At Company ABC we have restrictions surrounding the export of particular products. On a scale of 1-10 how familiar are you with agriculture export regulations?

"In my previous position with Nicaragua Banana Corporation, everyone was expected to understand the rules surrounding banana export. I would rate my knowledge of agriculture export regulations as a 7 out of 10 because there is always more to know and some regulations change with time. I am happy to study these further, should I be the successful candidate for Company ABC."

The interviewer would like to know the extent of your knowledge within exporting. No matter which position you are interviewing for with Company ABC you should always be able to display a genuine and natural interest in the company's operations. Briefly discuss your experience with agriculture export regulations.

"As I am newer to my career, I would rate my current knowledge around a 5/10. With that said, I am eager to learn and can grasp new concepts easily while maintaining a strong retention record."

In your own words, explain to me the 'Agreement on Agriculture' (AoA).

"From my understanding, The Agreement on Agriculture is an international treaty created in the mid-1990's. It was considered an answer to improving the economic conditions for farmers at the time."

The interviewer would like to know the extent of your knowledge within the agriculture industry. No matter which position you are interviewing for with Company ABC you should always be able to display a real and natural interest in the company's operations. Briefly explain your understanding of the AoA.

"To my knowledge, the AoA (Agreement on Agriculture) is an international treaty set forth by the WTO (World Trade Organization)."

At Company ABC we communicate often with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Do you have experience working with this level of Government?

"The majority of questions that I have had in regards to the USDA are answered through their website FAQ section. I have been required to call the USDA hotline on occasion though. My communication skills are professional, so I do not foresee any difficulty related to this level of contact."

Assure the interviewer that you have strength in communication when it comes to the Government and other essential business bodies. Give an example of a time when you have communicated directly with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. If you have not been responsible for a task like this, then you can discuss your communication style and strengths.

"I have extensive experience communicating directly with the USDA, over the span of 17 years. I am very comfortable with this job requirement."

At Company ABC we seek to hire individuals with a true passion for the agriculture industry. Where do you see this position taking your career in the next few years?

"I am looking for a long-term career opportunity within the agriculture industry. I feel that this role with Company ABC is a perfect step in my career now, and for the future. I see that you have operations in Canada and Mexico. My dream would be to relocate to Mexico and be a production manager with Company ABC there."

Onboarding new employees is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor for any employer. Assure the interviewer that you see long-term career potential with Company ABC. Research the company online to discover any opportunities for future growth. Do they have multiple locations? Is there a variety of departments? Where do you see yourself growing within Company ABC? Be enthusiastic when you discuss your long-term career plans!

"In my current position, I have had my sights set on the senior leadership position in my department. If I were to join Company ABC, my goal would be the same. I plan to take a few leadership workshops in the coming months to help get me there."

At Company ABC we have many competitors. In your opinion, what makes us stand out in this competitive space?

"This industry is competitive; however, I feel that Company ABC does an excellent job with standing out from the crowd. I see that you are the recipient of a Top 100 Employers award and that last year you were recognized for having the second most sustainable product in your industry. Congratulations on those big successes!"

It is essential that you research Company ABC before your interview and also that you include research on their competitors. In your opinion, where does Company ABC stand out from the rest? Be sure to check out their website and look for any recent press releases, product launches, or industry related accolades. These are all great points to discuss when asked a question such as this.

"After researching Company ABC I think that the verbiage you use on your website and your social media content has the most positive and client-centered message. That was a real stand out to me."

Do you have any agriculture related post-secondary education? How do you feel your education will help you in this position with Company ABC?

"I graduated in 2009 with my Bachelor of Science Degree (BSc Agriculture) from UC Davis. My primary focus was on environmental science and biology. This degree will help me immensely in my future career with Company ABC because my studies were highly interdisciplinary. I could be a valuable employee in a range of roles and departments."

Walk the interviewer through your post-secondary education. Be sure to highlight any related coursework that you feel will help you be successful in this role with Company ABC. You can take keywords from the company job description or job posting.

"My education has been primarily on-the-job training and additional coursework on the science behind agriculture. You will see a full list of my certificates on my resume. In addition to these credentials, I have enrolled in a chemistry workshop this fall."

We are always working hard to be innovative. What is your favorite product or service offered at Company ABC, and why?

