NCJ Number
142899
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 41 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1993) Pages: 77-80
Date Published
1993
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Supervisors in police agencies or corrections-related professions must first recognize their function within the organization, then gain self-confidence and the trust of subordinates and superiors as a responsible "people manager."
Abstract
Supervisors are often required to balance their role as dual representatives of management and the work force. In this gray area, supervisors are responsible for developing worker morale and teamwork at the operational level. Much of a supervisor's time is spent directing subordinates; again, there is a fine line between directing and controlling. While an organization requires a degree of control over its employees, problems usually arise from the manner in which control is exercised. Winning authority and respect requires a manager to have a professional approach, to disregard personal friendships in terms of work relationships, to be impartial at all times, to express confidence in subordinates, and to recognize and reward good work. A manager must motivate his workers; primary job factors that motivate people include having interesting work, being treated with respect, and being recognized for one's skills. To gain some insight into these and other issues, each supervisor should receive formal training prior to, or immediately following, promotion; initial training should focus on "people activities" performed by supervisors, with an emphasis on motivation.