What makes a great supervisor? – Part 2

I hope you had a chance to read part 1.  There are more things you can do to be a great supervisor.  If you gave your employees a score card – how would they rate you?

Rule #8. Always show appreciation for your employees’ efforts- every employee wants to feel that they are valued and appreciated.  For example, an encouraging word to a low performing employee will often do more to improve things than constant criticism for poor performance.  Research has shown that a four-to-one ratio of compliments to criticism produces the best level of job performance.  That means for every one negative comment or criticism you make to an employee, you have to make four positive comments for that employee to still feel valued and appreciated.

Rule #9. Defend your employees from unfair criticism- if you expect loyalty from your employees, then you must show loyalty to them by defending them when they receive undeserved or harsh and extreme criticism from others.  Never let anyone treat your employees disrespectfully or in an unprofessional manner.  Give your employees permission to end an unpleasant conversation with a co-worker or customer.

Rule #10. Under stress, act professionally and remain calm- before you can supervise or mange anyone else successfully, you must first learn to manage your own behavior.  Getting upset and losing your temper solves nothing and only makes a bad situation much worse.  It takes a real leader to remain calm and professional during times of stress or crisis. Employees feel more secure and comfortable with supervisors who handle things calmly and consistently.

Rule #11. Be flexible – while consistency provides day-to-day security, employees also need and expect some degree of personal flexibility when unexpected problems arise.  As a supervisor, you should be able to show empathy, concern, and understanding when a good employee has an unexpected personal crisis.  Good supervisors do not make things worse by criticizing people for things they cannot control.  Of course, if people abuse time off policies or have excessive problems that affect their job performance then it becomes your responsibility to hold them accountable and get them back on track.

Rule #12. Display a positive attitude – it’s your responsibility to set the tone and attitude for your team.  Enthusiasm is contagious and it’s your job to get the ball rolling. Smile warmly and personally greet everyone each day.  Make an extra effort to make sure all of your employees feel welcome, wanted, and appreciated.  Become the voice of calm reason that restores a positive balance to the team.  Take time to celebrate team accomplishments and go out of your way to notice special occasions.

Rule #13. Show respect for ideas & opinions –  The best ideas come from the people actually doing the job.  Work to inspire your employees to innovate and think of new ways to do things that add value or reduce costs.  Praise and reward your employees for just being willing to suggest ideas – even if they do turn out to be impractical or do not get used.

What other rules make a great supervisor?  Share your comments below!

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