form and write a one and a half page essay about their trip and why they’ve chosen to travel abroad. Applications are due at various times throughout the year, depending on the dates of the trip. Applications are now being accepted for students going abroad in Fall 2009.

For more information about the Agribusiness Beyond the Borders Scholarship Program, and to apply, go to http://www.agcareers.com/scholarship_form.cfm.

Hyatt's Top 10 Must Do for Seniors

As we all wait for the economy to improve (and we KNOW it will), Hyatt provides some excellent tips for everyone who searches for a position!

Recruiters Corner: Top 10 Must Do for Seniors

1. Stay Positive: The economy will turn around, its just a matter of time, it always does.
2. Be Flexible: Your ideal route may not be available right now; take what you can.
3. Differentiate Yourself: What is it about you that makes you better than the others?
4. Swallow Your Pride: Now is not the time to turn down great opportunities even though
they may not be exactly your ideal job out of college.
5. Get your foot in the door: Whether it is a line position or an internship, these opportunities
allow you to prove yourself to the company.
6. Expand your Relocation Preferences: The more open you are to relocation the more
opportunities will be available to you.
7. Take the Initiative: taking any opportunity the company offers shows dedication and true commitment.
8. College Degree vs. Experience: Even though you will have a college degree you must start
somewhere and you may not always start as a manager but that's OK.
9. Broaden Your Experiences: Now is the time to make yourself a more qualified candidate
for when things turn around.
10. NETWORK: This means creating new networks with those you have recently come into
contact with, and continuing those relationships you have already made with industry
leaders, professors, and peers.

To check out careers at Hyatt, visit: http://www.explorehyatt.jobs/index_flash.php

The Future of Hiring...Agriculture

OK, so some of you may not be in your "dream" job. With news of the economy, more seniors turned to plan B this year: graduate school. Others were willing to accept a position that just a few months ago, they may have considered unacceptable. To all of you who identify with the difficulty of job "search and find" this year, take heart. There is good news.

The 2008 Agribusiness Job Report by AgCareers.com reports that 63% of their companies foresee retirements in the upcoming years that will create many new opportunities. Even better news, many companies are turning to college relations as a way to fill positions, as evidenced by an increase in the number of internship programs and entry-level leadership development programs.

So, what to do now? Use this time to hone your skills. Think about your ideal position. Find several job descriptions online; use websites like AgCareers.com to search for jobs that sound enjoyable and interesting. What can you do in your current job or in graduate school to prepare yourself better for that next position? Pursue those projects, tasks, classes and contacts that will ensure that your next position is close to, if not, ideal.

Highlighting a few other career BLOGS!

As I surf the Net these days, I can find myself going to a wide variety of interesting, but ultimately useless, sites. Here, I've tried to link a few blogs that I find "spot-on" in terms of career advice:

• The M.A.P. Maker: http://mapmaker.curtrosengren.com/. Great tips on goal setting and finding Meaning, Abundance, and Passion in your life/career. Here are a couple of great exercises I found here: Write a letter to yourself and then have it e-mailed back to you at a future date, using FutureMe.org. This takes care of my issue: writing the letter and then forgetting where I put it! I also like the list of positive words I found on this site.
• Allison's Job Searching Blog. Great, straightforward advice in How Not to Find a Job , Tough Interview Questions, and other posts.
• Personal Branding Blog. Written by several, this site has some good tips for standing out--positively--while seeking your next opportunity. I love the recent post The Demise of Job Boards and the Rise of People Searching.

Summer is Almost Here!

As finals week wraps up, I am getting anxious to be done with the semester and start my internship with ADM! This summer I was placed in an internship several hours from home and also in a big city. Although I’ll be far away from my show lambs and rural Missouri, I am looking forward to a great new experience.

Being away from home, college, and friends for a summer internship can be challenging. But… what is the best part about a new home is that it is new. New people, new places, new friends, new opportunities.

