Becoming a Better Boss Secret 9: Developing a Supervisory Mindset

There are many challenges facing a first-time supervisor. Roles change, as do relationships. The new supervisor will need to look at things in new and unexpected ways There is a big change in perspective.

The first-time supervisor may not be adequately prepared for the new role. Training needed for new duties may not be readily available. The new supervisor needs support and the support system may be lacking, or nonexistent.

First-time supervisors accept their new position with enthusiasm and optimism. Often, people who become supervisors were promoted because they were outstanding employees who delivered great results.

Suddenly, delivering great results depends on something completely different – the ability to get results through others.

There are three essential skills that will help new supervisors survive the first months of transition. These three essential skills provide an area of focus in a wide field of important supervisory skills. They give the first-time supervisor a solid place to start.

1. Supervisors must learn how to flip their perspective.

   This includes expanding personal knowledge and understanding of the organization to form a management point of view. To get results through others, supervisors need to understand how to set goals and expectations, establish priorities, use personal power, and include employees in problem solving and decision making.

2. Supervisors must employ effective communication and listening skills.

   This includes both oral and written communication techniques. Methods of communicating must also be considered including holding effective staff meetings, completing one-on-ones with employees, and specifics on communicating with internal and external customers.

3. Supervisors must build effective relationships and use those relationships for help and support.

   A supervisor needs to have strong relationships with his or her employees and also with peers, bosses, and customers. Learning how to foster those relationships is critical. The ability to manage a high performing work team depends on knowing how to build effective relationships.

Without question, new supervisors need training in many skill areas, but they need more than just training. New supervisors need support, mentoring, and time to develop skills and knowledge.

Simply stated: ME BECOMES WE.

For more information (and 24 more secrets), check out Becoming a Better Boss – Your Guidebook to 25 Fundamental Management Responsibilities is now available at Amazon.com!