30 Land O Lakes Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Land O Lakes interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Who are Land O Lakes largest competitors? Have you applied to any of these companies?
How to Answer
You must understand the landscape of the dairy industry and the competitors of Land O Lakes before going into your interview. The more research you perform, the better you show the hiring authority that you are engaged in the interview process and keen on their specific industry.
Mention two to three of their largest competitors, and if you have taken an interest in applying for any open positions. This question is an excellent opportunity for you to solidify precisely why you are choosing to apply for a job with Land O Lakes.
1st Answer Example
"From the research I have done, I believe that the biggest competitors of Land O Lakes are (A), (B), and (C). Company A, in particular, has many similar products; however, they have fewer plants across the country. In this marketplace, Land O Lakes stood out the strongest because of your high employee satisfaction scores and your commitment to the health of your customers."
2nd Answer Example
"As an animal lover and health enthusiast, it is crucial to me that I join a company whose core values align with mine. Your organization has a strong history of due diligence, respect for animals, and putting out products with only the finest ingredients. Your biggest competitors, Company A, and Company B are also esteemed organizations; however, I am much more impressed with the corporate commitments made by Land O Lakes."
2. What sets Land O Lakes apart from other dairy product producers, marketers, and distributors?
How to Answer
This question is similar to, 'Why do you want to work for us?' The hiring authority wants to hear a unique answer that is well thought out. Typical responses such as 'I like your workplace culture' will not do here! Show that you have done specific research on what it means to work for Land O Lakes. You can refer to their company core values and mission statement or some employee reviews that you have read online.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Land O Lakes and your competitors extensively. I understand that you have a further reach into health-based products. I appreciate that a lot of your research goes into topics such as diary and pediatrics, gut health, and the benefits of milk enzymes on cognitive function. I want to join a company that is more than just a producer, but also a thought leader in the dairy industry."
2nd Answer Example
"I researched Land O Lakes and your top four global competitors before making my application. The employee reviews for your organization are second to none. You have the highest employee satisfaction rates on Glassdoor. In addition to this, you also have the widest product range and happiest customers. I would be very proud to say that I work for Land O Lakes."
3. How would you leverage your skills to improve operations at Land O Lakes?
How to Answer
Of course, Land O Lakes is already a well-oiled machine when it comes to their everyday operations. This question is another form of asking what your most significant strength is, and how it would benefit Land O Lakes should they hire you. Take the time to comb through the job posting or job description. Which skills do you possess that are a strong match to the needs of their organization?
1st Answer Example
"I understand that your biggest goal for this position is to maintain the quality standards that your customers have come to expect from Land O Lakes products. I am a highly detailed individual with formal education in product quality analysis and compliance. I am also skilled in quality control technologies, ensuring that I can quickly repair quality issues and also see potential issues before they occur."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a fast learner who can take the training information given to me and apply it effectively. I will leverage this skill to learn my job faster than expected, ensuring that I am a productive member of the Land O Lakes team very quickly."
4. What will Land O Lakes be able to offer you that your current organization cannot?
How to Answer
If you are currently employed, your reason for leaving will be valuable information for the interviewer to uncover. A careful hiring authority will be sure that they can fulfill your career needs before extending a job offer. The most common reasons for someone to quit their job include feeling a lack of autonomy, lack of recognition, little respect, few opportunities for growth, and being underpaid.
When explaining your reasons for moving on, you mustn't bash your employer or speak poorly of your coworkers. Be less emotional and more factual, keeping your answer to the point. Explain, in a positive tone, what you hope to gain in your next position.
1st Answer Example
"My current employer is a small family-owned business, and I have come as far as I can without buying into the company. I am ready to work for a larger organization such as Land O Lakes where there are opportunities in a variety of departments in multiple locations. I feel that I could truly tap into my potential at Land O Lakes and that excites me."
2nd Answer Example
"My current position has been great for me; however, they are not able to offer me more than part-time hours for the time being. I started as an intern and am very thankful for the opportunity they awarded me right out of university. With that said, I am ready for a full-time opportunity where I can be paid fairly and have the opportunity for growth."
5. List for me a few of the products made available by Land O Lakes.
How to Answer
This question is pretty straightforward as the interviewer is asking for you to list a few of the products they offer. You can perform this basic research by reviewing the Land O Lakes website, or doing a quick online search. If you have used any of the products that you mention, be sure to share which ones are your favorite!
