Are You Ready for Your Job Interview? Essential Tips for Entrepreneurs
How Entrepreneurs Can Dress for Success, Prepare, and Ask the Right Questions to Stand Out in Interviews
Are You Ready for Your Job Interview?
As a working entrepreneur, balancing a job with running your business can be challenging. Recently, I had to pivot from being laid off from my union job to exploring new opportunities that align with who I am today and where I want to go. I’ve been on the job hunt, and let me tell you — it’s pretty dry out there! But if you pay attention and observe carefully, you can learn much about whether you’re ready for the interview or even the job itself.
Are you prepared to make the best first impression? Let’s find out!
Dress for Success: First Impressions Matter
This hasn’t changed: first impressions matter. While you might be tempted to wear that cute outfit or prefer a more relaxed style, it depends on the job. As a working entrepreneur, I’ve learned that flexibility is vital. A traditional 9-to-5 never works for me, so I stay open-minded about the types of jobs I pursue.
For example, in the hospitality industry, where I’ve worked in many departments, the culture for each job is different. If I’m interviewing for a Front Office role, I’ll dress differently than if I’m going for a Bartender or Server position. Knowing the job culture is crucial because it shapes how you present yourself. No matter the role, keep your clothes wrinkle-free and stain-free, and most importantly, don’t forget your smile.
Have you researched the company’s culture to dress the part?
Hygiene is King: Looking Your Best
I can’t stress this enough: hygiene is everything. Always brush your teeth and shower before an interview. Looking and smelling good is an unspoken rule that goes a long way. If you tend to rush or forget things, pack a must-have bag the night before. Include essentials like mouthwash, breath mints, deodorant, fragrance, and lotion. I always keep extra lip gloss in every bag, just in case! Prepare everything that represents your personal brand. If you wear glasses, consider bringing a second pair. Trust me, it’s better to be overprepared than frazzled on the big day.
Do you have your essentials ready for the interview?
Have Several Resumes: Be Prepared for Anything
When heading to an interview, always carry multiple copies of your resume. Accidents happen! Your coffee might spill, or you could run into another opportunity along the way. Being prepared for other chances shows you’re 10 steps ahead. Look up places nearby where you can print more resumes if needed. Keep a digital version in Google Drive or another cloud platform to access it anytime. Even if some hiring managers are okay with printing your resume, having it in hand will make a better impression.
Do you have enough copies of your resume for unexpected opportunities?
Know Who You Are Meeting: Do Your Research
What do you know about the company? What made you apply there? Everyone needs a job, but what stands out about this company? Employers can distinguish between someone who wants just any job and someone seeking a career. What you say in the interview will reveal which group you fall into. Spend time researching the company, and be ready to impress. Show them you’ve done your homework, and watch how you stand out from the competition.
Have you researched what makes this company unique?
Know Your Hirable Skills: Showcase Your Strengths
Why should this company hire you? What makes you a top candidate? You don’t have to be perfect and shouldn’t sell yourself short. Instead, focus on your strengths and how they align with the role. Highlight transferable skills that match the job description. Present yourself confidently and explain why you’re the right fit.
What unique skills make you stand out for this position?
Sell Your Weaknesses as a Win-Win: Own Your Growth
Everyone has weaknesses, but employers want to know how you handle them. Are you the person who solves problems or creates them? Companies are making an investment when they hire someone, and they don’t want someone who will disrupt the team dynamic. Be honest about what you’re working on improving, and share examples of how you’ve handled challenges. Show that you’re self-aware and someone who learns and grows from experiences.
Can you turn your weaknesses into strengths?
Know the Job Better Than Them: Market Yourself as a Brand
Sometimes, the job description doesn’t capture everything you bring to the table. You might be applying for a Manager position, but you’re also a natural leader with strong communication skills. This is your chance to show the interviewer how you offer more than the basics. Highlight the skills you didn’t even realize were part of your personal brand. Present yourself authentically, demonstrating how your transferable skills can elevate you in the role. Help them see how hiring you brings more value to the position than they initially expected, making the decision to hire you an easy one.
Can you show that you bring more value than the job description requires?
Show Professional Interest Only: Play It Cool
Some questions are off-limits during interviews, but that doesn’t mean employers won’t try to find out more about you through observation. For example, they might take a phone call or make a comment to gauge your reaction. Do you greet them with a handshake? Do you stand when they enter the room? Sometimes, subtle behaviors can reveal a lot about how your personality fits with the company culture. And remember, people like smiles—skills can be taught, but personality matters.
Are you showing the right amount of professionalism during the interview?
Have Questions: Stand Out by Asking
Many people think that having the interview is all that matters. Don’t underestimate the importance of asking questions. This is what will set you apart from the pack. Some people are great at answering questions, but knowing what to ask is what gets you noticed. It shows you’re engaged and you care about finding the right fit. Ask about the next steps and when they expect to make a decision. This shows you’re confident and value your time.
What insightful questions can you ask to show your engagement?
Bonus Tip: Follow Up and Trust Your Gut
Some people still send thank-you cards or emails, and whether or not you follow that tradition depends on the vibe of the interview. Your intuition will tell you if it’s appropriate. Trust yourself. Pay attention to how they respond during and after the interview to gauge your chances of getting the job.
Are you ready to follow up with confidence?
Final Thoughts: Stay Positive and Keep Moving Forward
I hope you found these tips helpful! These small but powerful tips can often be overlooked, but they make all the difference in landing a job. Right now, during my time off, I’ve picked up a couple of temporary roles and could have stayed if I wanted to. But I know I’m waiting for the right fit that aligns with who I am and where I want to go. Always stay positive, no matter how unpredictable this journey may seem. Believe that every “no” is simply a “not now,” and the right opportunity awaits you. Happy job hunting!
