New Year, New Me? New Year Resolutions for Businesses

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The start of a new year often heralds a period of reflection and reinvention, and New Years Resolutions.

For individuals, this might translate into personal commitments and aspirations. However, businesses are not exempt from this ritual. In fact, as the calendar year nears its end, many companies are already asking, “New Year, New Me?”.

Here we delve into the trend of businesses making New Years Resolutions:

The Tradition of New Year Resolutions

Historically, New Year’s resolutions date back to the Babylonians, who made promises to their gods at the start of each year. These promises often revolved around returning borrowed items and paying off debts. In today’s age, tradition has evolved but the essence remains: setting goals for positive change.

Why Businesses Can’t Ignore New Year Resolutions

Just as individuals pledge to eat healthier or read more books, companies might decide to enhance customer relations, increase profitability, or launch a new product line. The principle remains the same: improvement and progress.

  1. Growth and Expansion: For businesses looking to scale, the new year could mark the beginning of tapping into new markets, exploring diverse product lines, or even mergers and acquisitions.
  2. Strengthening Customer Relations: Modern businesses understand the importance of a loyal customer base. Thus, the new year is an opportunity to roll out loyalty programmes, enhance customer service, or introduce community engagement initiatives.
  3. Sustainability: With rising awareness about environmental issues, many businesses are opting for sustainable practices. Come 2024, we could see more firms vowing to reduce their carbon footprint or eliminate plastic from their operations.

Planning is Key

The allure of the New Year is strong, but successful resolutions are built on foresight and preparation. Here’s why and how businesses should start planning their resolutions well in advance:

  1. Market Analysis: Before setting any goals, businesses need to have their fingers on the pulse of the market. Understanding evolving consumer behaviours, emerging trends, and potential disruptors can guide goal setting.
  2. Feedback Integration: End-of-year feedback from clients, stakeholders, and employees can provide invaluable insights. Harnessing this information can shape the resolutions for the coming year.
  3. Resource Allocation: Whether it’s hiring new talent, purchasing equipment, or investing in training, businesses need to ensure they have the necessary resources to fulfil their resolutions.

Personal Resolutions Within a Professional Framework

New Year’s resolutions aren’t exclusive to business entities. Employees, irrespective of their designation or role, can draft their own set of professional resolutions. By aligning personal goals with organisational objectives, employees can find a harmonious blend of personal and professional growth.

  1. Skill Development: With industries constantly evolving, employees might resolve to learn a new skill, attend workshops, or pursue further education.
  2. Networking: Building a robust professional network can open doors to opportunities. Attending more industry events or joining professional organisations might be on the cards for many.
  3. Wellness and Work-life Balance: Burnout is a real concern. Employees could aim for a healthier work-life balance, integrating wellness routines into their daily life.

Case Studies: Resolutions That Transformed Businesses

Let’s delve into some real-life examples where resolutions have made a noticeable difference:

  1. Company A’s Green Pledge: Starting 2022, Company A, a renowned beverage manufacturer, pledged to go plastic-free. Through extensive planning in 2021, they rolled out glass bottles in 2022. Not only did this move enhance their brand image, but it also led to increased sales.
  2. Company B’s Focus on Mental Health: Recognising the rising concerns around mental health, Company B, a tech giant, introduced mandatory wellness breaks and counselling sessions for employees in 2023. This boosted employee morale, reduced sick leaves, and enhanced overall productivity.

In Conclusion

New Year’s resolutions for businesses aren’t just a trend. They’re an essential introspection tool, guiding companies towards sustainable growth. While 2024 awaits with its set of challenges and opportunities, preparedness, backed by resolutions, can set the stage for a prosperous year ahead.

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we have been in Executive Search for over 20 years. We believe
that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term
partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients,
providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best
talent for their organisation.

In addition, as a business, we understand that every organisation is unique
and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment.
That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the
specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a
full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service.
As part of this, we ensure that we take the time to understand your
organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and
experience needed for each role.

For more information on our executive search practice and our CCS framework
please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

Choosing the Right Candidate for Your Company

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Choosing the right candidate for your company is an art and a science. It’s about understanding the specific needs of your business and merging them with the right human qualities. And so, this guide provides us with some knowledge to make well-informed choices, ensuring that your selected candidate is not only qualified but is also a genuine asset.

1. Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

It’s paramount to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce, which reflects varied experiences and perspectives. By focusing on:

  • Equality: Ensure equal opportunity for all applicants, irrespective of their background.
  • Diversity: Embrace candidates with different life experiences, cultures, and viewpoints.
  • Inclusion: Make certain all employees feel valued and included.
  • Unconscious bias: Train your team to recognise and avoid unintentional prejudices that may affect hiring decisions.

