Interim managers bring years of experience to the table when companies hire them to manage challenging situations. They are there because they have foresight and the ability to “fix things.” However, it’s not just their experience that helps them succeed. Interim managers who accomplish their goals don’t get sidetracked. They stay focused. It’s no easy feat leading a company through crisis or change. However, with open communication and realistic goal setting, a capable interim manager can deliver results and meet expectations.
Interim Managers and Client Expectations
Meeting client expectations at the end of an assignment is considered a job well done. Interim managers must work with the CEO to define those expectations before work begins. Because of their interim status, they have the luxury of not letting the day-to-day minutiae distract them from their objectives.
Sometimes, interim managers can find themselves in a dilemma and realize the company’s targets aren’t in their own best interest. Instead of following their instincts and doing what they perceive to be the right thing, they talk to their client. By discussing their apprehensions and setting new goals, the interim manager and the client can find common ground and move forward.
Interim Managers Set Realistic Goals
Everyone wants to sweep in with big changes, but that’s not always viable. Rather than making lofty promises that are difficult to keep, interim managers set realistic goals. They do this by discussing a variety of ideas in their initial meeting with the client. Either they will eliminate the impractical ones or turn them into goals that are achievable.
Interim Managers Are Effective Communicators
One of the most important elements of delivering the right results is open communication. Maintaining contact and transparency throughout an assignment helps keep the client happy. This way, changes don’t blindside either party and no one feels as if the other side is ignoring them. As a result, the interim manager knows what the client expects at every stage and is able to deliver accordingly.
Taking notes about the client’s needs is key for effective communication. This way, interim managers can incorporate client expectations into their Statement of Work (SOW) and make additions based on feedback. Then, they share the SOW with the client who, in turn, knows what to expect and has the opportunity to veto any idea before moving forward.