The most important part about surviving a summer away is to get involved. Sometimes companies have social events that interns can attend. For example, ADM is participating in the Kansas City Corporate Challenge this summer. KCCC is a wide range of sporting activities in which companies all over Kansas City compete. They already asked me to represent the company and be on the golf team, soccer team, swim team, and even run the mile!

My participation in the sports events may be more amusing for bystanders than competitive for the team. But it will give me a chance to be involved. Find a club in the area near your internship. Or take a summer class at a college close by. Before you know it, summer will be gone! But the experiences from a summer internship you will take with you the rest of your life.

-Charlotte Jackson

Sophomore, Agricultural Education

Professor Maria Rodriguez Alcala, Agricultural Economics, shared the following very helpful tips regarding a career in international development:

I recently attended the seminar by Douglas Casson Couts, Senior Advisor to the U.N. World Food Programme. He provided eight very helpful tips to those consiering a career in international development and specifically, one with the United Nations:

1. Find your passion. 90% of development type jobs = passion. Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?


2. Linked to the issue of finding your passion, ask yourself: Do you want to make a difference? If so, at what level, scale, how much hands on?

3. Do you see yourself more as an office or a field work person? This is key in planning strategically your minors, majors, internships, languages and study abroad programs to build your career.

4. Personal flexibility. How flexible are you? Flexibility not just in terms of moving around, but in accepting different work environment (i.e. different colleagues, different way of doing things, different accents, etc.).

• U.S. Peace Corps experience is a great place to start to later get into the U.N. (basically the U.N. now is hiring from other institutions around the globe that will already provide the initial experience they need. Peace Corps is just one of them).
• The U.N. itself offers a similar program as the Peace Corps, the U.N. Volunteers (http://www.unv.org/) . By the way, the assignments for these are from 1-2 years. However, there are some short-term assignments that are from 6 to 12 months long.
• He also recommended the Peace Corps Master’s International program (http://www.peacecorps.gov/index.cfm?shell=learn.whyvol.eduben.mastersint).

5. Are you interested in long-term development or relief (emergency) type of jobs (90% of the World Food Program funds go to relief). It does matter to make this differentiation, the careers in each are very different worlds.

6. What specific major or courses should students choose? It DOES NOT matter. In the past they hired people with different specializations. Now that’s history; specialists are outsourced (i.e. hired as consultants for short-term periods to address a specific need or question). Most people in development jobs are generalists, they have a broad view of the world and issues we need to treat.

7. Education, basically two main things needed:

• Master Degree. A MUST. Very, very few undergraduates are hired by the U.N. today.
• Fluency (not just read and write, but involve in a conversation) in 2 U.N. languages (English, Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, French, Russian). I asked him more about his recommendations, and here are some tips if you want to learn another language:
  i. You first need some basics (i.e. levels 1,2 and perhaps 3 of college levels of any language, High School levels are not enough).
  ii. You need to go to a foreign country and spend at least 2-3 months without ANY exposure to English. On this he recommended a program he himself used in Canada called the “immersion program” and he mentioned three countries where he knows the programs are good: Mexico, Guatemala and Canada (Quebec Province). You actually spend 2-3 months far from the main cities perhaps in the middle of nowhere where nobody speaks a word of English.

8. There is no luck. You create your way, and you need to be strategic early on. That’s why, the earlier you discover your passion, the better you can plan.

Finally Finals

Finals week is here! As many of us are nervous about the upcoming exams, I share the feeling. This is my fourth time experiencing finals week at Mizzou. Although finals are supposed to be the roughest, toughest week of the year, it always seems to go smoothly for me.

So how do you survive the week? I think the most important part of the week is to actually study. Because there are no classes, there is nothing to motivate you get out the books! I set aside a certain number of hours each day to study during finals week. Sometimes if I procrastinate, I will find myself not studying until the day before, but most times I do a slow progression of studying throughout the entire week.

Secondly, take advantage of the “spoiling” the college and your family gives you during this week. If you live in a residential hall, oftentimes the floor will provide study snacks daily. It also is never a bad time to hint to your family how jealous you are of your roommate’s finals week care package.

