As an interim manager, you are essentially a one-person B2B business. You need to market yourself as an Interim manager in the same way a company would, except your product is you. So, how can you stand out in a crowded market of professionals, especially if you’re not solely relying on interim providers to find your next gig?
The answer lies in strategic self-promotion.
Start with Your LinkedIn Profile
Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression clients and interim providers will have of you. So, it’s essential that your profile reflects who you are, what you offer, and why clients should work with you. Here’s a quick guide to optimising your LinkedIn presence:
1. Update Your Headline
Your headline is what appears in search results, so it needs to be crisp and clear. Instead of using broad descriptors like “experienced manager,” focus on the specific value you offer. For example:
“Interim Operations Manager | Specialising in Turnarounds and Crisis Management”
This type of headline immediately communicates what you do and how you can help.
2. Optimise Your About Section
The “About” section is where you can go into more detail, but keep it focused. Include your key skills, your experience as an interim manager, and most importantly, your unique selling points (USPs). What makes you different from other interim managers? What specific value can you bring to a project?
3. Highlight Your Achievements
In your “Experience” section, focus on specific accomplishments rather than listing duties. Use bullet points to make your achievements easy to read, and include relevant keywords to boost your visibility in searches.
For example:
- Led a successful restructuring of a $50 million division, resulting in a 15% increase in profitability within six months.
- Developed and implemented a crisis management strategy that reduced operational downtime by 30%.
Educate Yourself
Marketing yourself effectively requires continuous learning. There are numerous resources available—whether it’s through YouTube tutorials, career coaches, or LinkedIn courses—that can help you sharpen your marketing skills and ensure that your profile stands out.
Keep It Simple and Direct
Remember, simplicity is key. Avoid jargon or overly complex language in your profile. Potential clients might not always be experts in your field, so your profile should be understandable to a wide audience. When crafting your profile, focus on being clear, concise, and approachable.
Final Thoughts: Position Yourself for Success
Marketing yourself as an interim manager can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can ensure that your profile stands out to clients and interim providers alike. A strong LinkedIn presence can be the key to landing your next project.
Looking for your next interim management assignment? Upload your CV on our website to get matched with the perfect project or explore articles tailored for interim managers.
Effectively marketing yourself as an Interim Manager involves positioning yourself as a flexible, results-driven professional who can quickly make an impact. By focusing on your unique strengths and building a network that can recommend or hire you, you’ll increase your chances of securing and succeeding in interim roles.