Lessons in Leadership
5 Tips to Become a Better Supervisor
“Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.”
— Peter Drucker
As a Supervisor at InDemand, every decision you make is guided by our 5 core values: Spirit of Excellence, Doing the Right Thing, We Before Me, Innovate to Elevate, and Grace Through Generosity.
But in order to maximize your potential, it's imperative that you challenge yourself, as well as your team. This means taking risks, listening to suggestions, and developing new skills. Although it may seem like a daunting task, a true leader—especially a Supervisor at InDemand—never shies away from a test.
Ready to propel your career to the next level? Here are 5 management tips guaranteed to help you become a more effective Supervisor.
1. Time Management & Expectations
Establish time limits.
Time limits will make projects more feasible, rather than simple to-do lists.
Set realistic goals.
Realistic goals empower Field Reps. and give them the autonomy to make decisions.
Inspire excellence.
Time isn’t the only measure of success. Motivate your employees to produce work that goes above and beyond InDemand's "Spirit of Excellence."
2. Delegation
Don't do everything yourself.
An effective Supervisor knows that "We Before Me" is the most important aspect of their job. Trust your team, give them clear directives, and let them accomplish tasks.
Be ready to answer questions.
When you delegate assignments, give clear directions and always ask, "Are there any questions?"
We all start somewhere.
Maybe you think the task you’ve assigned is easy. But, remember: you didn't know everything in the beginning. Our field reps are in the same position you were...show them the ropes.
3. Build a Culture
Coach by walking around.
Influential leaders understand the value of speaking face-to-face with employees. So, make yourself available throughout the shift. The team will accomplish more and trust you if they know you’re approachable.
Build camaraderie.
Make friendly conversation and get to know your employees. This will increase morale within your team.
Always be honest.
Be honest with your constituents and always "Do the Right Thing," not just for the team but also the client.
4. Listen to Feedback
Actively listen.
Always be fully present and responsive during a conversation. Ask employees how things are going and find out what is and isn’t working.
Hear employees out.
Never shoot down a team member’s idea. Field Reps. can be a vital source of ideas for accomplishing tasks, so it’s important they know their opinions are heard, not ignored.
Have an open mind.
"Innovate to Elevate" means being open to new ideas. Carefully consider your employees' suggestions and remember: have an open mind.
5. Celebrate Success
Words of affirmation.
Simple phrases like "thank you" or "good Job" can be powerful motivators; use them often.
Grace through generosity.
Supervisors can positively impact their team by recognizing stellar performance—this is "Grace through Generosity.” Always reward those employees who consistently go above and beyond.
Teaching moments.
As for mistakes, they happen. But, how you react will be something your employees judge you on. Always make it a point to use mistakes as teaching moments.