"I was impressed when reading up on how you partner with farmers to understand their assets and teach them how to protect those important assets. It seems like you care deeply about all of your business partners and their needs."

The interviewer is looking for assurance that you are invested in the interview process. Show that you have researched Company ABC by offering your thoughts on some of the products/services you find to be unique or innovative. Be sure to show your enthusiasm!

"Your company offers a lot of great products, but I believe that the best thing you offer your customers at Company ABC sits in your values. Your organization has a very positive reputation for going over and above what is required, to satisfy your customers."

"The Simplot company offers a lot of great products like the innate potato, but I believe that the best thing you offer your customers at Simplot sits in your values. Your organization has a very positive reputation for going over and above what is required for satisfying your customers."

At Company ABC we place great pride in our health and safety standards. Walk me through your health and safety related education or training.

"I primarily have on-the-job training from my last two places of employment. I do not have any specific certifications or licenses. Is there a particular course you would like me to take before starting with Company ABC? I would like to note that I have a perfect safety record from all of the positions listed on my resume."

When working in the agriculture industry, you will need to learn how to safely work around products such as grains, meats, chemicals, produce, and more. Briefly walk the interviewer through your related health and safety training. If you do not have any appropriate training, it is best that you ask the interviewer for a recommendation on where you can go to become qualified.

"I am certified in A, B, and C. Also, I recently completed a course on X. I do have extensive safety training, and a full list of my coursework and certifications is listed on my resume."

In your own words, describe the part that the World Trade Organization (WTO) plays in the agriculture industry.

"From my understanding, the purpose of the World Trade Organization (WTO) is to ensure that everyone fairly benefits from international trade."

The interviewer would like to know the extent of your knowledge within the agriculture and trade industry. No matter which position you are interviewing for with Company ABC you should always be able to display a real and natural interest in the company's operations. Briefly explain your understanding of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

"I believe that when it comes to agriculture, the WTO (World Trade Organization) acts as a mediator in trade disputes and assists in trade negotiations."

"From my understanding, the WTO (World Trade Organization) acts as a mediator in trade disputes and assists in trade negotiations."

What is the Doha Development Round?

"From my understanding, the Doha Development Round is primarily in place to increase global trade by lowering trade barriers. This Agenda has been in place since 2001."

The interviewer would like to know the extent of your knowledge within the agriculture and trade industry. No matter which position you are interviewing for with Company ABC you should always be able to display a genuine and natural interest in the company's operations. Briefly explain your understanding of the Doha Development Round.

"I am not completely familiar with the Doha Development Round; however, I do believe that it is a trade negotiation meant to encourage the increase of global trade."

Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.

"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating University as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class, and working full time. This accomplishment showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and be recognized for my dedication."

Talking about your most significant accomplishment will give the interviewer a firm idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!

"My greatest work-related accomplishment is the fact that I have received three promotions, with my current company, in only 16 months. I have worked hard to build my career and look forward to continuing the progression, with Company ABC."

Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.

"Last year when I was managing dispatch I noticed a pretty solid opportunity for us to save on overtime hours. I created a presentation and gave it to my manager who took it to upper management. The changes were implemented, and I was very proud of the suggestion that I made."

In addition to being able to handle change, can you also recognize when change is required and be confident enough to present that to your organization? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were able to suggest a change in the workplace.

"Just last week I suggested to my employer related to changing vendors of a particular product we use a lot. We looked into things further, and the change could present a significant 15% cost savings. We are likely going to make the change this year. It's exciting to present new ideas, and to be heard."

By this time in your career, you should have advanced further, what has slowed down your career progression?

"I agree with you that my career progression has been slower than some. You will see that between 2001 - 2009 I worked for the same company without an increase in a title. The company was too small to offer a promotion to me as the next level was ownership and the business wasn't for sale. After this, from 2009-2012 I was on leave as I needed to care for my ailing parents. The growth since returning to work has been steady but those years were a bit of a standstill for me. I am ready to spring into action now, and forge ahead in my career."

When an interviewer sees slow career progression on your resume, they will immediately want to determine whether this is by your own choice, any outside circumstances, or if you are not motivated to create growth in your career. If your job has progressed slower than you wish, you must be honest with the interviewer when discussing this.

"Overall, I am satisfied with my career progression. Although my job titles may not have changed significantly, my employers always offered additional responsibilities and fair wage increases."