1st Answer Example
"My favorite food is cheese, cheese, and more cheese! I know that Land O Lakes has a multitude of dairy products including your broad line of mozzarella. I have tried many of your specialty cheeses, such as ricotta, provolone, blue, parmesan, goat cheese, and romano."
2nd Answer Example
"From my research, it seems that your top-ranking products include your line of American-style cheeses, organic butter, and your broad range of cows milk. I purchase your organic, lactose-free milk on a regular basis. It is my absolutely favorite."
6. Product quality is of utmost importance to Land O Lakes. How will you contribute to our strict quality control standards?
How to Answer
Land O Lakes has a firm commitment to quality, and this commitment drives their global success. To achieve the highest quality standards, all of their employees need to bring 100% dedication to the cause. Every stage of food manufacturing and distribution comes with strict compliance standards and GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices). Talk to the interviewer about how you will ensure that you exceed these standards.
1st Answer Example
"I believe it's essential to have a robust quality assurance program. In my current position, I was part of the quality assurance team that contributed to the re-writing of our QA program and policies. My part included completing sections on the thorough inspection of incoming materials, more frequent inspections, and analytics that everyone could understand. When the entire team can understand corporate goals, the quality of a final product will always be better."
2nd Answer Example
"I will contribute to Land O Lakes quality control standards by fully understanding your GMPs and learning how to exceed these standard protocols. I will readily take feedback from the QA team and comply with all SOPs provided to me."
7. The dairy industry has many stages, including producing, processing, transportation, packing, and merchandising. Which stage of our business interests you the most?
How to Answer
No matter the role to which you are applying, the interviewer would like to know which aspect of Land O Lakes interests you the most. Dairy production, processing, and distribution are multi-faceted, and there is a lot to learn. The more you know about the company's overall operations, the more successful you will be in your position. If you had the opportunity, which stage of their process would you want to learn?
1st Answer Example
"I find food production and manufacturing fascinating and would like to learn all of it, over time. If I had to choose just one area of focus, I would pick production. A lot of the questions that I get from customers and retailers in my current role is related to how we produce our products. The more I know, the better."
2nd Answer Example
"My education background is in transportation and logistics so, of course, I would first want to learn everything that I can about how Land O Lakes operates product transport. Your volume is significant, and it's important to me that I understand the logistics that go into getting your products out on time and efficiently."
8. How important is the dairy industry for our country's agriculture sector?
How to Answer
Milk is produced in all 50 states and is one of the most significant contributors to the agriculture landscape in the United States. In other countries, dairy is a huge producer, contributing to jobs all around the world.
Dairy is more than just milk, too! Dairy products include milk beverages, cheese, butter, ice cream, yogurt, dry milk products, condensed milk, and even whey products. Think about how vast the dairy sections are when you enter your favorite grocery store. The interviewer would like to see that you have an idea of how significant the dairy industry is and that you understand the full potential that could come from working for Land O Lakes.
1st Answer Example
"The dairy industry is worth billions of dollars in the United States. Dairy production occurs in every single one of the 50 states. I believe that dairy is an unstoppable force and an incredible contributor to the country's agriculture sector. I am thrilled to be interviewing with Land O Lakes because the thought of working for such an esteemed name in the dairy industry means a lot for my career."
2nd Answer Example
"Is it vital for our economy that the US dairy industry remains strong. As of now, we see dairy production across the entire country, and the industry itself contributes billions of dollars to our economy. You will find dairy products in nearly every US household; from milk to butter, ice cream, yogurt, and more. The dairy industry and its success is a critical arm of US agriculture."
9. How can Land O Lakes improve the quality of our dairy products?
How to Answer
Land O Lakes is not looking for you to reinvent the wheel. The interviewer wants to see that you have keen attention to detail and that you care about the quality of product delivered to every customer. Provide your recommendation tactfully. Perhaps you have an idea to improve packaging, boost the visibility of product in-stores, or a new flavor of ice cream to add to their product line.
1st Answer Example
"Land O Lakes produces some of my favorite dairy products. I am always happy with the quality of my purchase. My only suggestion would be to expand the flavors of ice cream that you offer. For instance, I would love to see some throwback flavors from my childhood, such as cherries jubilee, tiger tiger, and bubble gum!"