2. Fit for the Current Team

A candidate could appear great on paper, but it’s crucial that they get along with the existing team. With that in mind, how do we ensure we are choosing the right candidate for your company?

  • Company culture: Will the candidate thrive in the company’s current cultural environment?
  • Team dynamics: Consider team compatibility, ensuring a harmonious blend of personalities.

3. Fairness in Recruitment

A just recruitment process is key to ensuring every candidate gets a fair chance:

  • Use structured interviews with consistent questions for all.
  • Establish a clear criterion to evaluate each applicant.
  • Ensure multiple stakeholders are involved in the decision-making.

4. A Robust Recruitment Process

A systematic recruitment process guarantees efficiency with choosing the right candidate for your company:

  • Job description clarity: Detail the required skills, roles, and responsibilities.
  • Multiple interview stages: One way of helping is to incorporate methods such as panel interviews, practical tests, or group exercises (but obviously not being too long winded or over the top) which then in turn helps with the selection process.

5. Utilising Headhunters or Recruitment Companies

Considering professionals can save you time and yield better results:

  • They have a vast network of candidates.
  • They can pre-screen candidates, ensuring only the best reach you.
  • They can offer industry insights and salary benchmarking.

6. Researching and Interviewing the Candidate

Thorough research and well-structured interviews yield fruitful outcomes:

  • Social media checks: LinkedIn will offer insights into their professional history.
  • Right questions: Ask situational questions to gauge their problem-solving skills.
  • Ask for examples: Let candidates show their achievements with real-life situations they’ve handled.

7. Recognising Transferable Skills and Trainability

Not all skills are listed on a CV, and some can be developed with ease:

  • Transferable skills: Attributes like problem-solving, team management, and communication often transfer across industries.
  • Trainability: Some technical skills can be taught. Gauge a candidate’s willingness and capacity to learn new things.

Conclusion

Choosing the right candidate is a blend of understanding your company’s needs, ensuring a fair and inclusive process, and recognising the potential in individuals. By adhering to these principles, you’re setting your business up for a brighter future filled with dedicated, diverse, and skilled professionals.

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we have been in Executive Search for over 20 years. We believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

In addition, as a business, we understand that every organisation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment. That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service. As part of this, we ensure that we take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and experience needed for each role.

For more information on our executive search practice and our CCS framework please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

How to Best Find a New Job in Leadership

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Whether you’re an experienced leader or someone eager to climb the corporate ladder, finding a new job in a leadership role is a journey. It requires the right mix of introspection, strategy, and action. This guide will walk you through the steps to help you land that coveted leadership role.

1. Knowing when the time is right to move on

It’s essential to recognise when it’s time to move on from your current position. Here are some signs:

  • You’ve outgrown your current role.
  • There’s limited room for growth or new challenges.
  • You feel undervalued or unsatisfied with your work environment.

Trust your instincts. If you consistently feel like it’s time for a change, it likely is.

2. Searching for a new job in leadership

There are various platforms to find a new job in leadership:

  • Job boards: Sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Reed.co.uk often have a plethora of leadership roles.
  • Networking: Join professional groups and associations related to your industry.
  • Recruitment agencies: Many specialise in senior roles and leadership positions.

Before diving in, take these preparatory steps:

  • Update your CV: Highlight achievements, leadership roles, and significant projects.
  • LinkedIn: Ensure your profile is updated, professional, and mirrors your CV.
  • Research: Understand the current market, industry trends, and the skills in demand.

4. Choosing the right companies to apply for

Not all companies will align with your values or career goals. Research each potential employer by:

  • Reviewing their website and mission statement.
  • Checking employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor.
  • Understanding the company culture and growth potential.

5. How to best prepare for an interview

Once you’ve landed an interview, preparation is key:

  • Research the company: Know its history, challenges, competitors, and up-to-date news.
  • Practice common leadership interview questions: This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly.
  • Plan your outfit: Dressing professionally makes a positive first impression.

6. How to stand out for the job

Standing out is more than just having the required skills:

  • Show passion: Be enthusiastic about the role and the company.
  • Showcase achievements: Quantify results whenever possible.
  • Ask thoughtful questions: This demonstrates your genuine interest and thorough preparation.

7. Knowing if a company is the right fit for you

Securing a job offer is exciting, but it’s equally essential to ensure the company is a good fit:

  • Company culture: Does the environment align with your values?
  • Growth opportunities: Will there be room for professional advancement?
  • Work-life balance: Does the company promote a healthy balance or expect constant overtime?