How would you describe your work ethic?

"I am a very dedicated and loyal employee. I saw on your website that you describe your company as honest, transparent and you go the extra mile for your clients. My work ethic is the same. I am honest, flexible, and come ready to work hard for my employer every day."

When the interviewer asks about your work ethic, they are looking for specific examples or keywords to which they can relate. When you read the company job, posting or job description do they refer to particular company ethics? Talk about their values and how those align well with your work values. Some characteristics you may want to use are: - Determined/Driven - Accountable - Humble - Respectful - Dependable

"My work ethic can be described as reliable, honest, and consistent. You are welcome to speak to my references in regards to my work ethic. I am very proud of my reputation as a reliable executive assistant."

How do you handle communicating bad news to a fellow worker or subordinate?

"I certainly do not enjoy communicating bad news to a co-worker, but I do have experience in doing so. When this type of task is required of me, I make sure to practice empathy. Truth is always key, so I will be honest and clear when communicating the news. For instance, if I am to terminate someone's employment, I will not sugar coat the reasons why. It's best they know so that they can learn from the experience."

One of the toughest parts of communication can be delivering bad news to people that you work with and care about. Whether it is delivering a less than positive work review or terminating someone - it doesn't come easy. Assure the interviewer that you can handle this type of task in a clear, concise, and professional manner.

"Bad news is, unfortunately, just part of the job some days. When I have to deliver bad news, I will deliver it swiftly, but with kindness."

"Bad news is, unfortunately, just part of the job some days. When I have to deliver bad news, I will deliver it without delay. I will be honest and clear when communicating the news. Truth is always key!"

What work situations excite and motivate you?

"I am most motivated, on the job, when there is a solid level of organization, and the vibe is positive. I value strong teamwork and good leadership."

It is essential, for your success, that the hiring manager knows how to keep you motivated and excited to come to work every day. Share with the interviewer what they could do to ensure that you are happy and productive.

"I am most motivated on the job when I feel like an active contributor and an important member of the team. When I feel listened too and valued, I am excited to do my best work."

"I am most motivated on the job when I feel like an active contributor and an important member of the team. When I feel listened to and valued, I am excited to do my best work."

Name a few things you were asked to do in your last position that you weren't trained for.

"I was asked to present to the team about an idea I wanted to implement that would save the company money and time. I had never done this before, but I was knowledgeable about the topic and researched the solution further. I played around with PowerPoint and put together a slideshow that was easy to understand. It turned out great, and I learned a lot from the experience."

When you don't have the skills to complete a task, how do you approach it? Often you need to ask others for help or research the process to find the answers yourself. To prepare for this question, start by making a list of some of the tasks you tackled that were outside of your job description. Perhaps you were asked to do a presentation but didn't have the knowledge or experience to put together a slideshow. How did you deal with it?

Here is a list of some tasks that you may be asked to do even if you were not trained: - Training new employees - Dealing with customer disputes - Learning a new software - Giving a presentation - Attending trade shows - Up-selling products - Resuscitating dormant accounts

Do you always double check or proofread your work?

"Spelling and grammatical errors are a pet peeve of mine. I will triple check my work if there is time! I feel that it is imperative to submit error-free work."

Double checking and proofreading are essential parts of a job well done. Assure the interviewer that you are diligent when it comes to submitting good, clean work.

"I try to double check my work as often as possible. Everyone makes mistakes; however, I do my best to submit error-free work."

Do you have experience in corrective discipline and terminations?

"I have been a part of individual terminations and group lay-offs throughout my career. I am comfortable with these types of tasks."

Terminations and corrective discipline measures can be very difficult to do but, with experience, they do get more comfortable. Talk to the interviewer about the extent of your experience with terminations and discipline. If you do have the experience: "I have been a part of individual terminations and group lay-offs throughout my career. I am comfortable with these types of tasks."

If you do not have the experience: "I have not been in a position to perform terminations or hold corrective discipline meetings; however, I would be willing to perform these types of tasks with a small amount of training and research."

When have you spoken up for cause, knowing that it would directly look unfavorable on you, because it was the right thing to do?

"For the most part, my company abides by all labor regulations. In the case of overtime, they did not abide by the regulations, and I had to speak up for my team. The company was not happy about it because it cost them a lot of money but, in the end, they realized that they were in error."

