Hiring an interim manager can be a smart move for companies looking to address specific business challenges or opportunities. However, selecting the right interim manager can be a challenge. In this article, we’ll provide top tips on hiring interims to help you make the right choice.
Determine Your Needs
The first step in hiring an interim manager is to determine your needs. What specific challenge or opportunity do you need to address? What skills and experience are required? What is the timeframe for the project? Answering these questions will help you to identify the type of interim manager you need.
Look for Experience
When hiring an interim manager, look for experience. Look for managers who have experience in your industry or sector, and who have a track record of success in addressing similar challenges or opportunities.
Check References
Before hiring an interim manager, check their references. Speak to previous clients or employers to get an understanding of their experience working with the manager. This will give you insights into the manager’s strengths and weaknesses, and their ability to deliver results.
Evaluate the Manager’s Expertise
Evaluate the manager’s expertise to ensure that they have the skills and experience required to address your specific challenge or opportunity. Look for managers who have a track record of success in similar roles or projects, and who have the skills and experience required to manage the team or department effectively.
Consider the Manager’s Availability
Consider the manager’s availability when hiring an interim manager. Ensure that the manager has the availability to commit to the project for the required timeframe, and that they have the flexibility to adjust their schedule as needed.
Review the Manager’s Fees
Review the manager’s fees to ensure that they are reasonable and competitive. Ensure that the fees are transparent and that there are no hidden costs or fees.
Evaluate the Manager’s Communication Skills
Effective communication is critical when working with an interim manager. Evaluate the manager’s communication skills to ensure that they can communicate clearly and effectively with the team, stakeholders, and the company’s leadership.
Consider the Manager’s Cultural Fit
Consider the manager’s cultural fit when hiring an interim manager. Ensure that the manager’s values and working style align with those of the company. A good cultural fit will help to ensure that the manager can work effectively with the team and stakeholders.
Assess the Manager’s Management Style
Assess the manager’s management style to ensure that it aligns with the company’s needs and expectations. Look for managers who have a collaborative and inclusive management style, and who have the ability to manage change and uncertainty.
Consider the Manager’s Track Record
Finally, consider the manager’s track record when hiring an interim manager. Look for managers who have a track record of success in delivering results and who have a reputation for excellence in their field.
Food for Thought
Hiring an interim manager requires careful consideration and evaluation of multiple factors. When hiring an interim manager, it’s important to determine your needs, look for experience, check references, evaluate expertise, consider availability and fees, evaluate communication and cultural fit, assess management style, and consider the manager’s track record. With these factors in mind, you can hire an interim manager who can address your specific challenge or opportunity and deliver results that help you to achieve your goals.