Remember, an interview is as much about them getting to know you as it is about you getting to know them.

Conclusion

Finding a new leadership role requires time, patience, and strategy. By knowing when it’s time to move on, searching in the right places, preparing thoroughly, and ensuring a company aligns with your goals, you can find a job that not only matches your skills but also brings joy and satisfaction. Happy job hunting!

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we have been in Executive Search for over 20 years. We believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

In addition, as a business, we understand that every organisation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment. That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service. As part of this, we ensure that we take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and experience needed for each role.

For more information on our executive search practice and our CCS framework please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

Understanding Imposter Syndrome: what, why, and how to Overcome it

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Imposter syndrome is a term that’s been buzzing around a lot lately. But what is it? Why do we get it? And most importantly, how can we deal with it? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a feeling many of us face: that nagging doubt that we’re not really as good as we appear, or that we’ve fooled everyone into believing we’re more competent than we are. Even when we have plenty of evidence of our achievements, that tiny voice in our head says, “You don’t deserve this. They’ll find out soon.”

Why do we get Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter feelings can come from various reasons:

  1. Perfectionism: When we aim for 100% all the time, even a small flaw can feel like a massive failure.
  2. Upbringing: Some of us have grown up in environments where praise was rare or where there was a constant push to achieve more.
  3. New Challenges: Starting a new job, attending a new school, or entering a new social circle can ignite these feelings.

Who gets Imposter Syndrome?

Here’s a surprise: almost everyone! From students to CEOs, many people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives. It doesn’t discriminate by job, gender, age, or background.

When do we get Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome can pop up at various times:

  • After achieving a new milestone like a promotion.
  • While trying something new.
  • When receiving praise or accolades.
  • Comparing ourselves to others.

How can we deal with it?

  1. Recognise it: The first step is to acknowledge it. Understand that it’s just a feeling, not a fact.
  2. Talk about it: Sharing your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or colleague can provide comfort.
  3. Document your achievements: Keep a list of your accomplishments. When doubt creeps in, you have evidence of your capabilities.

Top Tips to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

  1. Positive Affirmations: Reassure yourself with positive statements like, “I am capable” or “I deserve my success.”
  2. Stop Comparing: Everyone’s journey is different. Focus on your path, not someone else’s.
  3. Seek Feedback: Constructive feedback helps you understand areas of improvement and reaffirms what you’re doing right.

How can we Prepare for it?

Imposter syndrome can come and go. Preparing for it means building resilience and a positive self-image:

  1. Constant Learning: Equip yourself with knowledge and skills. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel.
  2. Practice Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Everyone makes mistakes. Learn from them and move on.

Tips and Techniques for Handling Imposter Syndrome

  1. Visualisation: Imagine a scenario where you succeed. It helps in rewiring the brain.
  2. Grounding Techniques: If anxiety takes over, ground yourself by focusing on your surroundings or deep breathing.
  3. Seek Mentorship: Guidance from someone who’s been in your shoes can be invaluable.

In conclusion, imposter syndrome is something that many of us will face. But by understanding it, recognising its signs, and equipping ourselves with tools and techniques, we can navigate those feelings more efficiently. Remember, you’re not alone, and yes, you’re as competent and deserving as you appear.

OUR FOCUS ON LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS

At re:find we have been in Executive Search for over 20 years. We believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. We aim to build long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and advice to help them find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

In addition, as a business, we understand that every organisation is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment. That’s why we offer bespoke recruitment solutions that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality service. As part of this, we ensure that we take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills and experience needed for each role.

For more information on our executive search practice and our CCS framework please get in touch with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

Charting Your Course To Becoming a Chief People Officer: The Exact Skills You Need to Become a Successful CPO

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The career path to becoming a Chief People Officer (CPO), Chief HR Officer (CHRO) or Group HRD is a career goal that requires a combination of experience, education, and skill development. CPOs typically form part of the executive leadership team of a business, with a broad commercial role to play, as well, as a specialist area of expertise.

Chief People Officers are also responsible for managing all aspects of human resources within an organisation, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, retention, training and development, performance management, and compensation and benefits.

Gain the relevant experience:

To become a CPO, you need to have extensive experience in human resources or people operations. This can be gained through a variety of positions such as senior HR Generalist roles, Head of Talent, Head of OD, or Head of HR operations.

As I reflect on the candidates who have swiftly progressed in their careers. It is evident that those who have a good breadth of experience get there the quickest, this is typically by taking rotational roles in to an area of expertise such as Reward or Talent Management.

Advice: Start by building a strong foundation in HR, take on challenging roles that offer exposure to different aspects of the HR function. Seek out opportunities to lead cross-functional projects that give you a broader view of the business.