Hang in there. One semester is almost down and only three more to go! This great college won’t give you any pressure you can’t handle, so take it all in stride.

CAFNR Career Services’s mission is to help students! Stop in for advice on any topic, whether it be schoolwork, time management, or career assistance.

-Charlotte Jackson
Sophomore, Agricultural Education

The meaning of two small words

Earlier this year a freshman asked me to look over his resume. I was honored that he valued my knowledge and that he asked me to edit it. A few days after helping him make a few changes, I found an envelope he slid under my door. It was a thank you note! He appreciated my help so much that he wanted to say “thank you.” Saying thank you for such a small task took only a few minutes of his time, but it meant the world to me.

In today’s fast paced, technology-driven society, I often find myself forgetting to say “thank you” sometimes to the people who have helped me along the way. Sometimes my gratitude will come in the form of an email, but I have found that people appreciate a hand written note so much more than any sort of online message.

Here are a few times when I feel it is important to write a thank you note:

• After an interview. Nothing makes a lasting impression on the future boss like a big thank you.
• After someone writes a recommendation for you. They took special time to tell someone else how great you are. It’s important to let them know you appreciated it as well.\
• To your family as a surprise. Nothing means more to Mom and Dad than a thank you just for raising you well.

All it takes are two small words. “Thank you” can bring a smile to someone’s face or it might even get you a job someday!

-Charlotte Jackson
Sophomore, Agricultural Education

CAFNR graduate starts restaurant

Hands-on experience in the Hotel and Restaurant Management department helped Brian Coley start his own restaurant at the age of 23.

A recent article in the Columbia Missourian features the young restauranteur's new venture, Coley’s American Bistro.

Jeffrey Guinn, a resident instructor in the hotel and restaurant management program at MU, had the chance to work closely with Coley as his teacher at MU.

“When it comes to food, Brian has a very creative imagination and comforting palate,” Guinn said. “He has the ability to put together complimenting and contrasting flavors and textures, resulting in wonderful plates.”

Click here to read more.

Double Your Dollar

Welcome back from spring break! Spend a little too much money? Here's your chance to make up for spent bucks! Join us for a personal finance workshop featuring Lance Reynolds, a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones.

We’ll discuss:

• The power of investments & importance of starting early
• How 401Ks/Roth IRAs work
• Financial lingo: definitions you need to know
• Practical budgeting
• Avoiding the “debt trap”

Don’t be a fool, join us on April Fool’s Day!
Wednesday, April 1st, 5 p.m.
572 Bond Life Sciences Center
Shakespeare's pizza provided!!

Contact CAFNR Career Services if you've got questions. See you there!

Looking for a job?

I wish each of you a happy spring break! We're taking a break from the blog until you return, but here's some important information in the meantime:

I’m sure you are aware of the economy and may be apprehensive as you prepare to graduate and think of future plans. Please know that positions are still available, especially in certain sectors. As you think about your future over the break, please let me know if CAFNR Career Services can assist you. We are glad to help with brainstorming possible employers, preparing marketing tools like résumés and interview strategies, and launching an effective job search that includes networking with alumni and friends. If you have chosen to pursue graduate school, we also have materials to help with personal statements and are glad to offer a review of statements.

Following are a couple of clips about the current economy—and what you can do about it:

No Jobs for the Class of 2009?http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/29178929#29178929

(Be sure to watch the entire video…you'll find some very good advice at the end.)

Please let me know if I can help.

-Stephanie Chipman
Director of CAFNR Career Services
chipmans@missouri.edu
573-882-0088

Find a job on HireMizzouTigers.com

Check out this video to see how you can get a job.

This is just another example of how HireMizzouTigers.com can benefit you!

Question: What do you want to do?

Yikes! The question you know they'll ask, but you're not prepared to answer. That's right, as soon as you meet them most employers want to know what you want to do. What happens when you find yourself stumbling around, ending with a jumbled response?

