Advantages of hiring HR interim contractors?
Should I hire a HR contractor?
Whether your company is going through a merger, completing an organisational redesign or undertaking a significant restructure - typically, these projects require a specialist skill from the HR team for a defined period. Often that niche skill set may be missing from the current HR team, and/or the size and complexity of the work to be done requires additional resources to bolster what is currently available.
This is where the Interim HR Expert rises to the forefront.
What are the advantages of hiring a HR contractor?
Speed - The recruitment process for a professional interim can be considerably shorter, often sitting outside the traditional HR permanent recruitment process and so allowing the interim to start within days from the initial brief if required. The ability to “hit the ground running” comes as standard for any interim worth their salt and whilst a “launch of project” start is ideal, they’ll normally be equally as capable to deliver results if they start mid-project.
Experience - Professional interims are often brought into the business for their unique skill set, and they will likely have led and successfully completed similar projects on a number of occasions. Many interims will have also been in the HR profession for a number of years, typically reaching Director or VP levels of responsibility. You’ll wind up getting a lot of bang for your buck!
Expertise - The nature of being an interim contractor allows that individual to focus on the elements of HR they enjoy, and typically they will continue to develop their experience in that field and refine this skill set, This is not always possible in a permanent salaried role, and so ensures that any business engaging interim services can benefit from deep subject matter expertise.
Objectivity - As an independent contributor, the professional interim should be completely objective, removed from company politics and “this is how we’ve always done it” - thus bringing in new ideas and creative solutions. Many interims have worked across a broad array of industry sectors, company sizes, company challenges - and can offer insights into best practice. Because they’re not a part of the permanent team, they have an opportunity to touch on unpopular topics or address difficult issues (and personalities) than someone who is concerned about maintaining popularity to protect their careers and friendships.
Commitment – A vital attribute for a professional interim is commitment. Cutting short assignments or leaving projects would harm their reputation and prevent securing new assignments. When you hire an interim you can also expect to get your “pound of flesh” as longer working hours and increased pressure are par for the course as they work to achieve the agreed results!
Accountability - The professional interim is ultimately responsible for the project or piece of work. Their work is a direct reflection on both the value they add and their ability to secure further work so they expect to be tracked throughout the assignment and will demonstrate their ability quickly.
Cost - there should be no hidden costs of employment with interim contractors. Their hourly or daily rate may seem high, but they’re taking care of all their taxation, social costs, expenses and any time off work. You pay only for the time they work, which allows you to budget a fixed cost into your project plan. It also important to note, if the project is cancelled, postponed or performance related issue is identified, the business is not financially committed or tied to the long notice periods enjoyed by salaried employees. Additionally these interim contractors aren’t eligible for holiday or sick pay, full notice pay or the redundancy entitlements that a permanent employee would receive.
An interim HR contractor can be an invaluable resource to a business going through change (good or bad) and has very real potential to help your team to deliver projects in the quickest and most effective way.
If you’d like more information, or have an urgent hiring need for any type of leader across the HR function, you can make via direct contact with me via ian@cartermorris.com for a confidential discussion. We have an array of fully assessed professionals “on standby” and I’m happy to help you with an expert view and a no fuss, rapid hiring solution.
About the Author
Ian Mael is valued across his HR network for his diligent communications and authentic partnerships. As the leader for interim HR executive hires at Carter Morris, he brings over 15 years of recruitment experience for multi sector hires within demanding deadlines for the full range of specialist roles within the HR profession.