Good Behaviour: Correct Etiquette in a Candidate Driven Interim Market

With a recovering economy over the last year, the interim management market has also picked up considerably. But, as Alium Partners’ Head of Resourcing Chris Lain writes, the balance of power has now shifted back towards the candidate and all parties need to be aware of the consequences.

It is great to be working in such a buoyant and active market after five years of uncertainty. Clients are making important decisions by investing in recruitment, and candidates are responding. But this pick up has consequences for clients, candidates and providers alike.

Several Options - Candidate Driven Market Is Back

At the height of the recession, companies were hesitant to hire, often taking a longer amount of time to choose the right candidate for the role – that is not the case anymore. As the market recovers, candidates often now have two or three opportunities to consider and as a result they can afford to be very particular when choosing which role to take. In short. the candidate driven market is back.

Having A Choice - Demand Is Higher Than Supply

As economic confidence returns, demand is starting to outstrip supply and this is happening across a number of functions and sectors including Project and Programme Management , IT and Change/Transformation. Additionally, in the Health sector, candidates are being snapped up faster than organisations can handle. But how do clients and candidates deal with this upturn so as to gain the best outcome?

Etiquette - Up Your Game with the Right Behaviour

The basis of success is behaviour. As demand grows, clients, candidates and suppliers must be cautious not to make hasty decisions, chase the money or CV push respectively. The market may be chaotic and very active, but it is essential for all parties to remember and adhere to the highest standards. Be professional, maintain relationships and don’t forget those who helped you during the downturn. Don’t be associated with bad behaviours – the damage to your professional reputation could be immeasurable.

 Do you agree with Chris Lain’s advice on how etiquette is the key to success? Please share your opinion below in the comments.

Photo credit: @chrisfarrugia

Tags: career advice, health, interim management, programme management, project management