Masonry Magazine February 2002 Page. 9
Do you keep reports to a minimum?
There's nothing wrong with management reports, deadlines and benchmarks. You can, and should, institute whatever reporting requirements are necessary for you to remain comfortable and effective in your role as supervisor. If you can get along with an occasional conference, a brief memo, or a periodic statistical report, let it suffice.
Are you supportive and affirming?
Supervisors who empower attempt to reinforce the strengths, accomplishments and skills of their employees. Always compliment your employees when they do things well, and don't be unduly alarmed when they make occasional mistakes. When you place confidence in your employees, you'll often be amazed at the results.
Do you resist the temptation to solve problems?
When employees pursue assignments, they will usually confront problems. Sometimes these problems will be brought to your attention, sometimes not. When you do learn about problems, however, remember that your employees usually have the skills necessary to solve them. Your job is to encourage your employees to use those skills - and build the confidence necessary to solve similar problems on their own in the future.
Do you treat problems as opportunities?
When serious problems develop around a project, never panic. Problems are prime learning opportunities occasions when you can work with your employees, in a relaxed and comfortable manner, to confidently plan your strategy for confronting them. Your calm demeanor will inspire effective problem-solving behavior among your employees in the future.
Do you back your people up?
When you receive a complaint or concern about an employee acting on your behalf, do you back him up? While you should always encourage your employees to be sensitive to the concerns and opinions of others, remember that they have a responsibility to stay clearly "on course" as they pursue the goals you have mutually agreed upon. You have a responsibility to support them as they do so.
Do you praise your employees in public?
Once an employee achieves significant success, there's no better way to praise (and reinforce) that success than by highlighting his accomplishments in front of others. Use this occasion for complimentary memos, awards and recognition and you will sow the seeds of even greater success in the years to come. Empowerment is one of the most powerful qualities you can foster in the workplace. Strive to fulfill your role as an empowering manager and you'll foster a far greater measure of employee skills, enthusiasm and success than you ever thought possible.
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MASONRY FEBRUARY, 2002 9