MONEY, MONEY, MONEY

Why a Strong CV is Non-Negotiable for Finance Professionals in 2025

As a Senior Resourcer at Sharp Consultancy, I’ve reviewed thousands of CVs...From those just starting out to seasoned professionals with decades of experience. One thing remains consistent: in today’s competitive market, a strong CV isn’t optional—it’s essential. Today, South Yorkshire’s finance landscape is more dynamic than ever. With growing demand across sectors like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and tech, accountancy and finance professionals are expected to bring more than just technical skills to the table. Your CV is your first opportunity to prove you’re up to the challenge. This blog marks the start of a three-part series focused on helping you craft a standout CV tailored to your career stage and goals. In this first post, we’ll cover general CV tips relevant to all finance professionals. In the next two instalments, we’ll dive deeper into: Transactional Finance CVs – how to highlight your experience in roles such as purchase ledger, sales ledger, and credit control. Part-Qualified Finance CVs – how to position yourself for progression while studying towards your qualifications. Stay tuned for practical advice and real-world insights to help your CV rise to the top of the pile. 🕒 First Impressions MatterRecruiters and hiring managers typically spend less than 30 seconds scanning a CV. That means your CV needs to immediately communicate relevance, professionalism, and potential. A clean layout, clear structure, and tailored content can make the difference between landing an interview or being passed over. 🔍 Specialist Skillsets Are in DemandFinance roles today go far beyond number-crunching. Employers want professionals who understand how finance supports wider business goals. Whether it’s streamlining reporting, implementing new systems, or driving cost efficiencies, your CV should highlight the tangible impact you’ve made. This is your chance to showcase your value-add—what makes you different from the next candidate. Use metrics where possible to quantify your achievements and make them memorable. 📍 Standing Out in YorkshireYorkshire is home to a diverse range of industries, from advanced manufacturing and engineering to professional services and digital tech. This diversity creates exciting opportunities—but also fierce competition. To stand out, your CV should reflect sector-specific experience and transferable skills. Whether you’ve worked in a fast-paced SME or a large corporate environment, highlight how your background aligns with the needs of the region’s employers. 📊 Business Acumen is a MustFinance professionals are increasingly expected to contribute to strategic decision-making. Roles in FP&A, commercial finance, and business partnering are on the rise, and employers want candidates who can offer insight—not just information. Your CV should reflect your ability to influence outcomes. Have you helped drive revenue growth? Supported investment decisions? Improved forecasting accuracy? These are the stories that resonate with hiring managers. 📈 Show a Clear Story of ProgressionRecruiters look for signs of growth and development. A strong CV doesn’t just list job titles—it explains the “why” behind each move. Did you step into a leadership role? Take on a new challenge? Gain exposure to a different sector? Even lateral moves can be powerful if they show a deliberate effort to build your skillset. Make sure your CV tells a cohesive story of your career journey. 🔑 Final ThoughtsIn Yorkshire’s fast-moving industries, a sharp, well-crafted CV is your key to unlocking new opportunities. It’s not just about listing experience—it’s about showing impact, adaptability, and commercial value from the very first glance. Whether you’re actively job hunting or just exploring your options, now is the time to invest in your CV. Visit Our Candidate Advice Pages HereLooking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to us TODAY and let's chart your career path together.

Read article

One of the trickiest parts of any interview is the conversation about financial package. It is always best to avoid discussing this subject until it is raised by the interviewer; many would-be employers can be put off a candidate if they feel they are too interested in the potential salary and rewards rather than the position itself.

Of course salary is important and you should answer any questions as clearly and concisely as possible. You may be asked how much your currently earn – or what you would be looking for salary wise – do not be tempted to lie in an attempt to secure a better package. Most employers are very much aware of salary levels within their industries and may not look favourably upon someone that they feel is not being honest about their expectations.

It’s often difficult to get the balance right and handle the conversation in the best way – ask for too little and you could be kicking yourself, pitch yourself too high and you may not get an offer.

Most job descriptions will come with an expected salary package, often including a salary band plus any additional benefits such as car allowance, private healthcare or pension contributions so you will have an indication of what the employer is expecting to offer before you apply or attend an interview.

Make sure you do some research yourself beforehand; speak to your consultant and read copies of salary reports and other job advertisements online to find out what somebody with your level
of experience should be looking for and what the market rate is within your area – remember, salaries can vary considerably by location.

Be prepared for the question by having a salary range in mind which you feel would be reasonable given your level of experience and the position described. Answer confidently and try to illustrate your answer by linking your skills back to the role requirements.

It is also essential to look at the overall package being offered and not just the salary itself; for example childcare vouchers or life assurance may not have been high on your list of priorities before, but could be more valuable if your circumstances have changed.

Think about any other benefits to the role which don’t necessarily have a monetary value – additional holidays, flexible working hours, onsite gym provision for example. Also consider if you will save or incur costs in relation to travel, petrol or parking expenses on your commute with a new role.

If you are successful at the interview stage and your application progresses further, then potential salary and rewards will form a key part of the discussion; if you are working with a recruitment consultant then they can use their knowledge of the market place to negotiate on your behalf.

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.