Why Meeting with Recruiters Can Significantly

Interim vs Permanent Finance Hires: What's right for your business?

Having specialised in placing senior interim accountants in Yorkshire for over 20 years, I’ve seen all kinds of reasons behind the need for a business to recruit new finance staff but how many of those companies made the right call….at the right time? The decision to hire an interim or permanent finance professional is a significant one, and it largely depends on the company’s specific needs, objectives, and resources. Both types of finance jobs have distinct advantages and can provide different types of value to an organisation. In this article, I’ll explore the key benefits of hiring an interim vs a permanent accountancy and finance professional. Understanding the Roles: Interim vs. Permanent Finance Professionals Before diving into the benefits, it's essential to understand the fundamental differences between interim and permanent. Interim Finance Professionals: are typically brought in on a short-term basis to address specific challenges or temporary gaps within a company.These professionals are usually highly experienced, often with a broad skill set, and are capable of stepping into a role quickly. Interim finance professionals might be hired for a variety of reasons, including covering for a permanent employee on leave, assisting with a specific project, managing transitions, or handling urgent financial needs. Permanent Finance Professionals: on the other hand, are hired to take on a long-term role within the company. They typically have a more stable and ongoing relationship with the organisation, working closely with other departments and employees to ensure the company’s financial health is maintained and improved. A permanent finance professional is expected to provide continuous support, helping shape long-term strategies, and ensuring business growth and stability. With these definitions in mind, let's explore the benefits of each type.Benefits of Hiring an Interim Finance Professional 1. Flexibility and Immediate Impact: One of the most significant advantages of hiring an interim accountancy/finance candidate is flexibility. Interim candidates are typically available to step in quickly, often within a matter of weeks or even days. This is especially beneficial for businesses that need immediate support within their finance function due to an unexpected situation or an urgent financial project. For example, if a company faces a sudden crisis, such as the resignation of a senior finance executive, a business owner might need an interim finance leader to fill the role temporarily. The interim candidate can quickly assume responsibilities, such as overseeing cash flow management, financial reporting, and budget planning, allowing the business to continue operating smoothly during the transition period. Additionally, interims can be engaged for specific, short-term projects, such as managing the implementation of a new financial system, preparing for audits, or dealing with temporary increases in workload. The flexibility of interim senior finance roles makes them ideal for businesses looking to meet specific short-term goals without the need to commit to a permanent hire. 2. Cost-Effective for Short-Term Needs Hiring an interim accountant can often be more cost-effective than hiring a permanent one, particularly for short-term or project-based needs. Interims are typically paid a daily or weekly rate, which means businesses do not need to cover the long-term costs associated with a permanent employee, such as pensions, healthcare, and other benefits. For companies operating on tight budgets or with fluctuating financial demands, hiring an interim professional can be a way to access high-level expertise without committing to the ongoing costs of a permanent hire. This is particularly valuable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may not have the financial capacity to employ a full-time senior finance professional with the expertise required to fulfil their requirements. 3. Expertise and Specialisation Interim finance professionals often bring a wealth of experience and unique knowledge to the table. Many have worked across various industries, providing them with a broad understanding of different financial challenges and solutions. Their expertise enables them to quickly assess the situation, identify the key issues, and implement strategies that can drive immediate improvements. Whether it’s managing complex financial reporting, overseeing mergers and acquisitions, or implementing cost-saving initiatives, interim finance professionals possess the necessary skills to tackle these challenges quickly and effectively. For businesses that require specialised financial expertise on a temporary or interim basis, hiring an interim professional can be a great solution. 4. Support During Transitions and Change Businesses that are going through periods of change—whether it’s a merger, acquisition, restructure, or IT system upgrade—can benefit from the support of an interim finance professional. These transitions often require specialist knowledge to ensure a smooth process. They can help with tasks such as conducting due diligence, integrating financial systems, or managing financial communications with stakeholders. Their ability to handle high-pressure situations and adapt to challenges quickly makes them invaluable during periods of change. 