Are Interim Managers looking for extensions too early?

Despite research and general opinion suggesting that the interim market remains relatively healthy, it seems that some interims are becoming increasingly anxious about the security of their contracts or indeed where their next contract is coming from. At Capita Interim Management we are certainly noticing that interims some working for us are chasing us for contracts extensions, or starting to look for new roles, much earlier. Although we appreciate the reasons behind this, it has to be said that our clients are not displaying the same levels of urgency and if anything are leaving it even later to commit to extended contracts.

For our part, we are as keen as our candidates to secure ongoing or new work for them as soon as we can, but we do feel that some of the nervousness displayed is not always founded. If you are in a contract with the possibility of an extension then you should work with your consultant and take their advice and trust them to negotiate on your behalf.

With regards to looking for a new contract, it is definitely a mistake to go out to the market too early. Recruiting Managers looking for interim support will inevitably need someone who is available more or less immediately and if you can’t offer this then this may cause a problem. We do however understand the temptations that might be dangled before you by competing recruitment companies, but be assured that exiting from an existing contract early to make yourself available for a new contract, is not the answer.

Our recommendation would be to stick close to the consultants you know and trust as they will offer you honest advice and your loyalty will go a long way in a tight market.