Someone recently wrote into me with the following question and I thought it was worth sharing:
I recently went through a re-org at my company and was laid off. To stay relevant within the business community and show that I am not sitting around as I wait to land the right opportunity, I re-vamped my business development consulting company. I have it listed on LinkedIn and on my resume.
I know some companies will be concerned about whether I’ll give their company my full effort and attention (which I would.) What are your thoughts on whether companies will be largely hesitant to hire me when they see that I own a business already – or, will they appreciate my resilient, entrepreneurial attitude?
Here is my response:
It’s all in how you tell the story. I think most companies will appreciate your resiliency and entrepreneurial attitude. You need to be prepared to explain to a hiring or HR manager how your business works. For example, that you can notify your clients and shut it down in 15-30 days to take their new opportunity, or you plan to keep it, but have a business partner who will run it and it poses no conflict to their business or clients, or some other arrangement.
As for your resume, listing the business is appropriate and it will be apparent to a savvy recruiter that this is a stopgap measure until you find another position. Nevertheless, consider placing an “Objective” at the top of your resume stating the type of position that you are seeking. Create different resumes for each functional area or position if they vary. Tailor the body of the resume to include specific competencies that relate to the position you seek.
Remember you should be networking to get interviews (informational, phone, etc.) to be able to tell your story. Sitting around applying to on-line postings doesn’t give you that opportunity. Wishing you my best. Go get ‘em!