Walk Around, but Don't Walk, Growl and Scowl * Incedo Group

Walk Around, but Don’t Walk, Growl and Scowl

June 6, 2013
, 2:56 am
, Leadership

Every manager is called upon to supervise their employees, make sure they are performing their job properly, and offer guidance when necessary. However, learning how to supervise people professionally and effectively may be harder than you think. It’s not as easy as walking around the office and keeping everyone in his or her respective cubicles.

There is a thin line between supervising, and prowling and sneaking behind staff trying to catch them unaware. When leaders treat their employees like children, they end up unable to perform their work and an environment of mistrust and anxiety is built.

Yes, you have the right to watch over what your team is doing, but you must learn how to supervise people without instilling fear and anxiety.

Below are some quick tips that may help you.

Check on your employees regularly. Make it a habit to always be visible; stop on their workstations for some chitchat or ask them about their day. Don’t make it a habit of walking around just when things aren’t going right or when you’re in a bad mood. If you do this, people will start associating your presence with more work or bad news.

Don’t walk around the office and check on staff just to find fault. Addressing their shortcomings during your public “rounds” might not be the best way to help. Stop finding fault, instead walk around, and commend their good work.

Walk calmly and confidently. Don’t strut around the office just because you’re the boss. Don’t storm into the hallways making your presence felt by everyone—this is not how to supervise people. Just make sure they know that you are there and ready to help them.

Non-verbal language and gestures may speak louder than words. Try not to cross your arms or look down on employees when approaching them. Don’t roll your eyes or point your fingers at people.

When checking on employees, simply ask open-ended questions that will allow them to respond with more than a yes or no. This will be a good opportunity for them to give feedback on their work or ask assistance on certain areas.

Listen to your employees. By sincerely listening, you will show that you respect them in the same way they respect you. Make eye contact, laugh, and respond to what they’re telling you. Don’t think that just because you’re the boss you don’t have to listen to your employee’s petty concerns and little stories.

Most importantly, respect the privacy of your staff. Know that there are things they might not be comfortable talking about, or questions that may be too personal. Also take note that they are entitled to their lunch breaks and afternoon breaks, so be respectful of their personal time. Do not sneak on them to check how they are spending it. Respecting the personal boundaries of your employees is an essential part of learning how to supervise people.