29 Jul 4 Must-Dos When Interviewing with an Entrepreneur

Searching for talent in a relatively new or fast-growing company is not exactly the same as finding employees in, say a small retail store, or at the opposite extreme, a large company. The difference in a growing entrepreneurial company is that typically the business is either just getting started and frenzied, on a wonderful tear and frenzied, or struggling and frenzied. Entrepreneurs are hard workers making things happen and they want employees who will actually enjoy the crazy ride that is an entrepreneurial company.

Therefore, interviewing with an entrepreneur poses its own unique challenges. I spend an entire chapter in my latest book, The Entrepreneur’s Growth Startup Handbook, advising entrepreneurs on how to find and keep the right people. Here are a few ways that you can become a stand out candidate with business owners and, hopefully, land the job:

1. Share your long term plan.

Be honest here. Is this job just a stepping stone or are you excited about the opportunity to learn and grow in an exciting and unpredictable business? If you are not genuinely excited about the company and your future there, you’re less likely to bring in the positive energy that drives the entire company’s work atmosphere and less likely to be hired.

2. Review your own resume and find your “thing”

Entrepreneurs are passionate about their company and tend to hire people with that same fire. What are you passionate about? Did you make your dream a reality? Is it a work in progress? Rather than trying to impress a potential employer with a long list of activities, focus on your leadership roles and biggest accomplishments. Having a “thing” will make you more memorable and will convey the kind of entrepreneurial spirit that the company is looking for.

3. Think about previous issues in the workplace and how you addressed them

These kinds of questions come up in every interview. But, remember, this company is likely “frenzied” in some way, shape or form. Working for an entrepreneur comes with its own challenges and he/she will want to know that you can roll with the punches.

4. Let them get to know you

Entrepreneurs are looking inward and building a family. They want to find employees who will like each other, enjoy working together, put the team ahead of their individual agendas, avoid watching the clock, and plan for a long stay. Are you outgoing? Could you be a team player? How would you contribute to the company’s vibe? Multiple interviews may be necessary to answer these questions. But your personality will be one of the largest factors in the decision to hire you. So be excited about who you are and what you bring to the table.