Here are some other experience areas to consider developing as part of your career path to Chief HR Officer or Chief People Officer:
Business acumen:

A CPO must have a deep understanding of the business they are working in, including its strategy, operations, financials, and industry. This understanding enables the CPO to develop HR strategies that are aligned with the business goals and contribute to the organisation’s success.

Advice: Seek out opportunities to learn about the business by attending leadership meetings, working closely with business leaders, and participating in cross-functional projects.

Talent management:

A CPO must have a strong background in talent management, including recruiting, developing, and retaining top talent. This involves creating effective recruiting strategies, developing training and development programs, and implementing performance management systems.

Advice: Take on projects that focus on improving the talent management function within your organisation. Consider developing new programs to attract and retain top talent, such as employee referral programs or leadership development programs.

Employee engagement:

A CPO must have a deep understanding of employee engagement and be able to develop programs that promote a positive workplace culture. This includes creating programs that improve employee morale, increase employee satisfaction, and reduce turnover.

Advice: Take on projects that focus on improving employee engagement, such as developing employee recognition programs or employee surveys to gather relevant feedback and data points that can influence senior leadership within your business.

Change management:

A CPO must have experience in change management, including the ability to lead and manage change initiatives effectively. This involves developing communication plans, assessing the impact of change on employees, and implementing change management best practices.

Advice: Seek out opportunities to lead change initiatives within your organisation. Consider developing a change management plan for a new initiative or leading a cross-functional team to implement a new HR program.

Data analysis:

A CPO must have a strong background in data analysis, including the ability to analyse HR metrics and use data to make informed decisions. By developing HR metrics, workforce trends, and using data to identify areas for improvement.

Advice: Develop your data analysis skills by taking courses or attending workshops on data analytics. Use can use HR analytics tools to analyse HR metrics within your organisation; such as turnover rates, employee engagement scores, or training and development ROI.

Check our our article on Data Driven HR!

Education:

Although it is not a perquisite, most CPO’s I know have a CIPD qualification, a degree in HR, Business Administration, or a related field is typically as the minimum requirement for most HR roles in the UK.

However, to become a CPO, you may need to pursue advanced education such as a Master’s degree in HR, MBA or a related field. An advanced degree provides the knowledge and skills needed to develop HR strategies that align with the business goals.

Advice: Pursue a relevant degree or certification that aligns with your career goals such as an MBA, a Master’s degree in HR, or CIPD.

Develop your leadership skills:

As a CPO, you will be responsible for leading a team of HR professionals and influencing the organisation’s leadership team. Developing leadership skills is crucial to becoming a CPO. This includes the ability to communicate effectively, inspire and motivate others, and lead with empathy and emotional intelligence.

Advice: Look for opportunities to lead teams or projects, attend leadership development programs or conferences. It is important to seek out external guidance either in the form of mentorship from experienced HR leaders or finding a professional coach.

The HR market is constantly changing, and staying informed about industry trends is essential to being a successful CPO. This includes keeping up with changes in employment laws, emerging technologies, and evolving best practices in talent management.

Advice: Join professional HR organisations, attend industry conferences, and read industry publications and blogs.

Build a strong network:

Building a strong network of professional contacts is important in HR. This includes building relationships with other HR professionals, industry experts, and business leaders.

Advice: Attend networking events, join HR-related groups on LinkedIn, and seek out coaching from experienced HR leaders.

  1. Access to Opportunities: Networking opens doors to various opportunities that may not be advertised. Many senior positions, including CPO roles, are often filled through referrals and personal connections. Being well-connected in the industry increases your chances of hearing about these opportunities and being recommended for them.
  2. Knowledge and Learning: Through networking, you can gain valuable insights, information, and knowledge from experienced professionals and industry leaders. This can help you stay updated on the latest trends.
  3. Mentorship and Guidance: Building relationships with senior HR leaders can provide you with support as you progress in your career. Learning from their experiences and receiving advice can be helpful in your journey towards becoming a CPO.
  4. Influence and Collaboration: A strong network allows you to collaborate with other people in your industry. As you climb the corporate ladder, its important to have a strong support system. As well as having people who respect your opinion and who can be advocates for your career growth.
  5. Building Trust and Credibility: Networking allows you to show your skills, knowledge, and achievements to a wider audience. As people get to know you and your work, it helps build trust and credibility, which are vital traits for a CPO who needs to gain buy-in from employees and senior management alike.
  6. Opportunities for Personal Development: Engaging with diverse professionals through networking can expose you to different perspectives, cultures, and leadership styles. This exposure can aid in your personal development and make you a well-rounded HR leader.

