Choose the right interim professional for your organization

Hiring an interim professional can be a smart move for companies that need temporary expertise to tackle specific projects. Whether filling a vacancy, implementing new processes or driving change, an interim professional can provide valuable support. How do you choose the right interim professional? We provide some key factors to consider when selecting the right person for the job.

The difference between zzp, interim and freelance

In today's job market, terms such as zzp, interim and freelance come up frequently. While there is much overlap between the terms zzp, interim and freelance, there are also some nuance differences in the context in which they are used. A clear understanding of the characteristics of interim, zzp and freelance, can help in making the right choice when hiring external professionals.

ZZP

ZZP stands for self-employed without staff. A zzp is an individual who works independently without being employed by an employer. These entrepreneurs offer their services to clients, often on a project basis. Independent contractors have the freedom to determine their assignments, working hours and rates. They are responsible for their own tax returns and purchasing insurance, such as disability insurance.

Freelance

Freelance refers to a working method in which a person is self-employed and works for various clients on a project basis. In fact, a freelancer is also a self-employed person, but they often work in a specific field. Freelancers usually have specialized skills and offer their services on a project or assignment basis. They usually have multiple clients at the same time.

Interim

Interim professionals are temporary workers hired to perform specific tasks or projects within an organization. They are often requested when there is a need for specific expertise or when there is a temporary absence of an employee. Interim professionals can work at different levels, ranging from management positions to technical positions. They are usually hired for a predetermined period of time and have a clearly defined goal or project they are working on.

Define your organization's needs

Before looking for a professional, it is essential to define your specific needs. What type of project needs to be addressed? What skills and expertise are required? How long do you need the interim professional for? By answering these questions, you can get a clear picture of what you are looking for and search more specifically for the right candidates.

Be clear in what you are looking for and use the right terms in your job description. Accurately describe the desired end result, tasks and responsibilities, deadline and any specific requirements. A detailed description will help you attract the right professionals who are a good fit for the project.

Points to consider when choosing a professional

By keeping the following points in mind, you will easily find the right professional that fits your organization's wants and needs.

Determine the budget in advance

Determining the budget and discussing rates with the interim professional is an important step. Perhaps even the most important. Make sure you are clear about the budget and negotiate a fair fee for the work. Cheaper is not always better: investing in quality can be more beneficial in the long run. Be transparent about the budget, but also be willing to negotiate and be flexible within reasonable limits.

Check experience and expertise

When selecting an interim professional, experience is often a deciding factor. Look at the candidate's relevant experience and expertise. Have they successfully completed similar projects in the past? Do they have experience in your industry? These are important questions to ask to ensure that the professional has the necessary knowledge and skills to address your specific challenges.

References and recommendations

It is always wise to check references and recommendations when evaluating interim professionals. Ask for references from previous clients and get in touch to discuss their experiences. You will soon find out if someone is consistent and reliable in meeting deadlines. Online reviews and recommendations can also offer useful insights. By collecting this feedback, you can get a better idea of the candidate's reputation and performance.

Communication and cooperation

Good communication and collaboration are essential when working with an interim professional. During the selection process, pay attention to how the candidate communicates and their ability to work effectively with others. This can be assessed during interviews or by consulting references. A good match in terms of communication style and collaboration skills can significantly increase the success of the project.

Flexibility and adaptability

Interim professionals are often hired to help with change processes or to work in rapidly changing environments. Therefore, it is important to look for candidates who are flexible and can easily adapt to new situations. During the selection process, ask for examples showing that the candidate is resilient and able to adapt to change.

Want to know what else to consider when hiring professionals? Read the points of interest for working with freelancers here.

Set out your interim assignments

Choosing the right interim professional is an important decision that can contribute to the success of your projects. The above points of interest will help you make an informed choice. Take the time to find the right candidate, because a well-suited interim professional can make a valuable contribution to the growth and development of your company.

Place your interim assignments through Striive and find the right professional for your job. Want to know more about how we can support you? Please contact us for the possibilities.