There’s no getting around this: it’s a challenging market out there right now – for everyone. Anyone who tells you otherwise I suspect may have chosen to be a little economical with the truth. Thing is, that kind of slowdown brings with it challenges for our clients, our candidates and, naturally, also for us as recruitment partners. So, what can you do as a contractor to maximise your chances in a more competitive market?

​

Be More Jack

When building your career, there is obviously huge stock in building specialisation. But in a squeezed environment, making yourself a generalist can also be hugely valuable. For practitioners, your currency is your skills and the more of those you have to offer, the more indisposable you will become to almost any organisation. Take every opportunity to expand your repertoire, continue professional training & consider embarking on contracts that might be outside your comfort zone. Increasingly, clients are honing in on interim talent with multiple strings to their bow.

​

Clean Up Your Shop Window

Even in a digital world, your CV still remains your most immediate selling tool so make sure it’s spick-and-span. Consider carefully tailoring it for particular roles, keep things ultra-current and ensure your copy is punchy, modern and to-the-point: we’re professional communicators, after all. Don’t forget to apply the same rigour to your LinkedIn profile. Get the basics right and the rest will always follow.