How to build a strong network of professional contacts:

  1. Attend Industry Events: Participate in conferences, events, workshops, and HR-related events where you can meet with like-minded professionals.
  2. Join Professional Associations: Become a member of HR-related associations. These groups offer networking events and opportunities to connect with HR leaders.
  3. Utilize Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn can be powerful tools for expanding your professional network. Connect with colleagues, attend virtual networking events, and engage in discussions and industry groups.
  4. Attend Informal Gatherings: This can be an excellent way to meet people in a more relaxed setting and to form relationships.
  5. Provide Value: Networking is a two-way street. Be willing to offer assistance, share knowledge, and help others in your network. Building genuine relationships based on mutual respect is crucial.
  6. Maintain Relationships: Building a network is not a one-time event. It requires consistent effort and nurturing. Stay in touch with your contacts, congratulate them on their achievements, and be genuinely interested in their success.

Remember that networking is about building meaningful connections, not just collecting business cards. Invest time and effort in fostering authentic relationships…

Over time, your network will become a valuable asset in your journey to becoming a successful CPO.

Our view:

The path to becoming a CPO is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires a blend of experience, education, and skill development. Aspiring HR leaders must build a strong foundation in human resources.

By taking on diverse and challenging roles that provide exposure to various aspects of the HR function.

Staying informed about industry trends and by building a strong network of professional contacts, HR professionals gain access to various opportunities, mentorship, and valuable insights that contribute to their personal and career growth.

Our focus on long-term partnerships

At re:find Executive Search we believe that recruitment is not a one-off transaction but rather a long-term partnership. By building long-term relationships with our clients, we help them to find and retain the best talent for their organisation.

Every organisation is unique. We feel that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recruitment.

re:find offer bespoke recruitment solutions, that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you need help with a single hire or a full recruitment campaign, we can help.

We commit to providing our clients with the highest quality service. We take the time to understand your organisation’s culture and values, as well as the specific skills needed for each campaign.

For more information please get in contact with our Managing Director, James Cumming.

10 things you need to get right when launching a new business

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Lesley Allman is an internal communication and employee engagement expert. She has run her own consultancy for many years, here she shares her tips on how to get it right.

If you’re facing restructuring, redundancy or simply having a career rethink and are considering setting up on your own, here is some of the great advice I got from friends and colleagues when I was starting out.

  1. Decide at the outset what type of business you want

Is it a lifestyle business i.e. one that provides you with a decent income and relies solely on your skills, personality and efforts?

Or is it a one that can function and grow without you in it and that ultimately you can sell on?

This will inform what sort of legal entity you set up and what funds and infrastructure you will need.

  1. Don’t over complicate the naming and branding process

If you’ve established a good reputation in your field, use your name.  Otherwise, think of something straightforward that is easy to spell and no one else is using and get a logo designed Then just get yourself on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter etc and start communicating.  Having a great story is more important than having a great name or brand, so get it written and get it out there.

  1. However much marketing you think you’ll need to do – you’ll need to do more

To misquote Field of Dreams, just because you build it, doesn’t mean they’ll come.  As a start up, you really need to get yourself and your story out there. Tap into all your networks, post stories and comments on all your social media platforms, join industry bodies, offer to judge awards, speak at (virtual) events, etc. Think about where your target customers are, and make sure you’re there too.

  1. When it comes to clients, you are what you eat

Think about the types of businesses you want to work with and target them. If your first client is a metal basher in the Black Country, then your subsequent clients are likely to be similar. Great if that’s the market you’re after, but don’t be scared to turn down the wrong sort of work.

  1. When it comes to prices, you can’t ski uphill

Don’t undervalue yourself.  See what competitors are charging, consider what the client can afford, think about what value you’re adding and be bold.  It’s better to go in high and be able to come down, than to try to do the opposite.  Focus on the outcomes the client is getting for their investment (value based, solution selling), rather than the inputs you’re providing (day rates).

  1. Spend time working on the business as well as in it

When you win your first client, and there’s only you in the busines, it’s tempting to spend all your time and energy on them.  But don’t forget that your primary focus is building your business, not theirs.  Making them happy is a means to that end.

  1. Your first employee is a 100% increase in your headcount

Another key decision point is when you’re too busy to look after your business and your clients on your own and you have to decide how to grow your team.  If you’re building a sellable business, you’ll need to recruit an in-house team, people who will eventually be able to run the busines without you in it.  However, for a lifestyle business you may decide it’s better to create a virtual team of freelancers, so you avoid on-going overheads and can match skills exactly to client requirements.

