How to Pass Your Probation Period – Tips for

Why a Strong CV is Non-Negotiable for Finance Professionals in 2025

As a Senior Resourcer at Sharp Consultancy, I’ve reviewed thousands of CVs...From those just starting out to seasoned professionals with decades of experience. One thing remains consistent: in today’s competitive market, a strong CV isn’t optional—it’s essential. Today, South Yorkshire’s finance landscape is more dynamic than ever. With growing demand across sectors like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and tech, accountancy and finance professionals are expected to bring more than just technical skills to the table. Your CV is your first opportunity to prove you’re up to the challenge. This blog marks the start of a three-part series focused on helping you craft a standout CV tailored to your career stage and goals. In this first post, we’ll cover general CV tips relevant to all finance professionals. In the next two instalments, we’ll dive deeper into: Transactional Finance CVs – how to highlight your experience in roles such as purchase ledger, sales ledger, and credit control. Part-Qualified Finance CVs – how to position yourself for progression while studying towards your qualifications. Stay tuned for practical advice and real-world insights to help your CV rise to the top of the pile. 🕒 First Impressions MatterRecruiters and hiring managers typically spend less than 30 seconds scanning a CV. That means your CV needs to immediately communicate relevance, professionalism, and potential. A clean layout, clear structure, and tailored content can make the difference between landing an interview or being passed over. 🔍 Specialist Skillsets Are in DemandFinance roles today go far beyond number-crunching. Employers want professionals who understand how finance supports wider business goals. Whether it’s streamlining reporting, implementing new systems, or driving cost efficiencies, your CV should highlight the tangible impact you’ve made. This is your chance to showcase your value-add—what makes you different from the next candidate. Use metrics where possible to quantify your achievements and make them memorable. 📍 Standing Out in YorkshireYorkshire is home to a diverse range of industries, from advanced manufacturing and engineering to professional services and digital tech. This diversity creates exciting opportunities—but also fierce competition. To stand out, your CV should reflect sector-specific experience and transferable skills. Whether you’ve worked in a fast-paced SME or a large corporate environment, highlight how your background aligns with the needs of the region’s employers. 📊 Business Acumen is a MustFinance professionals are increasingly expected to contribute to strategic decision-making. Roles in FP&A, commercial finance, and business partnering are on the rise, and employers want candidates who can offer insight—not just information. Your CV should reflect your ability to influence outcomes. Have you helped drive revenue growth? Supported investment decisions? Improved forecasting accuracy? These are the stories that resonate with hiring managers. 📈 Show a Clear Story of ProgressionRecruiters look for signs of growth and development. A strong CV doesn’t just list job titles—it explains the “why” behind each move. Did you step into a leadership role? Take on a new challenge? Gain exposure to a different sector? Even lateral moves can be powerful if they show a deliberate effort to build your skillset. Make sure your CV tells a cohesive story of your career journey. 🔑 Final ThoughtsIn Yorkshire’s fast-moving industries, a sharp, well-crafted CV is your key to unlocking new opportunities. It’s not just about listing experience—it’s about showing impact, adaptability, and commercial value from the very first glance. Whether you’re actively job hunting or just exploring your options, now is the time to invest in your CV. Visit Our Candidate Advice Pages HereLooking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to us TODAY and let's chart your career path together.

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Starting a new finance or accountancy role often comes with a probation or trial period—typically lasting between three and six months. This critical phase allows employers to assess if a new hire is the right fit for the team, and gives new employees the opportunity to decide if the company aligns with their career aspirations.

At Sharp Consultancy, we support clients and candidates across Yorkshire and the North of England to ensure every placement is a successful, long-term match. Whether you're an ambitious Part-Qualified Accountant, an experienced Finance Director, or hiring for your finance team, here are our expert tips to make the most of the probation period.

Tips for New Employees: Make a Great First Impression

1. Nail the Basics

No matter how experienced you are, the early days in a new role can feel overwhelming. New systems, processes, and people all take time to adjust to.

Set yourself up for success by:

Arriving on time and dressing professionally
Being friendly, enthusiastic, and approachable
Asking questions when in doubt
Showing a willingness to learn and adapt

First impressions count—so keep them positive.

cartoon working from home environment with computer chair, desktop, books and a lamp on a pink peach background.

2. Pace Yourself and Learn the Ropes

While it's natural to want to hit the ground running, your new employer doesn’t expect you to know everything on day one.

Use your probation period to:

Ask smart questions
Read up on company background and previous projects
Observe how different departments operate
Absorb the company’s culture and processes

This approach is especially useful in complex finance functions, such as management accounting, financial planning, or audit roles.

3. Lend a Hand Where You Can

If your workload is still building up, offer support to colleagues on ongoing tasks and projects. It’s a great way to:

Demonstrate you’re a team player
Gain practical insights into company operations
Build rapport with new colleagues

Your communication and collaboration skills will shine—and these are especially valued in finance teams of all sizes.

4. Avoid Office Politics

Stay professional and steer clear of gossip or comparing your new workplace to your previous one. Don’t:

Badmouth former employers
Criticise your predecessor
Push for major changes before understanding existing systems

Maintain neutrality and show respect for the existing team dynamics.

5. Leave on Good Terms, Start on Better Ones

Even if you left your last job under difficult circumstances, avoid speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues. The finance and accountancy sector—especially across Yorkshire and the North—is a close-knit community, and word travels fast.

Tips for Employers: Help New Starters Succeed

Hiring the right person is only the beginning. Supporting their success during probation can significantly increase retention and long-term productivity.

1. Set Clear Objectives and Expectations

Ensure each new hire receives:

A detailed job description
A list of key responsibilities
Clear and achievable goals for their first few months

This is especially crucial for roles such as Financial Controller, Finance Business Partner, or any senior finance position where expectations may be high from day one.

2. Give Time to Settle In

Even if you need an immediate impact, give new employees time to:

Understand the company structure
Settle into their role
Learn internal systems and workflows

Offer relevant background materials and introductions to key contacts early on.

3. Be Approachable and Supportive

Book in regular one-to-one catch-ups to:

Answer questions
Offer feedback
Provide reassurance

Make yourself accessible and show that you're invested in their success. A consistent check-in during probation is one of the most effective retention tools for finance professionals.

4. Avoid Criticising Former Employees

Even if you're hoping the new hire will bring a fresh perspective, avoid speaking poorly about their predecessor. Focus instead on the goals ahead and how the new recruit can bring value.

5. Assign a Project or Ownership Early On

Allow new team members to take on a small but meaningful project. This helps:

Boost confidence
Showcase their strengths
Prove their value to the wider team

It also reinforces why they were the right hire in the first place.

Sharp Consultancy: Your Partner for Successful Recruitment

At Sharp Consultancy, we specialise in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance professionals across Sheffield, Leeds, and the wider Yorkshire region. Our experienced consultants ensure both clients and candidates are fully prepared for long-term success—right from day one.

Looking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to us TODAYand let's chart your career path together.

How to Pass Your Probation Period – Tips for Employees and Employers