What do you do if you're asked "Why do you want to work for our small business?

I would do my research on the company, products, successes and where they have fallen short. I would explain how I would improve the growth and finances of the company. I would be the right person to help the business to profit, economically, professionally, harmoniously, innovatively, environmentally. I am one hundred percent committed to the company ethos and values of what the company stands for. I will inspire personal development, and career goals for myself and the company.

It is not the size of the business but the appeal, the Market segment and what is in it for you. Small businesses pay well they have good progression opportunities.

The interviewer is probably asking themselves two questions: 1) can this person do the job, and 2) will this person fit well in our culture and work well with my team? In my 20+ years of running a small business, I've come to believe that, while skills matter, fitting into the company culture is usually more important. The best way to show that you're going to fit in is to share a story that highlights how your values align with the company's. This approach not only shows your understanding of their needs but also demonstrates how you might fit into the existing team/environment, making you stand out as a candidate who really gets what the company is about.

I would also be sure to make a clear connection between the company's goals and mission and how it aligns with your experience as well as how you want to bring value to the organization. Be as specific as possible - give examples of how the way you work is aligned with the organization's overall values. Make it clear what your "why" is as a professional and how working for this company will provide you with the environment and direction you need to realize that objective as well as your full potential.

Here's a tip that often goes overlooked: go beyond the company's own website/narrative. Read customer reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp to understand the public perception of their products and services. Check out what people are saying on social media—both praise and criticism can provide real insights. When possible, reach out to current and former employees on LinkedIn for less filtered perspectives. When you arrive for your interview, look around for clues. Are there awards on the wall? Are there signs of charitable giving/social justice activities? This approach gives you a fuller picture and prepares you to discuss how you can contribute to enhancing the company's culture and strengths while addressing any challenges.

Aligning personal values with those of a small business is key when explaining why you want to work there. Small businesses often operate like close-knit families, and fitting into their culture can be just as important as skills and experience. In my interactions, I emphasize how my own values and work style match the company’s ethos. For example, if a company values sustainability, I share my dedication to environmental causes and how I've implemented eco-friendly practices in previous roles. Demonstrating this alignment not only shows that you understand the company’s core values but also that you are likely to be a committed and cohesive team member.

I completely agree. In my business, candidates who just asked for a job description rarely got the job. I was always on the lookout for folks who were eager to grow and expand their role. If you can show me how you plan to improve both the job and our company by developing your skills, you'll really stand out. This proactive attitude not only shows you're a great fit for a dynamic small business but also that you're committed to making a meaningful contribution to our team's success.

Highlight your excitement about being in an environment where decisions are made swiftly, and innovative ideas can be implemented without long approval processes. Emphasise that seeing the direct outcomes of your work is motivating and fulfilling, and that you are eager to contribute to the business’s growth and success in a hands-on, impactful way.

One of the most appealing aspects of working for a small business is the potential to make a significant impact. In such environments, the contributions of each individual are often visible and crucial to the company’s success. I always emphasize my excitement for the opportunity to contribute directly and see the tangible results of my efforts. This proactive and results-oriented mindset not only shows that I’m ready to take on challenges but also that I’m eager to help drive the company forward. Expressing enthusiasm for these opportunities during interviews can highlight your dedication and readiness to make a meaningful difference.

Emphasizing cultural fit is crucial when interviewing with a small business. These businesses often have a distinct atmosphere where each team member’s contribution significantly shapes the environment. I make it a point to discuss how I thrive in settings similar to what the small business offers—be it a collaborative, innovative, or family-like atmosphere. I talk about how my personality and work ethic align with their team dynamics and how I can contribute positively to their unique culture. Demonstrating a clear understanding and appreciation of the small business environment during the interview shows that you are not just looking for any job, but are eager to be a part of their specific team and contribute to its success.