2nd Answer Example
"My suggestion has more to do with the packaging of some of your cheese products. I would love to see Land O Lakes embrace the movement away from plastic, and into compostable packaging for your shredded cheese line. I believe that better packaging offers the appearance of a more premium product while also attracting the attention of consumers who are eco-conscious."
10. What types of products fall under the dairy category? Of these categories, where do you believe Land O Lakes is the strongest?
How to Answer
The hiring authority is checking to see what you know about Land O Lakes and their product lines. To answer this question correctly, you will have to do some research on their website and recall the information that you have read. Next, think about which of these product categories is a stand out for Land O Lakes, compared to their competitors.
1st Answer Example
"Dairy products include milk, cheese, ice cream, butter, yogurt, and any other foods produced from the milk of mammals. I believe that of the multitude of dairy categories, Land O Lakes stands out in the cheese department. Your selection is unique and affordable. For instance, I make sure to have Product A in my fridge at all times!"
2nd Answer Example
"For a product to be considered dairy, it must be produced from the milk of mammals such as cows and goats, or even camels! I consider yogurt, milk, cheese, butter, and ice cream to be the most commonly purchased dairy items. Where Land O Lakes stands out the most is in your ice cream line. You have unique flavors and use organic cows milk, which is highly enticing to a health-conscious consumer like me."
11. What is the PMO, and how do they impact dairy operations in the United States?
How to Answer
PMO is short for Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. In the United States, the PMO governs the rules and regulations around milk. The purpose of the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance is to ensure that no milk-bourne diseases break out. 46 of the 50 states have adopted the national standards of the PMO. These standards cover issues related to production, processing, and packaging of milk and milk products. Briefly explain what you understand the PMO to be, showing the interviewer that you have an understanding of regulations in the dairy industry.
1st Answer Example
"PMO is short for Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. The PMO makes and enforces rules surrounding the production and sales of milk products. Their involvement is crucial in the USA because it prevents milk-borne disease and outbreaks."
2nd Answer Example
"I was recently reading about the PMO and their important involvement in the milk industry within the United States. PMO is short for Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. At this point in time, around 46 of the 50 states fall under the rules and regulations set by the PMO. The remaining states have their own governing bodies."
12. How do you successfully interact with challenging customers or coworkers?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how you interact with customers or coworkers who may have challenging personalities or significant demands. Think back to a client whom you can never seem to please fully. Maybe you have a coworker who is incredibly brief in their communication. Showcase your ability to work harmoniously with people who may have different communication styles from yourself. This question is not the time to speak poorly of a boss, coworker, or client. Focus your answer more on what you do to turn a challenging situation into a positive one.
1st Answer Example
"I am very flexible in my approach when I face a challenging individual. The most difficult person I ever worked with was my boss a few years back. She was not receptive to new ideas; however, she did have a lot of approaches that were tried and true. I tried to make recommendations but quickly realized that she would only listen when she saw an element of what she knew included in the pitch. I started to pitch ideas that piggy-backed on our old way of doing things. This approach was an excellent workaround, and we collaborated well for many years."
2nd Answer Example
"If I come across a challenging customer or coworker, I continue to be my genuine self. People often come around when they feel the warmth and acceptance from the other person. If someone is especially difficult, I will approach them about the situation and ask how they feel we could better collaborate."
13. There are trends to follow in every category of food production. What do you believe is the latest trend in dairy?
How to Answer
Every food category has trends that come and go, and the hiring authority would like to know which trends you believe are up and coming in the dairy industry. The way that you answer this question will show the interviewer if you have done your research on their industry before your interview. If you come from the dairy industry, your response will show the interviewer your depth of knowledge.
1st Answer Example
"Hands down, the biggest trend that I have noticed this year has been in flavor experimentation. Flavors are beginning to answer the demands of adventurous customers, and are better reflecting the multiculturalism in our country. We now see alcohol-infused flavors such as rum ice cream, and merlot-infused cheeses. I believe this trend will continue for some time to come."
2nd Answer Example
"Reducing sugars, without leaning on artificial sweeteners is one exciting trend that I have noticed lately. Consumers want dairy products that offer exceptional taste without the guilt. More consumers are becoming health-conscious and trends such as the keto lifestyle and leading the way of these demands."
