How do your workers view you?  Are you approachable?  Are you a resource of knowledge and guidance?  Are you patient?  Do they know you really care about them as human beings?  When you became a supervisor, you ceased being one of the gang but it does not mean that you have somehow become superior to them.  Your ability to relate to your staff can have a direct impact on getting the job done.  Giving them time to get to know you and your taking the time to get to know them can have profound benefits to daily success.

All of your workers need your time and guidance during their employment; some more than others.  This simply means that as you “read” your employees you will find that some require more frequent contact than others.  This may be in part due to personality differences, skill levels, insecurities or other factors.  Some of your best workers will simply want to get in, do their job and go home with only minimal contact from you.  In those cases, it is best to spend only the necessary time with them since too much attention can be detrimental.

One supervisor carries mints and other candies in his pocket.  When a worker sees him coming, they reach out to accept the candy.  As the supervisor chats with them, he asks sincerely how they are doing with the intent of not letting the description drag out too long.  As he is finishing the conversation he gives a praise or suggestion on how to perform a task better.  He always thanks the staff member for being part of the team.

Just remember that we are in the “people business.”  More in future articles on this important subject.  

Your comments and questions are always welcome. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean…

 

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678.314.2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.


posted on 11/1/2013