Every manager wants a team player who will not resist company policy or argue about every detail of the workload. However; a time may come when you need to speak up about something, and it may not look the best on you. Talk to the interviewer about a time that this may have happened to you on the job.

"I have had to stand up to workplace bullying a couple of times in my career. It's never fun to rock the boat; however, respect in the workplace is fundamental to me."

How can we motivate you on the job?

"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are noticed. In my current position, we have a leaderboard, and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of competition in me as well."

Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways you remain motivated on the job.

"New responsibilities and fresh challenges are a couple of things that motivate me."

When it comes to problem solving, are you a strong collaborator?

"Last month, I recruited a couple of coworkers to help me solve a problem for a client. We were looking at their financials, but something didn't add up, and I didn't have the analysis background that these two co-workers had. Together we molded our areas of expertise and created a bulletproof financial plan for our client. I enjoyed the collaboration and would do it again in a heartbeat."

Show off your teamwork skills by giving an example of when you successfully collaborated with your coworkers. Be sure to demonstrate how you communicated your thoughts or opinions. Highlight how your contributions, or ability to ask for help, made a difference. Explain how you are a team player who enjoys working alongside others.

"I love having impromptu brainstorm sessions with my team. It keeps everyone on their toes! When an issue comes to light, I will approach the problem with the entire team and open the floor, at the end of the meeting, for suggestions."

How many people did you supervise at your last position?

"Currently, I am supervising 12 employees with an overall portfolio responsibility of $24MM. In my role, before this one, I managed 23 employees but with a smaller portfolio of $6MM. I can handle a large range of employees."

Discuss with the interviewer your level of responsibility in your current position. If you have managed larger teams than you currently are, you can also discuss that particular role from your work history.

"Although I did not directly supervise anyone in my last position, I did end up being the 'go-to' person for many of the more junior employees. My natural leadership skills shine through in most situations."

"Although I did not directly supervise anyone in my last position, I did supervise two master's students and one undergrad student during my Ph.D. My natural leadership skills shine through in most situations."

Would you rather be considered a personable leader or a dynamic leader?

"I do feel that I am a personable individual, but I won't always be everyone's cup of tea. I would much rather be a dynamic leader. As a dynamic leader I can ensure that the organization is benefiting from my presence and, at the same time, I can lead my team by example."

This question can be a tough one because everyone wants to be liked and considered personable. However, being a dynamic leader can make you a proponent for change in the organization. A hiring manager is going to want to know that they are hiring a change agent for their organization vs. a friend for their employees.

"I feel that being a personable leader is very important because when your staff feels like you are on their side, performance and morale goes up."

What is your current salary?

"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000 plus a car allowance of $900/month and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."

A potential employer will often base their offer on your current salary. You should be transparent about your most recent earnings and be prepared to back up any salary requests.

"Although my current salary is $45K/year, I am seeking $52K in my next position. Because I work for a very small organization, they are not able to offer me a competitive compensation compared to the industry marketplace."

"Although my current salary is $51K/year, I am seeking $90K in my next position. Because I work for a university, they are not able to offer me competitive compensation compared to the industry marketplace."

If you had a co-worker call in sick and you were asked to take over their project requiring overtime from you, how would you react? Where do you draw the line when it comes to being a team player?

"I will always choose to be a team player. If I had a co-worker call in sick, I would take over the tasks I was capable. The only time I would draw the line would be if I felt I was being taken advantage of for some reason. For example, if they were purposefully being inefficient and expecting me to pick up the slack."

Show your confidence to your interviewer by explaining your willingness to be part of the team and not being afraid to pick up the slack when needed, but make sure you don't allow someone to take advantage of you.

"For the sake of the company, I am always willing to go above and beyond my expectations. I don't mind covering for others, and taking additional shifts, whenever possible."

How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?

"I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"

This question is a bit of a pressure test because if the interview is not going well, the interviewer wants to see if you can recover from it. Be honest and address any points in the interview that you feel may have been inconsistent.If you feel that your performance in the interview is going well: "I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"

If you feel that your performance in the interview is not going well: "I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview; although, I am trying my best. If there is anything more I can clarify for you, I would be happy to do so."

Do you have any questions for me?

