Female interim managers need to develop their professional skills to stand the best chance of winning business this year, according to a survey of 700 women interim managers from InterimWomen, the UK business forum for female interims set up by Interim recruiter, Russam GMS.

In light of the current, competitive market, 61% of interims said that professional development is critical for interims to get ahead of the competition. Two-thirds stated that those who undertake professional development courses will be more likely to win assignments than those who don’t. Just 24% of interims said that training and development was not important or would be linked to career opportunities.

More than half of those questioned said that networking and marketing themselves effectively was the most challenging factor (52%); a quarter said winning their first assignment had been tough (25%). Others claimed that deciding on their ‘professional product’, managing cash flow when moving from a permanent role and setting up as a small business had proved difficult.

Rachel Youngman, chair of InterimWomen, says: “The research shows that interims place great importance on training — many have gained industry recognised professional qualifications, in addition to general self development courses.

“In the current competitive market, interims that focus on self development have up-to-date professional qualifications and skills, particularly in their field of expertise, will stand more chance of winning assignments.

“Continual professional development will not only ensure that an interim’s skills and knowledge are up-to-date, but that they have the confidence to shine in interview and networking situations which will be vital in ensuring they win business.”