May152007
Job Interviewing: you do it more than you think
Remember interviewing for a job? For some of you, it might feel like a past life.
Being a little nervous, even though you’re thoroughly prepared. Showing up early. Dressing in professional business wear, using the lint brush, making sure there’s nothing stuck in your teeth.
Whew… sure is nice that all that’s over with, now you have your own home-based business!
Think again.
The reality is that every time you go on a business call to promote yourself, communicate with a prospective client, or network with others to grow your business, you are being interviewed. Therefore, many of the “how to nail a job interview” tips that you’ve probably read also apply to your day-to-day business as an entrepreneur.
This is what I strive to achieve during every “interview”:
1. Be confident (but not arrogant). Go into every networking event or business meeting with a positive, “I’m going to win this person/group over” attitude. Believe it or not, your mindset will communicate on your face, either good or bad thoughts.
2. Be professional in your dress, the way you speak, and your body language. Remember that it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed – don’t take business-casual too far. And remember, our mothers didn’t tell us to “sit up/stand up straight” for nothing!
3. Know who you’re talking to. Do some research if possible. This enables you to ask intelligent, specific questions of your potential clients and understand their needs better. Sometimes a “pre-interview” over the phone helps.
4. Ask questions, then listen carefully. Take notes if appropriate. This will help you learn about the potential customer, impress upon them your abilities and professionalism, and set the stage for moving forward with this client.
5. Be serious. As a professional, it’s your job to showcase your abilities and what you can bring to the table. Make it clear that you take the potential client’s needs seriously as well (see #4).
6. Talk about your accomplishments and explain why your strengths are unique, but do it in a way that expresses how YOUR CLIENT benefits. It’s about them, not you. Never bring up bad experiences or bash old clients.
An interview is a little like a date. Sometimes it’s a little uncomfortable or can make you feel anxious. But, interviewing is something that most entrepreneurs will do frequently, and being good at it is a business skill like any other.
As you become more accomplished at interviewing, it will actually become fun. And the more relaxed you are, the better you’ll be, and the more money you’ll make.
Warmly,
Russ
Founder of Winning in the Cash Flow Business
Dalbey Education Institute
Founder of Winning in the Cash Flow Business
