Supervisors are an important part of any organization. They are charged with ensuring the will of management is carried out by the workers. A supervisor must communicate with that team. He or she must orient and train the employees. Their employees must be made to work as a well functioning, productive team. Employees must have the performance evaluated. Any conflicts that arise must be resolves and the working relationship must always be improved.
Communication
Well performing teams can not be built without good communication. A good supervisor must possess the ability to relay clearly their own thoughts, listen to the ideas of others and ensure the will of management is executed. Excellent communication is the tool to that end. The goal of communication in the workplace is to exchange ideas efficiently and unambiguously. A supervisor will have to train employees and educate them on corporate policy. He or she must also listen to the ideas and complaints of subordinates. The supervisor must also be able to take instructions from upper management and keep them informed as well. Effective communication should be considered a loop between the speaker and the listener. Whether in written form or verbal some basic ideas one must keep in mind when communicating with others.
Before writing or speaking consider the audience. This step will establish the medium for the communication to take place and the tone that should be used. When speaking to upper management one should adopt a more respectful posture.
Clearly state the main points. Use simple language to let the reader/listener know what is to be communicated. People may have difficulty paying attention if the main point is obscured by rambling language or poor structure. Do not leave room for ambiguity. Be specific about any action that is required. Make sure to include dates for deadlines.
Do not let emotions color the tone of a written document or conversation. When
References: Flanagan, T. A., C. E. Runde (2006). Becoming a conflict competent leader. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. Gill, B.W. (2008). Successfully implementing discipline. Retrieved August 11, 2008, from Employee Network Web site: http://www.employee-network.com/discipline.html Nadig, L. A. (2007). Effective Listening. Retrieved August 02, 2008, from Larry Alan Nadig, Ph.D. Web site: http://www.drnadig.com/listening.htm