NCJ Number
185407
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 62 Issue: 6 Dated: October 2000 Pages: 96-98
Date Published
2000
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Effective personnel management should be a priority for jail administrators, because the staff members are the most important resource in corrections.
Abstract
Changes in correctional management philosophy and staffing levels have created challenges for staff. Administrators increasingly must find ways to use this resource most effectively in a workplace setting in which work grows quickly. First-line supervisors are the most important managers of jail operations because they establish the mood, levels of service, and standards of jail operations for line staff. Line staff are the most important people in managing and operating jails; discretion is crucial in decision making. Staff empowerment is vital in direct-supervision facilities. Counselors, paid teachers, volunteers, program consultants, and contract staff are important to supporting the work of line staff. Administrative staff provide leadership to all staff. Basic supervision, discretionary decision making, support, accountability, and leadership are activities in which all jail staff should be engaged. Jails need effective staff so that they will experience smooth operations and stability instead of chaos. Photographs