14. How have dairy alternatives impacted the dairy industry over the past few years?
How to Answer
Plant-based dairy alternatives are continuing to grow in demand and selection. The interviewer wants to see insight into these trends, and how you believe Land O Lakes can best guard against the potential of lost profits.
1st Answer Example
"Plant-based diets are increasing, and more consumers are coming out with sensitivity to lactose-based products. It's more important than ever to meet the needs of those diet requirements. I read in a recent report by the USDA that Americans drank 247 pounds of milk in 1975 to just 149 pounds per capita, today. I believe the best effort to combat this is for every major dairy company to invest in a milk alternative. It's important to bring variety and participate versus ignoring the trends and hoping for the best."
2nd Answer Example
"With the introduction of milk alternatives, milk went from the only healthy choice to the unhealthy alternative very quickly. To combat this, many dairy companies are purchasing smaller non-dairy milk producers and joining in on the competition. I believe there will always be people who want real milk, and it's important to focus on delivering the best possible options for those consumers."
15. List for me some of the sub-brands under the Land O Lakes name.
How to Answer
The answer to this question is not complicated, but it will take some research. Many large food companies have smaller brands that offer more niche products. Do some online research on Land O Lakes to see what you can uncover. You may find that they have sub-brands available in other countries, or brands that are available in discount stores versus premium grocery retailers. Keep your answer to the point and brief. If you have tried any products under a different Land O Lakes brand, be sure to mention this!
1st Answer Example
"Research tells me that your business manufactures a variety of brands such as (A), (B), and (C). I have tried a couple of flavors of yogurt from (C) and found them to be unique and delicious. I understand that this organization has a range of profit-driving brands, and I am excited to learn more throughout this interview process."
2nd Answer Example
"I was surprised to see the number of brands and products from :company! It's great to see that your product lines are so diverse. I have tried milk products, yogurts, and cheese from a variety of your brands without even realizing it."
16. What qualities will make you successful in this role with Land O Lakes?
How to Answer
This question is another way of asking 'Why should we hire you?' or 'Why are you the best candidate for Land O Lakes?' Think about the skills listed in the job description or job posting, and which of those skills best match with your experience, personality, and characteristics. Then, mention around three qualities that Land O Lakes is looking for, that describe you very well.
1st Answer Example
"In the job posting for this role, Land O Lakes mentions giving preference to candidates with formal education in business, customer service experience, and someone who can thrive in a highly diverse work environment. I have my Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and have been in a customer-facing position for the past five years. I have built excellent relationships with my client base over the years. My client base and my work environment both offer challenging situations where I must readily embrace diversity to succeed. These qualities and many others will ensure my success in this role with Land O Lakes."
2nd Answer Example
"You mentioned during our telephone interview that finding reliable employees s a common pain point in the food industry. My work history and tenure speak to my level of loyalty and dedication. You will not be disappointed in my work ethic. I hope that my dedication would influence my teammates along the way. Over time, as I earn my way into a leadership role, I could influence my team members to work hard and strive for growth."
17. This role with Land O Lakes requires flexible work hours. Are you willing to work overtime, if needed?
How to Answer
In many regions, an employer cannot demand that you work more than 44 hours per week. However, in some industries and job titles, you may be required to be on-call, work evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime. This requirement is especially true in a production or logistics environment.
Before answering scheduling questions, make sure you are crystal clear on the expectations in this role. You can ask to see a sample schedule, or you can ask the hiring authority to outline the hours for you. If you can get the schedule expectations in writing, even better.
If you cannot work overtime as often as Land O Lakes would like, rather than saying you cannot meet their needs, focus on what you can do. It's much better to discuss your abilities upfront rather than committing to a schedule that won't work for your lifestyle and other commitments.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that roles within food production and distribution can have long hours, and I am ready to be a team player. I am looking to retain my current schedule of 8-5pm Monday through Friday, and every other weekend. Of course, should an emergency come up, I am more than willing to be a team player. Could you share with me more about the scheduling expectations at Land O Lakes?"
2nd Answer Example
"I'm accustomed to working overtime, evenings, weekends, and even some holidays. I am flexible and dedicated to being a reliable team member. My current company offers overtime and holiday pay. Do you offer these incentives at Land O Lakes as well?"
18. Tell me about your experience working in a cross-functional or cross-departmental environment.
How to Answer
Land O Lakes has many different business units and many more job functions. In your role, you will be required to collaborate with and work alongside a variety of people with unique working styles and priorities. If you have worked for a larger organization in the past, you may bring a fair amount of cross-functional or cross-departmental experience. Your ability to work harmoniously across the board will be a great asset to Land O Lakes.
