You've Mistaken Me For Someone Who Cares

I've been a supervisor for many years and oh, the stories I could tell. I listen more than I speak and most of the time, I say what needs to be said. I've learned that I can't make everyone happy all of the time, I have to live with the decisions I make and that humans are funny, funny beings.

I consider myself a thoughtful decision maker and, even in the face of over thinking at times, I get that decisions I make can create disappointment. I get, and honor, that people may need time and space to work through their reactions. What I don't get is the cold shoulder. Come on Virginia-cold-shoulders, do you think this will add anything to the conversation, prove a point or motivate change? Really?! Do you see the flaw in this logic?

I know that these things will pass, they always do. What do you know? Stop for a moment and think before you react. Think about the impression you will make on those around you. Do you think that will pass as quickly?

Peace out.

Card Carrying Supervisors Take Heed

Leadership is not easy, nor is supervision. But neither is as hard as some make it out to be. If you are a supervisor, take a few minutes to read through the questions below. Think about them and answer honestly.

• Do you counsel employees over email?
• Do you have to "win" employee discussions?
• When asked why, do you respond, "because I can?"
• Do you view employee questions as challenges to you ego? 
• Do you expect your support people to "read your mind" in regards to work expectations?
• Do you look past behaviors because addressing them is a bit "uncomfortable" for you?
• Do you hold back information because members of your staff just "don’t need to know?"
• Are your performance reviews consistently late?
• Do you engage in shouting matches with you staff?
• Do you take this stuff personally?!

If you answered "yes" to any of the above, stop that right now. Supervisors, this is not about you. It is about helping others to succeed, to make the goal, to achieve the mission. It's about addressing problems head-on and making the tough decisions. It's about not making it personal. Does this make sense to you? Do you see the possibility? Do you see that there may be another way? If you do, then BRAVO to you.

If you don't, reach into your wallet, your purse, or your top desk draw and pull out your supervisor card. Hold it out. I'm coming by to collect it. Now.