A new career.

Are you an experienced professional considering a new career? This move can be nerve raking whether forced or voluntary. We asked our professional partner, Rimfire Resources, to provide a few tips for professionals as they consider a transition or make a move.

IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?

Mick Hay, Managing Director of Rimfire Resources, suggests that often time's people feel that the grass is greener on the other side, which Hay says is definitely not the case.

"Lie out a plan or foundation for what you hope to accomplish in your personal and career life," suggests Hay. By devising a plan you can assess if your current employer can meet these needs or if a career move is the only way to achieve what you want.

If you are unsure of what it is that you exactly want to do, Hay advises that you meet with people from sectors that you are interested in. Ask them what the benefits and challenges are to their job. The key here is to talk with a broad range of people so that you get feedback on multiple aspects of the industry.

If you still are not sure what will suit you best, consider taking a career profile test, such as Myers-Briggs, which is featured under the training tools on AgCareers.com.

RESUMES

Now that you've decided a career move is the way to go, you'll need to dig out that old resume and get it up-to-date! Hay has outlined a few specific tips that most professionals overlook when revamping their resume.

Be aware of the contact information you provide--if you are currently in an occupation and would like to keep your job search private do not include your work e-mail or phone.

Stick to the truth--Hay says that often times he'll counsel professionals and they will want to stretch the truth too much. This can come back to haunt you, especially in an industry as tight as agriculture.

Be specific about goals and achievements when referencing your past history. Be sure to include measurables.

Six to ten years of detailed work experience--Hay advises the professionals to include only detail employment history for the past six to ten years. Experience prior to that can be included with company, title and dates employed.

INTERVIEW:

The number one suggestion for preparing yourself for the interview, according to Hay, is to do background research on the company and those that will be interviewing you. Don't be afraid to ask what type of interview you should expect and who will be included in the interview.

"Because of the Internet, it is a given that you will know about the company," said Hay. "If you don't, you will likely not even be considered no matter how well you sell yourself."

Hay also suggests that you prepare three to four good questions that show your interest and passion about the particular employer, such as "What are three or four challenges I would face in this role?"

"Employers today are looking for people who want to make a difference within the organization," said Hay. "Learned skills can be taught, but personal characteristics can not."

For more information e-mail [e-mail].

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May 30, 2007

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