Top Tips: Is Interim For You?

Attractive day rates, the ability to pick and choose when you work, a varied career and the opportunity to work within a range of sectors – these are just a few of the reasons that candidates make the move into becoming a career interim. I speak to many candidates that are currently working in permanent roles and considering crossing over to interim – there are common questions that are asked, so I wanted to share some of my observations of the market place from a procurement perspective that may be useful if you are considering an interim career.

Are you Available?

It is going to be difficult for an employer to consider you for an interim role if you are on a long notice period. You are more likely to secure a contract when you are on a short notice period (weeks rather than months) or immediately available. Therefore if you are in a permanent role you will have to take a leap of faith and hand your notice in – probably before you have a role to go to. This can be nerve wracking – especially if you are used to being in constant employment. Talk to your consultant and your network to help you decide when to do this. The timing of when you make yourself immediately available is vital. Christmas and January/February tend to be particularly quiet on the interim front, as are the summer months that coincide with school holidays.

Be Flexible

If you are rigid on day rates and locations, you are automatically limiting the number of roles that you can be considered for and the chances of securing a role. By being prepared to travel a little further, or being open on day rate, you will be find so many more opportunities are presented to you. Once you’ve proven yourself as an interim you can absolutely work on improving your day rate!

Be Prepared & Don’t Panic

Be prepared that there may be a number of months where you are not working – these may not always be through your choosing. A contract may end and it can sometimes take a while before another suitable opportunity arises. Make sure that you’re in a position financially that you will be able to support yourself through some time out of work during the first year or two – it might not happen but it will help you sustain your decision to move into interim if you’re prepared.

Stand Out

It is a competitive market place. Make your CV stand out from the competition – make sure you demonstrate your achievements on there with facts and figures, and your involvement in projects. Meet your recruitment network face to face, build a strong working relationship with proven interim recruiters – they will understand your style, skills and motivations and be more effective in helping you secure a contract that works for you.

Loyalty is Key

It can be a very small world. If you become known as a candidate that constantly leaves contracts early for an increase in day rate, it can make prospective clients nervous about hiring you. Always leave a good handover, on good terms and with a great reference.

In summary, working as an interim can be incredibly rewarding, interesting and exciting. If you would like any more information or to discuss available positions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Credit: Michelle Perkins