Monday, November 24, 2008

Interim Solutions for a Rough Job Market

I am a Finance Manager and I know it is going to take me a while to find a new job, but I really can’t afford to have a lengthy job search. What are some ways to speed up the process?
Sometimes the quickest way to a job is a temporary assignment. Right now, many companies have hiring freezes that prevent them from adding headcount; however, that does not mean they do not need specific expertise and projects completed and that is where interim positions can be really helpful because you walk in the door as someone else’s employee and work without adding to the headcount. From your perspective, interim work has a number of reasons to be advantageous:

1. Speed. An interim role rarely has as lengthy an interviewing process as a permanent role and you can be gainfully employed quicker.

2. Professional Development. Working for a company on an interim basis can give you exposure to different processes, industries and cultures that might otherwise take years to gain.

3. Flexibility. You can continue your search for a permanent role while working and as long as you are honest with your employer, you will have plenty of flexibility to interview because you are essentially your own boss.

4. Freedom to try a company before you commit long term. When you work interim, you have the freedom to walk away after your assignment without burning a bridge. You also have the freedom to do your job without getting involved in company politics.

5. Initiative. When you choose to work interim assignments versus being unemployed, you show a perspective employer your initative and drive and your unwillingness to stand still—all traits important in today’s talent market.

6. Networking hands on. Although there are no promises, often interim projects can turn in to full time employment; other times, they can lead to other roles within a sister company or other division as well. Barring that, you end up with more testimonials and references to your expertise as your permanent search continues.


On that note, if you are interested in being considered for interim assignments through RSG, please email your resume to tpope@rsghunt.com


Happy Holidays!