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In a crisis, contracting typically increases, providing immediate flexible and scalable resources to help businesses remain sustainable through turbulent economic times. For candidates, this provides a valuable opportunity to leverage off the project work available and diversify their industry experience while adding to their toolbox of skills.

The environment being created as a result of COVID-19 is a unique (albeit temporary) one. There is no way to know how long this will continue (though we are all hoping the end will come sooner rather than later), but eventually, it will turn around, restraints will be lifted and economies will be thriving again. Given that a lot of businesses are still watching to see what happens and dealing with the crisis, there hasn’t been a significant spike in contracting yet, but once government restraints stabilise (or even better, start to lift), businesses will be better placed to bring on interim consultants across all areas of HR to assist with the restructuring, re-invention and organisational changes they need to make.

So, if you are looking for new HR contracting opportunities, here is my advice on how to succeed in the current market:

1. Network

2. Be targeted

Focus on those industries that are still doing OK or are even stimulated by the economic environment, such as healthcare, logistics & supply chain, medical research & technology, some areas of banking & financial services, government and other essential services. Approach companies that are in that space directly, as a lot of roles haven’t hit the market yet or aren’t being advertised, and they may pipeline you for upcoming work.

3. Update your CV

When it comes to writing a CV, people will give you contradictory advice, however, the main thing is to ensure your front page includes:

• Your contact details 

• Your key skills and experience
• The details of your most recent role/s.
  

Click here for tips on how to perfect an HR resume!

4 Be open-minded

There are many roles out there that you may not have even thought of, so now’s the time to consider moving into something you perhaps hadn’t expected. The shorter the contract, the more experimental you can be!

5. Be flexible

This means be open in terms of rate, location, industry, etc. Obviously, it still has to be worth your while committing to the contract – there has to be something that induces you to accept it. Sometimes it’s a fill-in while looking for a more ideal role, and sometimes there is a non-monetary aspect of the assignment itself that makes it a worthwhile prospect. Just be careful not to move too far below your experience level, as if you drop too low, you start not being competitive enough for the level of role you are applying for.

6. Stay positive and be resilient

There will be lots of efforts that will go unrewarded or will not lead you to an offer, especially in a soft employment market, but every conversation is a connection to build your network. You never know when you may cross paths with those people in the future.

7. Promote any value-add experience and skills you have gained

Through working for companies going through similar change, such as the Global Financial Crisis, you may have gained valuable skills that can be applied to the current environment. For example, you might have experience that involves organisational design, WFH, transforming businesses to digital or even direct COVID-19 experience, that may be relevant to commercial drivers that are in place right now. 

8. Practise relaxation techniques, a growth mindset and be solution-focused

It’s natural to be struck with high levels of anxiety, panic or resentment as a result of needing to re-enter the job seeking market, but it’s important to have a positive outlook when you approach each call and interview to ensure you are presenting in the most engaging way.

9. Remember that it’s OK to approach both contract and permanent opportunities

It doesn’t have to be one or the other, and going for both simply keeps you open to more markets.

10. Understand that you don’t need an ABN or be a Pty Ltd company to do contracting

Most companies and agencies can place you in a fixed term contract or day rate. Also, don’t focus too much on the duration, as a lot of the time you will offered an extension or permanent placement, or even a promotion if you are aligned to the team and business and add as much value as you would in a permanent position.

Summary

I hope these tips help you navigate this challenging market and ensure you’re in the best position to secure the right permanent or contract role. For more advice on HR contracting or to find out about the opportunities we currently have available, feel free to reach out.