The role of a leader is changing in the workplace. The concept of teamwork is replacing the idea of autocratic rule from the top down. However, many classic principles of good leadership still apply.
Try these tips for being a more effective supervisor:
• Supervisors should see themselves as leaders. Their job is to motivate their team to do the best and safest job it can -- for the organization, and for its own fulfillment.
• Pay attention to the people and take them seriously. Since they are the ones actually doing the work, they have good ideas for how to do it more effectively and how to do it safer.
• Listen. Let others talk without interruption. Look at the person who is talking and let them know you are following what they are saying.
• Ask questions. Don't jump to conclusions -- try to get the whole story.
• Make the rounds often to meet with all members of the team. While making the rounds, look for workplace hazards and things that look out of place. Leaders can pick up a lot of valuable information this way and can prevent small problems from becoming large ones.
• Don't ignore problems or complaints, especially if they involve workplace safety. Even if no solution is immediately apparent, let the team know leadership is concerned and looking for answers.
• Delegate work. Don't try to do it all. Supervision is a job in itself and takes time and attention.
• Lead by example. Commitment to the work can set the pace for others. Supervisors arriving at work on time is a good example for others who may be tempted to be tardy.
• Make job safety a personal priority. Actions in safety will encourage the team to do the same.
• Supervisors should organize themselves so they can direct others in an organized manner. Figure out what has to be accomplished each day and do first things first.
• Cutting corners on safety can be fatal. Make sure production and work priorities never take precedence over safety.
• Minor incidents are a big deal. In many incidences, a minor incident could easily have been a major accident. Make sure supervisors examine each incident so they can find ways to prevent them in the future.
• Spend time planning for successes. Don't simply deal with the crises which come up each day. Instead, learn to anticipate these problems so they can be managed better or avoided altogether.
• Supervisors should be true to their word. When making a promise, keep it.
• Control tempers. Cool off before dealing with problems so people don't say something they will regret.
• Don't try to please everyone. Supervisors have to make some unpopular decisions.
• Let people know what is expected of them. When someone is not doing their job, it could be because they does not know what that job is.
• Help people to obtain the training they need to do their work well and to advance their careers. Be alert to opportunities for education and training in the workplace and outside of the organization.
A good leader is someone who makes others want to do the work well and to do the work safely.
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