Applied Research Note: a perspective study to assess key traits and competencies important to poultry industry management personnel

Abstract

SUMMARY: A prospective online survey instrument was designed to identify skills, traits, and competencies perceived important for career success by those in various management levels of the poultry industry. The survey instrument consisted of 26 questions. Questions assessed the importance of personality characteristics and competencies, and evaluated the effectiveness of industry recruitment activities. Principal respondent targets included those in human resources, sales/marketing, live production/processing, and complex management. Most participants self-classified as working in live production or as a complex manager. Participants selected work ethic, teamwork ability, initiative to work, leadership ability, and problem-solving ability as the 5 most important characteristics/competencies. Additionally, participants indicated completion of an internship, a student's undergraduate major, a student's grade point average, knowledge of a foreign language, and completion of undergraduate research as the 5 least important knowledge bases and experiences. Respondents identified individual university contacts as the most critically important avenue for student engagement. Data suggests undergraduate studies should focus on developing leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork abilities, and promoting an initiative to work. Further, emphasizing relationships between higher education and industry can expand opportunities for graduates to enter the poultry industry.

Keywords

• teaching
• poultry industry
• employability
• career readiness