It may not be as much of a mystery as “which came first, the chicken or the egg?” but debating the differences between the definition of “supervisor” and the definition of “manager” can generate as much, if not more, discussion! Here we take a look at the similarities—and very important differences—between the two roles to… Read more »
Chances are you’ve heard the term “emotional intelligence.” As the name suggests, it’s a term referring to individuals’—generally employees’—ability to monitor and manage their emotions in a professional way when interacting with others. Clearly, it’s also a competency that employers tend to value in their employees. Emotional intelligence in leadership is critical. Emotional intelligence (also… Read more »
Of all of the skills and competencies that supervisors and managers must have to be effective, communication skills are arguably the most critical. Communication skills apply to a broad range of managers’ responsibilities—from providing direction, to offering feedback, to coaching, counseling, disciplining, resolving conflicts, and more. In today’s hybrid work environment where many managers are… Read more »
Supervisors and managers are often promoted based on their technical skills and job performance, not their leadership capabilities or potential. If they’re not trained properly in both the hard and soft skills of effective leadership, they are likely to fail, bringing team member performance down with them and negatively impacting the company’s bottom line. Poor… Read more »
We live in a world that is continually, and rapidly, changing, fueled by expanding global competition, new technology, emerging customer demands, and, most recently, a global pandemic. Especially in the uncertain environment that has existed since the pandemic emerged, there are a wide range of leadership training topics that can help boost the effectiveness of… Read more »
First-line managers have a critical role in helping companies effectively meet organizational goals and objectives. They are the individuals on the ground who have the strongest relationship with employees. They’re also the ones responsible for overseeing employees who get the work done. Their role is a critical one. If they are not effective, they… Read more »
Managers and supervisors are responsible for overseeing employees. The employees they oversee are their direct reports. The greater the number of direct reports they have the broader their span of control becomes. Having more direct reports is not necessarily better. When it comes to span of control there is a “sweet spot” that represents the… Read more »
Leadership is all about communication. Leaders are literally the conduit with and between people. They are responsible for working with and through their team members to accomplish tasks that will help the organization achieve its objectives. In the process, they are also communicating with and facilitating communications between, team members and other departments, customers, vendors,… Read more »
Most of us have worked at a company with a difficult employee—or several difficult employees. They’re not hard to spot. While difficult employees may be good, even great, at certain aspects of their job, they also exhibit negative behaviors. They often: Don’t get along well with others. Create conflict that leads to low morale and… Read more »
Organizations of any type or size need to have effective leaders. Even individual contributors in small organizations need to exhibit strong leadership skills. As organizations grow, of course, leadership skills become increasingly important. Leaders play a critical role in ensuring that their teams have the tools, resources, and support to get their jobs done and… Read more »