How to Succeed as a New Interim

Stepping into the world of interim management can feel both exciting and daunting. Whether you're transitioning from a permanent role or exploring a more flexible career path, becoming an interim means positioning yourself as a business, a specialist and a trusted problem‑solver. At Tile Hill, we work closely with interims across the public sector and civil society, and we’ve seen firsthand what helps new interims thrive. If you're just starting out, here’s a practical guide to help you succeed.

Understand the Value of Interim Work
Interim management has evolved into a respected and impactful career path. Organisations today face rapid change, economic uncertainty and increasing complexity. As a result, they rely on agile, experienced professionals who can step in quickly, stabilise situations and deliver outcomes. Interims bring specialist expertise, immediate impact and objective perspectives as well as leadership in complex and ambiguous environments.

If you’re someone who thrives in fast‑moving contexts and enjoys solving problems, interim work can be a rewarding way to contribute to the public sector and the communities it serves.

Market Yourself Like a Business
When you become an interim, you are the product. That means being intentional about how you present yourself and how you engage with the market.

Optimise Your LinkedIn Presence

• Keep it up to date with your most recent roles
• Use keywords aligned to the roles you want
• Clearly state you are open for interim opportunities
• Connect with former colleagues, recruiters and relevant professional groups
• Thought leadership such as sharing articles, writing posts or commenting on sector trends can help build your personal brand and reconnect you with your network

Build Relationships with Recruiters

• Speak to a handful of recruiters who specialise in your field
• Use the Institute of Interim Management (IIM) list to identify the right contacts
• Book registration calls so recruiters understand your offer, availability and priorities
• Have regular catch‑ups to maintain visibility and engagement

At Tile Hill, we want interims to succeed, that means speaking with a handful of agencies to ensure you have full market coverage.

Network With Purpose
Networking doesn’t have to be daunting. It’s simply about letting people know you’re operating differently. You’ll be surprised how often opportunities arise through existing relationships.

• Reconnect with people you’ve worked with before (this can be via LinkedIn, email, phone or in person)
• Attend sector‑specific networking groups
• Treat conversations as opportunities to share insights

Do Your Research
Interim work isn’t for everyone, so it’s important to take time to understand the landscape. Speak to recruiters about the transition, attend events and webinars and explore IIM resources. If you’re new to the public sector, take the opportunity to learn how your skills transfer and where you can add value. Developing a solid understanding of the market will help you position yourself more effectively.

Be Clear on Your Offer
One of the biggest challenges for new interims is defining their narrative. Avoid the temptation to generalise. While it may feel like casting a wider net increases your chances, clients hire specialists. A clear, focused offer will always stand out.

Understand IR35 and Your Financial Setup
IR35 shapes how interim work is structured, which is why roles often have different day rates depending on their IR35 status. Working outside IR35 usually means operating through a limited company and managing your own tax affairs, while inside IR35 roles are typically carried out via an umbrella company recommended by the agency. Each route affects your take‑home pay differently, so it’s important to understand what works best for you. Getting clarity early on makes it easier to choose the right opportunities.

Craft a Strong Interim CV
Your CV needs to work harder in the interim market. Hiring managers often review CVs after long days so clarity and impact matter. Interim processes rarely include a covering letter, so ensure your CV says everything you need it to and have tailored versions ready for different roles.

Key tips:

• Keep it to around four pages
• Start with a clear, concise profile
• Include 4/5 key achievements tailored to each brief
• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in your career history
• Quantify results wherever possible
• For roles older than 10 years, include only the job title, organisation and dates unless the experience is directly relevant

Manage Your Time and Wellbeing
Interim life can be intense, with the pressure of searching for roles, updating your CV, networking and delivering assignments all at the same time. It helps to set clear boundaries, establish a routine and make space for activities you genuinely enjoy. Avoid spending hours endlessly scrolling LinkedIn, which can drain energy without adding much value. Maintaining balance is essential for long‑term success.

Invest in Continuous Improvement
As an interim, you’re responsible for your own development.

• Seek feedback from sponsors and stakeholders during and after assignments
• Ask for references and maintain a list of referees
• Invest in CPD
• Attend conferences and events for both learning and networking
• Consider voluntary trustee roles to broaden your portfolio and develop board‑level skills

Work Effectively with Recruiters
To get the most from your recruiter relationships:

• Identify specialists using the IIM list
• Share your value proposition clearly
• Stay informed about sector trends
• Tailor your narrative to current market challenges
• Prepare thoroughly for interviews
• Use recruiters as an extension of your network

Recruiters want you to succeed and the best relationships are built on trust, clarity and communication.

Final Thoughts
Success in interim work goes far beyond technical expertise. It’s shaped by how you position yourself, the relationships you build, your adaptability and your commitment to continual growth. Those who thrive in the interim market are proactive, self‑aware and willing to invest in their own development. If you’re exploring interim opportunities or planning your next move, we’re always here for a supportive career conversation.