Getting the Foundations Right at Home

Richard Struthers • August 27, 2024

Ensuring your partner is on board with your decision to enter the interim world is not just a nice-to-have — it's a must-have

Embarking on a career as a procurement interim offers a world of flexibility, variety, and the opportunity to tackle dynamic, project-based tasks. However, to fully embrace this exciting career path, it's essential to have a solid foundation at home. This foundation becomes even more critical when you have a partner.


Why Your Partner's Support Is Crucial


A partner who understands and supports your career choice can make the difference between thriving in the procurement interim industry and struggling to find your footing. Their support is needed in two key areas:


1. Accepting the Financial Risk


The procurement interim industry can be rewarding, but it also comes with inherent risks, particularly when it comes to finances. Unlike a traditional job, where you have a steady paycheck, interim work can be unpredictable. There may be periods where you're between contracts and income isn't guaranteed.


For your partner, this might be a significant shift, especially if they're used to the security of a regular income. It’s essential to have open, honest conversations about the financial risks involved and to create a financial plan that works for both of you. When your partner is aware of and accepts these risks, it alleviates the stress that can arise from financial uncertainty. This mutual understanding will allow you to focus on securing contracts and delivering value to your clients, knowing that your home life is stable and supportive.


2. Getting You Through 'Next Contract Anxiety'


'Next Contract Anxiety' is something every procurement interim professional faces at some point. It’s that gnawing worry you experience when your current contract is coming to an end, and you’re unsure about what comes next. The uncertainty can be daunting, and if you let it consume you, it can affect both your professional performance and your personal well-being.


This is where having a supportive partner is invaluable. A partner who understands the nature of interim work can help you navigate this anxiety by providing emotional support and reminding you of your strengths and successes. They can be the steady hand that reassures you during uncertain times, helping you maintain perspective and confidence as you search for your next opportunity.


The Impact of an Unsettled Home


An unsettled home can be a significant barrier to success in the procurement interim industry. When there’s tension or unresolved concerns at home, it can be difficult to fully engage with and enjoy the unique experiences that interim work offers. You might find yourself distracted, stressed, or even resentful, which can affect your ability to perform at your best.


On the other hand, when your partner is onside, it creates a sense of harmony and stability that allows you to focus on your work with confidence and enthusiasm. Knowing that your partner supports your career choice and understands the ups and downs of interim work gives you the peace of mind to tackle challenges head-on and seize new opportunities as they arise.



The Value of a Supportive Partner


In the procurement interim industry, a partner who is onside is as valuable as the contract itself. Their support provides the emotional and financial stability needed to navigate the uncertainties of interim work. By building a strong foundation at home, you set yourself up for success in your career.


Remember, communication is key. Take the time to discuss your goals, the potential risks, and the rewards of interim work with your partner. Together, you can create a plan that supports both your professional ambitions and your personal well-being.


In doing so, you'll not only enhance your experience as a procurement interim but also strengthen your relationship, ensuring that both your career and home life thrive.

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