The document outlines essential leadership skills and techniques for supervisors, emphasizing effective communication, conflict resolution, and adapting leadership styles to various situations.
Defining Leadership:
- Good supervisors practice strong leadership and communication skills.
- They use their authority without making a show of it.
- Key behaviors include giving clear orders, listening to employees, showing appreciation, and maintaining composure.
Checklist for Success: A successful leader:
- Provides clear instructions and praises when deserved.
- Listens to others, stays calm, and projects confidence.
- Has the necessary technical knowledge and understands team problems.
- Gains respect and trust, treats everyone fairly, and does not act superior.
- Advocates for the team and is approachable.
Framing “I” Messages:
- Describe a Specific Behavior:
- Non-judgmentally describe the other person’s behavior.
- Describe the Effects:
- Specify the practical problems caused by the behavior.
- Express Your Feelings:
- State how the behavior affects you without using accusatory language.
- State Your Preferences:
- Indicate what you would like to happen, allowing the other person to provide input.
Techniques for Resolving Conflict:
- Remove Masks: Be authentic and transparent.
- Identify the Real Problem: Focus on the actual issue at hand.
- Give Up a Must-Win Attitude: Aim for resolution, not victory.
- Develop Possible Solutions: Brainstorm multiple solutions.
- Evaluate Options: Choose the best solution.
- Communicate Effectively: Ensure the message is received and understood.
- Preserve Relationship Value: Maintain respect and the relationship's integrity.
Understanding Your Comfort Zone:
- Leaders must adapt their style based on the situation and employee needs.
- Styles include:
- Directing: High direction, low support for new or inexperienced employees.
- Coaching: High direction and support as employees develop skills.
- Supporting: High support, low direction as employees become more competent.
- Delegating: Low direction and support for highly skilled and confident employees.
- Leaders may need to cycle through these styles based on team changes or new challenges.
Leadership Models:
- Autocratic or Authoritarian: Direct and control all activities.
- Democratic or Participative: Involve team members in decision-making.
- Laissez-faire or Delegative: Provide minimal direction and allow team members to make decisions.
- Transformational: Inspire and motivate team members to exceed expectations.
- Transactional: Focus on routine tasks and rewards/punishments for performance.
Conclusion: Effective leadership for supervisors involves a balance of clear communication, adaptability, understanding team dynamics, and maintaining a positive work environment. By following these guidelines, supervisors can lead their teams to success while fostering trust and collaboration.