5. Reduced Recruitment Risk If a business is uncertain about hiring a permanent employee or simply wants to test the waters, hiring an interim can reduce the recruitment risk. They are often hired for their ability to deliver results quickly, without the long-term commitment that comes with a permanent role. If the business is not satisfied with the interims performance, they can simply replace them without the added complications that come with a permanent hire. This can be especially important for businesses that may be unsure about the long-term financial strategy or need time to evaluate the suitability of a new hire before committing to them permanently. Benefits of Hiring a Permanent Finance Professional 1.Long-Term Strategic Support A permanent finance hire, hopefully, becomes an integral part of the company’s long-term strategy. This individual will be responsible for the company’s ongoing financial health, working closely with management to shape business decisions, optimise financial performance, and align the company’s financial goals with its strategic objectives. Permanent finance professionals can help businesses by offering consistent advice on areas like tax planning, financial forecasting, and long-term investment strategies. They can also assist with employee development, fostering a strong financial team, and providing training and mentorship to junior staff members. For businesses that require a stable, long-term financial presence to guide growth and sustainability, hiring a permanent finance professional is often the best option. 2.Stronger Company Culture and Relationships One of the key benefits of having a permanent employee is their ability to build strong relationships within the company. Unlike interim professionals, who may only interact with a limited number of people during their contract, permanent professionals have the time to embed themselves within the company culture and form deeper connections with other employees, teams, and departments. A permanent finance professional can work collaboratively with other departments, helping to align financial strategies with broader business objectives. Over time, they develop a deep understanding of the business’s operations, challenges, and goals, which allows them to make more informed decisions and offer tailored financial advice. 3.Continuity and Stability Hiring a permanent finance professional ensures continuity and stability in your company’s financial management. This is especially important for businesses that require ongoing oversight and management of financial processes. A permanent professional will have a long-term commitment to the company’s financial success, ensuring that key financial tasks—such as budgeting, reporting, and compliance—are consistently handled. Stability is particularly important businesses that require ongoing financial planning and risk management. A permanent finance professional will be able to navigate both the everyday challenges and the long-term issues that might arise, such as economic downturns, changes in regulation, or shifts in market conditions. 4.Deeper Understanding of the Business A permanent finance hire has the time to truly understand the intricacies of the business. Over time, they become deeply familiar with the company’s goals, challenges, and nuances, which allows them to make better financial decisions and anticipate potential issues. This in-depth knowledge helps to align financial decision-making with the company’s vision, ensuring that financial strategies support business growth in a meaningful way. Businesses that operate in competitive industries or rapidly changing markets can benefit from having a finance professional who is attuned to the local market conditions and the specific needs of the business. 5.Employee Retention and Development A permanent finance professional is often tasked with developing and mentoring junior employees. By investing in the development of the finance team, they help ensure that the company has a pipeline of talent to support future growth. For businesses that plan to scale or expand their operations, having a permanent finance professional who can recruit, train, and develop a team of skilled finance staff is a key advantage. This helps build a more robust and capable finance function within the company, which is especially important for long-term success. Interim vs. Permanent Finance Professionals Both interim and permanent finance candidates offer unique benefits to businesses, and the choice between the two largely depends on the company’s specific needs and goals. Interim finance professionals provide flexibility, expertise, and cost-effectiveness for businesses that need short-term support or specialised assistance. They are particularly well-suited for project-based work, transitional periods, or covering gaps in the workforce. On the other hand, permanent finance professionals offer long-term strategic support, stability, and the ability to foster strong relationships within the company. They are ideal for businesses seeking continuous guidance on financial matters, long-term growth, and the development of a cohesive financial strategy. Ultimately, the right choice for your business will depend on factors such as the scope of the work required, the financial health of your organisation, and your long-term goals. By carefully weighing the advantages of both options, you can make an informed decision that best supports the success of your business. Need help deciding whether an interim or permanent finance professional is right for your business? At Sharp Consultancy, we’ve been advising and supporting businesses across Yorkshire for over 30 years—matching them with the right finance professionals at the right time. Whether you need immediate interim support or are planning a strategic permanent hire, our teams in Leeds and Sheffield can guide you through the options. 📞 Call us today on 0113 236 6300 / 0114 261 1700 or 📧 email stuartdouglass@sharpconsultancy.com to discuss your hiring needs with one of our expert consultants. Sharp Consultancy is a specialist finance and accountancy recruitment partner for businesses across Yorkshire and the North East Midlands. With a deep understanding of the local market and access to a network of high-calibre professionals, we help organisations secure the talent they need to succeed. If you're looking to strengthen your finance team, CONTACT US to speak to one of our expert consultants to find out how we can help.

