Member Article

Top tips for an interview with an SME

Working for a small business is completely different to a big corporation and so is the recruitment process. Rather than a lengthy application process you are more likely to complete a CV and Cover letter application then an interview, either with the company owner or someone very close to them. Here are some points for consideration when applying for jobs in SMEs.

First Impressions

Your first impression will either be with the business owner or someone very close to them so make it count. Appearance, body language, handshakes all go towards making that first impression. Remember also that if you are in an application process people often check your social media profiles beforehand so make sure your online brand represents you well.

What is the role

Be prepared that the job you are applying for may not be the only job you do. Ok, so you get the role of marketing assistant however someone needs to take the bins out or pay the stationary invoice. Being multi-skilled and not being shy to muck in is important so be prepared to demonstrate this at interview.

Do your homework

The entrepreneur tends to be very proud of his/her business. They want to employ people who they feel can get as passionate about it. Often it may be hard to find information about them but if there is something in the public domain (website/Linkedin profile) and you haven’t found it don’t be surprised if this becomes painfully apparent at interview.

Educate but don’t criticise

Entrepreneurs are generally very good at multi-tasking because they have to be. They are often open minded individuals who are aware that they don’t have all the answers. If they are recruiting for a particular post it may well be because their company lacks the skill in that area. Take time to do some homework and be prepared to make suggestions at interview on how they can improve that area. But be self-aware, don’t be overly critical or patronising. Remember the business owner has spent a lot of time to get their business up and running.

Add value

Small businesses don’t have the budgets of massive corporations. You are an investment of their money and from their viewpoint you can’t afford to be a gamble. Be very clear about where you will make a difference to the bottom line. That might not necessarily mean making money, it could mean saving money. For example if you are being hired to do HR work, understand that your skills could mean the company avoids hefty fines & employee tribunals.

Likeability and Trust

The person interviewing you is most likely going to be working with you at close quarters. For those reasons they want to know that if they are going to work with you they will get along with you and that if they need to ask you to take the money to the bank for them one day they can trust you. I would ensure to talk about an example of being trusted in your interview.

Types of Questions and STAR answers

You may have been advised that competency based interviewing is the best way to predict future performance. Well the small business owner may not know this. I would have examples of numerous scenarios prepared to demonstrate the relevant skills at interview but don’t be surprised if the line of questioning goes off track completely and rapport starts to become a defining factor.

Dress to impress

The fact is some people won’t. Don’t let yourself down by turning up in scruffs and if you are unsure give the business a call beforehand to double check.

Your turn to ask questions

In all my years working with small business owners I am yet to meet one who doesn’t want to tell you about their journey. I would always recommend asking about their background and the journey they’ve been on as well as any other questions you may have.

***I’m Daniel Knowles, SME Project Manager within Careers at Lancaster University and a freelance Careers and Employability Coach. Please feel free to connect on LinkedIn, follow me on Twitter @lancastericv and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thelancastericv or drop me an email at lancastericv@gmail.com***

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Lancaster ICV .