  1. Do your housekeeping

It’s dull but vital to keep receipts, send out your invoices, pay your suppliers, pay your taxes, pay your employees and get an expert advisor to make sure you’re doing those things right.  And don’t forget, your clients are unlikely to pay you for at least 60 days, some as long as 120 days, so you’ll need to keep a careful eye on your cashflow.

  1. Ask for help

People you know, and many you don’t know, will want you to succeed.  They’ll be keen to help you and willing to share their expertise and advice.  Don’t expect them to come to you though.  They may think your doing fine and don’t need their help.  So make sure you ask for it.

  1. And finally…

Whatever your venture is, make sure it is something you love and are passionate about.  Not forgetting that it is something that enough people actually want and are willing to pay for.

Now, the most important piece of advice.  Just get on and do it!

 

Lesley Allman is an internal communication and employee engagement expert. As an independent consultant, she has provided expertise to leadership teams at companies including Carlsberg UK, Kuehne + Nagel, Evergreen Garden Care, Pukka Pies, Domestic & General, Hovis and PepsiCo. She previously held senior communication roles at Premier Foods and Coors Brewers. She is an IoIC Fellow.

www.allmancommunication.co.uk

James Cumming is our MD, Interim and Transformation Search specialist. Please get in contact with him directly to discuss any of these topics further.

Executive search – ‘worst-case’ interview scenario?

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Everyone gets nervous before an important meeting or interview. It doesn’t matter how much you may have prepared, there are some common intrusive thoughts that always manage to worm their way into your head the night before and cause you to think about possible escape routes should the worst happen. Through our executive search experience, we can help.

But worry not, you don’t need a getaway car parked around the corner to survive an awkward interview. There are tried and tested things that you can do to overcome these embarrassing moments. And who knows, if you flip the situation successfully it could work in your favour and become an example of how you have managed uncomfortable situations.

The person that you are meeting isn’t focused on you

If you notice that the other person is frantically typing on their laptop and hasn’t said in advanced that they may be taking notes or replying to a work email, then your brain may go into overdrive and wonder whether they are mind-numbingly bored in your presence.

Read the situation and your audience, and if you’re still not confident that you’ve got their attention then politely asking questions to advance the conversation could resolve any worries that you may have. If they need to rearrange to a more appropriate time, then this gives them chance to do so

Being too early can be just as awkward as being too late

When travelling to an interview you can sometimes misjudge the traffic and end up an hour early…. It’s better than being late and although tempting, it might not be the time to show them how keen you are!

The chances are that whoever you are meeting is busy and won’t be sat waiting around for you an hour before (or after) your scheduled appointment, so if you know that you’re going to be too early go and grab a latte and steady your nerves. 15 minutes is plenty early enough to get there.

You forgot your presentation or interview materials

This problem can be easily resolved by planning properly. Try not to rely too heavily on paper materials, which can be misplaced or lost. Instead, ensure that you have an offline copy of your work ready and waiting on your laptop that you will be able to bring up regardless of the wifi situation.

And if your laptop dies, make sure that you’ve sent an email to yourself with all of the key documents on, so you can at least access them on your phone as a last resort. After your meeting, ask the person that you’ve been with if they would like you to email over a copy of any document that you’ve just used so they will be able to access them when reviewing your meeting.

Everybody has at least one awkward interview story, and how you deal with any embarrassment can say a lot about you and how successfully you manage situations. Also, a little bit of humour can go a long way, and we can all be united in our common awkwardness.

To have a chat about your interview contact me at carl@refind.co.uk.

Carl Hinett is our Director & Executive Search Specialist. If you’ve got a hard-to-fill role and need some help, get in touch

Want to hear more about our senior HR professionals golf society? Sign up here.

How to progress your interim career

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I asked my network about an interim career and if they thought interim professionals could focus on their own development. Or if they were dictated by what was out there on the market and got a number of thoughts and opinions back.

A concern of many individuals in permanent employment is the perceived lack of career progression as a contractor. Some think that if you move into interim employment, you stay in that one position for the rest of your working life.

Sarah Cowley, Executive Coach

“Managing one’s career takes courage, and the confidence to say no. A successful career is dependent on personal growth which results from spending time and money on learning.”

A key difference of the employment status of an interim (becoming a LTD company) is the mentality. You’re not just an individual carrying out an assignment (or a job) but actually thinking and behaving like a business. Just as any other successful business might do, you need to innovate and develop.

Steve Lungley, Interim Transformation Director

“We will have had to define our services, identify the markets, sectors and environments in which we want to operate. Then develop marketing and channel strategies, sell our services and deliver them (brilliantly of course, because our reputation depends on it). On top of tht manage all those other things day to day things like accounting, tax and VAT.”

