Moving to Interim and overcoming the obstacles

Posting date: 08 Aug 2019

Career Diversity is an incredible tool that enables professionals to gain insight into different realms, broaden their skill-set and develop as experienced and adaptable leaders but while we encourage our network to move between Industries to achieve this – how often do we emphasise that the same three things are possible when making the move to Interim? 

Brexit, an uncertain political climate and a growing appetite for flexibility in the workplace are leading more and more professionals to the temporary world of work - and it seems they are reaping the rewards that come with.

With higher incomes, flexible schedules and the ability to meet new people as often as every few months, Interim work offers professionals the chance to throw themselves in the deep end in a new environment, without the obligation to network amongst staff or involve themselves in office politics.

Working with an end goal in mind, professionals are left to their own devices and allowed to thrive in their subject matter without the other work obligations that usually cloud day-to-day employment.

But, while it’s clearly a beneficial move for some - it does carry some drawbacks. Interim work isn’t guaranteed meaning sometimes professionals can go without work and consequentially, pay. It’s advised that those looking to make the move, work on creating a safety net to protect them in the case of dry spell or also, being let go by companies who do not have the same loyalties they might have towards permanent employees. 

It’s also not an easy shift. I spoke to the most successful Interim professionals in our network and asked them what hurdles they overcame in the first few months of their transition and the majority cited their little black books.

Every Interim guru has a broad and reliable portfolio of contacts, connections and companies that at some point might come in handy and in our current political climate, many organisations are postponing permanent hires and seeking Interim staff to fill the void so if you are already connected with these organisations – you’re likely to fly through the next few years of work.

Some people can find this process daunting due to the ‘life admin’ involved such as setting up a limited company, amending their CV or padding out that black book but that’s why I and other recruitment partners exist. We offer guidance, advice and help to get you on the right career track and ultimately, enjoy what you do.

I’m working on creating a white paper that explores the transition professionals make into the Interim world of work. If you have made the transition or you’re looking to explore what the fast-paced world of temporary work has to offer, please get in touch, and join the conversation – would you make the move to Interim?