If you are newer to your career, try discussing a time when you had to collaborate on a group school project. You could also talk about a volunteer experience where you worked well with others towards one common goal.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in a cross-functional setting for many years. In my current position, I often collaborate with human resources, finance, and marketing. I speak with at least five different stakeholders every single day. When operating in this type of environment, the most important factors are timely communication, clarity on expectations, and mutual respect."
2nd Answer Example
"My current company is family-owned and operates pretty flat for the most part. I have worked in team environments while attending university. Group projects were always a welcome challenge because I enjoyed learning about everyone's strengths and then leveraging those to ensure smooth project delivery. I am prepared and ready to expand my career into a more diverse work environment that includes communication with a variety of stakeholders."
19. Walk me through a significant decision you made at work, and the impact of that decision. Was there a positive outcome?
How to Answer
Think to a time when you were asked to take the lead in your job. How did it feel to be the decision-maker? Were you successful and able to help out your team or company by making the right call? The interviewer wants to see that you can take on decision making with confidence.
If you come from a management position, this question will be easier to answer than if you are not in a management role. With that said, it's important to remember that even non-formal leadership positions do require leadership action now and then.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, I was asked to source new potential shipping partners. I performed a lot of solid research, considering a multitude of factors such as quality of service, pricing, and reputation. Once my management team chose a shipping partner from the shortlist that I provided, we actively tracked financial savings and customer satisfaction. After six months, we saw that the change gained us many more 5-star customer reviews, and saved us around 20,000 in fees."
2nd Answer Example
"When my manager is not around, it is up to me to make customer-service based decisions such as accepting returns and giving refunds or further mark-downs. I am sure to be calculated, keeping excellent customer service delivery top of mind while also noting that the decision cannot be harmful to my company's bottom-line. I am skilled at taking a disgruntled customer and turning their refund request into a simple exchange; saving my company a lot of money."
20. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond your job description. What did you do, and what was the impact?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are the type of person who will readily go above your job description for the benefit of Land O Lakes. Employees who say, 'That's not my job' or 'That's above my pay scale' are rarely successful long term, and often fail to achieve promotions or significant career growth.
Think back to a time when you readily exceeded expectations. Maybe you helped a coworker accomplish a goal. Perhaps you stayed late to meet a deadline. Or, maybe you filled in for a co-worker when they were away unexpectedly. Be prepared with a brief story that spotlights your excellent attitude!
1st Answer Example
"We introduced a new SAP system this year, and many of my coworkers were struggling with the change. I am tech-savvy and also love to teach others how to embrace new technology in the workplace. I offered to hold a series of lunch and learns over four weeks, helping to address common questions and concerns regarding the new system. I am still the go-to person on the floor when it comes to questions on the system. I believe this help has made us more productive, ensuring that our documentation is up-to-date and that our less tech-savvy employees still feel supported."
2nd Answer Example
"I go above and beyond to make all of our new hires feel comfortable. It can be scary to walk into a new office, and a friendly face can make a big difference in employee retention during the first three months. Just recently, I noticed a new production worker looking lost and uncomfortable. I sat down with her and asked her if she had any questions. We had lunch together for a few days until I saw that she was feeling more at home. I believe she would have quit the job if she went too long without making a personal connection with someone."
21. How would you react if a customer asked you about a Land O Lakes product and you were unsure of the answer?
How to Answer
You will not always have the answer to every single product-related question at Land O Lakes. The interviewer wants to see that you are willing to find out what you need to while admitting when you don't have the correct response on-hand.
Show that you are an independent and confident thinker, able to find answers to questions on your own. Explain that you would take the time to find a solution, rather than saying 'I don't know.' You can also show the hiring authority that you are not too proud to ask questions of your co-workers when needed.
1st Answer Example
"When a customer has a question that I cannot answer, my response is always, 'I am happy to find out!' In the food industry, factors such as ingredients and product offerings are always changing. I will research the answer, or ask a more tenured coworker before I give out incorrect information. I do embrace the opportunity to learn, and I like it when customers ask challenging questions of me."