Like any business, understanding your routes to market is absolutely pivotal. Developing your personal and employer brand are key to finding that next assignment. Developing broader business management skills such as finance, sales and marketing are necessary to having a successful interim management business.

Barry Flack, Interim HR Director

“We have to supplement the assignment with a need to hone true business development capability – and personally – given that your proposition is everything. Then it requires a constant need to learn, adapt and stay relevant.”

To continuously develop your brand, you have to get your name out there through delivering successful assignments, communicating with key decisions makers and staying front of mind through social media channels (such as blogging, as well speaking and attending seminars in the relevant subjects and sectors).

Of course, all these activities take time and in the life of an interim this may be at the weekend, evenings or may even require you to take unpaid leave – so it’s not all plain sailing.

Although the activities outlined above certainly require additional time on top of the day job, they can bring increased opportunities.

Paul Powell, Interim Head of Resourcing

“Some of my moves have been intentional, gaining functional or sector knowledge and have involved calculated risk. It’s often meant stepping outside of the confines of my comfort zone. As a result, I have gained some good experience and a portfolio of skills, plus it has allowed me to share some pretty powerful insights with some clients.”

The interim market provides a wealth of opportunities and challenges. There’s short-term problems to fix, ideas to come up with and to deliver quickly. It can, therefore, be an exciting place for the right people.

Hayley Proctor, Interim Head of Resourcing

“Being the interim allows you the freedom to be bold and disruptive with your ideas to drive positive change…you are also expected to be the master of your ideas so learning and experimenting become the norm, whilst you’re given far more freedom and autonomy than your permanent counterparts.”

As an interim, there is no forced structure to your development as there is in permanent employment. You are expected to provide your own advice and guidance in this respect, to take responsibility for your own career and your own development.

Sharon Green, Interim OD and Change Expert

“I set aside a budget each year for CPD, ask clients for feedback and want to keep developing my business”.

Regardless of whether an individual is a permanent employee or an interim, if that person wishes to continuously develop their capabilities, they will progress.

I had a recent conversation with a senior HR director, who has just been offered a year’s extension. (And turned it down for the right reasons!) The CEO couldn’t believe that they were leaving, to go to nothing…who in their right mind would do this in permanent employment?

I think the feedback is overwhelmingly positive regarding an interim career. However, this is very different from being a permanent employee and won’t be for everyone!

So in summary:

  • Interims are often thrown in the deep end and need to learn new skills.
  • They need to be responsible for their own development and need to ensure that they make it happen.
  • Interims think of themselves as a business – building a proposition and delivering against it.
  • They are adaptable and learning broader skills (rather than developing their career vertically).

James Cumming is our MD and leads our HR practice. He has recruited senior HR professionals for over 15 years and has experience in finding niche HR talent. Connect with him on LinkedIn here.

If you would like to find out more about re:find and how we can support you and your business, then please get in touch.

Why this whole Millennial thing gets on my nerves

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Why this whole Millennial thing gets on my nerves
Why this whole Millennial thing gets on my nerves

Hi, my name’s James and I am not a millennial…you can tell this by checking out my picture on LinkedIn. Although I still think I’m 18 years old, I now know for a fact – after a recent visit to a well-known high growth sportswear brand in Birmingham, where I was the one sticking out like a sore thumb in middle-aged chino brigade outfit, whilst all the cool kids were dressed like a scene from Gucci crossed with Men In Black – that I am most definitely not!

But I just don’t get it? Why is there such a big deal being made about this generation, I don’t think parents have ever understood the generation below them have they? Whether it was rock music in the 50s or rave culture in the 90s, it has always seemed a bit different, hasn’t it?

According to Wiki – Millennials also knows as ‘Generation Y’ or ‘Gen Y’, are the generational demographic cohort following ‘Generation X’ and preceding ‘Generation Z’.

And if you happen to work in HR – this seems to be the second worst thing people like to talk about. (That is after why hasn’t HR still got a seat at the top table. DON’T START ME!)

The thing I think companies do need to consider when recruiting these days is that information availability and choice are greater than they have ever been. I recently posted a blog that I wrote following an interview with Simon Brown, around his experience of a recruitment process – the gist of it was that it was not a great experience. I think a lot of this comes down to trust. Employers still seem to be stuck in the dark ages – micromanaging people, not giving them any freedom and expecting lots from them, but giving nothing in return. Check out most job adverts and you will see what I mean.

