Congratulations! You did it. You did the work, you passed the classes, and you got the degree. Now what?
While entering the ag workforce upon graduation can seem like a daunting task, there are several steps you can take to make it a smooth transition and get your ag career moving in the right direction.
1. Build a professional network.
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.” And while that’s by no means a hard and fast rule for getting a job, it’s also not totally off base. Having a large, strong network is crucial in a successful ag job search. Thankfully, there are lots of ways to build one! From industry events, like conferences and trade shows, to agricultural organizations, including those at your school, are great places to start. Have a list of conversation starters, and make it a point to meet anyone you may want to work with now or in the future. From there, send an email or connect with the individuals you meet on LinkedIn. It is a phenomenal tool for networking, and it’s not difficult to set yourself up for success.
2. Apply, apply, apply.
You may come into the job market with your dream job identified and an application already written, and that’s great! But don’t let that stop you from exploring other ag job openings and having a plan. Do your research, which includes networking, and find jobs that spark your interest and align with your values. At this point in your career, you should be applying for several positions. In fact, submitting 10 to 15 applications per week is a good idea. And don’t always let qualifications you don’t meet stop you from applying. To some ag recruiters and hiring managers, those are simply wish lists. If you don’t have all of the qualifications but prove to be a good fit, your application may just be the one they pick!
A good place to start with the application process is a well-polished resume that makes you stand out and an understanding of how to ace an interview. Practice answering common interview questions out loud, or ask a family member or friend to help by conducting a mock interview. After your interview, send a follow-up email or thank you note to express appreciation for their time and consideration and make you stand out again in the process.
3. Have realistic expectations.
While heading into your first ag job is and should be exciting, it can sometimes be hard to keep your expectations realistic. Many, if not all, of the jobs you’ll be applying for may be considered entry-level, and with that come entry-level benefits. In a world where remote work is so prevalent, it might be tempting to discount jobs that work in-office or have a hybrid structure. Don’t count them out! There are many benefits to working on location or in the field, especially your first few years in the workforce, such as hands-on learning and coworker camaraderie. In addition to work structure, consider what your specific ag sector salary and benefits may be for a new graduate. Don’t get your hopes up based on what more experienced individuals in the same position might make, but always be prepared for negotiation!
4. Avoid actively job-hopping.
Once you’ve seen all the jobs out there and what they each have to offer, it may be tempting to try one for a while, then another, and maybe even another. While job hopping isn’t uncommon, it’s not necessarily encouraged as a new grad. Ag employers may or may not care if you’re just a few years out of school with several jobs on your resume already, but to some, it may be a red flag. Remember that loyalty can play a part in building your reputation, learning how to be the best you can be in that position, and proving that you can be a worthy, long-term investment for an employer.
5. Do the job… well.
You did it… again! You got the offer. After properly accepting the offer, you’re officially an ag professional. Now it’s time to prove it. Take initiative. Go the extra mile to give your best and be an asset to the company and team. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn from coworkers, and never stop learning. A lot of that learning will come from mistakes because you will make them. And that’s okay! Analyze what went wrong and how you can do better next time, then move on and carry that lesson into your next obstacle.
Entering the agriculture workforce after graduation may be intimidating, but you CAN do it. Use these steps to prepare yourself for the journey, and visit AgHires.com to find jobs and land the first job opportunity of your ag career! Find more tips for your career journey at AgHires.com.
