By John Wakeford
You may expect that highly talented executives offering their skills to some of the UK’s largest companies for day rates of up to £2,000 would be paragons of preparation.
And to be fair, many are. Highly professional, well organised, excellent communicators, experts in their field – which is why they are sought after by headhunters tasked with identifying available talent for their ever demanding clients.
But you might be surprised to learn that many aren’t prepared for the world of executive interim. Or applying for any job, come to think of it. Not in my book anyway.
So I have drawn up ten top tips for potential candidates out there thinking of moving from permanent executive positions to the dynamic, fast moving world of interim.
One: if you are immediately available, say so on your LinkedIn page. You’re more likely to get a call.
Two: make sure your job title matches the industry norm. Headhunters look for generic titles like CFO/FD/Head of Finance. If it doesn’t sound like your current or previous role is a match for the search you could be disregarded.
Three: ensure your CV is up to date.
Four: ensure your contact details are up to date. I know – you wouldn’t believe it!
Five: if you haven’t already, get a limited company set up and arrange personal indemnity insurance. It saves time when you are hired.
Six: answer the phone or call back if you are contacted by a headhunter or potential employer. Divert your landline to mobile if you are out. Firms are often looking for interims to start immediately. If you don’t respond, the headhunter will quickly move on.
Seven: know your day rate and what you would accept.
Eight: connect yourself on LinkedIn to other people with the same skill set – you are more likely to be found.
Nine: when you become available contact a headhunter. Easier than us trying to find you.
Ten: and here’s the freebie… get in touch with firms yourself direct if you seek an opportunity.
John Wakeford is a founding director of HW Global Talent Partner. Contact him at johnw@hitchenorwakeford.com or +44 (0) 203 691 1917 for a confidential discussion.
