David Miller
So you're looking for a job, and you would like to work on a farm. Perhaps this is your first job, or possibly you desire a career change. Why do you want to work on a farm? To be out of doors? To work with plants and animals? To operate and repair machinery? Because of the salary? What are you doing to find that perfect job on the farm? This fact sheet will outline the steps that you, the prospective employee, need to follow to seek employment possibilities and then to market yourself to potential employers.
Start by determining the particular interests that create your desire to work on a farm. Everyone is interested in earning money, but your other interests are what determine why you want to be a farm employee. List those interests so you won't forget if someone asks you about them.
What type of skills and abilities would you bring with you to a new job? Don't underestimate yourself. Did you learn to weld in school? Can you operate machinery and equipment? Did you have livestock projects in 4-H or FFA? Is carpentry a hobby of yours? Again, make a list of your skills and abilities learned in school, 4-H/FFA, or from your hobbies. Be honest--and don't sell yourself short.
Think about other job experiences you have had that contribute to your skills and interests. For example, tasks such as working for a neighbor the past several summers, mowing lawns in the neighborhood, or being actively involved in youth groups contribute to your overall work background and show some personal values that may help land that job.
A resume is a personal report about you that contains your work/school history, outlines your skills, abilities and interests, and lists your career goals. A resume may not be necessary for the job you are applying for, but it's better to have one and not need it than to need one and not have it.
Take enough time to write your resume. It may take you several days or weeks to complete it, depending on how detailed it needs to be. Also, it needs to be reviewed and updated as you think of more information to include. Many high schools and adult education courses are available to help you develop your resume. The more help you can get in preparing your resume, the better it will be.
Most employers will ask you to complete an application. Your resume will have the information you need to complete the application. Again, a resume will help you identify all those items and factors that an employer may be wanting in an employee.
We usually think of using the classified ads in the newspaper when we are looking for a job. However, more jobs are available than those listed in the newspaper. Some methods of seeking out job possibilities include: 1) networking. Let friends and family know you are looking for a job, and ask them about job possibilities where they work or that they might know of; 2) contacting private employers directly; 3) registering at a nearby office of the Bureau of Employment Services; and 4) reading help- wanted ads in the local newspapers. According to surveys completed by job seekers, the most effective method is to apply directly to the employer, followed by networking with friends and relatives.
When you find a lead on a potential job, follow up on it as soon as possible. Employers are looking for employees who are honest, prompt and dependable, eager to improve their skills, willing to learn and ask questions, and who have a positive work attitude. If you call for an interview and are told the best time to contact the employer is 2 P.M., be sure to call back at that time. Likewise, when you have an appointment, be on time.
When you arrive at the job site be prepared to complete an application. Do not take it home and return it later. Remember, having a good resume with you will help in completing the application.
When you interview or submit your application, you should be neat, clean and dressed appropriately for the type of work you are seeking. During the interview, be prepared to answer questions about your work experiences, your abilities, and why you are the best candidate for this job. Remember, during the interview you are selling yourself to the employer, convincing him or her that you are THE candidate he or she wants to hire. Be positive about your past experiences and employers even if they were not good ones. Be confident, but not boastful. Also, be prepared to ask questions about the job for which you are interviewing. This shows that you have given some thought to this job and what will be involved.
At the end of the interview, if you are not hired immediately, ask when the decision about your application will be made and how you will be notified. Regardless of the outcome of the interview, be sure to thank the employer for the opportunity. You have gained beneficial experience with your interview, even if you didn't get the job.
When you are looking for a job, put forth your best effort and apply yourself just as you would on the job. Job hunting will provide valuable life experience--and quite possibly a job.
Tips for Finding the Right Job. 1992. Ohio Bureau of Employment Services.
Vicky Schwartz, Extension Agent, 4-H
Charles Bell, District Specialist, 4-H
All educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status.
Keith L. Smith, Associate Vice President for Ag. Adm. and Director, OSU Extension.
TDD No. 800-589-8292 (Ohio only) or 614-292-1868