Don't get caught with a mumbling mess that sounds something like, "Well, I don't know what I want to do, but I love your company. I think I'd be a good fit for a lot of the positions you have to offer."

Instead, be honest and focused. You'll gain a lot more respect with something like this, "I can't pinpoint a job title, but I've looked at a few positions your company has to offer. I am most interested in the roles that would utilize my communication and organizational skills."

For more tips like this one, check out CAFNR Career Services in Ag Building 2-64.

The Thirst for Talent

As the economy creates questions for job-hunting students and alums, we bring you another perspective on the situation. Marketing yourself is key, according to recruiter Michele Holton.

Today companies and individuals grapple with the impact of our current economic conditions. Companies are trying to balance their short term interests against their strategic, long term plans. They are making challenging decisions about their businesses and their people that they may not have had to reconcile in the previous boom times.

At the same time, individuals are struggling financially, rethinking their career choices and their expectations for the future. Added to this complexity are increasing talent shortages. The impending retirement of the Baby Boom Generation (if they can still afford to) is giving way to a new generation in the workplace that have varying expectations for their careers, their development and their relationship with their company.

For most companies, talent is the true differentiator in realizing business results. Having the right talent at the right time in the right role is imperative to success. Companies with the foresight, initiative and resources to invest in talent now, will prevail in the long term.

So what can you do now to find the right opportunity? Today, being clear about what your interests are, taking the initiative to seek out and review available opportunities, preparing for interactions with company representatives and being able to articulate your interest are all extremely important. I would also strongly suggest you pursue an internship or co-op either during or after your college career.

After a careful review, Monsanto made the decision to offer fewer of our intern/co-op and entry level roles for the upcoming year yet we still had nearly 350 openings across the US alone. Internships and co-ops are an important resource for building our pipeline of future talent. Students who access these opportunities have a first hand, realistic job preview and an opportunity to show their skills and experience the company’s culture. In our case, many of the students are converted to full time opportunities contingent upon strong performance.

When considering an internship, having a positive attitude with the flexibility to try a new location, engage diverse viewpoints along with a thirst for learning and exploration will greatly aid your success. As you begin working, an open dialog with your manager, along with a willingness to accept constructive criticism, can help ensure you fulfill your project and overall expectations. One simple behavior that can be overlooked in the quest to network and secure a full time opportunity is simply performing well in your current position by meeting the job expectations.

Also, attend the events the company provides to help you build your knowledge of the organization and your network. Besides demonstrating appreciation for the resources the company expends putting on these programs, these can be great informal ways for the company to get to know you and for you to show yourself outside of your work.

This is a hugely exciting time to be part of agriculture given the global needs related to sustainable food and energy. At Monsanto we are thrilled to be part of this and talent remains a top priority as we go forward. Click here for more information on internships, co-ops and opportunities at Monsanto.

Michele Holton is the University Relations and Employment Branding Lead at Monsanto.

Being Competitive in a TIGHT Job Market!

Recession? A Changing Marketplace? Globalization?

Special Lecture by Rick Galbreath, President of Performance Growth Partners Inc.

7 p.m.

March 5, 2009

Monsanto Auditorium, Bond Life Sciences Center

Students graduating in the next few years will face more challenges in finding and being successful in their first job out of college than has been the case in decades. Richard “Rick” Galbreath, is an internationally published author, public speaker and consultant with 30 years of experience in helping people, and the organizations they work for, become wildly successful.

Rick will cover the following success strategies:

• Knowing what you really want
• Understanding that a change is about to happen
• Appreciating and developing those things you currently take for granted
• Specific issues you need to consider to ensure your early career is not derailed.

Sponsored by MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Sciences, Division of Animal Sciences and Career Services.

