ACHIEVING A WORK LIFE BALANCE WHILST WORKING FROM

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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Stress Awareness Month aims to increase public awareness of both the causes and cures of stress. A recent study by the Stress Management Society, identified that 65% of people in the UK have felt more stressed since the COVID19 restrictions began in March 2020.

The three key causes of concern are feelings of disconnection, uncertainty and a worrying lack of control. This is backed up by findings from the Mental Health Foundation which stated that 74% of UK adults have felt so stressed at some point over the last year they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope.

Since restrictions were introduced more than 12 months ago, working from home has become the new normal for many employees across the region, and despite lockdown beginning to ease, homeworking – in some form - is set to continue for a number of business and organisations. As we try and balance work, rest and play all under the same roof, we outline our top tips for working from home.

Be organised

It is unlikely that you will be able to replicate your usual working week, especially if you are trying to juggle your job with childcare and, if a member of your household had to isolate, schoolwork. Plan ahead and make sure you co-ordinate your diary with your partner if possible so you have dedicated time to make calls or attend virtual meetings.

Understand your working ‘hours’

You may have had to adjust your working hours to manage your other commitments so look to break up your day into manageable chunks with a defined start and end time and regular breaks for lunch and to step away from your desk.

Take some time out

It is always important to take some time out during the working day and without the ‘benefit’ of a daily commute to switch off after a day in the office, it is essential that you make time during the day to get outside and do some exercise. A walk, cycle or run are ideal ways to help boost your overall well-being.

‘Leave’ work at the end of the day

Working from home can see employees doing more tasks in their non-working time as it is hard to separate home life from work life. If possible work in a room that you can close the door to at the end of the day; if not, make sure you tidy away your laptop at documents so you are not tempted to reach for them.

Make weekends different

Remember that Friday feeling? Make the most of weekends whilst working from home but making sure you switch off from work and do something on those days that you don’t have time to do during the week. Take a walk, arrange a movie night, organise a video catch up with friends or family.

Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance and accountancy professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond. CONTACT UStoday for expert advice on your next career move.