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I was recently introduced to a CPO who needed to hire someone for their maternity cover. We talked everything through, I gave an overview of the market and timescales to hire before she asked me something that threw me slightly: “So, interim is a market in itself? Not just those candidates who are available whilst actually looking for a permanent role?”
The conversation made me reflect that, whilst I forever champion the many benefits of utilising interim support, I perhaps take for granted that this is not a universal understanding. So, why hire an interim consultant? How can your business benefit and what value does an interim bring?
Expertise and experience
Interim consultants bring specialised knowledge and skills to a project or organisation. They have typically worked in their field for many years, often in multiple companies of various sizes across many industries and have a wealth of experience that can be applied to a particular project or business challenge.
Objectivity
As outsiders to an organisation, interim consultants can offer an unbiased perspective on the company’s operations, processes, and challenges. This can be particularly valuable when the company is experiencing difficulties and needs a fresh perspective. They can identify areas for improvement and suggest new ideas and strategies to drive growth and success.
Flexibility
Interim consultants are often hired for short-term projects, which means they can be brought in to provide additional resources for a specific period of time. This can be especially beneficial when an organisation needs to meet a deadline or has a temporary skills gap.
Cost-effectiveness
Hiring an interim consultant can be a more cost-effective option than hiring a full-time employee. The consultant is typically paid on a project basis, which means the company only pays for the time the interim is needed. Plan what you need them to deliver so their truly maximise their time in the business.
Knowledge transfer
Many companies find that, just by being present, interim consultants transfer knowledge and expertise to others, helping to build internal capacity and skills. I’ve even had clients comment on the galvanising effect that an experienced interim can bring to a team, inspiring those around which in itself can have longer-term benefits for the organisation’s success.
The interim world has come a very long way in the last 10 years and continues to evolve but it’s important to remember that interims are there to benefit you as well as your organisation. Their chameleon-like ability to seamlessly blend in to an organisation, deliver what’s required and exit again is only ever beneficial and I look forward to continuing to support this market for many years to come.
Mark Ladds
Interim Partner
mark.ladds@tuckerstone.com
