Q & A FOR EMPLOYERS

Inclusive Cultures Don’t Happen by Accident — They’re Built Intentionally

Following International Women's Day, many organisations reflect on progress.But for finance leaders and hiring managers, the more important question is this: What does inclusion mean in practice — and how does it affect performance? Because this isn’t just a culture conversation. It’s a capability conversation. Inclusion Impacts Talent Attraction The best finance professionals — at every level — have options. They are looking for: Transparent progression pathways Visible meritocracy Leadership that values contribution over presence Environments where performance is recognised fairly If an organisation’s culture unintentionally favours “proximity” — those closest to decision-makers — it narrows its own talent pipeline. And in a market where specialist skills are already in short supply, that’s a commercial risk. Meritocracy Must Be Visible Many businesses describe themselves as meritocratic. But candidates assess that through lived signals: Who is in senior leadership? Who is promoted internally? How are flexible working arrangements handled? How openly are development opportunities discussed? In accountancy and finance particularly — where progression paths are structured and performance is measurable — fairness needs to be both real and visible. High performers want clarity, standards and consistency. Leadership Behaviour Shapes Retention Inclusive leadership isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about everyday behaviours: Who is invited into strategic discussions Who is given stretch projects Who is credited publicly Who is sponsored, not just mentored Retention in finance teams is rarely lost because of salary alone. It’s often influenced by visibility, opportunity and recognition. Businesses that understand this tend to build stronger, more stable finance functions. The Commercial Case for Inclusion Diverse and inclusive teams bring broader perspectives to: Risk assessment Strategic planning Commercial analysis Operational improvement For CFOs and Finance Directors, inclusion isn’t a compliance issue. It’s about building balanced teams capable of better decision-making. The organisations that approach inclusion intentionally — rather than reactively — are often the ones that outperform in the long term. Beyond Awareness Days International Women’s Day creates valuable momentum every year:But sustained progress comes from: Clear promotion criteria Transparent hiring processes Conscious leadership development Ongoing cultural accountability In today’s hiring market, an inclusive culture isn’t just about employer branding — it influences who joins, who stays and how teams perform.

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For many, it’s not ‘business as usual’ but more ‘business in unusual times’. These are some of the most commonly asked recruitment questions from employers across Yorkshire to our highly experienced team of consultants.

I’m concerned about staffing levels – what can I do if people take time off because they are sick or have to care for others?

It is essential to make provisions for absenteeism and temporary or interim staff are an ideal solution. Specialising in a range of roles and at all levels from admin support to senior managers and directors, these are experienced individuals who can hit the ground the running at short notice.

I need temporary staff but I don’t have time to conduct interviews – what should I do?

We have an extensive network of temporary finance and accountancy professionals, all of whom have been previously interviewed and background checked by our experienced consultants so the right individuals can be in place typically within 24 hours of a need being identified.

We are seeing increased demand and need a new finance manager – are people looking for roles?

Very much so. There are sectors such as food retail and production, logistics and distribution, healthcare, online education providers, pharmaceuticals and IT suppliers and infrastructure where demand has increased and, as a result, need to expand their teams. Through our extensive database we can reach out to the very best talent and identify the top candidates for your recruitment needs.

Can I recruit a temp and make the position permanent when things return to normal?

It is important to be clear on the terms from the outset to ensure the right candidate is identified; it is not unusual for a role to become permanent, however some temps may not want a permanent position. Discuss this with your recruitment partner and they will identify ideal candidates.

How can I conduct interviews remotely?

With many people working from home, it can be easier to schedule interviews remotely. Platforms such as Zoom can replicate face-to-face meetings as closely as possible. Take a look at our advice on how to conduct a successful remote interview here

I have a new member of staff due to start – what should I do during lockdown?

Try to replicate your usual induction process albeit remotely. Provide induction packs online or via email, conduct a virtual tour and schedule introduction meetings via Zoom or Google Meet. Communicate your expectations for their first week and establish a routine for updates and progress checks. For more suggestions take a look here

Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond CONTACT UStoday to discuss your recruitment needs with a member of our team.