Majority of the time, we hear about the term micromanagement. In the corners of employment, many employees will swear to resign or even pray to have a boss that would not over-supervise them. The question is, as an entrepreneur, when should you over supervise or not?
Research suggests that, most of the time, if you have unskilled laborers and inexperienced workers, it is in order to over supervise. However, the best approach is to instill policies and systems that can guide these workers effectively without constant direct supervision.
Understanding When to Supervise Closely
Unskilled and Inexperienced Workers: For employees who are new to the job or lack the necessary skills, close supervision can help ensure they understand the processes and standards required. This hands-on approach can prevent costly mistakes and promote a faster learning curve. However, this supervision should be constructive and aimed at building their skills and confidence.
Complex and High-Stakes Projects: In situations where the work is particularly complex or the stakes are high, closer supervision might be necessary to ensure everything is done correctly. This can include critical deadlines, safety concerns, or projects where errors could have significant consequences.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety: In industries where safety is paramount, such as construction or healthcare, strict supervision is necessary to ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulations. This supervision protects not only the workers but also the company from potential liabilities.
When to Step Back
Skilled and Experienced Workers: For employees who have demonstrated competence and reliability, micromanaging can be counterproductive. These workers often thrive with a degree of autonomy, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and productivity. Allowing them to take ownership of their tasks can also foster innovation and efficiency.
Creative and Knowledge-Based Roles: In roles that require creative thinking or specialized knowledge, such as marketing, design, or research, excessive supervision can stifle creativity and inhibit performance. Providing these employees with clear goals and the freedom to achieve them in their own way can lead to better outcomes.
Building Trust and Morale: Over-supervising can lead to a lack of trust and low morale among employees. It is important to create a balance where employees feel trusted and valued. Encouraging a culture of open communication and regular feedback can help in monitoring progress without the need for constant oversight.
Implementing Effective Policies
Rather than relying solely on direct supervision, developing comprehensive policies and procedures can provide a framework within which employees can operate confidently and independently. These policies should include:
Clear Job Descriptions and Expectations: Ensure that every employee understands their role, responsibilities, and the standards they are expected to meet.
Training and Development Programs: Investing in the training and development of your employees can reduce the need for constant supervision by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge.
Regular Check-Ins and Reviews: Implement a system of regular check-ins and performance reviews to monitor progress and provide feedback. This can be more effective than daily oversight and helps in addressing issues before they escalate.
Empowering Leadership: Encourage managers to lead by example and provide guidance and support rather than micromanaging. Empowering leadership can inspire employees to take initiative and responsibility for their work.
In conclusion, the key to effective supervision lies in understanding the needs of your workforce and the demands of the job. While unskilled and inexperienced workers may require more guidance, skilled and experienced employees often benefit from greater autonomy. By implementing robust policies and fostering a supportive work environment, you can strike a balance that promotes both productivity and employee satisfaction.
As an entrepreneur, your approach to supervision can significantly impact your business’s success and your employees’ satisfaction, Having challenges with implementing an effective supervision strategy for your employees. Reach out and we have a conversation
About the author
Dr. Jjuuko Derrick, is a pharmacist with a keen business acumen. Having dedicated much of his career to engaging with business owners and employees, he brings a unique blend of pharmaceutical expertise and business insight to the table. As an entrepreneur himself, he is passionately committed to leveraging his technical skills and entrepreneurial experience to foster the growth and development of multiple businesses. Driven by a mission to make a meaningful contribution to the business landscape, he stands ready to empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive.
Comments