"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"

It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their company site! Here are some sample questions: - When would you like to have this position filled? - How long has this role been vacant? - Is this a replacement search or a newly created role? - What is your favorite part about working here? - What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months? - Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you? - What do you see as the most significant change in this industry over the past three years? - Is there any reason why you would not hire me?

"Thank you for asking! A couple of questions come to mind. What do you see as the biggest challenge your company will be facing in the next 12 months? Also, what is your employee turnover rate, and could you tell me a bit about the retention plan you currently have in place?"

Agriculture Interview Questions

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1. At Company ABC we have restrictions surrounding the export of particular products. On a scale of 1-10 how familiar are you with agriculture export regulations?
2. In your own words, explain to me the 'Agreement on Agriculture' (AoA).
3. At Company ABC we communicate often with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Do you have experience working with this level of Government?
4. At Company ABC we seek to hire individuals with a true passion for the agriculture industry. Where do you see this position taking your career in the next few years?
5. At Company ABC we have many competitors. In your opinion, what makes us stand out in this competitive space?
6. Do you have any agriculture related post-secondary education? How do you feel your education will help you in this position with Company ABC?
7. We are always working hard to be innovative. What is your favorite product or service offered at Company ABC, and why?
8. At Company ABC we place great pride in our health and safety standards. Walk me through your health and safety related education or training.
9. In your own words, describe the part that the World Trade Organization (WTO) plays in the agriculture industry.
10. What is the Doha Development Round?
11. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.
12. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.
13. By this time in your career, you should have advanced further, what has slowed down your career progression?
14. How would you describe your work ethic?
15. How do you handle communicating bad news to a fellow worker or subordinate?
16. What work situations excite and motivate you?
17. Name a few things you were asked to do in your last position that you weren't trained for.
18. Do you always double check or proofread your work?
19. Do you have experience in corrective discipline and terminations?
20. When have you spoken up for cause, knowing that it would directly look unfavorable on you, because it was the right thing to do?
21. How can we motivate you on the job?
22. When it comes to problem solving, are you a strong collaborator?
23. How many people did you supervise at your last position?
24. Would you rather be considered a personable leader or a dynamic leader?
25. What is your current salary?
26. If you had a co-worker call in sick and you were asked to take over their project requiring overtime from you, how would you react? Where do you draw the line when it comes to being a team player?
27. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?
28. Do you have any questions for me?

Agriculture Interview Questions

1. At Company ABC we have restrictions surrounding the export of particular products. On a scale of 1-10 how familiar are you with agriculture export regulations?

2. In your own words, explain to me the 'Agreement on Agriculture' (AoA).

3. At Company ABC we communicate often with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Do you have experience working with this level of Government?

4. At Company ABC we seek to hire individuals with a true passion for the agriculture industry. Where do you see this position taking your career in the next few years?

5. At Company ABC we have many competitors. In your opinion, what makes us stand out in this competitive space?

6. Do you have any agriculture related post-secondary education? How do you feel your education will help you in this position with Company ABC?

7. We are always working hard to be innovative. What is your favorite product or service offered at Company ABC, and why?

8. At Company ABC we place great pride in our health and safety standards. Walk me through your health and safety related education or training.

9. In your own words, describe the part that the World Trade Organization (WTO) plays in the agriculture industry.

10. What is the Doha Development Round?

11. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.

12. Tell me about a time when you made a suggestion requesting change in an organization.

13. By this time in your career, you should have advanced further, what has slowed down your career progression?

14. How would you describe your work ethic?

15. How do you handle communicating bad news to a fellow worker or subordinate?

16. What work situations excite and motivate you?

17. Name a few things you were asked to do in your last position that you weren't trained for.

18. Do you always double check or proofread your work?

19. Do you have experience in corrective discipline and terminations?

20. When have you spoken up for cause, knowing that it would directly look unfavorable on you, because it was the right thing to do?

21. How can we motivate you on the job?

22. When it comes to problem solving, are you a strong collaborator?

23. How many people did you supervise at your last position?

24. Would you rather be considered a personable leader or a dynamic leader?

25. What is your current salary?

26. If you had a co-worker call in sick and you were asked to take over their project requiring overtime from you, how would you react? Where do you draw the line when it comes to being a team player?

27. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?

28. Do you have any questions for me?