There are so many things that are easily done to build a productive and happy workforce – whatever the ‘generation’. Trust is the missing ingredient in my mind… many employers simply don’t trust people to do the job they are paid to do. I remember a senior MD (at a firm I used to work) told me as a newly promoted Director “INSPECT rather than EXPECT”. Seems a bit archaic today, but many people still have this as their mentality.

I don’t think that labelling an entire peer group is particularly productive – instead, we could all treat people like adults regardless of their age. Whether that be through the recruitment process, the onboarding process or throughout their career!

To discuss further, you can email me on James@refind.co.uk.

You can view more about James Cumming our change and business transformation specialist here.

Hiring an Interim Executive? You need to get it right! Discover the 8 step process you should follow, by downloading our free eBook here.

How do you get the most out of networking?

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Networking is something that gets talked about a lot in the market. Many HR professionals know they should network to further their careers but always find an excuse to shy away from it and often say they have never really benefited from it.

Others have openly admitted that they either lack confidence in large groups of strangers, have never attended a good networking event or just see if as a pointless task that takes up too much time.  At a recent event, someone said to me that they found networking difficult because from an early age, ‘they were taught that they shouldn’t speak to strangers!’.

I’ve attended many networking events over the years, some were really good and some, well, could have been better.  I must admit in my early days, networking meant pointless conversations with people that were only interested in selling to me.  I often left these events feeling a little unaccomplished, wondering why I had bothered going.

My perception has changed over the years and what I have learnt is that networking is actually a really useful and effective business tool – when used in the right way.

Networking effectively

We all know that networking is fundamental to good business but how can you take the pain out of it and make it work more effectively as a business tool for you?

1 ) Re-frame the situation

If you get put off by the word networking, then call it something else! After all, it’s merely a tool to meet new people. Networking has moved on a lot in recent years and is no longer just about attending a formal event, vying for attention, exchanging business cards and selling, selling, selling.

It has evolved to be more about providing the opportunity to meet new and passionate people. So, for me, it can be something as simple as going to see someone in another department instead of sending them an email or meeting someone for a coffee instead of the usual conference call.   It doesn’t have to be formal.

2) Confidence

Lots of people say that confidence is a major deterrent to networking and can often mean that they are stuck for conversation.  If you’re attending an event it’s natural to feel a little nervous, but you can turn nervous energy into a positive. Just remember these key things:

Relax and be yourself; you’re networking because you chose to, and everyone is probably feeling the same, so relax and remember networking is merely a tool for meeting new people.

Be prepared; do your research, take a look at the delegate list and see if there is anyone you’re keen to talk to. One way to start a conversation is through a shared connection, so research what they’re interested in and their experiences/background.

3) Set an objective

Why are you attending the event? What do you want to get out of it?

Admittedly many people only network so that they can sell and, while this may be your end goal, remember no one wants to be sold to at a networking event, this has happened to me numerous times and I was very much put off.

The real benefit of networking lies with the relationships that can be forged as a result. Remember relationships are developed over many months and years, so follow up is key.

Also, always remember the golden rule…give before you receive. Ask yourself how can you help that person and add value before you ask for anything.

4) Conversation

Networking events can be full of outgoing, confident people that love to talk, so use it to your advantage and ask open ended questions. This way people will tell you all about what they do, what they are there for and what they are looking to get out of the event. I don’t mean that you only ask one question then listen to someone waffle on forever, it’s more of an introduction to get the conversation flowing.

A good friend of mine once told me that you need a story to engage with people, a great piece of advice that has stuck with me ever since.

Think about why you are there, what’s currently happening in your market and your thoughts on it. But the most important thing is to make eye contact and smile, no one wants to speak to a miserable stranger.

Don’t forget the basics: (it’s not cool to be fashionably late!)

  • Be sure you know where you’re going and plan your journey, there’s nothing worse than turning up stressed out because you got lost on the way there.
  • Turn your phone off, concentrate on the people around you, that’s the reason you’re there after all.
  • Try not to plan anything straight after the event. This way you are free to leave whenever you want and you won’t feel under pressure.
  • Finally, make sure you follow up with anybody that you met with. If you had a good conversation with someone suggest you meet for a coffee to keep the relationship fresh.

This is not an exhaustive list, merely tips and tricks that work for me. Over time you’ll find what works for you, but hopefully, you’ll be able to adopt some of my tips to work to your advantage and get you started.

If there is one thing I have learnt from networking, it’s that it’s all about building relationships – give and enrich the experience people have with you and this will go a long way.

To have a chat about your goals contact me at carl@refind.co.uk.

Carl Hinett is our Director & Executive Search Specialist. If you’ve got a hard-to-fill role and need some help, get in touch

Want to hear more about our senior HR professionals golf society? Sign up here.