Time Rules

It's Career Fair time for CAFNR students! Don't forget to stop by Reynolds Alumni Center on Wednesday, February 25 from noon to 4 p.m. First, check out this tips for making a great first impression:

Meeting folks in the professional world is often nerve-racking for me. Did you know the average attention span of a person is seven minutes long? It makes sense though—it’s almost as though we were trained for this attention span. Commercials on television happen every seven to eight minutes, and we tend to take advantage of the mental break. This short time frame can make a person even more nervous when meeting someone.

While at AFA (Agriculture Future of America) last November, I learned some great Time Rules from one of our speakers. Here is the ways we learned to make a lasting impression in regards to time, whether it is an interview or a longer presentation:

1. 3 seconds—how long you have to make a first impression. Instinctive smiles, firm handshakes, and the initial presentation is what makes up a first impression.


2. 30 seconds—how long you have to get ‘em or lose ‘em. After the first impression, the “elevator speech” has to be captivating and enthrall the listener. Otherwise, they’re gone.


3. 7 minutes—average attention span. After the first seven minutes, it is up to you to keep interviewer or whoever listening.


4. 30 minutes—when presenting, it is time to get the audience some physical movement. Any more sitting after a half hour and they will be bored.


5. 90 minutes—mental breaktime. Change the topic, change the way of presenting, or just give the audience a break.

Although none of us are perfect, I now try to take these things into consideration when talking to anyone. Everyone says I love to talk, and now I can talk smart with these Time Rules.

For any kind of help with interviews, professional presentations, or any other speaking engagements, CAFNR Career Services is there for you! Just contact Stephanie Chipman for an appointment.

-Charlotte Jackson
Sophomore, Agricultural Education

Internships...YOU have to go get THEM!

It's impossible to turn on a television or open the newspaper without hearing about it. It's all over the online headlines. Yes, IT is the economy. Now we ask what IT is doing to your chances in the job market? This CAFNR Alum faced a similar situation during the economic recession of the '80s. He says internships are the key to YOUR success.

I suspect you’re getting more than you really want to hear about how difficult it’s becoming to land that internship. The reality is that the competition is heating-up…and the burden of success falls directly at your feet.

Having said that, take a deep breath and stop trying to figure everything out right now. You really just need to be taking a few simple steps to maximize your options.

First...make sure you have a reasonable idea of what you would like to do….but then consider a broad range of possible areas that might expand your job opportunities after graduation. Frankly….many (if not most) of us don’t really look at all the potential career options available to us….we tend to go with the obvious. If you do have a clear vision of what you want to do….that’s great….but we’re not expecting you to have it all worked out just yet.

Next…take action NOW! This is usually where things fall apart. We all procrastinate…and internships get filled quickly. You need to get going because most of the companies I’m familiar with really hope to have internships filled in January/February. Research potential companies that you feel might be a good fit for your interests. Take advantage of the CAFNR Career Services team and seek their advice. Attend the February 25th Career Fair. Apply for positions that look realistic. Pick-up the phone and call someone.

Finally….follow-up on your applications whenever possible. I frequently hear…"but I don’t want to bother them." Showing interest is not bothering them. This is a business transaction...you’re not calling for a favor. If you feel like you can contribute to their business, then you’ve got every reason to follow-up with them. Of course, execution is everything, so make sure you’ve got a fairly concise script when you call. It’s appreciated on their end…and makes you look professional.

Just remember…companies invest in internships because they want to attract and evaluate future employees. These programs are serious business for the company and they are attracted to students that show drive, enthusiasm, and the ability/willingness to make things happen.

Robbie Wilson is President of Management Recruiters of Chesterfield in St. Louis and a graduate of the University of Missouri (Ag. Econ – 1981). He participated in a summer internship with Monsanto while a student at MIZZOU and credits that program with helping him land a job upon graduation in the middle of a tough economic recession.

10 Tips to Reach Success

CAFNR graduate and Monsanto employee, Megan (Fox) McQuoid shares 10 tips to help undergraduates reach success. She's currently working as the US Commercial Internship Coordinator for Monsanto in St. Louis.