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Why Meeting with Recruiters Can Significantly Boost Your Chances of Landing the Right Role.

In the competitive world of recruitment, it's easy to think that submitting your CV online is all it takes to land your next role. However, there's one key step that many job hunters overlook — meeting with a recruiter. Whether it’s in person or virtual, meeting with a recruiter can considerably improve your chances of being shortlisted for the right role. Here’s why:

1. Personal Connection and Relationship Building

One of the biggest advantages of meeting a recruiter, preferably face-to-face, is the personal connection you create. While a CV provides an overview of your qualifications, a meeting gives you the chance to showcase your personality, enthusiasm, and communication skills directly to us.

Recruiters are people too, and we make decisions based on more than just qualifications. We want to ensure that the companies we recommend you to are the right cultural and value fit. A direct conversation lets you express your motivations, career goals, and values, allowing the recruiter to match you with employers who align with your aspirations. Thus, less time wasted meeting employers who are not suited to your long-term career.

Additionally, meeting with one of our recruitment consultants before starting your job search provides an opportunity to experience an interview-like situation. This helps you address any nerves or confidence issues, ensuring you are well-equipped and prepared to deliver your best interview and secure your ideal role.

2. Better Understanding of Your Skills and Experience

Our recruiters are meticulously trained to examine your career history by asking you targeted questions that go beyond what’s written on your CV. They can explore your achievements in greater depth, uncovering experiences and skill that might not be immediately obvious in your application. This in-depth discussion helps us to understand the full picture of your abilities, ensuring confidence in presenting you to potential employers.

Often, candidates miss out on opportunities because their CV doesn’t reflect their full potential. A meeting ensures all your strengths, skills and relevant experience are communicated to potential employers in the most effective way to land the right role for you. Failing to do so may leave you at a disadvantage compared to other candidates who have already met with us.

3. Tailored Career Advice and Feedback

As recruitment consultants, we don’t just act as intermediaries between job seekers and employers; we are also valuable career advisors. By discussing your career ambitions in person, we can give you bespoke advice on how to improve your CV, enhance your interview performance, or even position yourself more effectively in the job market.

Furthermore, we can provide real-time feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring you're always ready for the next opportunity. A recruiter’s insight is a resource that could be the difference between a successful job application and a missed opportunity.

4. Greater Opportunity for Matchmaking

When we meet with you, we are armed with the knowledge we have gained over our many successful years to find roles that align with your skills, personality and values. For over 30 years, we have been working closely with businesses in Yorkshire and beyond to understand their specific requirements and the unique traits they seek in candidates.

Our deep understanding of these businesses extends beyond their immediate needs; we also learn about their culture, work environment, and what they are like as employers. This comprehensive approach allows us to match candidates with roles where they can truly thrive, ensuring a harmonious fit that benefits both the candidate and the employer. By prioritising this matchmaking process, we help build lasting professional relationships and contribute to the long-term success of both parties.

5. Increased Trust and Confidence

It is our professional responsibility to represent you and advocate for your candidacy. If we haven’t met you personally, it can be hard for us to build the confidence to represent you effectively. Meeting you in person gives us a much clearer sense of your professionalism, attitude, and future career potential.

If you are meeting with us after already being informed about a role, we are here to answer any questions you may have about the position or the company with complete honesty, ensuring transparency about the opportunity. This approach not only helps you feel more confident in your application but also reassures the us about your understanding and enthusiasm for the role. By fostering clear communication, we aim to make the application process smooth and successful for both parties.

Two people shake hands over a desk with a laptop, documents, and coffee cups. The setting suggests a professional agreement.

6. Increased Visibility and Priority

The job market is often crowded, and candidates can easily get lost in the shuffle. When you meet with us, you’re giving yourself the opportunity to stand out. We are far more likely to prioritise candidates we have met and connected in person with over those we’ve only spoke to over the phone.

In addition, the candidates who we haven’t met are put to the back of the queue when it comes to being put forward for jobs. The sooner we meet you and evaluate your abilities, the sooner we can advocate for you when speaking to clients.

Meeting with us provides an opportunity to make a lasting impression, distinguish you from other candidates and showcase your unique qualities and potential contributions you can provide for any future employers.

7. Access to Exclusive Opportunities

Many of our clients have relied on our services for years, building strong, trusting relationships with us. Because of this, they often provide us with exclusive access to new job opportunities before they have been advertised elsewhere. Having that initial meeting with us at the earliest opportunity allows us to recommend you to roles before they have even been made available to the rest of the general public.

On top of that, clients often give us full exclusivity on their current vacancies. So, if you’ve already been met and screened by us, you’ll get immediate access to these opportunities, meaning less competition and less time job hunting.

8. A Partnership in Your Job Search

Ultimately, when you meet with us, you’re not just handing over your CV and hoping for the best. You’re building a partnership with the North’s leading independent finance and accountancy recruitment consultancy which will last you your whole career.

At Sharp Consultancy, all of our recruitment consultants are experts in their own specialist sector of finance and accountancy recruitment. We become your ally in your job search, working with you to identify the right roles, preparing you for interviews, and supporting you throughout the entire hiring process.

This partnership can be incredibly valuable, especially in a job market where competition is fierce. With our consultant’s specialist knowledge and valuable connections, you have a better chance of landing a role that truly aligns with your career aspirations.

On a final note

While applying for jobs online can certainly yield results, meeting with one of our recruitment consultants is a game-changer. Not only does it increase your chances of being put forward for the right opportunities, but it also helps you stand out, receive tailored advice, and form a relationship with someone who’s invested in your success.

If you’re serious about your job search and want to maximise your chances of landing your next role, take the time to meet with a recruiter. It could be the key that unlocks the door to your ideal job.

Looking 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.