2nd Answer Example
"If a customer asked a question that I was unsure of, I would be transparent and let them know that I would have to do some research and find out. I would make the customer feel great by reinforcing the fact that their question was in-depth and insightful. I would also thank them for asking a complex question and challenging me as a Land O Lakes ambassador. I have no trouble admitting when I don't know something. I would source the answer as quickly as possible by utilizing resources provided to me or asking a more experienced coworker."
22. Tell me the most valuable lesson you have learned this year.
How to Answer
As a curious and effective problem solver, you must seek out opportunities to learn and grow. When you see problems as lessons, rather than roadblocks, you can succeed in the workplace where others may not. Show the hiring authority that you are an excellent fit for Land O Lakes by being a proactive professional who is eager to learn and grow. Keep your example work-related.
1st Answer Example
"Product development is constantly shifting, especially in the food production industry. The most valuable lesson that I have learned this year is to never rely on one product to be your big money maker. In the food industry, consumers are always seeking out the next great thing, so we have to be doing the same. Success never stops trying, and it is the key to leave your consumers saying, WOW every time."
2nd Answer Example
"I had a customer who was upset about their product delivery. To quickly fix the relationship, I failed to listen to their grievances actively. As a result, I misunderstood what the customer wanted to see as a solution. The lesson I learned is to slow down, ask questions, and never assume what someone else is thinking."
23. How do you prioritize when everything seems to be equally urgent?
How to Answer
Have you ever had one of those days when it seems that every task is taking your attention? Perhaps sometimes you feel frozen; unable to know what steps to take next? Prioritizing may seem simple, but it's a difficult skill that takes practice to master.
When prioritizing your work, it's important to mark down every task that needs attention. You may want to rank each task from 1-5 as far as urgency, deadline, or stakeholders. Others choose to list each job based on the due date, estimated value, or amount of time needed from start to completion.
Show the interviewer that you have a thoughtful system in place to help you better prioritize, making you a highly valuable and productive member of Land O Lakes.
1st Answer Example
"I am always asking myself what is next, and keeping lists of tasks ranked by their financial impact and the amount of time they will take to complete. I started to utilize 'Wrike,' a project management software that helps me to categorize tasks and track what stage of completion they are in, adding timestamps to my work. The system also alerts me when milestones are approaching."
2nd Answer Example
"I organize my work based on the overall urgency and time required for the project. This information often comes with guidance from my management team. I keep a 'to-do' list of what I need to accomplish before the end of the day, and I never leave until I have checked off every item on my list. It's important to me that I never begin my day feeling behind the 8-ball, so to speak."
24. What interests you, outside of work?
How to Answer
It's essential to Land O Lakes that they hire people who will fit with their culture, and share the same core values. One way to assess 'fit' is to ask what you're all about! Your hobbies and interests outside of work say a lot about you. Your response will show the interviewer that you can maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and your career.
1st Answer Example
"I thoroughly enjoy being in the kitchen and trying my creative hand at new baking recipes. My son and I keep a list of recipes that we want to try and then tackle a new one every weekend. This past week we made churros, which were more challenging than I thought they would be. I also enjoy reading, biking, and going to music festivals."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a very social person, and I like to remain physically active. I belong to a kickboxing gym and just started learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I also have a passion for the outdoors. Getting fresh air in the evenings and weekends ensures that I come to work with a clear head every Monday!"
25. Describe for me your ideal coworker.
How to Answer
Workplace culture is a critical factor for Land O Lakes to consider during their talent acquisition process. It is the responsibility of the hiring authority to ensure that your personality will be a good fit for their existing team. It is also your responsibility to ask questions to discover if their work environment meets your needs.
Discuss the personality traits that you admire, ensuring that your answer remains positive and focused on the characteristics that you enjoy seeing in your teammates. This question is not the time to be negative or list off the type of people you don't like. Remain positive!
1st Answer Example
"I have had the pleasure of speaking with a couple of people from Land O Lakes and so far everyone seems incredibly welcoming and friendly. My ideal coworker is helpful, knowledgable, and puts care into their work. I enjoy close collaboration and am the type to jump in and help when needed. I appreciate reciprocation when it's needed."
2nd Answer Example
"I find it very motivating to be surrounded by people who are passionate about their job and their company. My ideal coworker is positive, eager to grow, willing to help, and engaged with their team."
