by Abbas Jowkar

Created on: July 03, 2007

The work culture in any company or organization is reflected in the attitudes and behaviors of its leadership towards subordinates. The leadership attitude at the helm of affairs is of great significance and determines the business success of any administration. In large organizations with complex hierarchical structures and numerous tiers of supervisory positions, inter-personal relationships become frequently redefined by constant changes. The desirable qualities of a good supervisor; however, remain intrinsically the same. I will enumerate some of the important qualities essential in a good supervisor or leader in order to be successful in his or her job.

Supervisors by nature of their job position take the role of people managers. They must assume the mantle of a team leader rather than that of a taskmaster. In order to earn the respect and admiration of their subordinates, supervisors must possess and display role model behavior worthy of emulation. To inspire others with lofty ideals, one must exemplify it. The Supervisor must practice work place ethics, set the minimum standards of expectations high for self and others, and consistently meet those expectations. "Practice what you preach," and leading by example may be daunting tasks, but reap great dividends for those who apply it sincerely. When workers realize these qualities exemplified in work styles of their supervisors, they are likely to become inspired and emulate it. Needless to say, the overall effect will be salubrious for the entire organization.

A good supervisor not only appreciates people for their efforts and successes, but will identify deficiencies, and assists in resolving them. They must through good coaching skills be able to improve work performance of their workers. One of the most important qualities that distinguish better supervisors from the rest is valuing employees as vital assets. This is a core value which is dear to many successful companies around the world. Human dignity must be regarded with respect. A compassionate boss who treats his subordinates with dignity will be deeply admired, loved and respected. In fact some companies use this rather unscrupulously in their strategic goals.

I worked in a major oil company for nearly 8 years, and during that period worked with several supervisors. Some of them happened to be my peers. Although, it would be judgmental on my part to venture any comment regarding their managerial abilities, I found that some indeed had very good

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>