Example Of Essay On Elements Of Supervision

- Introduction
- Interviewed subject
- Experience
- Essential meaning of the term “supervisor”
- Creation of mentalities
- Culture of unity
- Communication
- Growth and accountability
- Conclusion
- Outcome of methods applied
- Conflict resolution promotes growth
- Pros and cons of supervising
Being a supervisor often has the larger desk or office and life seems so easy from the perspective of the regular employees. It seems like they just have walk around and oversee the hourly-paid folks. They get the handshakes when all of the workers beneath them have collectively raised the revenue goals for the month. In wondering what it really means to be a supervisor, a gentleman was interviewed. Let’s call him Darren to respect his identity. Darren is a supervisor for a multi-million dollar packaging company. While he certainly had that sophisticated, charismatic magic that positively stereotypes some supervisors, he radiates what it means to perform in this role with polished excellence. He explained that being a supervisor means, “mentoring a team to develop a culture of unity, communication, growth and accountability”.
The first thing that was in need of clarification was the term culture of unity. When asked what he meant by this, he smiled and explained that it is all about instilling the mentality that they are a team. He went on to say, “In our team we are to support and help one another. We do not look to discredit each other. Instead, we look for opportunities to praise each other. That requires open communication.” He frequently promotes his O.D.P. (Open Door Policy). He shares a willingness to listen to suggestions and critiques. “I want to know what I can do to make their job easier to understand. This promotes more efficient productivity as a team” he said with such sincerity. Not only does he encourage written and in-person communication but Darren promotes growth and accountability among his 27 team members. When asked how he does this, he began to open his big hands as if to count one finger at a time. He said, “I have contests with monetary prizes. I create options for those who are willing to take the training courses and elevate themselves to higher levels within the company. I cater lunches for a month of no injuries on the machine lines.” From the interview, it became apparent that incentivizing can be a great tool for encouraging and achieving growth for individuals and the team as a whole.
The question that was of most urgency in this interview finally had a chance to stare him in the face. He was asked, “What if they mess up? Show up late and curse, spit, snarl and complain? What are you going to do about it?!” This is when a glow seemed to engulf him. It was the evidence of his beautiful spirit. He said, “First of all, always treat everyone with respect, even if they are disrespectful. There is never a reason to yell or argue”. He finished with, “I would kindly ask them to step into my office. I would offer water and sit down. Once they are calm I would ask what the problem is. I would ask what they want to do to solve the problem and how they think they should resolve it. After we document the recommended solutions, review the behavioral expectations and create a personal improvement plan there is only one thing left to do.” He could see the look of anticipation he generated after he spoke so he finished his point with, “Calmly let the employee know that certain behaviors are simply unacceptable and will result in loss of work hours up to or including termination”.
Darren may be calm, reserved and far too modest a man. However, he firmly maintains zero tolerance for discrimination, disrespectful behavior and other company violations as a supervisor. He sets the example of performance that is expected from his team. He has earned the respect of those that he must answer to as well. They can all freely communicate with him in confidence. His team succeeds in unity and even wears matching colors a few times a month. Darren has guided a consistent percentage of his team members to greater roles and wages since he began with the company. He is a master at conflict resolution because he sees negative issues as an opportunity for growth. When asked about the pros and cons of his job, he laughed. Darren replied, “I get to help people realize their full potential. There is nothing to complain about”.