Interview advice after working self employed.

[HedgehogOBrien]

I’ve got an interview soon for a job in my field (performing arts outreach) but I’ve been self employed for 15-20 years, and was previously absolutely terrible at interviews. Please can anyone give me advice on how to prepare, and suggestions of questions that might be asked?

Just make sure that you’ve done a bit of homework on the company. They usually like to bring something up about their ‘values’ so it’s a good idea if you can look at those and align them with your own. Even if they don’t ask they’re likely to be key words that they like so drop them in a bit. I’m not in a creative field so this interview might not be as stuffy as ours - we normally have competency based questions - best way to answer is to follow the STAR method. Have they given you any idea about what type of interview it is?

Focus on your accomplishments, and how you can apply your knowledge to your evaluation of what your employer needs.

I would think about it like this:
During my career, I have helped clients achieve xxx by doing yyy. Whilst I obviously don't know your exact issues, commonly in the industry again, bbb, and ccc can be areas of focus. I have extensive experience solving those issues as can be evidenced (point out where you have done this). During my first 90 days, one of my tasks would be to look for areas of focus such as these.

That sort of thing. You'll need to find your own terminology, but be conscious that the interviewer will know that you don't know their company and they won't expect you to. What they will expect is that you understand your skills and capabilities, how to apply them, and how to focus quickly on where to apply them in your new role.

Good luck.

Also - write down some notes and take them in - ask if it’s ok to refer to them - I’ve never said no or had anyone say no. It shouldn’t be a memory test. Take your time with answers and don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat themselves.

Thanks @Whippets81 and @HappiestSleeping for the advice. :)

I’m pretty sure I didn’t get the job, should hear this week. Just didn’t connect with the interviewers. Can anyone cheer me up?

We've just employed someone who was self employed for many years. She is fabulous and shone at interview!

Keep trying, OP. You will find something soon!

Thanks, I just feel I’ve let myself down. I prepared well and then just panicked in the interview.

Chalk it down to experience and see what you can learn from it for next time. Maybe this one just wasn't the right fit, but that doesn't mean that the next one won't be. You probably have loads of transferable skills from your self employment.

Thank you 🙏

It’s all good experience - just remember you’re interviewing them as much as they’re interviewing you. I’ve decided many times halfway through an interview that I wouldn’t want to work there if they offer me the job or not. I know sometimes it’s a luxury to be able to feel like that but just think they would be lucky to get you - they’re not doing you a favour.

Also I’ve had some interviews and though ‘god what an absolute disaster’ and the next day they’ve called to offer me the job!

Thanks @Whippets81. You are right they would have been lucky to have me on board! We’ll see.

I didn’t get the job and I feel absolutely terrible.