How to choose the best interim manager for your company
These highly skilled professionals bring their expertise, flexibility, and ability to act quickly to help companies navigate through times of change or crisis. However, identifying a good interim manager among the multitude of candidates can be a challenge in itself. What qualities and criteria should be used?
Operational, fast and well
A good interim manager must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the company and its environment. This includes not only a knowledge of internal operations and processes, but also an understanding of the specific challenges the business faces. He will take the time to understand the strategic objectives of the company, as well as the issues that prevent it from reaching its full potential. This ability to quickly immerse themselves in the company allows them to identify areas where their expertise can have the most impact.
Expertise and experience
Solid experience and industry expertise are crucial elements for a good interim manager. Each industry has its own peculiarities, specific challenges, and best practices. An interim manager who has already worked in the same industry will have a head start, as they understand the dynamics at play and will be able to propose suitable solutions. Additionally, diverse experience in different contexts and industries can also be an asset, as it brings a broader perspective and innovative ideas.
The makings of a leader
A good interim manager must have strong leadership skills. He will be able to motivate and inspire teams, even in crisis or turbulence situations. In addition, he will demonstrate an excellent ability to communicate and work with all types of interlocutors, from employees and technicians in the field to senior managers. Change management will also be part of its prerogatives. Responsible for leading transformation or restructuring initiatives within the company, he will be the driving force behind change.
Flexible
The ability to adapt quickly to changing environments is an essential quality for an interim manager. Circumstances can change quickly, and a good interim manager must be able to adapt and modify their strategy accordingly. This requires a great deal of mental and emotional flexibility. A proven interim manager does not panic in the face of uncertainty, but rather will see the challenges as springboards to bounce back.
Ideas for deciding
Finally, a good interim manager must be an effective problem solver and a competent decision-maker. He is often confronted with complex and unforeseen situations that require analytical and strategic thinking that will lead him to quick decision-making. Mobilising and unifying, he will be able to mobilise the necessary resources to implement his informed decisions effectively and efficiently.
Making the right choice
Identifying a good interim manager requires taking into account a combination of specific qualities and criteria. From understanding the business to industry experience to leadership and change management skills, every aspect contributes to the success of an interim manager. By carefully choosing a professional with these qualities, companies can ensure that they have strong leadership and valuable expertise when navigating through periods of transition or crisis.
The new Manag-in platform has understood this and offers companies access to pre-selected profiles (thanks to an algorithm using AI) according to their needs, in a simple, fast and relevant way.
Gérard Arnaud , Patrice Hournon , Bruno Blaser
Co-founders of Manag-in
