Having worked within the interim market for the last 20 years, Director Marc, has seen the invaluable advantages of such positions as interim management to organisations. However, he understands that sourcing talent at such a critical period, i.e. transformation projects, can be challenging for both parties.
When looking for talent, employers will be looking for someone who can hit the ground running, ensuring plans and projects are executed efficiently. But with the current competitiveness of the interim market, especially post-pandemic where more professionals are looking to gain more flexible, project-based work and enhanced renumeration, it’s important for candidates to leverage every chance possible of getting noticed and considered for a role. The first rung on the ladder is creating an outstanding interim CV.
So, what’s needed to put you a head above the rest?
Tailor you experience to the needs of the employer
As with a regular CV, it’s important to tailor it to the job you’re applying for and remember who the reader will be. If applying for an interim role at an accountancy firm, any relevant senior financial and accountancy roles, qualifications, courses, interests, and extra-curricular skills should be included. Ensure that any academic and professional qualifications reflect the level you are working at and showcase to the recruiter/employer that your skillset will be directly relevant to the role they need.
But don’t overlook the value of soft skills. Problem solving, communication, leadership and time management are all very transferable and valuable to potential roles. Try to communicate the ways you demonstrate these within your CV, and how they can be applied/transferred to employers.
Back up your achievements with data
Many candidates will have a wealth of experience and working knowledge of their sector. Ensure you have a list of achievements and successes to date. Key examples could include successful transformation projects, key organisational changes, and crisis management strategies – all of which will come with quantifiable successes. It’s vital that you can showcase these accomplishments with tangible evidence.
Service level agreements, profit and revenue increases, performance reviews, engagement levels, and returns on investments (ROI) are all great areas of data to explore and include.
Check with your recruiter
Whether you’re new to the interim market or not, it is worth consulting an interim recruiter to ensure your CV is maximising its potential and meets employers’ requirements. Interim recruiters will see dozens of CVs per day and therefore will be expert at advising on format, tone, and content.
Amidst many organisations’ operational changes and new flexible working demands, the interim market is flooded with talent. But there will always be demand for temporary employees and leaders to plug the skills gap, particularly during periods of change or growth. So, CV writing is an important skill for all professionals to master as they are key to getting your foot in the door.