My top ten pieces of advice to an undergraduate:

1. Foreign Language
Many companies are changing and evolving into a worldwide work environment, which involves having employees interact or even run the company’s business within a different country. It is very important when conducting business within these companies that multiple languages are used. Having a second, third, or even a forth language you will be very valuable to a company in the future due to the changing workplace.

2. Study Abroad
Studying abroad provides you an opportunity to learn about another country’s culture and way of doing business, but it also provides you an opportunity to look at the world in a different light. Many of us have various perceptions on how the rest of the country operates with their business practices but it is until we truly experience these practices during opportunities like study abroad that we realize their significance. These experiences will prove to be beneficial to future employees due to the fact that you will be able to see the “big” picture!

3. Take Diverse Courses
It is very important to take diverse courses within college because college is a great time to find out what your interests are and to learn about other industries that you could possibly work with in the future as well as developing a stronger network. Having a wide range of knowledge and network is important to growing companies such as Monsanto, because the employees within Monsanto change roles very often and it is important to be aware of the different aspects and issues within our company, the agriculture industry and the world!

4. Find passion
It is very important for your future career that you find what your passion is. This does not have to be an exact job, but it can be more focused around what subjects you are passionate about and what aspirations you have for life. Having a passion and having your work evolve around your passion will inspire you to do great work, which is what employers will want out of a new hire!

5. Get involved
Getting involved on campus and off campus provides you the opportunity to connect with other people but to also learn from them! Every person has a different experience that can be valuable to your knowledge!

6. Leadership Roles
By taking on leadership roles you are gaining valuable experiences that will help you within you future especially your career. By holding leadership roles you will realize the importance of responsibility, collaboration, communication and delegation, which are all important competences that employers look for in future hires!

7. Get Experience
Gain real experience in multiple ways. For instance you can be an intern for a company two years in a row, however it is very important that you will be provided with different learning experiences your second summer! It is also important that you have valuable experiences where you are provided with the opportunity to truly learn and develop!

8. Excel
Do you best at all times!

9. Network
They say a majority of the time a person gets a job or is successful do to who they know. I believe this is very true and it is very valuable to network with everyone you meet, including classmates, executives, parents, relatives, co-workers and much more! Who know they could be your potential new boss, co-worker, or could help you with your next career move!

10. Learn
Dive into your classroom learning, but also learn about various different issues within the world! I can tell you that you can never know everything or learn everything, so keeping your eyes and ears open to new learning is very important for your personal growth!

Visit with Megan and other employers at the Ag & Life Sciences Career Fair or the Hospitality Fair on February 25th. Stop by the Reynolds Alumni Center from noon-4 p.m. See you there!

What a Break...Dairy Industry Scholars

The Dairy Industry Scholars group in Fair Oaks, Indiana. From left to right: Deanna Karandish, Julie Niemeyer, Rachel Firle, and Charlotte Jackson.

Milk—much more than just a cow! When I had the privilege to travel over winter break with the Dairy Industry Scholars, I learned so much about the dairy industry. Growing up on a dairy farm, I thought I had a pretty diverse knowledge base about milk and other dairy products. Little did I know what I was getting myself into.

I applied for the Dairy Industry Scholars several months ago with the intent of networking with top notch industry leaders during the week long program. While the Dairy Industry Scholars has more of a food science focus than a production agriculture emphasis, I was intrigued with learning more about dairying on a different level.

I had an amazing experience learning through hands-on experiences with T.C. Jacoby and Company (sponsor of the program). We traveled to four states in one day! We tasted string cheese that melted in your mouth, went on the floor of the Chicago Board of Trade, and even watched a calf being born.

The application for the Dairy Industry Scholars is short and sweet—and the rewards are great. Applications are available in the fall through CAFNR Career Services. Apply and you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime!

