Tips for stepping into the role of interim leader: Opinion

There are a number of steps that incoming interim leaders and short-term administrators can take to ensure they start off on the right foot, writes David D Perlmutter (Texas Tech University). Perlmutter advises incoming leaders in short-term administrative positions to take some time early on to review their budget carefully and understand their unit or institution’s financial “big picture.” Touring office spaces and taking key staff members to lunch can help to foster a meaningful relationship with internal team members, and Perlmutter advises also taking a moment to identify and connect with key external stakeholders. “A good first day means leaving a strong impression that you are going to pay attention to what needs to be done,” concludes Perlmutter.