Understanding the real value of interim management

Bringing in an outsider for a short period of time is seen by some employees as taking away a full-time position from existing staff - which can be especially problematic when companies are going through periods of restructuring, as many are in the current economic climate.

The truth is that interim managers can be a great asset when companies are struggling economically . As an outsider, the interim manager is better placed to rationally assess where companies can improve, both on an immediate level and as part of a longer-term strategy. They have no personal agenda with existing workers, and do not have an eye on their own career path within the firm. Interim managers will be able to work with board members and implement changes that existing employees may find difficult, simply because it is best for the firm.

This is what it is all about for interim managers: getting results. Their fees, along with their reputation and that of the agency they represent, are dependent on making a positive impact on the firm, and leaving it in a better position than when they arrived, ready for the existing employees to move forward with a stronger company. Helping employees understand this is the key to getting the workforce onside when it comes to utilising an interim manager.

Using interim managers is also cost effective; asking an existing employee to fulfil this brief brings no guarantee of success, and can present a problem regarding what role to give them once the process is finished. Interim managers work for as long as they are needed, and not a moment longer.

Finally, the specialists used by firms such as Interim Partners are experts in their field, having fulfilled similar briefs for numerous other companies. When dealing with something as important as the structure and future direction of a business, experience really counts.