Living Your Company’s Brand

Gearing up for graduation so you can start that full-time job? You've learned how to network. Now read what Cody Cheetham has to say before you head to the office:

Think about the last time you had an important exam. Did you study or just wing it? How did you find the information you needed? Did you take notes from the lectures, read the book, or reach for a lifeline and phone-a-friend? Well, preparing for a new job is a lot like studying for an exam.

At this point, you’ve aced your interview, signed your acceptance letter, and gotten your new work wardrobe ready, but how much do you really know about your new employer? With so much information out there, where do you start?

A great starting point is your future company’s brand. Companies with a focused brand strategy filter all aspects of their business around their brand promise. Learning about your company’s brand before you decorate your new office is beneficial for a number of reasons:

1. A company’s brand reflects how they want others to perceive them. It’s the framework for managing clients, projects, and interacting as a group. A company’s brand shows you who they are and what they stand for, and can help you get a basic understanding of how you’ll fit.

2. Taking to heart the company’s brand values and promise makes you a more efficient and reputable employee. Asking questions, being knowledgeable on diverse aspects of the organization, and understanding the company org chart are all ways to help you tune in to your company’s brand (Hint: These are especially helpful if your company’s brand values and promise aren’t posted all over its website!).

3. Several Human Resources guides also suggest that as employees digest the company’s brand, success becomes a byproduct of their actions. In doing so, your actions are well-aligned with the company’s brand and goals, thus accelerating your work performance.

Authors of the book Brand from the Inside, Libby Sartain and Mark Schumann offer advice in understanding your company’s brand. They believe appreciating the company’s brand is a necessary part of professional development. This helps employees develop the skills necessary to deliver the company’s promise (a.k.a. results).

Each company’s brand is a sum of its employees’ personal brands . As part of your brand, you can proudly sport your Mizzou colors in the office. But before you pick out the perfect Tiger to decorate your desk, consider what questions you’ll ask, what parts of the company you could learn more about, and how to incorporate your company’s brand promise in your work.

Cody Cheetham recently joined the Adayana Branding and Communications team as a Communications Specialist. She graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and has prior experience in both Branding and Communications, including work with Red Bull North America and Suite Dreams Project, a not-for-profit charity in Indianapolis. Cody also represented her class as the student responder at their commencement ceremony last May.

All About Timing

As a December graduate, I get a lot of questions from employers and younger students looking for advantages and disadvantages of finishing school early.

An advantage to early graduation can be a smaller financial burden. I saw an opportunity to pay for one less semester of tuition and really had trouble turning the idea down. I came in as a freshman with 19 hours of college credit, so I didn’t have to cram or anything to get it done.

Some people told me it would help me find a job because fewer people look for jobs in the winter. Others told me it would hinder my job search because fewer companies would be looking for new employees. As it turns out, neither side was right or wrong when I graduated nearly 50 days ago. With our economy, I found a lot of companies weren't hiring, regardless of the season.

Luckily I had considered grad school and since I was graduating in December, I felt it would be an easy transition to start the following January. This ended up working perfectly for the program I chose, Agriculture Education. Staring mid-year allows me to student teach the following spring and finish my masters in a year and a half.

All that said, there is still no right or wrong answer. Spoken like a true politician, I can easily say the best route depends on each student's individual situation. While graduating early can give you a jump start on your career and save you a few bucks, you do miss out on a little of the “college experience”.

Take time to consider your options and find out what fits best for you. Get advice from others, but listen to your personal needs and wants in life. Making this choice can be as personal as the decision you made when choosing a major.

-Taryn Dameron
Agricultural Education, graduate student
Agricultural Journalism, December 2008 graduate

To find out what education and experience you need to land your ideal career, consult the team at CAFNR Career Services. It's never too early to begin your career search!

Resources Galore!

With a lot of recruiters heading to campus to meet CAFNR students, it’ll be time to practice handshakes and small talk. Before it’s time to dust off your business suit and shine your shoes, you need to take advantage of what CAFNR Career Services has to offer.

Sign-up for HireMizzouTigers.com today! Take some time to set up a profile and upload your resume so you can take full advantage of the resource that will help you connect with employers.


