- Interim managers bring fresh perspective to the workplace
- Yet almost half of UK companies ëhave neverí used interim managers
Research released today by Robert Half Management Resources, the interim management division of Robert Half International, indicates that over half of UK employers believe that working with interim managers (IMs) brings added value to the workplace. According to the survey, 54 per cent of HR and Finance directors say IMs bring a ëfresh pair of eyesí to the company.
The survey also reveals that one third of all UK respondents (33 per cent) feel that the value gained from hiring IMs is due to the fact they bring with them diverse experience from a wide range of companies and industry sectors.
Tim Hird, Executive Director of Robert Half Management Resources said:
ìThe value of interim managers is becoming more and more evident with many UK employers relying on them for anything from the day-to-day running of the business to the restructuring of large projects. Modern interim managers can be used to manage change, deal with specialist projects, fill gaps in managerial support or simply improve overall business performance.î
While the survey clearly highlights the value that IMs bring to an organisation, surprisingly sever per cent of respondents say they ëno longerí use them and an overwhelming 46 per cent admit they ëhave neverí worked with IMs. The survey also states that only 14 per cent of UK companies employ IMs on a regular basis. The main reason sited by employers for not using them is ëlack of familiarityí with the services that they provide (44 per cent).
Tim Hird added:
ìInterim managers have operated in Europe since the 1970ís and while their popularity has grown dramatically in recent years it is clear that many UK firms are still yet to recognise the value that they bring. As our latest survey indicates, interim managers offer an attractive cost-effective solution to short-term recruitment needs.î
One of the major challenges faced by employers is how best to integrate IMs into the workplace. According to the survey, over one in three employers (36 per cent) say that staff are ërather hostileí towards interims.
Tim Hird commented:
ìAn Interim is not there to take over the role of the permanent employee but instead should provide an opportunity to act as a mentor and provide existing less experienced managers with new skills and valuable insight into handling a variety of business situations.î
Many employers (28 per cent) relish the opportunity to work with IMs because they do not have hidden agendas or get entangled in office politics.
UK Companies should take a ífresh lookí at Interim Managers
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