26. What concerns do you have working in the dairy industry, or for Land O Lakes?
How to Answer
You must keep any concern somewhat light. If you have grave concerns about working for Land O Lakes or in the dairy industry, chances are, this is not the right place for you. It's essential to have a question, or two prepared, such as:
- What was the biggest struggle for the previous person in this role?
- What do you expect to be the biggest hurdle for me, if hired?
- What do you expect to be the biggest challenge forLand O Lakes in the next three years?
These inquiries are thoughtful without being negative.
1st Answer Example
"I am interested in learning what you foresee as the biggest challenge in this role, in the first six months. I want to start on the right foot, completely prepared for the challenges that come with starting a new career in a complex industry."
2nd Answer Example
"I am hoping you could share with me the struggles that the dairy industry is facing this year? Be it regulation changes or product shortages; I would like to come prepared for all challenges in this role."
27. Talk to me about your level of reliability. How often are you late for work, or unexpectedly absent?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs assurance they are hiring a reliable team member able to meet the needs of their busy organization. An essential part of being a diligent employee is arriving to work on time and being present when expected. Talk to the hiring authority about your record of being a reliable team player.
1st Answer Example
"I was raised under the adage, 'If you aren't 10 minutes early, you are late.' I show up to work when I am scheduled and rarely take a sick day. When you call my current place of employment for a reference, you will hear from them that I have taken just two sick days in three years. I am very dedicated to my employer and my fellow teammates."
2nd Answer Example
"I have taken one sick day this year, which came with a physicians' note. Even then, I did what I could from home on my laptop to prevent my work from falling onto my coworkers. I have reliable transportation and aim to be at least 10 minutes early for every shift."
28. Tell me about your formal customer service training.
How to Answer
Land O Lakes is customer-service centric in everything that they do; ensuring happy customers receive what they expect. Talk to the interviewer about any formal customer service training you have received. This training could be in the form of an onboarding plan, on-the-job training, coursework, or even books that you have read or podcasts you have tuned into. Show that you are keen on delivering exceptional service to Land O Lakes customers.
1st Answer Example
"Over the years I have given and received extensive customer service training. Currently, I train the basics of customer service excellence to our new hires. Additional coursework has included a few Dale Carnegie courses including 'How to Win Friends and Influence People in Business' and 'Attitudes for Service.'"
2nd Answer Example
"I have not yet received formal customer service training; however, I have read many books and articles, and listen to a lot of podcasts geared to developing the right attitude for top-notch customer service. I have learned how to exude a friendly willingness in every customer interaction. This self-led learning has taught me about self-awareness and how to ask the right questions."
29. Working in a customer-driven environment requires a great deal of patience. Do you consider yourself a patient person?
How to Answer
Working for Land O Lakes; whether in a customer-facing role or not still requires a solid understanding of the customer journey, and patience with that journey. If you are patient, you will be thoughtful in your words, and be observant by nature. You are slower to react on impulse, and you make calculations before responding in emotionally challenging or heated situations. Show the interviewer that you can stay professional and patient in any situation.
1st Answer Example
"Any times when I have felt impatience creeping up is due to frustration with my performance. For instance, if I am finishing a project slower than I think I should be. I am highly professional and have never lost patience with a customer or even a co-worker. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and I am happy to entertain a variety of needs and viewpoints."
2nd Answer Example
"One of my favorite books is 'The Power of Patience' by M.J, Ryan. I learned a lot from this book, including how being patient can accelerate our success in business while also adding feelings of personal fulfillment. Of course, I am always a work in progress, but overall, I do consider myself to be patient with my customers, coworkers, and management."
30. Are you stronger with verbal or written communication?
How to Answer
Your communication style and strengths will be an essential factor when considering your fit for this position and with Land O Lakes, overall. Be sure to exude confidence in both your verbal and written communication efforts. Your ability to communicate shows maturity, professionalism, and career competence. Try to give a balanced answer and include a bit on what you are doing to improve your verbal and written communication skills.
1st Answer Example
"I recently joined Toastmasters to improve my verbal communication skills and ability to present to groups of people with confidence. My writing has always been solid, and I understand business etiquette best practices for formal writing such as RFPs and informal writing such as emails."
2nd Answer Example
"I am pretty balanced when it comes to verbal and written communication. Both forms of communication are equally important. Choosing just one, I would say that written communication is my preference because it is easy to choose your words carefully, and I can look back at written communication for reference."