Some entrepreneurs are making the temporary move back to the workforce. The good thing is that many of them are doing it on their own terms and opting to keep their businesses open by hiring office managers or virtual assistants. Others are trying a flex time approach which allows them the opportunity to run their business at intervals other than the standard 9-5 day.
While they know the areas in which they will look for work what the entrepreneur over forty is seeking is the best way to navigate today’s job market.
If you or someone you know is contemplating that second job here are some guidelines:
1. Your current business card just won’t do. There is however a return to the use of the calling card or as one recent article put it, “Think of a calling card as a less pretentious business card”. It allows you to brand** yourself and personalize your image. A calling card is not only useful during the job interview process but also when you are networking and socializing. You never know who you will run into and where. So this is much better than scribbling your phone number on a paper napkin.
o The card should include your name, phone number(s), email address and blog or web site address.
o ** Give some thought to font, design and colour
2. Chances are potential employers will Google™ your name, so I suggest that you do it first and see what comes up. However, don’t forget that this works both ways. You can do online and do research on companies that you are interested in. You can also set up Google™ alerts for the XYZ Company, if they are mentioned anywhere it will come straight to your email. You will then have a strong advantage when you can say, “I recently read that your company is…”
3. Speaking of the internet, before you go forth take the time to research and connect. Here are a few articles to get you started:
o I got my job through social networking
o 5 Job blogs that you should be reading
Social network sites:
o Xing.com
4. On your resume don’t under value your accomplishments when it comes to what you have achieved in the setting-up and running of your own business. Give some thought on how best to itemize your entrepreneurial skills and provide an overview of what your company does.
5. In all probability the person doing the interview may be younger (gulp), however, contrary to what today’s media would have you believe you don’t have to be botoxed, nipped or tucked to compete in today’s job market. You do want to present yourself as up-to-date in your appearance.
o Avoid anything that is overly traditional/plain or the other extreme of too grandmotherly. Wear warm, complementary colours that make you appear approachable.
o A firm handshake, a smile and good eye contact still work. Even if you aren’t a make-up person a little mascara and lipstick will highlight your features.
o Remember that you may be nervous but they may be intimidated.
6. While the position may call for a take charge personality, during the interview it is your basic communication skills that need to be prominent. Listen attentively, answer succinctly and stay on topic.
Finally, the advice that survives the test of time “Be yourself”.