Already on HireMizzouTigers.com? Now’s the time to do some research on employers visiting campus February 25. Follow these instructions to see who’s registered for the fairs so far:

1. Login to HireMizzouTigers.com
2. Click on Career Fairs/Workshops (button along horizontal navigation bar at top of page)
3. Select 2009 Agriculture and Life Sciences Quest or 2009 Hospitality Fair
4. Click on button in middle of screen to find employers registered for the events
5. Select individual listings to learn more about each employer

Take it to the next level by searching for information about these companies on the Web. Not only will it help you determine your interest in the employer, but it will impress the recruiting staff when you have background knowledge about their organization.

Be sure to check back frequently, as companies continue registering for the events! Don't forget to mark your calendar to attend February 25!

Research: Leading Students to Success

I’m sure everyone has noticed the fenced off field of crop plots which seems to be randomly and most inconveniently stuck in the middle of east campus. I would even assume most of you know this random plot is known as Sanborn Field and realize it has some real significance to our University.

However, I am willing to wager that not many students could give a really solid answer as to what that significance is. After some quick research I found the history of Sanborn Field is pretty cool. Now rather than cursing the extra walking distance as I trudge by it in the cold, I’ve developed a deeper understanding and respect for part of our university’s history. If you were fairly observant you might have seen the 100 years plaques set up around the field.

In fact Sanborn Field was put in place in 1888 only three years after the original Academic hall was constructed and only 18 years after we became the state’s land-grant university. This makes it the third oldest experimental field in our country and the oldest west of the Mississippi. Along the side of the field there is another sign which is positioned over plot 23. It was from this plot that Dr. Benjamin Duggar identified a golden mold which was later named streptomyces aureofaciens. This organism was responsible for the production of Aureomycin, one of the most popular antibiotics since Penicillin. Then in 1965 it was declared a National Historic Landmark solidifying its place on our campus.

Today, the field continues to serve as a test plot for soil treatments, erosion, and cropping systems and provides a valuable teaching resource for numerous CAFNR students each year. So the next time you walk by the College and Rollins intersection you will know why there is a field seemingly placed in the middle of campus and perhaps like me you have a greater respect for one of the pieces of history which has helped shape our great University.

-Christopher Perry
Junior, Animal Sciences

Visit CAFNR to learn more about resources available to students. It's time to take advantage of everything college has to offer!

Networking is Fun Again!

If you would have told me as a freshman that I would be Facebook friends with my MU professors and employers from my summer internships, I would think you were out of your mind! But that is exactly what has happened. I guess you could say I've experienced networking at the cutting edge of technology.

When I came to college in 2005 I barely knew what Facebook was. More than 550 friends later it seems I can’t go a day, or even a few hours, without logging on to see what everyone is up to, and I know I’m not alone.

So how can students rely on social-networking sites to find mentors in the professional world? During my first internship I was scared to death to be caught on Facebook while at work until a fellow intern called it a “networking” opportunity. What was simply her way of justifying goofing off at work has now become a very acceptable means of communicating with fellow students and industry leaders.

I know you have heard it a thousand times before, but the key here is to be careful about what you put on your profile, or to only allow your professional contacts to see you limited profile. This applies to Facebook, MySpace or any other social networking tool. Just keep it professional.
Becoming friends with professors and industry professionals (or as I like to call them ‘potential employers’) can move you one step closer to bridging the gap between where you are, and those working where you want to be. Drop your ‘friends’ a line now and then to keep you on the top of their list when considering candidates for internships and full-time positions.

Any kind of networking you do is vital to making connections with people that can take your college learning experience far beyond the classroom. So take advantage of every opportunity, it may even be fun!

-Taryn Dameron
Agricultural Education, graduate student

Agricultural Journalism, December 2008 graduate

Stay tuned to the blog for a series of tips regarding Facebook Dos and Don'ts coming soon. Until then, visit CAFNR Career Services for any questions you have in your search for professional success!