Interim vs. Temporary

Attribute	Interim	Temporary
Duration	Short-term	Short-term
Purpose	Fill a gap until a permanent solution is found	Provide a temporary solution for a specific period
Authority	May have limited decision-making authority	Usually has limited decision-making authority
Scope	Can cover a wide range of responsibilities	Usually covers a specific task or role
Flexibility	May have more flexibility in terms of responsibilities	May have less flexibility in terms of responsibilities

Definition

Interim and temporary are two terms often used interchangeably in the business world, but they actually have distinct meanings. An interim position is typically a temporary role that is filled by a qualified professional on a short-term basis to address a specific need within an organization. On the other hand, a temporary position is a role that is filled by a worker for a limited period of time, often to cover for a permanent employee who is on leave or to assist with a temporary increase in workload.

Duration

One key difference between interim and temporary positions is the duration of the role. Interim positions are usually filled for a specific project or during a period of transition within an organization. These roles can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the scope of the project or the length of the transition period. Temporary positions, on the other hand, are typically shorter in duration and can range from a few days to a few months.

Responsibilities

Interim professionals are often brought in to lead a team, department, or project during a period of change or transition. They are expected to have the skills and experience necessary to make strategic decisions and drive results within a limited timeframe. Temporary workers, on the other hand, are usually hired to perform specific tasks or duties within a department. They may be responsible for filling in for a permanent employee, assisting with a special project, or providing additional support during a busy season.

Qualifications

Interim professionals are typically seasoned executives or managers with a track record of success in their field. They are often hired for their expertise and leadership skills, as well as their ability to quickly assess a situation and make informed decisions. Temporary workers, on the other hand, may have a range of qualifications depending on the nature of the role. They may be recent graduates looking to gain experience, retirees looking for part-time work, or individuals with specific skills needed for a short-term project.

Relationship with the Organization

Interim professionals are usually seen as external consultants or advisors who are brought in to provide a fresh perspective and help drive change within an organization. They may not have a long-term relationship with the company and are often focused on achieving specific goals within a limited timeframe. Temporary workers, on the other hand, are typically seen as part of the organization's workforce, even if their tenure is short-lived. They may work closely with permanent employees and be expected to follow the same policies and procedures as regular staff.

Benefits

Interim positions offer professionals the opportunity to work on challenging projects, gain valuable experience, and expand their network within the industry. They may also receive higher compensation than temporary workers due to their specialized skills and expertise. Temporary positions, on the other hand, provide workers with flexibility, the ability to gain experience in different industries or roles, and the opportunity to earn income while searching for a permanent position.

Conclusion

While both interim and temporary positions serve important functions within organizations, they differ in terms of duration, responsibilities, qualifications, relationship with the organization, and benefits. Interim professionals are typically hired for their leadership skills and expertise to drive change within a limited timeframe, while temporary workers are often brought in to fill specific roles or provide additional support for a short period of time. Understanding the distinctions between interim and temporary positions can help organizations make informed decisions about their staffing needs and help professionals determine the best fit for their career goals.